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Introduction to the CX210
The Case CX210 is a 21-ton class hydraulic excavator introduced in the early 2000s as part of Case’s CX series. Built to compete with models like the Caterpillar 320 and Komatsu PC210, it quickly became a popular choice for contractors worldwide. With an operating weight of approximately 21,000 kilograms and an engine output of around 150 horsepower, the CX210 was designed for versatility in earthmoving, road construction, and utility projects. Case, with its history dating back to 1842, had already established itself as a leader in construction machinery, and the CX210 reinforced its reputation for reliability and operator comfort.
Terminology clarification
Operators have reported cases where the right track becomes slower than the left, or initially refuses to move in reverse before becoming sluggish in both directions. In such situations, the P1 pump pressure appears normal when operating the boom or swing but drops significantly when the travel pedal is engaged. This indicates that the issue lies within the travel circuit rather than the main pump itself.
Potential causes
One technician in Arkansas reported that after replacing both the final drive motor and the main hydraulic pump, the right track still lagged. After extensive testing, the issue was traced to contamination in the valve chest, which prevented the spool from fully shifting. Another operator in Canada discovered that his machine’s auxiliary pedal had been accidentally engaged, starving the travel circuit of oil. Once disengaged, the excavator returned to normal operation.
Case’s broader excavator history
The CX series marked a significant step forward for Case, introducing electronically controlled hydraulics and improved fuel efficiency. By the mid-2000s, Case had sold thousands of CX210 units worldwide, particularly in North America and Europe. The model’s success helped Case expand its excavator lineup, leading to the development of the CX210B and later CX210C, which incorporated Tier 4 emissions compliance and advanced hydraulic systems.
Conclusion
The Case CX210 remains a respected mid-size excavator, but like all hydraulic machines, it is vulnerable to issues caused by contamination, valve malfunctions, or auxiliary circuit interference. Systematic troubleshooting—checking pressures, isolating circuits, and ensuring clean hydraulic oil—remains the most effective way to resolve travel problems. The CX210’s enduring presence on jobsites decades after its release reflects both its robust design and the importance of diligent maintenance in keeping heavy equipment productive.
The Case CX210 is a 21-ton class hydraulic excavator introduced in the early 2000s as part of Case’s CX series. Built to compete with models like the Caterpillar 320 and Komatsu PC210, it quickly became a popular choice for contractors worldwide. With an operating weight of approximately 21,000 kilograms and an engine output of around 150 horsepower, the CX210 was designed for versatility in earthmoving, road construction, and utility projects. Case, with its history dating back to 1842, had already established itself as a leader in construction machinery, and the CX210 reinforced its reputation for reliability and operator comfort.
Terminology clarification
- P1 Pump: One of the dual hydraulic pumps supplying oil to the excavator’s circuits.
- Travel Valve: A hydraulic valve that directs oil flow to the track motors for forward and reverse movement.
- Swivel Joint (Rotary Manifold): A rotating hydraulic connection that allows oil to pass between the upper and lower structures of the excavator.
- Relief Valve: A safety valve that limits maximum hydraulic pressure to prevent damage.
Operators have reported cases where the right track becomes slower than the left, or initially refuses to move in reverse before becoming sluggish in both directions. In such situations, the P1 pump pressure appears normal when operating the boom or swing but drops significantly when the travel pedal is engaged. This indicates that the issue lies within the travel circuit rather than the main pump itself.
Potential causes
- Travel relief valve malfunction: If the relief valve is stuck open or damaged, pressure will not build in the travel circuit.
- Contamination in valve chest: Debris introduced during component replacement can prevent spools from shifting correctly.
- Auxiliary pedal interference: On some machines, auxiliary hydraulic pedals share oil supply with travel pedals, and accidental engagement can restrict flow.
- Swivel joint seal failure: Leaks in the rotary manifold can cause pressure loss, though this can be ruled out by capping lines above the swivel.
- Hydraulic pump wear: Even after replacement, a defective or improperly calibrated pump can fail to deliver required pressure.
- Compare pump pressures with travel engaged versus other functions.
- Manually shift the crawler spool to confirm free movement.
- Inspect auxiliary pedal circuits to ensure they are fully disengaged.
- Flush the hydraulic system to remove contamination after major component replacements.
- Verify that new pumps and motors are properly matched to factory specifications.
One technician in Arkansas reported that after replacing both the final drive motor and the main hydraulic pump, the right track still lagged. After extensive testing, the issue was traced to contamination in the valve chest, which prevented the spool from fully shifting. Another operator in Canada discovered that his machine’s auxiliary pedal had been accidentally engaged, starving the travel circuit of oil. Once disengaged, the excavator returned to normal operation.
Case’s broader excavator history
The CX series marked a significant step forward for Case, introducing electronically controlled hydraulics and improved fuel efficiency. By the mid-2000s, Case had sold thousands of CX210 units worldwide, particularly in North America and Europe. The model’s success helped Case expand its excavator lineup, leading to the development of the CX210B and later CX210C, which incorporated Tier 4 emissions compliance and advanced hydraulic systems.
Conclusion
The Case CX210 remains a respected mid-size excavator, but like all hydraulic machines, it is vulnerable to issues caused by contamination, valve malfunctions, or auxiliary circuit interference. Systematic troubleshooting—checking pressures, isolating circuits, and ensuring clean hydraulic oil—remains the most effective way to resolve travel problems. The CX210’s enduring presence on jobsites decades after its release reflects both its robust design and the importance of diligent maintenance in keeping heavy equipment productive.
