Decode Bobcat Serial Number: Location, Meaning, Some Facts to Know

No matter what kind of Bobcat machine you are using, each comes with a unique set of serial numbers. Now, if you are wondering what they mean, you came to the right place.

While these codes appear to be nothing but random characters to an untrained observer, they actually hold a special meaning in the grand scheme of things. In this article, we will help you figure out all things related to these bunch of letters and numbers printed or engraved in your Bobcat.

What You'll Learn Here

This post aims to let readers understand the following topics:

• What is a Serial Number
• Location of the Serial Numbers in Bobcat Vehicles
• Meaning of the Characters in the Identification Plate of the Bobcat and Facts You Need to Know About Them
• Importance of the Serial Number in a Bobcat

What is a Serial Number

Serial numbers are used to identify the particular machine from all others of the same model. These are usually composed of a combination of letters and/or numbers that can be used by manufacturers to track the technical information about a specific product, including its model, configuration, manufacturer, and more.

In the case of Bobcat, these are also normally utilized in tracking warranty claims, service records, and other important details pertaining to its individual products. It should be noted as well that this string of code is generated in the company's manufacturing plants.

Location of the Serial Numbers in Bobcat Vehicles

The serial numbers in Bobcat products can be found in their identification plates. The location of the identification plates, however, depends on the type of machine you are using and the plant where it was assembled. Nevertheless, these are not really hard to find.

For example, the excavators of the brand have them displayed on the exterior of their bodies. These are typically found in the outer shell of the engine compartment, near the boom swing, or below the cab. In loaders, you can easily spot them on their bodies under the cab or between the loader lift arm and the tracks.

Meaning of the Characters in the Identification Plate of the Bobcat and Facts You Need to Know About Them

Luckily, understanding the things written on the identification plate of your Bobcat is no rocket science. Everything in there is self-explanatory and most of them come with proper labeling so you could easily identify the following key elements:

1. Brand Name

The brand of your vehicle, which is "Bobcat" in this case.

2. Product Classification

The complete classification of the equipment. For example, if its exact type is a compact skid steer track loader or an excavator, it should be indicated there.

3. Model Year

This is the model year of the machine. One should not confuse this with the manufacturing year of the product since the two are commonly different. Normally, the model year of a machine is the year when it's intended to be rolled out in the market or in dealerships, not the year in which it was actually built. Sometimes, it's also a reference to its production cycle.

4. Equipment Model

This figure represents the model number or model name of a Bobcat machine. This information is used by manufacturers to identify the technical specifications and common parts that are associated with any particular model.

5. Serial Number

This is the unique nine-digit code present in each Bobcat machine. This can be used to keep track of its technical specifications as well as history or records.

6. Country of Origin

Indicates the country where the vehicle was made. At present, Bobcat products are made in the company's manufacturing plants in the USA, China, the Czech Republic, France, and India. Currently, Bobcat has 12 manufacturing facilities spread in the mentioned areas.

8. Company Name

The official name of the company is simply "Bobcat Company".

9. Company Address

The general address of the regional headquarters of Bobcat that's responsible for the distribution and marketing of the product. It mentions the name of the city/town, state/province, and zip code of the HQ.

To date, the locations of these are in West Fargo, North Dakota; Dobris, Czech Republic; and Bundang, Republic of Korea, which also happens to be the present corporate headquarters of Doosan Corporation, the parent of the company.

10. Website

The official website of Bobcat at www.bobcat.com where you can get more information or updates about the company and its products. You can also use this to contact the Customer Service of Bobcat, too, if you have more questions about its products or if you want to lodge a complaint about a certain problem you are facing with a vehicle you just purchased from one of its dealerships.

Importance of the Serial Number in a Bobcat Vehicle

Bobcat makes use of the serial numbers in its vehicles in a variety of ways. The most common uses for these are the following:

1. Identifying the Technical Specifications of the Machine

The serial number is necessary to identify the technical specifications and features of a certain Bobcat vehicle. This includes its model year, make, type, size, and other important details that can help you determine whether or not this is suitable for your applications or needs.

2. Keeping Track of Records

Serial numbers are also used to keep track of records from service repairs or maintenance works done on a particular machine. The serial number is necessary if ever you need information about any problems encountered by certain machines in the past so as to know how it was resolved as well as practice preventive maintenance services on units with similar histories.

3. Warranty Claims

During warranty claims, you will be asked to provide the serial number of your machine. This is to ensure that you are indeed qualified for the warranty and that it's still valid. Companies will also use this information to know how long you have been utilizing their product as well as any applicable customer privileges or discounts due to your loyalty.

4. Correct Parts Replacement

When purchasing parts, one needs to provide the exact model name and the serial number of the machine he/she owns so that he/she can get the correct replacement part, especially in cases where certain parts vary depending on the vehicle's model year or version. In line with this, dealerships will ask for the serial number when servicing machines since different Bobcat models may require specific tools or procedures for repair or maintenance works.

5. Stolen Property or Fake Product Identification

Serial numbers are also important for the identification of stolen or fake products circulating in the market. In cases where a Bobcat machine gets stolen, the serial number is essential in order to trace its rightful owner and return it to them. Meanwhile, if the product shares a serial with another, chances are one of them is a clone or copycat.

Reasons Why Serial Numbers Come in Handy for Operators

Likewise, operators can enjoy plenty of advantages when they know how to take advantage of the information offered by their Bobcats' serial numbers. Among the most common benefits of knowing how to properly utilize the data provided by serial numbers include these:

1. Easier Troubleshooting

Having the exact serial number of your Bobcat machine makes troubleshooting easier. With the right parts and specifications on hand, operators can replace components quickly and efficiently while they're out in the field.

2. Time Management

Identifying the technical specifications as well as records of certain machines through their serial numbers allows operators to save time when providing customer service or repairs since they already know what kind of model they're dealing with and what kind of problems they might have.

3. Warranty Benefits

Operators can secure themselves from expensive repairs in cases where their Bobcat machines are still under warranty by providing the serial number as proof, which may entitle them to discounts or other benefits given by the company.

4. Spare Parts Acquisition

Having the exact serial number makes it easier for operators to locate the right spare parts they need to replace any defective component in a certain machine. This allows them to avoid delays and unnecessary costs due to wrong part replacements.

5. Stolen Property Quick Recovery

Again, in the unfortunate event that an operator's property gets stolen, having its serial number can make it easier for the authorities to identify and retrieve it since more information can be gleaned from it. This can save time, money, and effort that would otherwise be spent in trying to locate a stolen Bobcat equipment.

Conclusion

Hopefully, the information shown here has shed light on the importance of serial numbers in Bobcat machines. Knowing how to properly utilize the data provided by these codes can help operators save time, money, and effort when it comes to customer service, repairs, and security of their property.

With this in mind, the next time you get a Bobcat machine, don't forget to take note of its serial number. Doing so can provide you with many benefits in the long run.

Finally, being familiar with the serial number of your Bobcat machine may come in handy when you need to acquire aftermarket parts for your vehicle. Most suppliers require the serial number of the machine as a way to make sure that you get the correct part for the model you're working on, especially if special parts are needed.