Remounting the Instrument Panel on a Case 1845C Loader

[MikePhua]

The Case 1845C Loader and Its Electrical Layout
The Case 1845C skid steer loader was introduced in the early 1990s by Case Corporation, a company with a long-standing reputation for building durable construction and agricultural machinery since its founding in 1842. The 1845C became one of the most widely used skid steers in North America, with over 60,000 units sold during its production run. Known for its mechanical simplicity and rugged performance, the 1845C featured a 51-horsepower diesel engine, hydrostatic drive, and a straightforward electrical system housed behind a compact instrument panel.
The instrument panel on the 1845C includes essential gauges such as oil pressure, coolant temperature, battery voltage, and warning lights for alternator charging and hydraulic filter bypass. It’s mounted in the upper right corner of the operator’s cab, secured by blind nuts embedded in the fiberglass dash structure. Over time, vibration, corrosion, or electrical repairs may require the panel to be removed—often resulting in damaged or stripped mounting hardware.
Challenges After Panel Removal
Once the panel is removed, reinstallation can become a challenge. The original blind nuts—small, press-fit inserts designed to hold machine screws—are prone to spinning or breaking loose during disassembly. In one real-world case, three out of four blind nuts failed, leaving the operator with no secure way to remount the panel.
This situation is common in older machines where the dash material has aged or been exposed to moisture. Without a solid anchor point, the panel may sag, rattle, or even fall during operation, risking wire damage or loss of visibility to critical gauges.
Factory Hardware and Replacement Options
Case originally used part number D122634—a specialized blind nut insert designed for fiberglass or plastic dash panels. These inserts are still available through CNH dealers and cost around $3–4 each. They are installed by pressing into pre-drilled holes and expanding slightly to grip the surrounding material.
If factory parts are unavailable or the dash is too damaged to reuse inserts, alternative mounting strategies include:

• Rivet nuts (also known as nutserts): Installed using a manual or pneumatic rivet nut tool, these provide a threaded anchor in thin material.
  
• Threaded backing plates: A small steel plate with tapped holes can be glued or bolted behind the dash to accept machine screws.
  
• Epoxy-mounted studs: Threaded studs can be bonded to the dash using high-strength epoxy, allowing the panel to be secured with nuts from the front.
  
• Velcro or industrial hook-and-loop tape: A temporary solution for low-vibration environments, though not recommended for long-term use.
  

Custom Fabrication and Field Solutions
In one Nebraska repair shop, a technician fabricated a U-shaped bracket from 16-gauge steel, mounted it behind the dash opening, and drilled matching holes to secure the panel with stainless bolts. This approach avoided further damage to the fiberglass and provided a more rigid mount than the original blind nuts.
Another operator used aluminum angle stock to create side supports for the panel, attaching them to existing cab framing with self-tapping screws. This method allowed the panel to be hinged upward for easier access during future electrical work.
Electrical Safety and Panel Integrity
When remounting the instrument panel, it’s essential to protect the wiring harness behind it. Recommendations include:

• Using rubber grommets or edge trim around panel openings to prevent wire abrasion
  
• Securing loose wires with zip ties or adhesive-backed clips
  
• Ensuring all connectors are fully seated and protected from moisture
  
• Adding dielectric grease to terminals to prevent corrosion
  

If the panel was removed due to alternator or charging system issues, it’s wise to inspect the voltage regulator, battery cables, and ground connections before reinstallation. Many electrical faults stem from poor grounding or damaged connectors hidden behind the dash.
Lessons from the Field
A small contractor in Alberta shared that after multiple blind nut failures, he switched to using rivet nuts and never looked back. The installation took less than 30 minutes and provided a secure, reusable mounting point. He later applied the same method to his Case 580K backhoe’s fuse panel with similar success.
In another case, a municipal fleet technician used epoxy-mounted studs and stainless acorn nuts to remount the panel. The result was not only functional but visually clean, earning praise from operators who appreciated the improved accessibility.
Conclusion
Remounting the instrument panel on a Case 1845C may seem like a minor task, but it’s one that affects both safety and usability. Whether using factory blind nuts, rivet nuts, or custom brackets, the goal is to ensure a secure, vibration-resistant installation that protects the machine’s electrical system. With a little creativity and attention to detail, even a decades-old loader can be restored to dependable service—proving once again that good machines deserve good fixes.