Evaluating the 1989 Case 1835C Skid Steer Loader

[MikePhua]

The Legacy of Case Skid Steers and the 1835C Lineage
Case Construction Equipment, a division of CNH Industrial, has been a cornerstone of American heavy machinery since its founding in 1842. Known for pioneering steam-powered tractors and later hydraulic backhoes, Case entered the skid steer market in the 1960s. By the late 1980s, the company had refined its compact loader designs to meet the growing demand for versatile, maneuverable machines in agriculture, landscaping, and light construction.
The Case 1835C, introduced in the mid-1980s and produced into the early 1990s, was part of a family of mid-sized skid steers that included the 1838 and 1840. These models shared a common chassis and hydraulic architecture but differed in engine configurations and auxiliary capabilities. The 1835C was particularly popular due to its simplicity, reliability, and affordability, with thousands sold across North America.
Engine Variants and Performance Characteristics
Originally equipped with a Teledyne Continental TMD20 gasoline engine, the 1835C was later retrofitted by many owners with diesel alternatives, most notably the Kubota V2203. This 2.2-liter inline-four diesel engine offered improved torque, fuel efficiency, and longevity compared to its gas counterpart.
Key specifications of the V2203 include:

• Displacement: 2.197 liters
  
• Power Output: Approximately 48 hp at 2800 rpm
  
• Torque: Around 100 Nm at 1600 rpm
  
• Cooling System: Liquid-cooled
  
• Fuel System: Indirect injection
  

The diesel upgrade transformed the 1835C into a more capable machine for cold climates and extended use. Operators reported smoother operation, lower fuel costs, and easier maintenance due to Kubota’s widespread parts availability.
Hydraulic System and Float Function Confusion
One of the most debated features of the 1835C is the presence—or absence—of a float function for the loader arms and bucket. In hydraulic terminology, a “float” refers to a detent position in the control valve that allows hydraulic fluid to flow freely, enabling the attachment to follow ground contours without resistance. This is especially useful for grading and snow removal.
In the 1835C:

• The boom (lift arms) typically includes a float detent.
  
• The bucket (tilt function) does not have a float by default.
  
• Control levers may be reversed due to hose reconfiguration or valve replacement.
  

Some machines have been modified, either intentionally or accidentally, resulting in the left joystick controlling the bucket and the right controlling the boom—opposite of factory configuration. This can lead to confusion when diagnosing float functionality. The loader valve uses a four-position spool: raise, neutral, lower, and float. If the detent is gummed up or misaligned, the float may not engage properly.
Control Valve Access and Troubleshooting
The loader control valve is located beneath the operator’s seat on the right-hand side. Accessing it requires tilting the cab forward and removing the seat assembly. Inside, operators will find:

• Control rods linking joysticks to valve spools
  
• Detent springs and plugs for float engagement
  
• Hydraulic lines for boom and bucket functions
  

If the float function is missing or misbehaving, technicians should inspect:

• Detent spring tension and cleanliness
  
• Rod alignment and compatibility with valve type
  
• Hose routing to confirm correct joystick-to-function mapping
  

In some cases, previous owners may have swapped valves or rods from other Case models like the 1845C, which used different control geometries. This can reverse lever functions or disable float unintentionally.
Operational Capacity and Limitations
The Case 1835C is best suited for medium-duty tasks such as:

• Snow pushing
  
• Dirt moving
  
• Light grading
  
• Material transport
  

Its breakout force is approximately 3,000 lbs, with a rated operating capacity of 1,200 lbs. While adequate for residential and small commercial jobs, it struggles with:

• Stump removal
  
• Tree pushing
  
• Heavy brush clearing
  

Auxiliary hydraulics, if present, are limited in flow and pressure, making them unsuitable for high-demand attachments like brush cutters or hydraulic snow plows. Operators seeking to run such tools should consider larger models like the Case 1845C or newer machines with high-flow packages.
User Experience and Anecdotes
One operator shared his experience using a 1835C with the original gas engine to clear a newly purchased property. While the machine performed admirably for basic tasks, it lacked the power and hydraulic capacity for more aggressive land clearing. After upgrading to a diesel engine, performance improved, but the machine remained underpowered for large-scale forestry work.
Another technician recalled diagnosing a float issue on a 1835C where the control valve had been replaced with a unit from a different Case model. The rods didn’t match the valve geometry, reversing joystick functions and disabling float. After sourcing the correct rods and re-routing hoses, the machine regained proper control behavior.
Recommendations for Prospective Buyers
Before purchasing a used Case 1835C, buyers should inspect:

• Engine type and condition (preferably diesel)
  
• Hydraulic function, especially float detents
  
• Control valve configuration and joystick mapping
  
• Frame integrity and weld condition
  
• Tire wear and drive chain tension
  
• Auxiliary hydraulic flow rate (if applicable)
  

For those planning to use the machine for grading or snow removal, confirming float functionality is essential. If absent, retrofitting may be possible but requires mechanical expertise and parts sourcing.
Conclusion
The 1989 Case 1835C remains a respected workhorse in the compact loader category. Its mechanical simplicity, durable frame, and ease of maintenance make it a viable option for small contractors, farmers, and property owners. While not suited for heavy-duty forestry or high-flow hydraulic applications, it excels in light to medium tasks when properly maintained and configured. Understanding its hydraulic architecture and control logic is key to unlocking its full potential—and avoiding surprises in the field.