What Is a Case 188D and 207 Worth

[MikePhua]

A used Case 188D or 207D diesel engine in running condition, complete from radiator fan to flywheel, typically sells for $1,200 to $2,500 depending on hours, location, and demand. Engines with under 4,000 hours and no abnormal noise or smoke are considered viable candidates for resale, rebuild, or repower projects.
Case Engine Lineage and Application History
The Case 188D and 207D are part of the long-running family of naturally aspirated and turbocharged diesel engines developed by J.I. Case Company, which later merged into CNH Industrial. These engines powered a wide range of Case construction and agricultural equipment from the 1970s through the early 2000s, including backhoes, skid steers, trenchers, and compact tractors.

• 188D: A 3.1-liter four-cylinder diesel engine producing around 60 hp. Commonly found in Case 580C and 580D backhoes.
  
• 207D: A 3.4-liter variant offering slightly more torque and horsepower, used in later 580E models and some trenchers.
  

Both engines are known for their mechanical simplicity, ease of rebuild, and long service life when properly maintained.
Terminology Note

• Radiator-to-Flywheel Complete: Indicates the engine includes all major components—cooling fan, radiator, starter, alternator, intake and exhaust manifolds, and flywheel.
  
• Running Takeout: An engine removed from a machine that was operational at the time of removal.
  
• Core Engine: A non-running unit sold for rebuild or parts.
  
• Salvage Yard Pricing: The baseline market value determined by used parts dealers, excluding shipping and installation.
  

Market Value and Pricing Factors
Pricing varies based on:

• Operating hours: Engines under 4,000 hours are considered mid-life and more desirable.
  
• Condition: Units with no knocking, smoking, or oil leaks command higher prices.
  
• Completeness: Engines missing starters, alternators, or manifolds may sell for 30–50% less.
  
• Location: Prices in the Northeast USA tend to be higher due to demand and freight costs.
  
• Seasonal demand: Winter months often see increased interest in replacement engines due to cold-start failures.
  

Typical resale values:

• Case 188D (3,000–4,000 hrs, complete): $1,200–$1,800
  
• Case 207D (3,000–4,000 hrs, complete): $1,500–$2,500
  
• Core engines (non-running): $400–$800
  

Field Experience and Anecdotes
In Pennsylvania, a contractor replaced a failed 188D in a 580C with a used unit sourced from a salvage yard for $1,500. The replacement had 3,800 hours and ran clean. After installation, the machine returned to service with minimal downtime.
In Illinois, a farmer purchased a 207D from a retired trencher for $1,200. Though the engine had 4,200 hours, it started easily and showed no blow-by. He used it to repower a Case 1845 skid steer, saving thousands compared to a new engine.
Recommendations for Buyers and Sellers

• Verify serial numbers and casting codes to ensure compatibility with your machine.
  
• Request a cold start video or compression test results before purchase.
  
• Inspect oil condition and exhaust color—blue smoke may indicate valve seal wear, black smoke suggests injector issues.
  
• Compare salvage yard listings across regions to find the best deal.
  
• Consider freight costs—engines are heavy and may require palletized shipping.
  

Conclusion
The Case 188D and 207D remain valuable powerplants for legacy equipment. Their resale value depends on condition, completeness, and regional demand. For buyers seeking a reliable replacement or rebuild candidate, engines under 4,000 hours with clean operation offer the best return on investment. Sellers can maximize value by documenting condition and offering complete units with verified performance.