Evaluating an Older New Holland L785 Skid Steer: Strengths, Pitfalls, and Maintenance Insights

[MikePhua]

Overview of the New Holland L785
The L785 is a classic mid‑size skid-steer loader produced primarily in the early 1990s. It featured vertical‑lift geometry, a Ford or Perkins 57 hp diesel engine, optional two-speed drive, and auxiliary hydraulics on many models. Operators often praise its durability and ease of repair, although it lags behind modern machines in power and features.

Why Operators Still Value the L785

• Built to Last: One user with almost 10,000 hours on a Perkins-powered L785 reported it still “runs strong,” earning high marks for longevity and balance in grading or loading tasks .
  
• Reliable Powertrains: While the Perkins engine is noted for being cold-natured and needing block heaters, many owners favor the Ford motor for better reliability and ease of cold starts .
  
• Vertical-Lift Capability: The L785’s lift geometry allows for solid reach and loading height—often preferred over radial-lift designs on earlier models .
  

Common Issues and Operational Considerations

• Hydraulic Problems from Heat or Valve Wear: Some L785s suffer lift-arm lock-up after extended operation. This is often blamed on worn solenoids or internal control valves. Swapping or replacing the lift’s solenoid typically resolves the symptom .
  
• Hydraulic Pickup or Filter Clogging: A clogged suction screen in the hydraulic reservoir can cause both lift and drive system failures. Cleaning or replacing it has restored functionality in multiple cases .
  
• Chain Slack and Drive Motor Wear: Track or drive system chain slop and failing travel motors, especially on one side, have been noted. Realigning the chain or replacing a weak drive motor often solves steering and traction issues .
  
• Fuel Delivery and Starting in Cold: Perkins engines are harder to start in cold weather and may require a block heater or a cautious use of ether. Bleeding fuel filters after a dry run is essential .
  

Maintenance Checklist for Evaluating an L785 Purchase

• Hydraulic Condition:
  • Check hydraulic filters and suction screen for clogging.
    
  • Test lift operation for heat-related lock-up—might signal solenoid or valve wear.
    
• Engine and Cold-Start Readiness:
  • Verify presence and functionality of block heater.
    
  • Inspect battery health; Perkins units may need a heater or ether assist below ~10 °F.
    
• Under-Carriage and Drive Chain:
  • Assess left/right chain tension; uneven slack may indicate need for adjustment or motor rebuild.
    
  • Listen for clicking or failure from left or right drive motor, especially under load.
    
• Attachment Compatibility:
  • Confirm type of quick-attach plate: older “NH style” may limit compatibility without an adapter (~$1,200–1500) .
    
• Auxiliary Hydraulics:
  • Ensure functional attachments fluid flow—L785 models vary in auxiliary hydraulic provisions .
    

Technical Terminology

• Vertical-Lift Geometry: Loader arm path delivering consistent rake and reach throughout lift.
  
• Suction Filter/Screen: Fine mesh inside hydraulic reservoir that filters fluid before pump intake.
  
• Solenoid Valve (Boom/Bucket): Electrically activated valve gating hydraulic circuit flow.
  
• Drive Chain Tension: Adjustment or wear in undercarriage chain affecting steering and track engagement.
  
• Cold-Start Pre-heater: An electric heater (block heater or glow plug system) used to warm engine prior to startup.
  

Operator Anecdotes and Real-World Observations

• A long-time owner shared that his L785 with over 7,000 hours remained robust and reliable after fabrication of custom bushings and successful welding of frame cracks early on. He prioritized using block heaters in cold seasons and replaced faulty fuel cutoff switches to prevent stall issues .
  
• One buyer found a machine with minor issues like non-working lights and parking brake but appreciated its overall performance and mechanics support; these were considered affordable fixes given availability of service parts and documentation .
  

Summary of Pros and Cons
Pros

• Durable structure and long-lived engines
  
• Good lifting geometry and solid attachments
  
• Replaceable components and wide parts availability
  
• User community supportive of repairs
  

Cons

• Lower horsepower for its weight class (~57 hp)
  
• Perkins engines are cold-sensitive
  
• Older quick-attach may limit compatibility
  
• Hydraulic pickups and solenoids may suffer wear or clogging
  
• Chain tension issues may require adjustments or motor cost (~$600+)
  

Conclusion
The New Holland L785 remains a compelling choice among vintage skid steers for users valuing durability, mechanical simplicity, and lift performance. While quirks around cold starts, drive chain adjustment, and hydraulic valve wear demand attention, most issues are manageable through maintenance and modest repair budgets. For operators comfortable inspecting key systems—engine start-up, hydraulic flow, chain tension, and attachment compatibility—the L785 offers dependable utility even decades after its manufacture.