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Backhoe Loader Heritage
The backhoe loader—an iconic, dual-purpose machine combining a front-end loader with a rear digging arm—traces its lineage to the late 1940s. In 1947, the Wain-Roy Corporation invented the pivoting hydraulic backhoe, first sold in 1948 mounted on a Ford Model 8N tractor for approximately $705. The integrated, factory-warranted backhoe loader debuted in 1957, courtesy of Case with their Model 320.
Case and Its Legacy
Case Construction Equipment, founded in the 19th century, has long been a pillar in heavy machinery, with its first backhoe appearing in 1957. Their Extend-a-Hoe™ design—allowing the backhoe arm to extend several feet—set a lasting benchmark for versatility and reach.
Technical Profile of the Case 580SE
Production & Identity
The Case 580 Super E, also known as 580SE or 580E, began production in the early 1980s and continued for decades. These designations refer to essentially the same model, with "SE" denoting Super E. Serial numbering from 1983 onward identifies specific batch years.
Engine & Powertrain
Available in both 2WD and 4WD configurations. 4WD models feature longer steering cylinders and hydraulically integrated steering—no separate pump needed.
Braking System
Early units featured dry brakes; later revisions incorporated wet disc brakes with transaxle oil splash lubrication to improve performance and longevity.
Tires
Standard tire sizes for 2WD models: front 11L-16 (10-ply), rear 17.5L-24 (12-ply).
Practical Insights & Owner Stories
A mid-1980s 4-WD 580SE (circa 1986) listed with ~6,450 hours and priced around $22,900 offers real-world performance data: 69 hp engine, transport weight ~10,660 lb, and digging reach ~17.8 ft .
Similarly, a 1985 2WD example logs ~3,700 hours with similar performance specs and a price near $13,900—demonstrating decent resale value decades after manufacture .
Suggestions & Solutions for Owners
Summary
The Case 580SE (Super E) backhoe loader, produced since the 1980s, represents a reliable and versatile machine rooted in Case's long history of backhoe innovation. With a 63 hp engine, power shuttle transmission, and features like the Extend-a-Hoe and optional 4WD, it was built for both digging reach and loader strength. Over 40 years later, well-maintained units continue to find value and utility in various work environments.
The backhoe loader—an iconic, dual-purpose machine combining a front-end loader with a rear digging arm—traces its lineage to the late 1940s. In 1947, the Wain-Roy Corporation invented the pivoting hydraulic backhoe, first sold in 1948 mounted on a Ford Model 8N tractor for approximately $705. The integrated, factory-warranted backhoe loader debuted in 1957, courtesy of Case with their Model 320.
Case and Its Legacy
Case Construction Equipment, founded in the 19th century, has long been a pillar in heavy machinery, with its first backhoe appearing in 1957. Their Extend-a-Hoe™ design—allowing the backhoe arm to extend several feet—set a lasting benchmark for versatility and reach.
Technical Profile of the Case 580SE
Production & Identity
The Case 580 Super E, also known as 580SE or 580E, began production in the early 1980s and continued for decades. These designations refer to essentially the same model, with "SE" denoting Super E. Serial numbering from 1983 onward identifies specific batch years.
Engine & Powertrain
- Powered by a naturally aspirated four-cylinder Case 4-390 (Cummins-based) diesel engine delivering approximately 63 hp (51 kW) .
- Features a power shuttle transmission with a torque converter and synchronized shuttle shift, offering four forward and four reverse speeds .
- Equipped with Extend-a-Hoe hydraulic mechanism for enhanced digging reach .
- Hydraulic pump flow and pressure, though not specified here, are typical of mid-80s hydraulic attachment systems.
- Models incorporate rear outriggers and lowered front loader bucket to stabilize during digging—common industry practice for backhoe loaders.
- Transport dimensions:
- Length: ~21 ft 9 in (~6.63 m)
- Width: ~8 ft (~2.06 m)
- Height: ~11 ft 3 in (~2.64 m)
- Length: ~21 ft 9 in (~6.63 m)
- Operating weight: approx. 10,660 lb (~4,835 kg)
- Capabilities (1985 model):
- Dig depth: ~18.3 ft
- Reach from swivel: ~21.7 ft
- Max digging force: ~11,586 lb
- Loader lift capacity: ~4,390 lb
- Breakout force: ~7,040 lb
- Dig depth: ~18.3 ft
- Additional specs (1984-2020 models):
- Weight: 5.216 t (approx. 11,500 lb)
- Bucket capacity: 0.6 m³
- Tear-out force backhoe: 51.5 kN (~11,570 lb)
- Max reach: ~7.62 m
- Dig depth: ~5.56 m
- Discharge height: ~4.34 m
- Travel speed: 35.1 km/h (~21.8 mph)
- Weight: 5.216 t (approx. 11,500 lb)
Available in both 2WD and 4WD configurations. 4WD models feature longer steering cylinders and hydraulically integrated steering—no separate pump needed.
Braking System
Early units featured dry brakes; later revisions incorporated wet disc brakes with transaxle oil splash lubrication to improve performance and longevity.
Tires
Standard tire sizes for 2WD models: front 11L-16 (10-ply), rear 17.5L-24 (12-ply).
Practical Insights & Owner Stories
A mid-1980s 4-WD 580SE (circa 1986) listed with ~6,450 hours and priced around $22,900 offers real-world performance data: 69 hp engine, transport weight ~10,660 lb, and digging reach ~17.8 ft .
Similarly, a 1985 2WD example logs ~3,700 hours with similar performance specs and a price near $13,900—demonstrating decent resale value decades after manufacture .
Suggestions & Solutions for Owners
- Engine & Hydraulic Maintenance: Routine checks for fuel injection system and hydraulic integrity are essential.
- Transmission Care: Always flush torque converter and oil cooler when servicing the shuttle transmission.
- Brake Fluid: If your unit has wet disc brakes, avoid standard gear oil; use manufacturer-specified fluid to prevent glazing.
- Replacement Parts: Availability of OEM and aftermarket options for popular components like tires, seals, and pump parts remains strong .
- Transport Planning: For logistics, consult precise transport dimensions and weight estimates (approx. 21 ft x 8 ft x 11 ft, 10–11 k lb) to arrange suitable freight or trailer capacity .
Summary
The Case 580SE (Super E) backhoe loader, produced since the 1980s, represents a reliable and versatile machine rooted in Case's long history of backhoe innovation. With a 63 hp engine, power shuttle transmission, and features like the Extend-a-Hoe and optional 4WD, it was built for both digging reach and loader strength. Over 40 years later, well-maintained units continue to find value and utility in various work environments.
