Case 1845CCASE 5.00 star(s) (2)

1845C Good Bad & Ugly
Model Year: 1983

I'm partial to Case skid steers. They seemed to have their act together long before there makes caught on. The 1845C was a long running model and every year they were improved upon. All skid steers have weaknesses and the 1854C is not without its issues. Later years have double plating around stress areas (inside) and this is recommended (externally) on older ones. A weakness on all hydraulic cylinders is when they are extended. It's possible to bend the rod. Most skid steers have inch and a quarter rods for the bucket and while working these rods, can be bent. New rods for the bucket cost $1,000 ea. Fortunately Case makes it possible to use the rods out of the lift arms (inch and a half) along with the glands & pistons, in the bucket cylinders. I used the rods off an XT series along with the XT's newer style glands and pistons. The rods must be cut down to length and drilled & tapped for the piston retaining bolt. I'm still in the process of making new pins and replacing all the bushings to tighten up cylinder action. These are hard working machines and need regular maintenance. The drive chain box covers tend to leak, so these machines don't like to be left out in the weather. If you know it's been in the rain, clean around the covers and remove them to inspect for water. This is the early death of these machines and chances are that most of them have had water in the chain boxes in it's life. The boxes rust through. I kind of wish the aftermarket made billet covers with better seals for these skid steers. Most people ply them with silicone sealer and don't worry about getting water inside them. The hydraulic system uses 10W-30 regular engine oil with an anti-foaming agent Case still carries. Early 1845's have a dead-starting issue. Turn the key and nothing. There is an inexpensive aftermarket wire harness that solves this issue. The 65hp 4-cylinder Cummings is ultra reliable and even though it's nowhere near as quiet as new ones, I love that Cummings sound. Air filters, clean both inner & outer every fill-up.

Pros: Inexpensive, Cummings power, can spend hours in the seat without fatigue.
Cons: Water in drive-chain boxes. Early ones could use double plating in stressed areas. Most older ones are close to 8K hours and in need of engine rebuild.

Not A Tractor
Model Year: 1995

My current tractor is not a tractor at all. I have a Case 1845C uni-loader. I have owned it for several years and use it for snow removal, excavating, and as a fork lift among other duties. While it is somewhat slower than a tractor, it is far more maneuverable in tight spaces. As I don't grow crops and have no need for a plowing, planting, harvesting rig, my skid steer works perfect for my needs. Sorry, no pics. Camera took a dump last year and Santa's a cheap skate.

Pros: See review.
Cons: Skid loader equip. is far more expensive than 3 point stuff.