Timing Setup for the Case 1835C Skid Loader Engine

[MikePhua]

The 1835C and Its Mechanical Foundation
The Case 1835C skid loader was introduced in the late 1980s as part of Case’s compact equipment lineup. Built for versatility, it featured a robust frame, hydrostatic drive, and either a gasoline or diesel engine depending on configuration. The diesel variant often used the Teledyne Continental TMD-20 engine, a four-cylinder indirect injection powerplant known for its simplicity and reliability. With an operating weight around 5,800 lbs and a rated operating capacity of 1,300 lbs, the 1835C became a staple in agriculture, landscaping, and light construction.
Setting engine timing correctly is essential for combustion efficiency, cold starting, and overall performance. Whether rebuilding the engine or replacing the injection pump, precise timing ensures that fuel delivery aligns with piston position and valve operation.
Diesel Engine Timing Procedure
For the TMD-20 diesel engine, static timing is set at top dead center (TDC). This means the injection pump must deliver fuel precisely as the number one piston reaches the top of its compression stroke.
Steps to set timing:

• Remove the timing inspection plate on the bell housing near the glow plug solenoid
  
• Locate the timing marks etched on the flywheel
  
• Rotate the engine in its normal direction until the TDC mark aligns with the pointer
  
• On the injection pump, use the sight window to verify that the internal timing marks are aligned
  
• The marks should line up just as the TDC mark passes under the indicator pin
  
• Secure the pump and recheck alignment after tightening bolts
  

Avoid rotating the engine backward to reach TDC, as gear lash can throw off pump timing. Always rotate forward and stop precisely at the mark.
Valve Adjustment Specifications
Proper valve clearance ensures optimal airflow and combustion. For the TMD-20:
Cold engine (70°F water temp):

• Intake: 0.014 inch
  
• Exhaust: 0.019 inch
  

Hot engine (140°F water temp):

• Intake: 0.014 inch
  
• Exhaust: 0.018 inch
  

Cylinder identification from fan end:

• #1: Exhaust
  
• #2: Intake
  
• #3: Exhaust
  
• #4: Intake
  
• #5: Exhaust
  
• #6: Intake
  

Use a feeler gauge and adjust each valve at TDC for its respective cylinder. Rotate the engine to bring each cylinder to TDC before adjusting.
Gasoline Engine Timing Setup
If the 1835C is equipped with a gasoline engine, such as the TM20, timing is set differently:

• Static timing: 20° before top dead center (BTDC)
  
• Engine speed: 2,800 RPM
  
• Disconnect vacuum line at distributor during adjustment
  
• Use a timing light connected to cylinder #1 spark plug
  
• Check timing marks at the flywheel or crank pulley
  

Valve settings remain the same as the diesel variant. Ensure the distributor advances smoothly and the vacuum diaphragm is intact.
Common Timing Issues and Field Fixes
Operators often encounter hard starting, poor throttle response, or excessive smoke due to incorrect timing. Common causes include:

• Misaligned injection pump after rebuild
  
• Worn timing gears or chain slack
  
• Incorrect valve lash settings
  
• Backward engine rotation during setup
  
• Dirty or obscured timing marks
  

In one case, a contractor in Wisconsin rebuilt his TMD-20 but experienced poor cold starts. After rechecking the pump alignment and adjusting valve clearances, the engine started reliably even in sub-freezing temperatures.
Preventive Maintenance and Long-Term Reliability
To maintain timing integrity:

• Inspect timing marks annually and clean flywheel window
  
• Check injection pump alignment after any service
  
• Adjust valves every 500 hours or annually
  
• Monitor fuel quality to prevent injector wear
  
• Use OEM gaskets and torque specs during reassembly
  

A technician in Alberta recommends marking the pump flange and gear housing with paint before removal to preserve alignment during service.
Conclusion and Recommendations
Setting timing on the Case 1835C skid loader requires attention to detail and a clear understanding of engine configuration. Whether diesel or gasoline, proper alignment of timing marks and valve settings ensures smooth operation, fuel efficiency, and long-term durability.
Recommendations include:

• Always rotate the engine forward to reach TDC
  
• Align injection pump marks precisely at TDC
  
• Adjust valves based on engine temperature
  
• Use a timing light for gasoline variants
  
• Document timing settings and service intervals
  

With careful setup and routine checks, the 1835C remains a dependable compact loader—ready to dig, lift, and haul with mechanical precision.