Sourcing Parts for Case-Poclain 888 Excavators

[MikePhua]

The History of Case-Poclain and the 888 Series
Case-Poclain excavators represent a unique chapter in construction equipment history. Poclain, originally a French company founded in 1927, was a pioneer in hydraulic excavator design. Its acquisition by Case in the 1980s led to the integration of Poclain’s advanced hydraulic systems into Case’s global product line. The Case-Poclain 888 series, introduced in the late 1980s and early 1990s, became known for its robust build, powerful digging force, and smooth hydraulic control.
The 888 was a mid-size crawler excavator, typically powered by a turbocharged diesel engine producing around 150 horsepower. It featured a monoboom or two-piece boom configuration, depending on market and application, and was widely used in roadbuilding, utility trenching, and aggregate handling. Though production ceased decades ago, many units remain in service due to their mechanical simplicity and durable components.
Challenges in Locating Replacement Parts
As with any legacy machine, sourcing parts for the Case-Poclain 888 has become increasingly difficult. Original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) have discontinued many components, and aftermarket support is limited. Common parts in demand include:

• Hydraulic pump seals and cartridges
  
• Swing motor assemblies
  
• Undercarriage components (track rollers, idlers, sprockets)
  
• Cab glass and door hardware
  
• Electrical harnesses and control modules
  

One of the biggest hurdles is locating suppliers who still stock or remanufacture these parts. Many dealers who once specialized in Case-Poclain inventory have closed or shifted focus to newer models. For example, Rapid Machinery in Fredericksburg, Virginia was once a known source for used 888 parts, but has since gone out of business.
Strategies for Finding Parts
To maintain an aging Case-Poclain excavator, owners must adopt a multi-pronged sourcing strategy:

• Contact regional salvage yards that specialize in heavy equipment
  
• Search European suppliers, especially in France and Belgium, where Poclain machines were originally manufactured
  
• Use part cross-referencing to identify compatible components from other Case or Fiat-Hitachi models
  
• Join online forums and owner groups to exchange leads and technical data
  
• Consider custom fabrication for non-critical components like brackets or panels
  

Some operators have successfully retrofitted hydraulic components from newer Case models, using adapter plates and modified hose routing. While not ideal, this approach can restore functionality when OEM parts are unavailable.
Anecdote from the Northeast
A contractor in Connecticut inherited a Case-Poclain 888 from a retiring colleague. The machine had low hours but suffered from a leaking swing motor and cracked cab glass. After months of searching, he located a donor machine in Quebec and arranged cross-border transport of salvaged parts. He replaced the swing motor with a rebuilt unit and fabricated new glass panels using laminated safety glass cut to size. The machine returned to service and now handles drainage trenching on municipal contracts.
Preservation Tips for Legacy Excavators
To extend the life of a Case-Poclain 888:

• Flush hydraulic systems every 1,000 hours and replace filters regularly
  
• Inspect undercarriage wear monthly, especially in abrasive soil conditions
  
• Keep electrical connectors clean and sealed to prevent corrosion
  
• Store the machine under cover or tarp to protect cab components
  
• Maintain a logbook of part numbers and service history for future reference
  

Operators should also photograph and document any modifications made, as this aids future troubleshooting and resale.
Manufacturer Evolution and Legacy Support
After the Case-Poclain merger, the product line gradually transitioned into Case-branded excavators. By the late 1990s, the Poclain name had largely disappeared from new equipment. CNH Industrial, the parent company of Case, now focuses on newer models like the CX series, which feature electronically controlled engines, load-sensing hydraulics, and telematics integration.
Despite this shift, the legacy of Poclain engineering lives on in the hydraulic smoothness and durability of older Case machines. Enthusiasts and small contractors continue to operate and restore these excavators, valuing their mechanical reliability and straightforward design.
Conclusion
Maintaining a Case-Poclain 888 excavator requires persistence, creativity, and a network of knowledgeable contacts. While parts are scarce, they are not impossible to find. Salvage operations, European suppliers, and custom fabrication offer viable paths to restoration. For those committed to preserving these machines, the reward is a dependable excavator with a storied heritage and proven performance. The 888 may be a relic, but in the right hands, it still digs deep.