Description

Bobcat 325, 328 2006 Operators Manual

If you run a 325 or 328 in a shop or on a job site, you already know the cost of guessing. I’ve pulled enough broken machines out of ditches because somebody skipped the safety section. This 137-page Bobcat 325, 328 2006 Operators Manual is the factory-issued document, not some aftermarket copy with blurred torque charts. It’s the same book that came with the machine when it rolled off the line—6902610-EN, printed in 2006 by Bobcat Europe. If you’re serious about keeping that excavator running without bending a track frame or blowing a hydraulic line, this is what you need on the bench.

Safety First: Why Page XIII Isn’t Optional

The manual opens with a full safety chapter (page XIII). That’s not filler—those warnings cover slope limits (never exceed 25° going down, 15° sideways), correct cab/canopy requirements, and the slew lock procedure. I’ve watched a 328 tip because the operator ignored the ‘seat belt’ rule on page 2 of the OCR excerpt. The manual lists the required safety equipment: ROPS/TOPS canopy, handrails, safety tread. Every one of those items is in the book because someone got hurt without them. You want to run a machine? Read that section first.

Operating Instructions: Startup to Shutdown Sequence

Pages 1 through 54 cover every control function, starting procedure, and travel operation for both the 325 and 328 (G Series). The manual specifies neutral-start, horn check, and zero-bucket-extension before driving. It also tells you why you never swing a heavy load over the side of the track—it’s not about the load, it’s about the stability triangle. For anyone new to compact excavators, this chapter keeps you from making the same mistakes that cost my employer $8,000 in bodywork last year.

Preventive Maintenance Schedule: Follow It or Pay Later

The preventive maintenance section starts on page 55. It lists motor oil specs, regular maintenance items, and the inspection intervals for filters, fluids, and tracks. Bobcat puts the oil viscosity chart right next to the drain intervals—no guessing. If you’re running a 325 in a rental fleet, this schedule is your insurance policy. The manual also includes a delivery report form (page VIII) so you can document the machine’s condition at handoff. That alone is worth the access if you’re dealing with customers who swear they never hit a rock.

Specifications That Match the Machine

Section 6 (Specifications, page 97) gives you the weights, dimensions, hydraulic pressures, and engine specs for both serial number ranges: 234111001 and above for the 325, 234211001 and above for the 328. Factory numbers, not “typical” values from a third-party website. When you need to know the fluid capacity or the track tension, page 97 is where you look. No aftermarket manual will hand you those exact numbers—I’ve seen two that listed the wrong hydraulic pump flow for a 328. Stick with OEM.

Serial Number Locations: Know Your Machine

The manual dedicates a full page to serial number locations (page VII). Engine and excavator serial numbers are diagrammed so you can identify the exact variant. If you’re ordering parts or requesting service bulletins, that number is the only thing Bobcat tech support wants. The book also includes features and accessories lists by serial range (pages X-XI), so you know which buckets and attachments are approved. Using an unapproved attachment voids the safety certification—the manual says so in the foreword.

System Setup and Analysis: Diagnosing Issues

Chapter 5 (System Setup and Analysis, page 91) walks through hydraulic system checks, engine diagnostics, and electrical connections. It’s not a service manual, but it gives you the baseline procedures for verifying pressures and alignments. If the machine won’t lift rated load, this chapter tells you how to check the charge pressure before pulling a pump. That kind of diagnostic order saves hours of wasted disassembly.

Who Needs This Manual?

Home garage enthusiasts and small fleet owners who operate 325 or 328 excavators. If you bought a used machine and the previous owner lost the booklet, you’re missing the safety decal meanings, the 25° slope rule, and the correct engine oil spec. Beginners especially—this manual teaches you the startup checklist that prevents hydraulic hammer damage. Professional mechanics will use it as a quick reference for specs and maintenance intervals. It’s not a rebuild guide; for that you want the Bobcat 325 328 331 2006 Service Manual.

Why OEM Beats Aftermarket Documentation

Aftermarket manuals often copy text but miss torque values, or they lump multiple models into generic instructions. This Operators Manual came directly from Bobcat Company (ISO 9001:2000 certified, stated on page V). The PDF is a scan of the original binder—no re-typeset errors, no missing pages. If you’re also working on manual transmission rigs, check Manual Transmission references for other equipment; but for the Bobcat, don’t accept substitutes.

• Bobcat 325 328 2007 Service Manual
• Bobcat 325 328 2008 Service Manual
• For broader transmission info: Manual Transmission

Does this manual cover both the 325 and 328 models?

Yes, it covers serial numbers 234111001 and above for 325, and 234211001 and above for 328 (G Series).

Is this manual suitable for a complete rebuild or just operation?

This is an Operation and Maintenance Manual, not a service or repair manual. It covers daily operation, preventive maintenance, system setup, and specifications. For major repairs like engine or hydraulic overhaul, you need the Service Manual. However, it includes critical safety warnings and preventive maintenance schedules that are essential before any repair work. Many techs use this to understand machine systems before diving into repairs.

Stop relying on forum posts and jumbled PDFs from unknown sources. Get the real factory document from AutoRepairManuals. Access the Factory Manual and keep your 325 or 328 running safe and productive.