Case 850B Crawler Dozer Overview and Specifications

[MikePhua]

Introduction to the Case 850B
The Case 850B is a renowned crawler dozer model that was produced primarily between 1976 and 1981. It is well-regarded for its durability and solid performance in earthmoving, land clearing, and site preparation tasks, making it a favored choice among contractors and farmers alike.
Engine and Powertrain

• Powered by a durable diesel engine producing approximately 92 horsepower, sufficient for a variety of light to medium earthmoving applications.
  
• The crawler dozer features a hydrostatic transmission system providing smooth control and reliable driving performance.
  
• The maximum speed is around 5.5 to 6.5 miles per hour, depending on configuration and track condition.
  

Dimensions and Weight

• Operating length is about 14 feet 1 inch, making it compact enough for maneuverability on smaller job sites.
  
• Operating weight approximates 15,000 pounds, allowing for good traction and stability during pushing operations.
  
• Blade width typically measures 78 inches, well-suited for precise grading and moderate material movement.
  

Hydraulic and Control Features

• The 850B uses a full hydraulic system controlling blade lifting, lowering, angling, and tilting operations, enabling fine adjustments and efficient grading.
  
• Equipped with a positive-hold float position in the lift circuit, useful for grading and contouring tasks where blade position is critical.
  
• Controls are designed for operator comfort and intuitive operation, contributing to productivity and reduced fatigue.
  

Fuel and Maintenance

• Fuel tank capacity is approximately 27 gallons, providing extended operation time without frequent refueling.
  
• Routine maintenance includes timely checks and replacements of engine oil, filters, hydraulic fluid, and cooling system components to ensure longevity.
  
• Availability of parts remains good through specialized dealers and aftermarket suppliers due to the model’s popularity.
  

Applications

• Ideal for site preparation, grading, light demolition, road construction, and agricultural land management.
  
• Well-balanced power and size allow it to work effectively in confined areas and on medium-sized jobs where larger dozers would be inefficient or unwieldy.
  

Operator Considerations

• Operators benefit from the 850B’s ergonomic seating and straightforward control layout, enhancing operation precision.
  
• Visibility from the cab is adequate for jobsite safety and task accuracy.
  
• Due to its moderate size, it is transportable on standard flatbed trailers, easing logistics for contractors.
  

Terminology Explained

• Crawler Dozer: A tracked vehicle equipped with a front blade used for pushing large quantities of earth.
  
• Hydrostatic Transmission: A type of transmission system that controls vehicle speed and torque through hydraulic fluid pressure and flow.
  
• Float Position: A blade control allowing the blade to follow the terrain contour freely without active hydraulic pressure.
  
• Operating Weight: Total weight of the dozer ready for operation including fuel and standard equipment.
  
• Blade Width: The horizontal length of the dozer’s blade used for earthmoving.
  

Conclusion
The Case 850B crawler dozer combines reliable power, hydraulic versatility, and manageable size, making it a smart choice for contractors and farmers dealing with medium-scale earthmoving projects. Its long production run and widespread use ensure good parts availability and a solid knowledge base for maintenance and operation, helping users maximize machine lifespan and productivity on a variety of job sites.