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Case 1845C Development and Market Legacy
The Case 1845C skid steer loader was introduced in the early 1990s by Case Corporation, a company with roots dating back to 1842. Known for its rugged simplicity and mechanical reliability, the 1845C quickly became one of the most popular skid steers in North America. Powered by a 51-horsepower Cummins 4B diesel engine and featuring a hydrostatic drive system, the 1845C was designed for versatility in construction, agriculture, and landscaping. Over 60,000 units were sold globally, and many remain in active service today due to their ease of maintenance and parts availability.
Terminology Notes
The unit in question has approximately 5,000 operating hours and exhibits two notable issues:
Service technicians familiar with the 1845C note that drive motors typically last 4,000–6,000 hours under normal use. Rebuilding a motor costs around $800–$1,200, while pump replacement can exceed $2,000. Load check valve repairs are relatively minor, often resolved with a $50–$100 seal kit and cleaning.
One operator in Arkansas shared that his 1845C exhibited similar drive symptoms, which were resolved by replacing a worn relief valve in the tandem pump. Another user reported that bucket drop was eliminated after cleaning the spool and replacing the spring in the lift valve.
Ownership Considerations and Value Assessment
A Case 1845C with minor hydraulic quirks can still be a solid investment if the core systems are intact. With proper diagnostics and modest repair costs, these machines often deliver years of reliable service. In the world of skid steers, the 1845C remains a mechanical workhorse—and sometimes, a few issues are just part of the journey.
The Case 1845C skid steer loader was introduced in the early 1990s by Case Corporation, a company with roots dating back to 1842. Known for its rugged simplicity and mechanical reliability, the 1845C quickly became one of the most popular skid steers in North America. Powered by a 51-horsepower Cummins 4B diesel engine and featuring a hydrostatic drive system, the 1845C was designed for versatility in construction, agriculture, and landscaping. Over 60,000 units were sold globally, and many remain in active service today due to their ease of maintenance and parts availability.
Terminology Notes
- Hydrostatic Drive: A propulsion system using hydraulic pumps and motors to transmit power to the wheels.
- Drive Motor: A hydraulic motor located on each side of the machine, responsible for wheel movement.
- Relief Valve: A pressure-regulating valve that protects hydraulic components from overload.
- Load Check Valve: A valve that prevents hydraulic cylinders from dropping under load when transitioning between functions.
The unit in question has approximately 5,000 operating hours and exhibits two notable issues:
- Uneven Drive Response: One side of the machine slows down when climbing inclines, suggesting a possible imbalance in hydraulic output. This could be due to a weak drive motor, a worn hydrostatic pump, or a faulty relief valve. If the slowdown occurs in both forward and reverse, the issue likely resides in the motor or pump. If directional, it may be valve-related.
- Bucket Drop Before Lift: When raising a loaded bucket, the arms briefly lower before lifting. This symptom points to a malfunctioning load check valve in the lift circuit. The valve may be stuck, the spring weakened, or the poppet worn. This condition can compromise load control and safety during lifting operations.
- Perform a hydraulic pressure test on both drive circuits to compare output.
- Inspect the control valve block for debris or wear in the load check valve.
- Check planetary gear oil levels in the drive hubs, as early 1845C models used separate gearboxes between the motor and chain case.
- Review hydraulic fluid condition and filter history; contamination can accelerate wear.
- Evaluate belt tension and condition on the engine, especially if previously replaced.
Service technicians familiar with the 1845C note that drive motors typically last 4,000–6,000 hours under normal use. Rebuilding a motor costs around $800–$1,200, while pump replacement can exceed $2,000. Load check valve repairs are relatively minor, often resolved with a $50–$100 seal kit and cleaning.
One operator in Arkansas shared that his 1845C exhibited similar drive symptoms, which were resolved by replacing a worn relief valve in the tandem pump. Another user reported that bucket drop was eliminated after cleaning the spool and replacing the spring in the lift valve.
Ownership Considerations and Value Assessment
- If the machine is priced below $10,000 and the frame, engine, and tires are in good condition, it may still be a worthwhile purchase.
- Budget for $2,000–$3,000 in repairs if both drive and lift issues require component replacement.
- The 1845C retains strong resale value due to its reputation and parts support, especially in rural markets.
A Case 1845C with minor hydraulic quirks can still be a solid investment if the core systems are intact. With proper diagnostics and modest repair costs, these machines often deliver years of reliable service. In the world of skid steers, the 1845C remains a mechanical workhorse—and sometimes, a few issues are just part of the journey.
