Installing a new front windshield on your Bobcat skid steer or track loader is a critical maintenance task. Replacing the glass yourself can save hundreds of dollars in service costs and prevent your machines from being sidelined during your busy season.
Replacing a broken front windshield on your Bobcat skid steer or track loader is a common repair job that can save hundreds of dollars in service costs and prevent your machines from being sidelined when you need them most. Follow this step-by-step guide to get the job done safely and correctly, even if you’ve never done it before.
Before You Begin
Before beginning your windshield installation, safety comes first.
- Wear protective gloves throughout the entire process. This cannot be overstated. Working with broken glass and metal components without gloves will result in constant cuts. As one experienced technician puts it, "if you don't wear gloves, you're gonna bleed like you hand-fed piranhas." Put gloves on from the start and keep them on.
- Ensure your skid steer is on level ground with the engine off and parking brake engaged. Lower all hydraulic attachments and engage safety locks. The cab should be stable and secure before beginning any work.
- Handle all glass components with extreme care, even when broken. Sharp edges and glass fragments can cause serious injury. Have a designated container for glass disposal and clean up fragments immediately.
- Work in good lighting conditions and maintain a clean, organized workspace. Poor visibility leads to mistakes and potential injury when handling sharp components.
Tools and Materials Needed
Essential Tools:
- Socket wrench set with extensions
- Screwdriver set (Phillips and flathead)
- Pry bars or trim removal tools
- Utility knife with fresh blades
- Wire brush for cleaning
- Rubber mallet
- Work gloves (cut-resistant)
- Safety glasses
Materials Required:
- Replacement windshield glass
- New rubber gasket/seal (highly recommended)
- Clean shop rags
- Penetrating oil (for stuck fasteners)
- Small containers for organizing parts
Optional but Recommended:
- Digital camera or phone for documentation
- Magnetic parts tray
- Additional helper for glass installation
- Drop cloths to protect surrounding areas
Step-by-Step Disassembly Process
Step 1: Remove Door Assembly
- Start by taking the clip out that holds the door. Lift up on the backside of the clip, then slide it back toward you. Try not to lose this small but important component. The clip should pop out of its socket easily.
- Next, unplug any electrical connections. Some models have hoses that need to be disconnected as well.
- Once these connections are removed, nothing else holds the door assembly except gravity. Carefully remove the door and lay it on a protected surface where you can work on it safely.
Step 2: Organize Your Parts
- There are numerous small parts in a windshield assembly. Create separate piles for different component groups.
- Windshield parts in one pile.
- Hinge parts in another pile.
- Door handle parts in a third pile.
- Hardware (bolts, nuts, washers) organized by size.
- This organization will save you significant time and frustration during reassembly.
- Take photos of complex assemblies before disassembly for reference.
Step 3: Remove Windshield Wipers
- If your wipers were damaged in the incident, removal may be more complex than normal. Look for a cover that flips up to reveal the mounting bolt. Some covers may be broken off, exposing the bolt directly.
- Remove the bolt, then pry the wiper arm off. It may have a slight bind, so work it back and forth gently. You'll also need to remove the large mounting nut. Some installations require holding internal components while removing this nut.
- The entire stud may screw out on some models. Pay attention to any sleeves or spacers that may fall out during disassembly - these small parts are easy to lose but essential for proper reassembly.
Step 4: Remove Door Handles
- Turn the handles to pop them off their mountings. There will be multiple handles and latches to remove. Pay careful attention to small components that may fall out during this process, including sleeves and springs.
- Document the position and orientation of these parts with photos, as they must go back in exactly the same configuration for proper operation.
Step 5: Clean Glass from Gasket
- Remove all glass fragments from the rubber gasket material. This gasket actually holds the glass quite securely, so broken pieces will be embedded in the rubber. Use appropriate tools to carefully extract all glass without damaging the gasket if you plan to reuse it.
- However, consider replacing the gasket even if it appears undamaged. When a gasket is installed the first time, it bends and conforms to the glass. The metal reinforcement inside does "funny things" and doesn't ever go back on quite right. Additionally, sealant and glass fragments make thorough cleaning difficult and time-consuming.
Step 6: Frame Inspection and Preparation
- Before installing the new windshield, carefully inspect the door frame for damage. Frame straightness is critical because even slight bends will put stress on the new glass, causing it to crack at the first bump or minor impact.
- Check the frame by test-fitting components and looking for binding or misalignment. If the frame is bent, you must straighten it before proceeding. Frames that cannot be adequately straightened should be replaced, as a bent frame will turn your new windshield "into shards again" at the first stress.
- Clean all mounting surfaces thoroughly.
Step-by-Step Installation Process
Step 1: Begin Reassembly with Loose Hardware
- Start reassembly by installing all components with loose hardware. Leave all nuts and bolts loose until the end because you will need to make minor adjustments throughout the process. This flexibility is essential for proper alignment.
- Install gaskets and sealing components in their proper positions, ensuring everything is clean and properly seated.
Step 2: Install Hinge Mechanisms
- Install your hinges with the proper orientation - the hinge pins should face down.
- Install the mounting hardware but keep it loose for now.
- Pay attention to springs and small components that must be installed in the correct sequence. There's usually a specific gadget that you press up to engage the spring mechanism properly.
- Don't forget any bushings that go between metal components and the glass. These are often overlooked during reassembly but are essential for preventing stress concentrations.
Step 3: Position and Secure Glass
- This is where you'll "wish you had more hands." Have a helper assist with glass positioning while you align gaskets and hardware. The glass must be properly seated in all mounting points before any final tightening.
- Work systematically around the entire assembly, ensuring proper alignment at each mounting point. Take your time with this step - rushing here leads to problems later.
Step 4: Final Tightening and Adjustment
- Once everything is properly aligned, begin final tightening. Don't over-tighten - you're working against glass, and excessive force will crack it. Tighten everything "snug and tight" but not beyond what's necessary for secure mounting.
- Double-check all connections and alignments after tightening. Look for any binding or stress points that could cause premature failure.
Step 5: Installing the Windshield Seal
- Even if your old seal appears serviceable, replacement is strongly recommended. Old seals contain embedded glass fragments and sealant that make proper installation difficult. The metal reinforcement in used seals has been deformed and won't provide optimal sealing.
- Modern seals fit looser than older generations, which changes the installation technique. Instead of stretching the seal over the glass, the newer style requires a different approach.
- Start by getting each corner of the seal positioned correctly. Don't start in one spot and go around the circle - this approach will leave you with excess material that won't fit properly.
- Position all four corners first, then work the seal into place using a rubber mallet. Gently tap at the corners first, then work your way around the perimeter. This method "takes up all the slack" and results in proper fit.
- The seal should sit evenly around the entire windshield perimeter without gaps or excessive stretching.
Step 6: Wiper Reinstallation
- Reinstall windshield wipers in reverse order of removal. Be aware that the wiper switch can be installed upside down - if wiper operation seems backwards, you'll need to remove and flip the switch.
- Replace damaged wiper components if possible, as they're much easier to access during windshield replacement than later.
Step 7: Final Connections
- Reconnect all electrical connections and hoses that were disconnected during disassembly.
- Ensure door latch sensors and other safety systems are properly connected.
- Test all door functions including latches, handles, and electrical systems before considering the job complete.
Step 8: Door Installation
- With both hinges lined up properly, the door should fall right into place. The clip installation reverses the removal process - position the door, connect electrical and hydraulic lines, then install the retaining clip.
- Make final adjustments to the seal if needed. Some adjustment is normal, especially if the seal feels tight initially.
Common Problems and Solutions
- Bent Frame: This is a common issue when windshields are broken violently. A bent frame must be straightened or replaced before glass installation. Attempting to install glass on a bent frame will result in immediate failure.
- Missing Parts: Small components are easily lost during disassembly. Having organized parts storage and good documentation prevents most issues. Keep a magnetic tray handy for small metal parts.
- Seal Fit Problems: Modern seals fit differently than older designs. Follow the corner-first installation method rather than trying to stretch seals around the perimeter.
- Electrical Issues: Take photos of electrical connections before disconnection. Wiper switches can be installed backwards, causing operational problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to replace a Bobcat windshield?
Most windshield replacements take 1-2 hours depending on your experience level and the specific Bobcat model. First-time installations may take longer.
Can I use aftermarket glass instead of OEM Bobcat windshields?
Yes, high-quality aftermarket windshields are available and often cost significantly less than OEM parts. Ensure the replacement glass meets or exceeds OEM specifications for thickness, safety ratings, and dimensional accuracy. Browse Bobcat replacement glass on Parts Online here.
Should I replace the rubber seal even if it looks good?
Yes, replacement is strongly recommended. Used seals contain embedded glass and don't reinstall properly due to deformed internal reinforcement. You can find high-quality aftermarket seals for your Bobcat skid steers and track loaders at Parts Online here.
Can I reuse the windshield wipers?
If they weren't damaged in the original incident, wipers can be reused. However, replacement during windshield service is convenient since access is already available.
How do I know if my frame is bent?
Test-fit components during disassembly. Binding, misalignment, or difficulty fitting parts usually indicates frame damage. A bent frame must be corrected before glass installation.
Why do modern seals install differently?
Newer seal designs fit looser than older generations, eliminating the need to stretch them over glass. This requires a different installation technique focusing on corner positioning first.
What causes windshield failure after installation?
Common causes include bent frames, over-tightened hardware, improper seal installation, or debris between mounting surfaces. Proper preparation prevents most failures.
Can I do this repair alone?
While possible, having a helper is strongly recommended, especially during glass positioning and seal installation. Many steps benefit from additional hands.
What tools are absolutely essential?
Basic hand tools, cut-resistant gloves, rubber mallet, and good lighting are essential. Organization supplies for small parts are nearly as important as the tools themselves.
Conclusion
Installing a front windshield on your Bobcat skid steer or track loader is a manageable DIY project that can save significant money while ensuring your equipment remains safe and operational. Take your time with each step of the process, especially surface preparation and sealant application. These critical phases determine the long-term success of your installation and can mean the difference between a professional-quality repair and a problematic installation that requires rework.
Most operators find that after completing one installation, they're confident in handling future repairs as needed. That being said, don't hesitate to seek professional help if you encounter unexpected complications or if your specific Bobcat model has unique installation requirements.
The most important lessons from real-world experience are to wear proper protection, organize your parts meticulously, and don't rush the process. Problems like bent frames or missing components will extend the job significantly, but proper preparation and patience will get you through any complications.
You can find affordable, high-quality aftermarket replacement glass for your Bobcat skid steer or track loader at Parts Online here. Our glass is designed to meet or exceed OEM quality. If you have questions about installing your Bobcat replacement glass, our experts at Parts Online are ready to assist. Use our contact form on our website, call us at 1-(855) 976-4144 or email sales@partsonline.com for help.