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The Evolution of the Case 590 Series
The Case 590 Turbo backhoe loader emerged in the late 1990s as part of Case Construction Equipment’s push to deliver high-performance machines for demanding excavation and loading tasks. Building on the success of the 580 series, the 590 offered increased horsepower, deeper digging depth, and heavier lift capacity. It was equipped with a turbocharged diesel engine, typically the Case Family IV or Cummins B-series, delivering up to 100 horsepower and torque exceeding 300 lb-ft.
The 590 Turbo became a popular choice for municipal fleets, utility contractors, and rural operators due to its rugged design and mechanical simplicity. By the early 2000s, Case had sold tens of thousands of units globally, with strong adoption in North America, South Africa, and Southeast Asia.
Core Specifications and Features
Common Electrical Issues and Symptoms
Operators have reported a recurring issue where the machine fails to move despite the engine running smoothly. Symptoms include:
Troubleshooting and Repair Strategy
To resolve the issue:
Preventive Maintenance Recommendations
To avoid future failures:
Mechanical Reliability and Field Performance
Beyond electrical quirks, the 590 Turbo is known for its mechanical resilience. Its turbocharged engine provides strong breakout force and responsive hydraulics. The powershift transmission allows smooth gear changes under load, and the extended dipper arm improves trenching efficiency.
In a 2022 survey of mid-size backhoe loaders, the Case 590 Turbo ranked among the top three for uptime and serviceability. Fleet managers praised its straightforward design and parts availability.
A crew in Alberta used their 590 Turbo for snow removal and utility trenching. After 5,000 hours, the machine required only minor hydraulic seal replacements and one alternator swap. The clutch cutout issue was resolved with a $75 switch replacement.
Conclusion
The Case 590 Turbo backhoe loader remains a dependable workhorse in the field, offering strong performance and versatile functionality. While its clutch cutout system can introduce electrical faults, these are easily diagnosed and repaired with basic tools and knowledge. With regular inspection and proactive maintenance, the 590 Turbo continues to deliver value and reliability—digging, loading, and moving with turbocharged confidence.
The Case 590 Turbo backhoe loader emerged in the late 1990s as part of Case Construction Equipment’s push to deliver high-performance machines for demanding excavation and loading tasks. Building on the success of the 580 series, the 590 offered increased horsepower, deeper digging depth, and heavier lift capacity. It was equipped with a turbocharged diesel engine, typically the Case Family IV or Cummins B-series, delivering up to 100 horsepower and torque exceeding 300 lb-ft.
The 590 Turbo became a popular choice for municipal fleets, utility contractors, and rural operators due to its rugged design and mechanical simplicity. By the early 2000s, Case had sold tens of thousands of units globally, with strong adoption in North America, South Africa, and Southeast Asia.
Core Specifications and Features
- Engine: Turbocharged 4-cylinder diesel
- Horsepower: 95–100 HP
- Transmission: Powershift with clutch cutout feature
- Digging Depth: Up to 18 feet with extended dipper
- Loader Lift Capacity: Over 7,000 lbs
- Hydraulic Flow: 28–35 GPM
- Operating Weight: Approximately 16,000 lbs
- Electrical System: 12V with multiple fused circuits
Common Electrical Issues and Symptoms
Operators have reported a recurring issue where the machine fails to move despite the engine running smoothly. Symptoms include:
- No forward or reverse movement
- Transmission appears functional but unresponsive
- Loader and backhoe hydraulics operate normally
- Audible clicking from solenoids when shifting
- Resolution after removing fuse 6 (clutch cutout circuit)
Troubleshooting and Repair Strategy
To resolve the issue:
- Locate fuse 6 in the cab fuse panel and inspect for corrosion or damage
- Remove the fuse temporarily to bypass the clutch cutout circuit
- Test drive function—if movement resumes, the fault lies in the cutout system
- Inspect loader-mounted switch for physical damage or loose wires
- Replace broken switches with OEM or compatible aftermarket units
- Clean switch contacts with dielectric spray to prevent sticking
- Check wiring harness for twisting or abrasion, especially near pivot points
Preventive Maintenance Recommendations
To avoid future failures:
- Inspect all control switches quarterly
- Replace worn or cracked switch boots
- Use dielectric grease on connectors to prevent corrosion
- Secure wiring harnesses with loom and clamps
- Avoid pressure washing near electrical components
- Test clutch cutout function during daily startup checks
Mechanical Reliability and Field Performance
Beyond electrical quirks, the 590 Turbo is known for its mechanical resilience. Its turbocharged engine provides strong breakout force and responsive hydraulics. The powershift transmission allows smooth gear changes under load, and the extended dipper arm improves trenching efficiency.
In a 2022 survey of mid-size backhoe loaders, the Case 590 Turbo ranked among the top three for uptime and serviceability. Fleet managers praised its straightforward design and parts availability.
A crew in Alberta used their 590 Turbo for snow removal and utility trenching. After 5,000 hours, the machine required only minor hydraulic seal replacements and one alternator swap. The clutch cutout issue was resolved with a $75 switch replacement.
Conclusion
The Case 590 Turbo backhoe loader remains a dependable workhorse in the field, offering strong performance and versatile functionality. While its clutch cutout system can introduce electrical faults, these are easily diagnosed and repaired with basic tools and knowledge. With regular inspection and proactive maintenance, the 590 Turbo continues to deliver value and reliability—digging, loading, and moving with turbocharged confidence.
