Volvo MCT125C: Problems, Durability, and Specs

Volvo Construction Equipment (VCE) has supplied the market with some of the best machinery and equipment for almost two centuries. The Volvo MCT125C, which was introduced in 2013, is definitely the best pick to go for when you are looking for the best-tracked skid steer loader in the market.

In our article today, we take a closer look at the Volvo MCT125C skid steer loader. We will explain the cool specs and features that make this loader stand out. To understand the loader better and help any potential buyer, we investigate the common problems hanging over this loader. Durability is also something we will explain to help you compare the loader with others in the class. This way, you will have a solid grasp of what the Volvo MTC125C loader can do and what to expect when you buy one.

The Volvo MCT125C overview

The Volvo MCT125C is a tracked skid steer loader. The loader is found in the C-Series family of loaders from Volvo. Other machines in the family include the MC135C, MC110C, and MC155C. The first generation of the loader was produced between 2013 and 2015. The second generation followed between 2026 and 2019.

It is a one-armed skid steer whose design and capabilities make it a bliss for the operator. The Volvo C-Series boasts better traction in rough terrain, improved power transfer to the ground, and superior machine stability.

Most of us are used to choosing between wheeled skid steers and tracked compact loaders. VCE built this loader to provide its long line of esteemed customers with better ways to accomplish their goals. One feature that makes this loader stand out is the spacious cabin. Unlike many loaders in this class, the MCT125C comes with a side door. The door opens wide, and you won't get tired or stressed trying to prop yourself out of the operator's seat.

When operating the MCT125C, you get an easy time working around the cabin. The loader's controls and gauges are ergonomically placed, making access easy and productivity high. The loader is equipped with a single tower loader arm to enhance the operator's productivity and comfort. The wide glass windows have further enhanced visibility inside the cabin.

When you invest in the Volvo MCT125C loader, you stand to enjoy premium versatility and power when working. The loader is compatible with a wide range of attachments: hole drilling equipment, pallet forks, trencher, dozer blade, landscaping bucket, and a 6 in 1 bucket. Indeed, this loader is a workhorse and will help you save money because of its versatility. Moreover, attaching and detaching the equipment is easy and quick. Moreover, it meets the US EPA tier 4f emissions regulations.

Owning a Volvo MCT125C should always make you glad and with a smile always. As stated earlier, Volvo has been around for more than 180 years, and this certainly stands for something when shopping for a reliable machine. This loader carries the Volvo equipment name high. The customer support from Volvo further makes it easy to own this loader. The strong dealer network and the availability of parts is something every MCT125C owner and operator enjoys. 

The Volvo MCT125C specs

The MCT125C boasts a myriad of specs and features that make it unique. Here are some of the unique specs;

• The diesel TCAE-55 model engine powers the Volvo MCT125C.
• The 4-cylinder, 16-valve engine has a displacement of 4,399 cc and is water-cooled.
• To achieve maximum power, the engine is turbocharged, allowing it to give a SAE gross horsepower of 74 hp. The max gross torque is 296lb-ft, and the max engine speed at no load is 2,450 RPM.
• The maximum travel speed at two speeds is 7.8 mph; at one speed, it is 5.7 mph.
• The loader takes 5.1 seconds to lift the bucket, 1.4 seconds to curl, and 1.8 seconds to dump. The breakout lift force is 5,809 pounds, and that for curling is 7,187 pounds.
• On the hydraulics system of the loader, the system pressure is 3,335psi, while the high flow pump output at rated RPM is 33 gallons per minute.
• The MCT125C moves on 18-inch tracks with a ground-bearing pressure reaching 4.6 psi on soft soil.
• The fuel tank and the hydraulic capacity of the loader are 103 liters and 60 liters, respectively.
• The operating weight of the loader is 10,756 pounds, and the rated operating capacity is 2,800 pounds.
• The isolated mounted canopy ROPS and FOPS ensure the operator's safety.
• The loader's cabin has all the niceties an operator might need, such as a cup holder, radio, pod storage area, in-cabin rear view mirror, interior light, and an emergency exit through the front windshield.
• Like most modern loaders in the market, the MCT125C comes with a start/stop engine switch. This makes starting and stopping the engine easy and convenient for the operator.
• The control panel adorns a park brake switch, a full audible and visual warning system that makes you monitor the performance of the many loader systems while you are still in the cabin.
• On the control panel, you will also find a fuel gauge, hydraulic temperature gauge, and hour meter, among other basic indicators.

Common Volvo MCT125C problems

Like every other compact track or wheel loader, the Volvo MCT125C has its fair share of issues. While these issues can be frustrating and, at times, time and money-consuming, in many cases, they don't deter lovers of a good loader from investing in this loader. Here are some of the common issues reported by operators and owners of the Volvo MCT125C loader;

1) Hydraulic leakage

The hydraulic system in the MCT125C compact skid steer guarantees the optimal performance of critical components such as the boom, the bucket, or pallet forks. Even moving around relies heavily on the hydraulic system.

One of the common problems reported by operators of this machine is hydraulic leakage. The system will fail to reach its optimal performance level, and if the problem is neglected, the loader can fail to perform totally. A leading cause of hydraulic issues in the MCT125C loader is a faulty hydraulic pump, a clogged filter, and over or underfilling the hydraulic system.

Some issues can easily be handled, such as the overfilling or underfilling of the hydraulic system. Simply ensure you follow the user manual and add 26 liters of fluid into the hydraulic reservoir. As for the hydraulic pump issues or hydraulic line issues, it is best to visit the nearest Volvo dealership.

2) The engine won't crank

In 2010, Volvo CE and JCB entered into a framework agreement where some Volvo loaders got JCB engines and parts. While the JCB brand is reliable and sturdy, it follows that some JCB issues, like starting the engine, became Volvo issues, too. Among the problems is the problem with starting the engine.

Clogged fuel injectors have been seen to be among the leading causes of this problem. The injectors' problem is usually closely related to malfunctioning spark plugs. The engine might also fail to start due to a faulty fuel circulation system, which includes fuel lines, fuel pump, and fuel filters.

3) Throttle malfunction

This problem has been raised on several forums and on different occasions. The problem mainly revolves around the operator observing no or little throttle response with the rotary hand dial. The problem is reported to be intermittent and has been observed to affect a wide range of C-Series loaders.

When this problem happens, the operator is advised to check for error codes. This should be followed by an inspection of the movement of the actuator with the injection pump to confirm whether the actuator rod is retracting and extending fully. An actuator problem should lead you to inspect the voltage and the ECU fuse in the loader. Sometimes, you will be required to replace the foot throttle rotary dial or the throttle actuator.

Durability of the Volvo MCT125C

Volvo CE carries a lifetime frame and structural warranty. This means the framework of your MCT125C loader is backed for the entire time you have it. The catch to this sweet clause is that the warranty can only be enjoyed by the original buyer of the machine.

The Volvo CE offers a competitive warranty that allows you to operate your MCT125C without too much to worry about. The reason behind such a solid warranty on the Volvo loaders is to prove that Volvo machines are reliable and durable.

Owners of the Volvo MCT125C loaders have given quite some encouraging figures relating to the machine's reliability and durability. Some owners have said they have used their loaders for 20,000 hours, but the majority report fewer hours. Even for the extensive users of this loader, there are no major mechanical issues to report, particularly if you follow the user manual to the letter.

Conclusion

The Volvo MCT125C is considered new in the land of heavy construction machinery. However, over the decade it has been reporting to the construction sites worldwide, it has proved its worth. This loader is unique and highly competitive, especially on the in-cabin features. Even with a few issues here and there, you can rest easy knowing that the few problems that seem to creep onto the MCT125C are manageable, and with a qualified mechanic by your side, they are easy to solve.