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The Champion Brand and Its Grading Heritage
Champion Road Machinery, founded in Canada in the early 20th century, built its reputation on producing reliable, operator-focused motor graders for municipal and highway work. By the 1980s, Champion had become a respected name in the mid-size grader segment, competing with Caterpillar, John Deere, and Galion. The 710A model, introduced in the mid-1980s, was part of Champion’s Series IV lineup—a generation that emphasized structural durability, hydraulic refinement, and operator comfort.
The Series IV graders were developed through direct feedback from seasoned operators, resulting in features like hinged rear grilles for easy radiator access, reinforced perimeter frames, and simplified control layouts. The 710A, with its articulated frame and balanced weight distribution, became a popular choice for rural road maintenance, subdivision grading, and light construction.
Engine and Powertrain Configuration
The 1986 Champion 710A is powered by a turbocharged diesel engine delivering approximately 148 horsepower. Most units were equipped with Cummins or Detroit Diesel engines, known for their torque-rich output and long service intervals. Key specifications include:
Hydraulic System and Blade Control
The 710A features a closed-center hydraulic system powering the moldboard lift, side-shift, tip, and circle rotation. The system is designed for fine grading and heavy material movement alike. Standard features include:
Frame, Axles, and Steering System
The 710A’s frame is a fully welded steel truss, gusseted for torsional strength. The front axle oscillates on a single 3.5-inch diameter pivot pin, allowing terrain adaptation without compromising steering geometry. Key structural features include:
Electrical System and Operator Interface
The electrical system includes:
Maintenance Strategy and Service Intervals
Routine maintenance is essential for long-term performance:
Parts Availability and Restoration Tips
Though the 710A is no longer in production, parts remain available through vintage suppliers, salvage yards, and aftermarket manufacturers. Restoration often involves:
Operator Stories and Field Wisdom
In Georgia, a county road crew used a 710A to maintain gravel shoulders. After noticing blade chatter, they replaced the slide rails and adjusted the pitch angle. The machine resumed smooth grading and reduced operator fatigue.
In Alberta, a forestry operator used a 710A to grade logging roads. After installing a rear ripper and upgrading the cab heater, the machine performed reliably through winter and spring thaw.
Conclusion
The Champion 710A motor grader remains a testament to mechanical durability and grading precision. With its robust drivetrain, responsive hydraulics, and field-serviceable components, it continues to serve in yards, farms, and job sites decades after its production ended. Whether shaping gravel roads or cutting ditches, the 710A proves that good design never goes out of style.
Champion Road Machinery, founded in Canada in the early 20th century, built its reputation on producing reliable, operator-focused motor graders for municipal and highway work. By the 1980s, Champion had become a respected name in the mid-size grader segment, competing with Caterpillar, John Deere, and Galion. The 710A model, introduced in the mid-1980s, was part of Champion’s Series IV lineup—a generation that emphasized structural durability, hydraulic refinement, and operator comfort.
The Series IV graders were developed through direct feedback from seasoned operators, resulting in features like hinged rear grilles for easy radiator access, reinforced perimeter frames, and simplified control layouts. The 710A, with its articulated frame and balanced weight distribution, became a popular choice for rural road maintenance, subdivision grading, and light construction.
Engine and Powertrain Configuration
The 1986 Champion 710A is powered by a turbocharged diesel engine delivering approximately 148 horsepower. Most units were equipped with Cummins or Detroit Diesel engines, known for their torque-rich output and long service intervals. Key specifications include:
- Net horsepower: 148 hp
- Operating weight: ~31,050 lb
- Transmission: Champion 8400 powershift with electronic diagnostics
- Clutch: Flywheel-mounted, oil-cooled multi-disc master clutch
- Ground clearance: ~23.5 inches
- Turning radius: ~34 feet with full articulation
Hydraulic System and Blade Control
The 710A features a closed-center hydraulic system powering the moldboard lift, side-shift, tip, and circle rotation. The system is designed for fine grading and heavy material movement alike. Standard features include:
- Dual lift cylinders with float capability
- Circle drive with worm gear or hydraulic motor
- Moldboard length: ~12 feet
- Blade tip range: ~40 degrees
- Side-shift travel: ~20 inches
Frame, Axles, and Steering System
The 710A’s frame is a fully welded steel truss, gusseted for torsional strength. The front axle oscillates on a single 3.5-inch diameter pivot pin, allowing terrain adaptation without compromising steering geometry. Key structural features include:
- Articulated frame with hydraulic pivot
- Tandem rear axles with planetary final drives
- Hydraulic power steering with dual cylinders
- Wheel lean cylinder with lock valve (4-inch diameter standard)
Electrical System and Operator Interface
The electrical system includes:
- Starter motor and alternator
- Fuse block and relay panel
- Analog gauges for oil pressure, coolant temperature, and voltage
- Warning lights for transmission status and hydraulic pressure
Maintenance Strategy and Service Intervals
Routine maintenance is essential for long-term performance:
- Engine oil: Change every 250 hours
- Hydraulic fluid: Replace every 1,000 hours
- Transmission fluid: Inspect every 500 hours
- Air filter: Clean monthly in dusty conditions
- Grease all pivot points weekly
- Engine: SAE 15W-40 diesel-rated oil
- Hydraulic: ISO 46 or ISO 68 depending on climate
- Transmission: TO-4 fluid or equivalent
- Coolant: Ethylene glycol with corrosion inhibitors
Parts Availability and Restoration Tips
Though the 710A is no longer in production, parts remain available through vintage suppliers, salvage yards, and aftermarket manufacturers. Restoration often involves:
- Rebuilding hydraulic cylinders with seal kits
- Replacing worn tires or chains with foam-filled or radial options
- Installing new seat cushions and control knobs
- Repainting with corrosion-resistant enamel
Operator Stories and Field Wisdom
In Georgia, a county road crew used a 710A to maintain gravel shoulders. After noticing blade chatter, they replaced the slide rails and adjusted the pitch angle. The machine resumed smooth grading and reduced operator fatigue.
In Alberta, a forestry operator used a 710A to grade logging roads. After installing a rear ripper and upgrading the cab heater, the machine performed reliably through winter and spring thaw.
Conclusion
The Champion 710A motor grader remains a testament to mechanical durability and grading precision. With its robust drivetrain, responsive hydraulics, and field-serviceable components, it continues to serve in yards, farms, and job sites decades after its production ended. Whether shaping gravel roads or cutting ditches, the 710A proves that good design never goes out of style.
