Diagnosing Hard Start and Stalling Issues on the Case 580C

[MikePhua]

The Case 580C and Its Mechanical Simplicity
The Case 580C tractor-loader-backhoe, introduced in the mid-1970s, was part of J.I. Case’s push to dominate the compact construction equipment market. With a naturally aspirated 188 cubic inch diesel engine, mechanical shuttle transmission, and open-center hydraulics, the 580C was designed for durability and field serviceability. Tens of thousands were sold across North America, and many remain in use today due to their straightforward design and parts availability.
Despite its reputation for reliability, age and wear can introduce complex symptoms—especially when electrical, fuel, and hydraulic systems begin to interact in unexpected ways.
Symptoms of Cranking Drag and Engine Stall
A common issue reported by owners is slow cranking, hard starting, and intermittent stalling. In one case, a freshly charged battery dropped to 10 volts during cranking, and the engine struggled to turn over. After starting, it ran briefly but then stalled under load or during idle. Black smoke was observed, later shifting to gray, and the engine eventually refused to start without full throttle input.
These symptoms suggest a combination of electrical resistance, fuel delivery imbalance, and possibly hydraulic drag. The fact that the engine could restart intermittently rules out a complete mechanical seizure, pointing instead to parasitic load or internal restriction.
Electrical Load and Starter Performance
Slow cranking is often misattributed to battery failure, but in older machines like the 580C, the root cause is frequently:

• Corroded battery terminals or ground cables
  
• Internal resistance in starter windings
  
• Voltage drop across aged wiring
  
• Weak solenoid engagement
  

Recommended diagnostic steps:

• Perform a voltage drop test across both positive and ground cables during cranking
  
• Inspect starter draw with an amp clamp; excessive draw may indicate internal binding
  
• Clean all terminals and apply dielectric grease
  
• Replace ground strap with a braided copper cable for better conductivity
  

A technician in Ontario once found that a 580C’s starter was drawing 300 amps due to worn bushings and a dragging armature. Rebuilding the starter restored normal cranking speed and eliminated the stalling issue.
Fuel System and Injection Pump Behavior
The Case 580C uses a mechanical CAV rotary injection pump. Over time, internal wear, varnish buildup, or water contamination can cause:

• Delayed fuel delivery
  
• Over-pressurization of the pump body
  
• Seizing of the internal governor or metering valve
  
• Black smoke due to overfueling or poor atomization
  

If the engine stalls and refuses to restart without full throttle, the pump may be sticking internally. However, intermittent operation suggests the pump is not fully seized.
Recommended actions:

• Replace both primary and secondary fuel filters
  
• Inspect fuel lines for air leaks or restrictions
  
• Bleed the system at the injector lines
  
• Add a lubricating fuel additive to clean internal pump components
  
• If symptoms persist, remove and bench test the pump
  

In one case, a pump rebuilder discovered metal shavings inside a 580C’s injection pump caused by a failed lift pump diaphragm. The contamination had jammed the governor ring, leading to erratic idle and stalling.
Hydraulic Load and Crankshaft Drag
The 580C’s hydraulic pump is mounted directly to the front of the crankshaft. If the pump begins to seize or develop internal friction, it can place a parasitic load on the engine during cranking and idle.
Signs of hydraulic drag include:

• Engine stalls when hydraulic levers are moved
  
• Cranking speed improves when hydraulic lines are disconnected
  
• Audible groaning or harmonics from the valve block
  
• High system pressure even at idle
  

To isolate the pump:

• Disconnect the hydraulic quick couplers at the backhoe valve and connect them together to bypass the system
  
• Observe cranking behavior with the pump unloaded
  
• If improvement is noted, inspect the pump for gear damage or bearing failure
  

A road crew in Georgia once found that a seized hydraulic pump was preventing a 580C from starting. After disconnecting the pump and rotating the engine by hand, they confirmed the crankshaft was free. Replacing the pump restored full function.
Compression and Internal Engine Health
White or gray smoke during cranking can indicate unburnt fuel due to low compression. Possible causes include:

• Blown head gasket
  
• Worn piston rings
  
• Valve leakage
  
• Overheating damage from prior belt failure
  

Compression testing should be performed through the injector ports using a diesel-rated gauge. Acceptable readings for the 188 diesel engine are typically above 350 psi per cylinder. Uneven readings suggest internal wear or gasket failure.
A farmer in Wisconsin once diagnosed a 580C with low compression in two cylinders after repeated stalling. Replacing the head gasket and lapping the valves restored combustion balance and eliminated the smoke.
Starter Load and Belt Drag
The alternator, water pump, and vacuum pump are all belt-driven. If any of these components seize or develop bearing drag, they can reduce cranking speed and cause belt slippage.
Inspection tips:

• Remove belts and rotate each pulley by hand
  
• Check for wobble, resistance, or grinding
  
• Replace worn bearings or seized components
  
• Ensure proper belt tension and alignment
  

In one case, a seized vacuum pump caused belt failure and overheating. After replacement, the engine cranked freely and ran without stalling.
Conclusion
Troubleshooting a Case 580C with hard starting and stalling requires a multi-system approach. Electrical resistance, fuel delivery, hydraulic drag, and internal compression must all be evaluated. While the injection pump may seem like the culprit, many issues stem from overlooked components like starters, hydraulic pumps, or belt-driven accessories. With methodical testing and attention to detail, even complex symptoms can be resolved—restoring the 580C to its rightful place as a dependable workhorse.