Unlocking Auxiliary Hydraulics on the Case 580N: Practical Upgrades and Field Wisdom

[MikePhua]

Understanding the Hammer Circuit
The Case 580N backhoe loader often comes equipped with a hammer circuit, a factory-installed auxiliary hydraulic system intended for powering attachments like hydraulic breakers. This circuit typically includes a massive valve assembly located beneath the operator’s right foot, capable of handling up to 42 GPM of flow. While powerful, it’s often underutilized or misunderstood, especially when repurposing it for tools like thumbs, grapples, or splitters.
The hammer circuit is usually single-directional, activated by a solenoid switch, and includes four heavy-duty hoses: pressure supply, return to filter, and two lines routed toward the dipper. These pre-routed hoses offer a convenient starting point for adding auxiliary functions—if properly adapted.
Creative Adaptations and Retrofit Options
Operators have devised clever ways to repurpose the hammer circuit. One method involves installing a two-spool solenoid valve fed by the hammer circuit. When inactive, oil flows through the valve and returns to the tank. When activated, the valve redirects flow to auxiliary functions like a thumb or grapple. Though effective, this setup typically uses on/off switches, limiting feathering control.
Others explore mounting electric diverter valves on the dipper, reducing hose size and complexity. This approach allows for bidirectional control and opens possibilities for attachments like wood splitters or tilting buckets. However, working with large 1" hoses in tight spaces can be challenging, requiring careful routing and bracket fabrication.
Factory Kits and Dealer Support
For those seeking a more standardized solution, Burlington Installation Corp (BIC) offers a dual-flow auxiliary hydraulic kit for the Case 580N. This kit includes a relief block, loader cross tube installation, and wiring harnesses for joystick integration. Installation typically takes 6–8 hours at a dealership, depending on machine condition.
While comprehensive, the kit can be expensive and difficult to source, especially in regions with limited dealer support. Some Case dealers have transitioned to parts-only operations, leaving customers to navigate installation and pricing independently. BIC, which customizes over 85% of Case backhoes and skid steers before dealer delivery, may offer direct assistance if approached with part numbers and installation diagrams.
Field Stories and Practical Advice
A Vermont electrician retrofitted his 580N using the hammer circuit and a solenoid valve to power a grapple. Though the controls lacked finesse, the setup worked reliably. Another operator in Ontario installed a thumb using a splitter valve at the extend-a-hoe joint, though he noted the complexity of hose movement in that area.
In New Jersey, a retired mechanic used the hammer circuit to power a custom-built log splitter, leveraging the high flow rate for rapid cycles. “It’s overkill,” he admitted, “but it splits oak like butter.”
Tips for Successful Integration

• Verify flow direction and valve type—some hammer circuits are one-way only.
  
• Use existing hoses when possible to reduce routing complexity.
  
• Consider electric diverters for compact installations and multiple functions.
  
• Consult service manuals for hydraulic schematics and valve locations.
  
• Explore aftermarket kits like those from BIC for plug-and-play solutions.
  

Conclusion: From Hammer to Helper
The Case 580N’s auxiliary hydraulics offer more than just breaker power—they’re a gateway to customization. Whether you're adding a thumb, powering a grapple, or building a hydraulic wood splitter, the hammer circuit provides a robust foundation. With a mix of ingenuity, factory support, and field-tested wisdom, operators can transform their machines into versatile workhorses tailored to any jobsite.