Changing Fuel Filter On Bobcat T870: Step-By-Step Guide

Bobcat Company provides a step-by-step guide to replacing the fuel filter, pre-filter, and breather cap on the Tier 4 Bobcat® engine in Bobcat® R-Series compact track loaders and skid-steer loaders. This guide also applies to select machines of Bobcat M-Series loaders, Bobcat R2-Series excavators, Bobcat compact wheel loaders, Bobcat Toolcat™ utility work machines, and Bobcat telehandlers manufactured since 2020. The video is 12 minutes and 40 seconds long and details the tools and parts required, including a genuine Bobcat fuel filter, a pre-filter, a fuel tank vent, shop towels, and a filter wrench. It also provides instructions for checking and draining water, removing and installing the old and new filters, and priming and removing air from the fuel system.

Check and drain water from the water separator bowl

To check and drain water from the water separator bowl of your Bobcat T870, follow these steps:

Firstly, you should only drain the water when it is visible in the bowl, when you have received a 'water in fuel' code, or when you are replacing the fuel filter. Before you begin, install an extra hose. Next, check the water separator bowl for water. If there is water present, or you have received a 'water in fuel' warning, it is necessary to drain the bowl. To do this, loosen the drain to release the water. Ensure you have a suitable container to catch the drained water.

It is important to regularly check the water separator bowl and drain any water that accumulates to prevent water from entering the fuel system, which can cause damage to the engine.

Disconnect the electrical connector and remove the separator bowl

To disconnect the electrical connector and remove the separator bowl, follow these steps:

First, ensure the engine is cool before starting any service work. Check your Bobcat's operation and maintenance manual for guidance. Next, check the water separator bowl. Only drain the bowl when water is visible, when you get a 'water in fuel' error code, or when you are replacing the fuel filter. To drain the bowl, install an extra hose and then loosen the drain.

Now you can disconnect the electrical connector and remove the separator bowl. Before removing the bowl, ensure that you have shop towels or rags to hand to deal with any spills. Once the bowl is removed, you can take out the old fuel filter.

Remember to install a new filter after removing the old one. Do not pre-fill the new filter with fuel, but do lubricate the new O-rings. Then, install the separator bowl before attaching the new filter to the filter housing. Finally, connect the electrical and perform any final cleanup.

Remove and replace the old filter

To remove and replace the old filter, first clean the pre-filter and the surrounding area. Move the hose clamps off, then remove each fuel hose and loosen the filter clamp. Note the orientation of the arrow on the pre-filter before removing and discarding it.

Next, install the new pre-filter, ensuring that the arrow is facing the correct direction. Reinstall the hoses and move the clamps back to the correct position. Remove the hose pliers.

Any time a fuel filter is replaced, the pre-filter will need to be primed and air removed from the system.

Lubricate the new O-rings and install the new filter

To lubricate the new O-rings and install the new filter on your Bobcat T870, follow these steps:

Firstly, ensure you have the correct parts for your machine. You will need a genuine Bobcat fuel filter (part number 7336334), available from a dealer or online. You will also need shop towels or rags, and a filter wrench with other tools. Check the operation and maintenance manual before performing any maintenance work, and make sure the engine is cool before starting.

Now, to lubricate the new O-rings: Firstly, take the new O-rings and apply a suitable lubricant. You can use a silicone or Teflon-based lubricant, or even a light coating of engine oil. This will help to create a tight seal and prevent leaks when you install the new filter. Wipe any excess lubricant with a clean shop towel or rag.

Next, carefully install the new filter: Position the new filter with the O-rings into the filter housing, ensuring it is correctly aligned and seated properly. Reattach any hoses or lines that were previously disconnected, securing them with the correct clamps or fittings. Tighten any connections by hand to ensure they are secure, but be careful not to overtighten, as this could damage the O-rings or the filter housing.

Finally, perform a final inspection: Check the filter and its connections for any signs of leaks or damage. Ensure all components are secure and correctly installed. Start the engine and check for any unusual noises or issues. If everything appears normal, you have successfully installed the new fuel filter.

Clean the pre-filter and remove the hose clamps

To clean the pre-filter and remove the hose clamps, you will need shop towels or rags, a filter wrench and other tools, and hose pliers.

First, clean the pre-filter and the surrounding area. Move the hose clamps off. Remove each fuel hose and loosen the filter clamp. Note the orientation of the arrow on the pre-filter before removing and discarding it.

Make sure to install a new pre-filter with the arrow facing the correct direction. Install the hoses and move the clamps back to the correct position. Then, remove the hose pliers.

Frequently asked questions