Bobcat Telehandler 773 Dash Warning Lights: Symbols and Meanings

The Bobcat Telehandler 773 is a robust telescopic handler designed for lifting and material handling in construction and agriculture. Its instrument cluster uses color-coded warning lights to communicate machine status and safety conditions, helping operators avoid damage and accidents.

How to read the colors: Red lights indicate a critical condition requiring immediate shutdown; amber lights signal a caution or need for servicing; green or blue lights show that a system (e.g., high beams) is active.

Bobcat Telehandler 773 Warning Light Symbols

SymbolNameColorWhat it meansWhat to do
Master Warning (Stop)REDThis red light illuminates when a major fault, such as low hydraulic pressure or engine shutdown risk, is detected in the Bobcat Telehandler 773.Stop the machine immediately, shift to neutral, engage parking brake, and check the display for fault codes.
Check Engine (MIL)AMBERThe engine control unit has detected an emission or performance issue specific to the Bobcat Telehandler 773's diesel engine.Reduce load and engine speed; schedule diagnostic service at your Bobcat dealer.
Hydraulic SystemAMBERThis light warns of low hydraulic oil level or high temperature in the Bobcat Telehandler 773's hydraulic system, affecting lifting performance.Stop the telehandler and check hydraulic oil level and cooler for blockages; top off if needed.
Overload / CapacityREDThe load on the Bobcat Telehandler 773 exceeds the rated capacity, triggering an audible alarm and this red light.Immediately lower the load or retract the boom until the light turns off; never exceed capacity.
PParking BrakeAMBERThis amber light indicates the parking brake is engaged on the Bobcat Telehandler 773; it should turn off when released.If the light stays on with brake released, check brake pressure and adjust the parking brake cable.
Seat BeltREDThe operator's seat belt is not fastened, which is mandatory for operating the Bobcat Telehandler 773 safely.Fasten the seat belt immediately; the machine may be equipped with an interlock preventing movement.
Glow Plug / PreheatAMBERThe glow plugs are preheating the engine cylinders for cold starting on the Bobcat Telehandler 773.Wait for the light to turn off before cranking the engine.
Water in FuelAMBERWater has accumulated in the fuel filter/water separator of the Bobcat Telehandler 773, which can cause injector damage.Drain the water separator bowl as soon as possible to prevent fuel system issues.
Low FuelAMBERThe fuel level in the Bobcat Telehandler 773 is low and needs refueling soon.Refuel with clean diesel to avoid air in the fuel system.
High BeamBLUEThe high beam headlights are active on the Bobcat Telehandler 773 for better visibility in dark conditions.Switch to low beams when other vehicles are approaching.
Mast / Lift LimitAMBERThe boom is approaching its maximum lift height or angle limit on the Bobcat Telehandler 773.Lower or retract the boom slightly to stay within safe operating limits.
Hydraulic OilAMBERThe hydraulic oil temperature is too high or the oil level is low in the Bobcat Telehandler 773.Allow the hydraulics to cool and check oil level; inspect for leaks or debris in cooler.

12 symbols shown. Icons follow ISO 2575 dashboard standards; exact graphics vary by model year.

Most Important Warning Lights

Engine Overheat

Common causes

  • Low coolant level
  • Clogged radiator fins
  • Failed thermostat or water pump

What to do

Stop the Bobcat Telehandler 773 immediately and let the engine cool. Check coolant level and top off if low; clean the radiator fins of debris; if problem persists, replace the thermostat and water pump.

Hydraulic System Fault

Common causes

  • Low hydraulic oil level
  • Oil cooler blockage
  • Hydraulic pump failure

What to do

Park the telehandler safely, engage parking brake, and check hydraulic oil level. Inspect the oil cooler for debris and clean if needed. If the pump has failed, contact a Bobcat dealer for replacement.

Overload Warning

Common causes

  • Exceeding rated capacity
  • Uneven load distribution
  • Operating on slopes beyond limits

What to do

Immediately lower the load and retract boom. Refer to the load chart for the Bobcat Telehandler 773 and reposition the load to stay within safe operating limits.

Brake System Failure

Common causes

  • Low brake fluid level
  • Worn brake pads
  • Failed brake valve or accumulator

What to do

Stop the machine and do not operate until brakes are repaired. Check brake fluid reservoir and top off if safe; replace worn pads; have a technician inspect the brake system.

Engine Low Oil Pressure

Common causes

  • Low engine oil level
  • Oil pump failure
  • Clogged oil filter

What to do

Shut down the engine immediately to prevent damage. Check oil level and top up if low. If oil pressure does not return, replace the oil filter and check the oil pump.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the red master warning light mean on the Bobcat Telehandler 773?

It indicates a critical fault requiring immediate shutdown, such as low hydraulic pressure or engine failure risk. Stop the machine, read the fault code on the display, and contact service.

Why does the amber hydraulic light stay on after startup?

It likely signals low hydraulic oil level or high oil temperature. Check the reservoir and cooler; if the light persists, there may be a leak or failed pump.

How do I reset the overload warning light?

Reduce the load to within the rated capacity and the light will turn off automatically. It does not require manual reset; if it stays on with no load, check for a sensor fault.

Can I drive if the check engine light is amber?

Only to move the machine to a safe location for service. Continued operation may damage the engine or emission system, so schedule a diagnostic as soon as possible.

What does the glow plug light indicate in summer?

The glow plug light may still illuminate briefly if the engine is cold or if the ECU performs a preheat cycle. It should turn off within a few seconds; if it stays on, the glow plug system may need inspection.

Why does the parking brake light not go off?

This can indicate the brake is still engaged, a low brake pressure, or a faulty switch. Check the brake lever is fully released; if the light remains, inspect the brake system for hydraulic leaks.