Exploring the Capabilities and Modifications of the Case 1845C Skid Steer

[MikePhua]

The 1845C and Its Place in Compact Loader History
The Case 1845C skid steer loader stands as one of the most iconic machines in the compact equipment category. Produced from the mid-1980s through the early 2000s, the 1845C was the final evolution of the 1845 series, known for its mechanical simplicity, reliability, and versatility. With a rated operating capacity of approximately 1,700 pounds and a 60-horsepower diesel engine, it became a favorite among landscapers, contractors, and municipalities.
Case Construction Equipment, founded in 1842, had already established a strong reputation in the loader market by the time the 1845C was introduced. The machine’s popularity was driven by its chain-driven wheels, open hydraulic layout, and ease of field repair. Over its production run, tens of thousands of units were sold globally, with many still in active service today.
Terminology and Component Notes
- High-Flow Hydraulics: A system that delivers increased hydraulic fluid volume to attachments, enabling the use of tools like cold planers, stump grinders, and snow blowers.
- Two-Speed Transmission: A drivetrain feature allowing operators to switch between low and high travel speeds, improving efficiency on large job sites.
- Cold Planer: An attachment used for milling asphalt or concrete surfaces, requiring high hydraulic flow and pressure.
- PSI (Pounds per Square Inch): A unit of pressure measurement used to describe hydraulic system output.
- Factory Configuration: The original design and specifications provided by the manufacturer, without aftermarket modifications.
Did the 1845C Ever Come with Two-Speed or High-Flow Options
From the factory, the Case 1845C was never offered with a two-speed transmission. All units were single-speed, relying on hydrostatic drive and chain reduction to deliver torque and travel speed. While this limited top-end speed compared to newer models, it simplified maintenance and reduced cost.
As for high-flow hydraulics, the 1845C did include a factory high-flow option, but it was standardized across production years. There were no later-year variants with upgraded flow rates or pressure. The factory high-flow system delivered approximately 30 gallons per minute at 3,000 PSI, sufficient for most attachments of the era.
Aftermarket Modifications and Innovation in Australia
In the late 1980s, a pioneering technician in Queensland, Australia began modifying 1845C units to support extreme high-flow applications. By retrofitting pumps capable of delivering up to 5,000 PSI, he transformed the skid steer into a platform for road profiling and cold planing—tasks typically reserved for larger machines.
These modified units were among the first compact loaders to operate cold planer attachments effectively. The innovation was so impactful that one of the modified machines was brought to the United States and demonstrated to Case engineers. Shortly thereafter, high-flow compact loaders became a standard offering across multiple brands.
It’s estimated that between 50 and 60 1845C units were modified in this way, primarily for municipal and roadwork use. These machines were equipped with reinforced hydraulic lines, upgraded cooling systems, and custom-built control valves to handle the increased pressure.
Considerations for Owners and Restorers
For those maintaining or restoring a Case 1845C today, understanding its hydraulic limitations is essential. While the machine can power many attachments, it may struggle with modern tools designed for newer high-flow systems. Retrofitting is possible but requires careful planning.
Recommendations include:

• Upgrading hydraulic hoses to rated high-pressure lines
  
• Installing an auxiliary cooler to manage fluid temperature
  
• Reinforcing the loader arms and quick coupler to handle increased stress
  
• Consulting with hydraulic specialists before modifying pump output
  
• Using flow meters to verify actual delivery rates before attachment use
  

One restorer in Texas successfully adapted his 1845C to run a snow blower by installing a secondary pump driven off the engine crankshaft, bypassing the factory system entirely.
Conclusion
The Case 1845C may not have come with two-speed or variable high-flow options from the factory, but its legacy includes remarkable aftermarket innovation and adaptability. From Australian roadwork pioneers to modern-day restorers, the 1845C continues to prove that simplicity and durability can be a foundation for creativity. Whether operating in its original configuration or modified for specialized tasks, this skid steer remains a symbol of practical engineering and field ingenuity.