10 hours ago
Case 1845C Skid Steer Overview
The Case 1845C is one of the most iconic skid steer loaders ever built, with production spanning from the late 1980s through the early 2000s. Known for its mechanical simplicity, robust frame, and reliable Cummins 4B diesel engine, the 1845C became a staple in agriculture, construction, and rental fleets. With a rated operating capacity of approximately 1,700 pounds and a hydraulic flow of around 16.5 GPM, it supports a wide range of attachments including grapples, augers, trenchers, and snow blades.
Case Corporation, founded in 1842, merged with New Holland in 1999 to form CNH Industrial. The 1845C was one of the last models produced under the original Case branding and remains widely supported through aftermarket parts and dealer networks.
Auxiliary Hydraulic Control System
The auxiliary hydraulics on the 1845C are typically controlled by dual foot pedals located on the floor of the operator cab. These pedals modulate flow direction to the attachment ports mounted at the front of the loader arms. The system is designed to be open center, meaning hydraulic fluid continuously circulates through the valve until a function is engaged.
Key components include:
Operators often ask whether the auxiliary hydraulics can be locked on for attachments like brush cutters or concrete mixers. While the boom float function uses a detent on the left-hand control, the auxiliary pedals do not always include a detent mechanism.
Some units have a mechanical detent on the left pedal only, allowing it to stay engaged when pushed fully down. Others may have a hole under the pedal and bracket for inserting a manual locking pin. However, this method is inconvenient and may not align properly unless the pedal is adjusted.
Suggested solutions:
For machines without factory-installed auxiliary hydraulics, retrofitting is possible using salvage kits or aftermarket components. A typical kit includes:
In Tennessee, an operator retrofitted his 1845C with a salvage-yard auxiliary kit. After plumbing the system and bleeding the lines, his grapple bucket failed to respond. The issue was traced to a missing power beyond sleeve, which prevented pressurized flow from reaching the auxiliary valve. After sourcing the correct sleeve from a dealer, the system operated normally.
Recommendations for Owners and Technicians
The Case 1845C’s auxiliary hydraulic system is simple but effective when properly configured. Whether locking flow for continuous operation or retrofitting a non-equipped unit, understanding the open center design and power beyond routing is essential. With minor fabrication and careful plumbing, operators can unlock the full versatility of this legendary skid steer.
The Case 1845C is one of the most iconic skid steer loaders ever built, with production spanning from the late 1980s through the early 2000s. Known for its mechanical simplicity, robust frame, and reliable Cummins 4B diesel engine, the 1845C became a staple in agriculture, construction, and rental fleets. With a rated operating capacity of approximately 1,700 pounds and a hydraulic flow of around 16.5 GPM, it supports a wide range of attachments including grapples, augers, trenchers, and snow blades.
Case Corporation, founded in 1842, merged with New Holland in 1999 to form CNH Industrial. The 1845C was one of the last models produced under the original Case branding and remains widely supported through aftermarket parts and dealer networks.
Auxiliary Hydraulic Control System
The auxiliary hydraulics on the 1845C are typically controlled by dual foot pedals located on the floor of the operator cab. These pedals modulate flow direction to the attachment ports mounted at the front of the loader arms. The system is designed to be open center, meaning hydraulic fluid continuously circulates through the valve until a function is engaged.
Key components include:
- Foot-operated auxiliary valve
- Hydraulic lines and quick couplers
- Power beyond sleeve in the main loader valve
- Return line tee into the reservoir
- Open Center Valve: A hydraulic valve that allows continuous flow when not activated.
- Power Beyond Sleeve: A fitting that redirects pressurized fluid from the main valve to auxiliary circuits.
- Detent: A mechanical latch that holds a control in position without constant operator input.
Operators often ask whether the auxiliary hydraulics can be locked on for attachments like brush cutters or concrete mixers. While the boom float function uses a detent on the left-hand control, the auxiliary pedals do not always include a detent mechanism.
Some units have a mechanical detent on the left pedal only, allowing it to stay engaged when pushed fully down. Others may have a hole under the pedal and bracket for inserting a manual locking pin. However, this method is inconvenient and may not align properly unless the pedal is adjusted.
Suggested solutions:
- Fabricate a spring-loaded pin that engages the pedal bracket
- Install an aftermarket detent kit if compatible
- Use a foot wedge or mechanical stop to hold the pedal in place
For machines without factory-installed auxiliary hydraulics, retrofitting is possible using salvage kits or aftermarket components. A typical kit includes:
- Foot valve assembly
- Steel and rubber hydraulic lines
- Quick couplers
- Power beyond sleeve for the main valve
- Remove plug from the main loader valve
- Install power beyond sleeve to redirect pressure
- Connect pressure line to auxiliary valve inlet
- Tee return line into existing return circuit
- Bleed system by flowing fluid back to tank before connecting attachments
In Tennessee, an operator retrofitted his 1845C with a salvage-yard auxiliary kit. After plumbing the system and bleeding the lines, his grapple bucket failed to respond. The issue was traced to a missing power beyond sleeve, which prevented pressurized flow from reaching the auxiliary valve. After sourcing the correct sleeve from a dealer, the system operated normally.
Recommendations for Owners and Technicians
- Verify Valve Type Before Retrofitting: Case used multiple valve bodies across serial ranges.
- Inspect Pedal Linkage for Detent Capability: Some pedals may be missing components or require adjustment.
- Use OEM or Compatible Power Beyond Sleeves: Improper fittings can block flow or cause leaks.
- Test Flow with Pressure Gauge: Confirms system integrity before connecting attachments.
- Label Hydraulic Lines Clearly: Prevents reverse flow and attachment damage.
The Case 1845C’s auxiliary hydraulic system is simple but effective when properly configured. Whether locking flow for continuous operation or retrofitting a non-equipped unit, understanding the open center design and power beyond routing is essential. With minor fabrication and careful plumbing, operators can unlock the full versatility of this legendary skid steer.
