Rediscovering the Drott 50D Excavator and Its Legacy

[MikePhua]

The Rise of Drott and the 50D’s Place in Excavator History
Drott Manufacturing Company, founded in the early 20th century in Wisconsin, became a household name in the heavy equipment industry by pioneering multi-function attachments and robust crawler-based machines. By the 1960s and 1970s, Drott had established itself as a key player in the excavator market, particularly with its “triple-purpose” buckets and rugged undercarriage designs. The Drott 50D excavator was part of this lineage—a mid-sized crawler excavator built for general excavation, trenching, and demolition work.
The 50D was powered by a diesel engine, typically in the 80–120 horsepower range, and featured a mechanical swing system, dual hydraulic pumps, and a steel track undercarriage. Its design emphasized simplicity and brute strength over finesse, making it ideal for contractors who valued reliability over electronics. Though exact production numbers are hard to trace, the 50D was widely distributed across North America and often found on municipal lots, farmsteads, and independent excavation fleets.
Evaluating a Long-Parked Drott 50D
When encountering a Drott 50D that has been parked for years—especially outdoors on a hillside—the first question is whether it’s worth restoring or salvaging. Machines left untouched for extended periods often suffer from:

• Seized hydraulic cylinders due to internal corrosion
  
• Dry-rotted hoses and cracked fittings
  
• Water intrusion into the fuel tank and engine block
  
• Electrical system degradation from rodent activity
  
• Track chain rust and roller seizure
  

However, the fact that the machine hasn’t been disassembled is a positive sign. A complete unit, even if non-running, retains more value than one that’s been scavenged. In one case, a similar Drott 50D sold for $8,500 in running condition, though it required significant mechanical attention. That benchmark suggests that even non-operational units may exceed scrap value if marketed to collectors or restorers.
Scrap Value Versus Historical Worth
Scrap value for a Drott 50D typically hovers around $7,000, depending on steel prices and weight. The machine’s frame, boom, and counterweight contribute the bulk of that value. However, historical worth and restoration potential can push the price higher. Factors that influence resale value include:

• Engine model and condition (e.g., Detroit Diesel 4-53 or Cummins 4BT)
  
• Bucket type and linkage integrity
  
• Presence of original decals, gauges, and control levers
  
• Undercarriage wear and track tensioning system
  

Collectors often seek machines with intact cabs and original hydraulic configurations. Even if the engine is seized, a complete Drott 50D can be a valuable restoration candidate.
Restoration Strategy and Component Sourcing
Restoring a Drott 50D requires a methodical approach. Begin with a full inspection:

• Drain and inspect all fluids for contamination
  
• Remove injectors and test engine compression
  
• Check hydraulic pump output and spool valve responsiveness
  
• Inspect swing gear backlash and boom pin wear
  
• Verify track tension and roller rotation
  

Parts sourcing can be challenging, as Drott was eventually absorbed into Case and later J.I. Case’s product lines. However, many components—especially hydraulic fittings, filters, and seals—are standard and available through industrial suppliers. For engine parts, cross-reference casting numbers and use rebuild kits from diesel specialists.
Recommendations:

• Replace all hydraulic hoses with modern two-wire or four-wire equivalents
  
• Install a spin-on fuel filter conversion if the original canister is corroded
  
• Use biodegradable hydraulic fluid if operating in sensitive environments
  
• Fabricate missing panels or guards using 10-gauge steel and match bolt patterns
  

Field Anecdotes and Forgotten Iron
In rural Ohio, a property owner discovered a Drott 50D buried in brush on an adjacent farm. The machine had been parked decades earlier by a field tile contractor. Despite its weathered appearance, the excavator was complete and untouched. After draining the fuel tank and replacing the starter, the engine turned over with minimal effort—a testament to the durability of mid-century diesel engineering.
Elsewhere, a retired operator in Alberta recalled using a Drott 50D to dig basements in the 1970s. He described the controls as “stiff but honest,” and noted that the machine could outlift newer models in raw breakout force. That nostalgia has driven renewed interest in restoring Drott machines for show and light-duty work.
Conclusion
The Drott 50D excavator is more than a forgotten relic—it’s a symbol of American industrial grit. While its resale value may not rival modern equipment, its historical significance and mechanical simplicity make it a worthy candidate for restoration. Whether brought back to life or preserved as a static display, the 50D reminds us of an era when machines were built to endure, not just perform. For those willing to invest time and effort, reviving a Drott 50D is a journey into the heart of heavy equipment heritage.