How to Replace a Track on a Bobcat T190

Park the Bobcat on level ground, preferably concrete or another hard, stable surface.

Lift the load bucket so it is level with the cab and tilted backward out of the way. Position a hydraulic hoist or a series of floor jacks under the Bobcat and slowly raise it evenly so both tracks are off the ground.

Position concrete blocks under the Bobcat frame and shim these bases tightly using scrap lumber so the machine will not move if the jacks give out.

Open the rear access panel in the right-side frame to access the grease fitting. Place a bucket under the open frame compartment and find an appropriate-size socket wrench to unscrew the fitting. Drain the grease into the bucket and leave it sitting under the open panel to catch the remaining drops. Test that the pressure is reduced on the idler wheel by seeing if it moves slightly when tugged.

Insert the tip of a pry bar between the track and idler wheel and gently lift the track off the wheel. Once the tension is released and track loosened, it slides easily off the frame.

Wipe away any trapped debris around the idler wheel with a broom. Lift a new track into place with the help of an assistant, feeding it over all the wheels and then gently prying the top over the idler wheel.

Place a scrap of 2-by-4 beneath the idler wheel and tap at the block of wood from underneath to force the wheel back into position and tighten the track to the assembly.

Tighten the nut over the grease fitting with the socket wrench and wipe up any last drops of grease. Open the grease fill access located above the grease fitting and use a pressurized grease gun to place new grease into the system.

Remove the wood shims and concrete blocks and then slowly lower the Bobcat back to the ground. Drive the machine back and forth a few feet to build up tension in the idler wheel before using the Bobcat excessively.