Is the Drott 35 Still a Worthy Workhorse

[MikePhua]

The Drott Legacy and the 35 Series
Drott Manufacturing, once a prominent name in American heavy equipment, was known for its rugged excavators and loader-backhoes. The Drott 35, produced during the late 1970s and early 1980s, was part of a lineage that emphasized brute strength, mechanical simplicity, and field serviceability. These machines were often powered by Detroit Diesel 4-53 engines, delivering around 115 horsepower, and featured dual hydraulic pumps capable of pushing up to 46 gallons per minute each in later models.
Though Drott was eventually absorbed into Case Construction, its machines—especially the 35 and 40 series—remain in circulation among contractors, demolition crews, and restoration enthusiasts. The Drott 35 was typically configured as a ½ to ¾ yard excavator, with fast cycle times and a reputation for aggressive digging.
Evaluating Strength and Demolition Capability
When assessing the Drott 35 for concrete demolition, the key factors are hydraulic force, structural integrity, and attachment compatibility. With a pulverizer mounted, the machine can effectively crush pads, rip apart slabs, and handle reinforced concrete. Its hydraulic system, while not as refined as modern electro-proportional setups, delivers raw power through simple valve blocks and robust cylinders.
Operators have used the Drott 35 for:

• Breaking up concrete foundations
  
• Pulling rebar-laced pads
  
• Loading debris into trucks
  
• Grabbing and twisting structural elements
  

The machine’s compact frame and narrow track pads reduce stress on final drives, making it more maneuverable in confined demolition sites. However, its age introduces limitations in precision and comfort—no joystick controls, no digital diagnostics, and minimal operator insulation from vibration.
Known Weak Points and Mechanical Considerations
Despite its strength, the Drott 35 has several known vulnerabilities:

• Spline wear at the final drive-to-sprocket interface
  
• Pillar block bearing fatigue due to poor greasing
  
• Swing box bolt loosening and gear lube loss
  
• Drive coupler stripping under load
  

These issues are manageable with proactive maintenance. For example, many operators key the axles and sprockets after spline failure, ensuring they remain paired as matched sets. Keeping a spare drive coupler onboard is common practice, as it fits both the swing box and final drive motor and costs around $60.
Hydraulic hoses are typically four-wire with 37° flare fittings, which can be fabricated locally. The simplicity of the system means most repairs can be done in the field without proprietary tools.
Inspection Tips Before Purchase
Before acquiring a Drott 35, especially for demolition use, inspect the following:

• Final drive lube levels and condition
  
• Swing box gear oil via pipe plug access
  
• Movement between sprocket and final shaft nut during track motion
  
• Track pad wear and frame alignment
  
• Cylinder seals and pump rebuild history
  

If the machine has been repainted and cleaned, verify that cosmetic work hasn’t masked structural rust or fatigue. A freshly rebuilt pump and cylinders are promising, but the real test lies in operational feel—smooth swing, responsive boom, and consistent track drive.
Field Anecdotes and Operator Experience
One operator in Iowa recalled using a Drott 40 for demolition. While grading was a challenge due to its coarse control, the machine excelled at breaking and hauling. He noted that the final drive splines wore quickly, forcing him to mill custom sprockets when replacements became unavailable.
Another technician in North Carolina emphasized the importance of small track pads and narrow frames. These design choices reduce lateral stress on the drivetrain and improve longevity. He also recommended marking the final shaft nuts and observing movement during forward/reverse track tests to gauge wear.
Recommendations for Ownership and Use
If considering a Drott 35 for demolition or general excavation:

• Buy close to scrap iron value to minimize financial risk
  
• Keep a spare drive coupler and hydraulic hose kit onboard
  
• Grease pillar block bearings regularly to prevent stress fractures
  
• Monitor spline wear and consider keying axles and sprockets
  
• Use it primarily for brute-force tasks, not precision grading
  

For contractors with fabrication capabilities, the Drott 35 offers a platform that can be maintained and modified without dealer dependency. Its mechanical simplicity makes it ideal for remote sites or budget-conscious operations.
Conclusion
The Drott 35 may be decades old, but its raw hydraulic power and straightforward design still make it a viable choice for demolition and heavy excavation. While parts availability and spline wear are concerns, these can be mitigated with smart maintenance and fabrication. For those who value strength over sophistication, the Drott 35 remains a worthy workhorse—built for punishment and ready to deliver.