Your Bobcat equipment is only as reliable as the battery powering it. Whether you're using your machine every day or storing it between projects, proper battery maintenance helps ensure dependable starts, extend battery life, and reduce the risk of unexpected downtime.
Follow these simple battery maintenance best practices to help keep your equipment performing at its best:
- Avoid Deep Battery Discharges
Repeatedly allowing your battery to become fully discharged can shorten its lifespan. Recharge the battery promptly after use, especially after extended operation, to help maintain battery health.
- Inspect and clean battery terminals.
Remove dirt, debris, and corrosion, and make sure all cable connections are clean and securely tightened.
- Verify the battery is properly secured.
Check that battery hold-downs and retaining clips are in place to reduce vibration and help prevent damage during operation.
- Use a Trickle Charger During Long-Term Storage
If your machine will be stored for several weeks or longer, connect it to a smart trickle charger or a battery maintainer. This helps preserve the battery’s charge and ensures your equipment is ready when you need it.
- Run your machine regularly.
When equipment is not in use, operate your machine for 10–15 minutes once a week to help maintain battery health and keep key components functioning properly.
Signs Your Bobcat Battery May Need Attention
Even with regular maintenance, batteries will eventually wear down. Knowing the warning signs can help you address issues before they lead to unexpected downtime. Keep an eye out for:
- Slow engine cranking or difficulty starting
- Dim lights or reduced electrical performance
- Corrosion around battery terminals
- A battery that frequently loses its charge
- Visible damage, leaks, or swelling
If you notice any of these signs, schedule a battery inspection to help identify potential issues and keep your equipment running reliably.
Taking just a few minutes to maintain your Bobcat battery can improve reliability, extend equipment life, and help ensure your machine is ready for the next job.
Want peace of mind that your Bobcat battery is ready to perform?
Schedule a service appointment with our team at Atlas Bobcat for a battery inspection and preventive maintenance to help keep your equipment operating at peak performance.