Case 350 Crawler Loader: Specifications, Troubles, and Real‑World Insights

[MikePhua]

Introduction: The Compact Power of the Case 350 Loader
The Case 350 (and 350B) crawler loader, produced during the late 1970s, offered a compact yet capable package for general earthmoving, grading, and material handling. Powered by a Case G188D four-cylinder diesel engine generating roughly 44 HP, it provided a modest 0.57 m³ bucket capacity with a travel speed up to 7.8 km/h. Its compact size (approx. 4 m long and 1.6 m wide) made it transportable and suited to tight job sites.
Key Technical Specifications

• Engine: Case G188D, 4-cylinder diesel, ~44 HP
  
• Displacement: ~3.1 liters, cylinder bore 97 mm × stroke 105 mm
  
• Operating weight: ~4–5 tonnes (depending on variant)
  
• Bucket width and capacity: ~1.6 m wide, ~0.57 m³ capacity
  
• Track width: ~304 mm, travel speed up to 7.8 km/h
  
• Basic ROPS cab, standard shovel bucket with teeth; no rear ripper or air conditioning in most models
  

Component Glossary

• Crawler Loader: Tracked machine with a front loader bucket mounted on a rigid undercarriage
  
• Hydrostatic or manual drive: Controls engine power delivery to tracks
  
• ROPS (Roll‑Over Protective Structure): Safety frame protecting the operator
  
• Bucket Teeth: Replaceable cutting edge peelers for digging
  
• Narrow Track Pads: Designed for compact terrain agility
  

Common Issues and Operator Feedback
Users have reported occasional engine surging at idle, particularly after extended operation—though engine power remains acceptable under load. Cold-weather operation also caused issues: a Case 350 fitted with Roosa Master fuel pump suffered injector return-line loosening, leading to engine shutdown; after tightening fittings and fuel system maintenance attempts failed, the pump itself was suspected to have failed. Another common starter problem was premature disengagement due to a slipping Bendix overrunning clutch—the starter would crank briefly then disengage and spin freely; voltage drops and weak battery setups often exacerbated this symptom.
Maintenance and Troubleshooting Tips

1. Regular Fuel System Checks
   • Tighten or replace injector return fittings to prevent leaks
     
   • Bleed the system thoroughly if the tractor has sat or fuel pressure has dropped
     
   • Monitor and test the injection pump output if starting issues persist
     
2. Starter and Electrical System
   • Use adequate battery capacity (recommended two 12 V in parallel or a large single battery)
     
   • Test starting voltage at the battery and on the starter terminals; avoid voltage sag that triggers Bendix slippage
     
   • Inspect and, if needed, replace starter solenoid or clutch mechanism after removing contaminants and cleaning
     
3. Hydraulics and Drive Maintenance
   • Replace or rebuild hydraulic hoses, screens, and filters
     
   • Service track adjusters, undercarriage rollers, and sealed track pads regularly to maintain travel performance
     
4. Operation in Cold Weather
   • Preheat the engine where possible; cold temperatures can stiffen fuel and delay injection
     
   • Check for weakened or loosened fittings due to vibration—especially around injectors or high-pressure lines
     

Real‑World Case Study Summaries

• Cold‑start Failure: A user in Michigan reported fuel spray from a loose injector line during cold weather. After tightening, the tractor failed to restart in spring—suspecting the fuel pump had failed due to long idle with air and cold exposure.
  
• Starter Drop‑out: A 1976 model exhibited starter disengagement after brief crank time. Voltage diagnosis pointed to inadequate battery and slipping Bendix clutch—even though wiring and solenoid were intact.
  

Maintenance Preventative Actions (as a List)

• Inspect and tighten all fuel system fittings regularly
  
• Bleed fuel lines thoroughly after long idle or storage
  
• Test starter voltage under load; use correct battery setup
  
• Service hydraulic filters, screens, and hoses on schedule
  
• Grease all pivot points and track components as specified
  
• Adjust track tension every 50 hours or as needed
  

Conclusion: Value and Limitations of the Case 350 Loader
The Case 350 crawler loader offers compact capability, easy transportability, and serviceable performance for light construction or agricultural tasks. Its modest engine works well when maintained, but older machines require vigilant fuel system care and proper starter power. While often praised for lift performance in loader mode, some operators reported challenges in muddy or logging environments due to narrow track pads. Still, for contractors or hobbyists needing a small loader with tracked mobility, the 350 remains a practical choice—so long as preventive maintenance and correct system diagnostics are observed.
With attention paid to injectors, starter setup, and track service, the Case 350 can deliver reliable utility even decades after its initial manufacture—making it a resilient piece in worksite fleets and vintage collections alike.