Yes, just like original equipment units, all of our drives are designed to work on either side of your machine because they have two case drain ports, so there’s no need to specify left or right side when ordering. However, if you do tell us, we can go ahead and have the drain port set for the appropriate side for faster/easier installation.

Can I install the drive myself?

Yes, we find that most of our customers do self-installations, but it’s always your decision based on what you feel is safe and comfortable for you. It’s simply a matter of disconnecting the hoses, loosening your tracks, removing your old sprocket, and unbolting the drive from the frame and sliding it out from the track side. Then just reverse the process for installing the new drive. Our drives range from 35 pounds up to 225 pounds, so, depending on the size of your machine, you may need help and/or hoisting equipment for a safe installation. If you aren’t sure about the condition of the hydraulics or undercarriage of your machine, you’ll want to consult a specialist to ensure everything else is in order, because a problem with either of those can damage your drive.

How do you ship?

The majority of our drives are under 150lbs and can be shipped to the doorstep of any house or business in a heavy duty cardboard box using FedEx expedited services. For larger machines we use FedEx freight, and that is noted in the product listing. All of our drives ship out of our warehouse in central North Carolina, with an average arrival time of 2-3 days. Please allow extra time for delivery during the typical holiday rush period of October-December and during any severe weather events or other national disruptions.

What’s your return policy?

We accept returns within 30 days of delivery. Please contact us to discuss your reason for return and to receive an RMA. Please see our return policy for more details.

How does your warranty work?

We are confident in the quality of our drives and have the best warranty in the industry! All new excavator final drives are covered against manufacturing defects for 2 years, unlimited hours. All new compact track loader and skid steer drives are covered against manufacturing defects for 1 year, unlimited hours. After the initial warranty period, you are eligible to receive a non-prorated 15% lifetime replacement discount on the purchase of a replacement. The initial defect coverage includes the cost of the replacement/repair for warranty eligible failures and the shipping of the replacement/repaired drive to you. It does not cover your time and labor to remove/reinstall, package/ship the product to us for evaluation, nor any other consequential damages. It does not cover damage from clogged filters, hydraulic contamination/over-pressurization (due to defective swivel joints, non-OEM hydraulic modifications, etc.), lack of maintenance, or physical damage from misuse like stripped threads or cracked housings or flanges. You must return the drive to us factory sealed and untampered - if you or anyone else disassembles or attempts to service the drive, the warranty is immediately voided. Warranty claims must be submitted by the Buyer possessing proof of purchase and maintenance documentation or by a subsequent owner possessing the original Buyer's documentation. Contact us if you have any questions about our warranty or read our warranty policy.

Do your drives have two-speed capability?

Yes, all of our excavator drives are configured for two-speed capability for any machines that were equipped as such from the manufacturer. For machines that are originally equipped as single speed, we will configure the drive to be compatible. For compact track loader and skid steer drives, the particular speed capabilities are outlined in the product listings.

Do you require me to return my old unit or have any core charges?

No! Our purchase process is a straightforward outright purchase. You can keep your old unit, and there are never any core charge deposits or returns required.

Can I replace the drive on just one side of my machine?

Yes, many of our customers replace just one side of the machine to keep costs down. Just keep in mind that you may have some performance difference when matching a fresh new drive on one side with an older, worn one on the other side. In general, the newer generation of drives put more hydraulic energy into torque, which is what people want for using the blade, etc - this means a new drive might actually travel a bit slower than the original because of the consumption of energy for torque reserve. If you can fit it in your budget to replace both sides, that’s ideal, and odds are the other one will fail soon. We offer a discount if you purchase a pair; just contact us for more details.

Will I have to purchase adapters to install your drives?

No, unless your machine has been modified or customized since original, we will ensure that the drive we send will either have the same porting as the original so you can reuse your original hose ends and adapters, or we will include, at no cost, a set of any needed adapters where there might be a difference from the original.

What does “Aftermarket” vs "OEM-equivalent" mean?

“Aftermarket” designates that the drive is not marked with any mini excavator manufacturer's brand name or model, but is built for us to specifications for your machine, so you can be assured we have designed it to fit and connect easily, and the quality will be as good, and often better, than your original. "OEM-equivalent" means that the drive is built on the same final drive factory assembly line as your original drive with the same internal parts, sourced through the unbranded aftermarket supplier division of the drive motor's original equipment manufacturer. This ensures you get equitable quality, fit, and performance, at a much lower price and with a better warranty. Our drives are newly built in factories that have decades of experience supplying the most reliable, best performing mini excavator final drive motors for new mini excavators. We carefully source our new drives from highly respected suppliers with a proven track record of high-quality final drive parts, including those located in the United States, Italy, Japan, and South Korea. MiniFinalDrives is an independent reseller, and we are not affiliated with any compact equipment manufacturer – this allows us to purchase in wholesale volumes across all makes and models of mini excavators from the major final drive motor manufacturers - this ensures you receive OEM equivalent quality at low wholesale prices with an industry-leading warranty.

Do you sell just the hydraulic travel motor or final drive gearbox separately?

No, we only sell complete units with both the hydraulic travel motor and final drive gearbox pre-assembled and ready to bolt on. The reality is that for mini excavators it would normally actually cost more to sell these components separately and then rejoin/reseal the units. Plus, you wouldn’t get the warranty coverage offered by a complete new drive.

Can I pick up my drive from your facility?

Yes, we do offer local pickup by appointment if paid in advance by credit card or by cash in person (we don’t accept checks). All items picked up at our facility are subject to 7% NC Sales Tax, no exceptions, unless you have an E595 exemption certificate. Please contact us to discuss arranging pickup in advance and to schedule an appointment (it can take several hours to prep a drive before delivery to the customer).

Are your drives prefilled with gear oil?

Yes, all our drives are prefilled with gear oil from the factory. We do recommend that you check and top off the drive before operation just for precaution and to get accustomed to this important process.

Do you offer discounts?

Yes, some of our products list coupon codes for lower cost aftermarket or generic units (see product listings for details). Additionally, contact us to discuss quantity discounts if you wish to purchase multiple drives for a machine or your fleet.

Why am I seeing drives for my machine elsewhere on the internet at a lower cost?

There are many factors here, but let’s start first by saying that our drives offer unbeaten quality, fit, and performance that is as good or better than your original equipment. So compare our prices to your dealer, and you’ll see we are often as much as half or a third of the cost, which is a great bargain! There are also some appealing offers on the internet from all over the world, but you need to do a lot of due diligence and research as we get a lot of calls from people who have attempted to purchase those only to find they won’t fit, won’t connect, or have dramatically different speed or torque. We hear a lot of complaints about not being able to get the seller to support them or give them a refund without a ridiculous restocking fee. It pays to do your research! Call us if you have any questions; we’ll be glad to help!

How tight should I run my tracks?

The industry best practice is to set your tracks so that when that side of the machine is lifted, the track sags about 1.5-2” off the center roller. Running too tight will cause premature wear of the drive bearings, sprockets, rollers, and other undercarriage parts. Run them as loose as you can without them jumping off to maximize undercarriage life.

Excavator

What is an Excavator used for?

Large excavators are typically seen at construction sites doing everything from digging foundations to moving large concrete barriers. Mini excavators are ideal for small construction and landscaping jobs. Excavators have a boom, stick, and bucket and can rotate 360 degrees. The rotation is ideal for digging soil then moving it to a different location without having to drive. Uses for excavators include: landscaping, digging holes and trenches, lifting and moving heavy objects, demolishing structures, moving gravel, and debris removal.

How To Move A Non-Running Excavator?

If your excavator has stopped running, you will need to prepare it to load onto a trailer for transport to a garage. The method you use depends on the make and model of your excavator, as well as the resources available to you. The machine will need to be pulled onto a rollback or flatbed truck. To do that, the excavator will need to be placed in neutral and the tracks will need to “freewheel,” or roll without the gears engaged. This is dangerous. To avoid the risk of personal injury or damage to the equipment, it is best to call a tow company experienced in the transport of heavy equipment.

How Does an Excavator Rotate?

The house, or cab, of an excavator can rotate 360 degrees on its axis. The house sits on a swivel pin above the undercarriage, often referred to as a swivel joint. Hydraulic fluid is supplied through a series of shafts and hoses providing power that gives the machine the ability to swivel in all directions. The operator controls the movement of the cab through pedals, joysticks, and levers.

How to Grease Excavator Tracks?

To grease excavator tracks, locate the cover plate that shields the grease fitting, or zerk, on the tracks. There will be one on each of the tracks. Loosen the bolts on the cover plate and open the cover. First, use a clean, dry cloth to wipe any excess grease from the zerk. If the grease fitting is plugged up with grease, you may need to replace the fitting.Attach the grease gun hose to the zerk, and pump two times, or as needed, for adequate grease. Do not over grease. Wipe away any excess grease. Refer to your operator’s manual for additional information.

Miscellaneous

How Does a Final Drive Work?

A final drive motor powers the tracks on your excavator. The final drive is comprised of two halves: the hydraulic travel motor and the final drive gearbox. The travel motor, powered by the main hydraulic pump, engages a shaft that runs through the gearbox. The gearbox reduces the speed from the shaft, which increases the torque needed to rotate the track sprocket. The sprocket then turns the track to move the excavator.

What Does a Hydraulic Filter Do?

In short, the hydraulic filter removes foreign particles from the hydraulic fluid. The filter continuously removes contaminants from the hydraulic oil, purifying the hydraulic fluid, and protecting the hydraulic system components from damage due to contamination. The hydraulic filter should be changed as part of regular maintenance. Refer to the operator’s manual for a schedule.

How to Clean Hydraulic Reservoir?

One step during a hydraulic system flush is to clean the hydraulic reservoir. The flushing process should remove most of the contaminants, but additional cleaning may be necessary. After the initial draining of the hydraulic system, use a lint-free cloth to clean as much of the reservoir as you can reach.

If there is sludge remaining, you may need to conduct a chemical power flush using a power flushing rig. You should contact your local authorized heavy equipment dealer to determine if this is necessary.

How to Flush Hydraulic Lines?

Existing hoses in a hydraulic system will be cleaned during the hydraulic system flush process. However, new hoses can be installed during the flushing process, or hoses with excess sediment can be cleaned or flushed manually. Refer to your operator’s manual for instructions on how to remove and install hydraulic lines.

Flushing the lines can be done several ways:

High-pressure air can be blown through a dry hose.
High-pressure fluid can be run through the hoses using a filtration system. The liquid should be compatible with the hydraulic fluid used in the hydraulic system.
Using a foam projectile launcher, shoot a foam projectile through the tube to remove any contaminants.

Install the hydraulic lines, and continue with the flushing process. As always, refer to your operator's manual and/or your local authorized dealer to ensure correct results.

How To Change Hydraulic Filters?

As part of regular maintenance, it is important to change the hydraulic filter to keep your equipment running properly and to prevent the need for repairs later.

DIY Steps:

Before changing the hydraulic fluid in an excavator, ensure the machine is parked on a level surface, is turned off, and the engine is cold. Refer to the manufacturer’s recommendation for proper placement of the boom and bucket.
Slowly loosen the hydraulic tank cap to release hydraulic pressure.
Locate and remove the drain plugs and drain the hydraulic fluid into buckets or drain pans. Remove all of the plugs to ensure all the old fluid is removed.
Replace and tighten the drain plugs.
Locate the hydraulic oil filter and remove it from its housing unit. First, loosen the screws of the door — watch for the spring that keeps the filter snugly in place — then simply pull the filter from its housing.
Using a clean, dry cloth, wipe away any fluid or debris from the housing unit door and inside the filter housing unit.
Slide the new filter into the housing unit making sure it is properly seated. The spring and O-rings may need to be replaced as well.
Close the housing unit door, and tighten all the bolts and screws ensuring a tight seal.
Following manufacturer recommendations, add hydraulic fluid to the vessel.

Hydraulic System

How to Flush Hydraulic System on Bobcat?

A complete hydraulic system flush of your Bobcat excavator may be required if:

you have a new or overhauled hydraulic machine;
if the hydraulic fluid is contaminated;
if you want to change to a different brand of hydraulic oil; or
as part of routine maintenance.

A flush is primarily a double oil and filter change in combination with a cleaning. The following basic steps walk you through how to flush a hydraulic system. Every machine is different, so always make sure to refer to your operator’s manual for complete instructions on how to clean a hydraulic system.

Drain the hydraulic system and change the oil filter.
Use a clean, dry cloth to wipe down and clean the reservoir.
Refill the tank with hydraulic fluid filling to the minimum level required. Operate the machine to circulate and mix the oil in the system.
Drain the oil, change the filters, and refill the hydraulic fluid a second time. Operate the machine to circulate and mix the oil in the system. Ensure the fluid is between the marks on the sight glass.

If you are not confident conducting these steps yourself, contact your local authorized dealer for a complete hydraulic system flush.

How To Remove Water From Hydraulic System?

Because water generally has a higher specific gravity than hydraulic fluid, it can settle in the bottom of the reservoir. In this case, you can get the water out of a hydraulic system via the following quick-drain process.

Loosen the hydraulic tank cap to release pressure.
Locate the drain valve and place a drain pan or bucket below the plug.
Loosen the drain valve (do not remove the valve) allowing the water and sediment to drain for several seconds.
Tighten the drain valve and hydraulic tank cap.
Dispose of the waste.

If the hydraulic oil is contaminated with water beyond its saturation level, it may be necessary to flush the system.

Refer to your operator’s manual for complete instructions for how to get water out of a hydraulic system.

Hydraulic Fluid

What is Hydraulic Fluid?

Hydraulic machines, such as excavators, need hydraulic fluid to transfer energy within the equipment to enable work and motion. In other words, the hydraulic fluid allows the boom to raise and lower and the bucket to open and close. Hydraulic fluid also aids in lubrication, supports heat transfer and contamination removal, and inhibits corrosion.

What Color is Hydraulic Fluid?

Traditional, mineral-based hydraulic fluid is primarily a clear, golden, or yellowish color. Additives and dyes are sometimes added to certain brands leading to purple, green, and reds. During use, the hydraulic fluid will naturally darken from thermal stress and oxidation.

How is Hydraulic Fluid Made?

There are three main types of hydraulic fluid used today: petroleum-based, water-based, and synthetic. Petroleum-based, which is also called mineral-based, is comprised of 99% base oil derived from crude oil; whereas, synthetic hydraulic fluids contain 99% of a chemically produced base fluid. Esters, glycol, and silicone are common synthetics used in hydraulic fluids.

Water-based hydraulic fluids contain a water-glycol mix as the base. Water-based hydraulic fluids do not burn because they contain water and are used where high temperatures will be reached and fire resistance is important.Environmentally-friendly biodegradable hydraulic fluids made from vegetable oils are also available.

Hydraulic fluid additives are included to help the equipment perform under different conditions. For example, antifreeze additives are used to prevent hydraulic fluid from freezing. When, where, and how the hydraulic oil is used affects which additives go into which hydraulic fluids. Anti-wear, anti-oxidant, and anti-rust are common additives. Additives can be used singularly or combined to form different blends.

When selecting a hydraulic fluid, pay special attention to the additives to ensure you have the right oil for the job.

How Much is Hydraulic Fluid?

Prices of hydraulic fluids vary depending on type, geographic region, retailer, brands, and additives. However, generally speaking, synthetic hydraulic fluids are the most expensive, followed by mineral-based or petroleum-based, with water-based hydraulic oil typically being the least expensive. Refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations when determining which hydraulic fluid is best for the equipment and job.

Where to Buy Bobcat Hydraulic Fluid?

Check with your Bobcat dealer for suggestions of where to buy the right hydraulic fluid for your excavator or other heavy equipment machinery. You can also check with heavy equipment dealers, tractor supply stores, auto parts stores, online dealers, and large retail stores to see if they have any Bobcat brand hydraulic fluid.

What Type Hydraulic Fluid For Bobcat?

Dealers recommend using Bobcat brand hydraulic fluid for Bobcat mini excavators, excavators, and other Bobcat-made heavy equipment. The hydraulic fluid is a custom blend of base oils and additives designed to provide optimum flow and stability, even in extreme conditions. Check with your local dealer for alternatives.

What Type of Hydraulic Fluid Do I Need?

The type of hydraulic fluid you need for your equipment depends on a variety of conditions, including environment, temperature, the make and model of your equipment, as well as personal preferences. To ensure you use the correct fluid for your product, refer to the operator’s manual, contact a local equipment dealer, or search online.

How Often Should Hydraulic Fluid Be Changed?

Hydraulic fluid should be changed regularly as part of a regular maintenance schedule or more often if your equipment is operating under harsh conditions. The time to change the fluid is often based on the hours of operation of the equipment. Refer to your operator’s manual for recommendations.

How To Clean Hydraulic Fluid Off A Car?

More than likely, hydraulic fluid will not cause any damage to car paint, and it can be cleaned off relatively easily. As with any spill, the sooner the oil is removed from the car the better. Take your car through a car wash for a thorough cleaning. Or, do it yourself by washing the car with a commercial car wash soap or a dishwashing liquid designated as a de-greaser. Use a new, clean sponge and make sure to wash the entire car.

To clean the windows of any remaining oily residue, use a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar.

Contact your local auto body shop for recommendations for a commercial car cleaner if hydraulic fluid remains after several washes. Always follow local ordinances when discarding the fluid residue.

How To Check Hydraulic Fluid On An Excavator?

Before checking the hydraulic fluid in an excavator, ensure the machine is parked on a level surface, is turned off, and that the engine is cold. Refer to the manufacturer’s recommendation for placement of the boom and bucket for a more accurate reading. Locate the hydraulic fluid tank and view the fluid level through the sight glass. The fluid should be between the minimum and maximum marks on the glass.

How To Drain Hydraulic Fluid?

Before draining the hydraulic fluid in an excavator, ensure the machine is parked on a level surface, is turned off, and the engine is cold. Refer to the manufacturer’s recommendation for placement of the boom and bucket for stability.

Slowly loosen the cap to the hydraulic tank to release any pressure.
Locate the drain plugs (these may be behind the access panel), and place buckets or drain pans underneath the plugs.
Loosen the drain plugs letting the hydraulic fluid fill the containers.
Remove all of the drain plugs to ensure all the old fluid is drained from the system.
Dispose of the waste oil properly.

How To Add Hydraulic Fluid?

Hydraulic fluid is most often added to the equipment after draining the tank and replacing the filter. Follow the manufacturers recommendations for the type and amount of hydraulic fluid to use.

Locate and remove the hydraulic tank cover.
Ensure all drain plugs are installed and tightened.
Add hydraulic fluid to the vessel until it is between the minimum and maximum marks on the level sight glass.
Bleed the hydraulic system according to manufacturer’s recommendations. This includes starting and running the engine to allow oil to flow to the hydraulic pump, viewing the hydraulic oil level in the sight gauge, and adding hydraulic oil as necessary to bring the level between the marks.
Replace the hydraulic tank cap, cover, and access panel.

How To Clean Up A Hydraulic Fluid Spill?

It is important to act immediately for the best chance of completely removing hydraulic fluid after a spill. For a hydraulic spill on a porous material, such as a concrete floor that hasn’t been sealed, use the following process:

Pour a generous amount of commercial spill absorbing granules over the entire spill area. Sawdust or cat litter may be used as a substitute.
Using a push broom, spread the absorbent material over the fluid allowing the liquid to be absorbed.
Sweep up the debris and dispose of it in an appropriate disposal container.

In the absence of a spill absorbent, clean, dry, absorbent cloths can be substituted. Use the cloths to wipe up the spill, then discard appropriately. If a stain remains after the liquid has been removed, pour a commercial degreaser over the stain and follow product instructions. Liquid detergent may also be used to remove the stain. Several applications may be needed. Always follow local ordinances when cleaning up a spill.

How To Get Hydraulic Fluid Off Asphalt?

For the best chance of completely removing hydraulic fluid from asphalt after a spill, it is important to act immediately. Use the following method to remove hydraulic oil and any remaining stains from asphalt:

Pour a generous amount of commercial spill absorbing granules over the entire spill area. Sawdust or cat litter may be used as a substitute.
Using a push broom, spread the absorbent material over the fluid allowing the liquid to be absorbed. This may need to sit for a while for total absorption.
Sweep up the debris and dispose of it in an appropriate disposal container.

Clean, dry, absorbent cloths can be substituted for spill absorbents. Use the cloths to wipe up the spill, then discard appropriately.

If a stain remains on the asphalt after the oil has been removed, use a commercial oven cleaner to effectively remove the stain. Spray a generous amount of oven cleaner over the stain and let it set for ten to fifteen minutes. Using a hard bristle brush, scrub the stain and rinse with a hose. Repeat the process until the stain is removed.

Other recommendations include using cola or liquid detergent, instead of oven cleaner, to remove the hydraulic fluid stain from the asphalt. Always follow local ordinances when cleaning up a spill.

How To Clean Hydraulic Fluid Off Grass?

Hydraulic fluid is toxic to lawns and gardens, and it will kill existing grass and plants. When the oil soaks into the soil, new grass and plants will also die, or will not grow, when reseeded. While using degreasers on clothing and concrete is an effective removal technique, it causes hydraulic fluids to disperse across grass or lawn space and seep into the soil. As a result, dish detergent should not be used on hydraulic spills on a lawn, as it will only cause more damage.

The only way to restore the lawn to a safe environment is to dig out the contaminated soil and replace it. As with every spill, the quicker the response, the less damage. When the spill occurs, immediately begin removing the sod to prevent the fluid from migrating into the soil. Dispose of any contaminated soil appropriately based on local ordinances.

Because of the harm to soil, grass, and other living things, it’s important to change hydraulic fluid in a space where contamination of grass and soil is very unlikely to occur.

How To Remove Hydraulic Fluid From Clothes?

The faster you take action to get hydraulic fluid out of clothes, the better your chance for preventing stain. Always blot any excess oil with a paper towel or clean cloth. Do not rub the oil as it can set the stain in the fabric. Here are several different methods recommended for removing hydraulic fluid stains from your clothes:

Pre-treat the stain with a laundry spot treatment product such as Spray ‘n Wash. Let it soak according to the product instructions, then wash the clothing using your favorite laundry detergent. Check for any residual stain prior to drying. If the stain is still present, repeat the process while the clothing is still wet. Once you are satisfied that the stain is gone, dry the clothing.
Mix OxiClean powder with water according to instructions and soak your clothes in a bucket of the solution for up to six hours. Wash the clothing using your favorite laundry detergent. Check for any residual stain prior to drying. If the stain is still present, repeat the process while the clothing is still wet. Once you are satisfied that the stain has been removed, dry the clothing.
Place a small squirt of Dawn dish-washing liquid on the stain and gently rub. Wash the clothing using your favorite laundry detergent. Check for any residual stain prior to drying. If the stain is still present, repeat the process while the clothing is still wet. Once you are satisfied that the stain has been removed, dry the clothing.
Cover the stain with baking soda or cornstarch, and let sit for a half-hour. Rub the baking soda in with a toothbrush. Then, place a small squirt of Dawn dishwashing liquid on the baking soda and gently rub. Wash the clothing using your favorite laundry detergent. Check for any residual stain prior to drying. If the stain is still present, repeat the process while the clothing is still wet. Once you are satisfied that the stain has been removed, dry the clothing.

How To Get Hydraulic Fluid Out Of Jeans?

It is possible to remove hydraulic oil from your jeans, but it may take several approaches to remove the entire stain. After blotting the stain with a clean, dry cloth or paper towel to remove any excess oil, try one or all of the following options to remove hydraulic fluid from your denim jeans.

Pre-treat the stain with a laundry spot treatment product such as Spray ‘n Wash. Let it soak according to the product instructions, then wash the jeans in cold water using your favorite laundry detergent. Check for any residual stain prior to drying. If the stain is still present, repeat the process while the jeans are still wet. Once you are satisfied that the stain is gone, dry the jeans.
Mix OxiClean powder with water according to instructions and soak your jeans in a bucket of the solution for up to six hours. Wash the jeans in cold water using your favorite laundry detergent. Check for any residual stain prior to drying. If the stain is still present, repeat the process while the jeans are still wet. Once you are satisfied that the stain has been removed, dry the jeans.
Place a small squirt of Dawn dish-washing liquid on the stain and gently rub. Wash the jeans in cold water using your favorite laundry detergent. Check for any residual stain prior to drying. If the stain is still present, repeat the process while the jeans are still wet. Once you are satisfied that the stain has been removed, dry the jeans.
Cover the stain with baking soda or cornstarch, and let sit for a half-hour. Rub the baking soda in with a toothbrush. Then, place a small squirt of Dawn dish-washing liquid on the baking soda and gently rub. Wash the jeans in cold water usi

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