Case 85XT Skid Steer Drive Motor Replacement Guide

Overview of the Case 85XT Skid Steer Loader

The Case 85XT is a popular compact track loader introduced by Case Construction Equipment in 2010. With its powerful 74 horsepower diesel engine, roomy operator station, and excellent stability and traction from its rubber tracks, the 85XT quickly became a top choice for landscapers, construction crews, rental yards, and small farms.

After a decade of use, many 85XT loaders are now due for major component repairs and overhauls, including rebuilding or replacing the drive motor. This article provides a step-by-step guide to replacing the drive motor on a Case 85XT.

When Do You Need a New 85XT Drive Motor?

The drive motor is one of the most critical components on a skid steer. It works non-stop to power the machine's drive system while pushing, digging, lifting, and moving heavy loads. This constant strain takes a toll over time.

Symptoms that the 85XT's drive motor needs rebuilt or replaced include:

• Loss of power and torque
• Unusual noises from the drive unit
• Leaking oil from the drive motor
• Overheating of the motor
• Metal shavings in the oil

Waiting too long after these symptoms appear can lead to complete drive motor failure. This could leave you stranded with an inoperable machine on the job site.

Preparing for the Drive Motor Swap

Doing a drive motor replacement yourself on an 85XT can save thousands of dollars in repair bills. But it requires mechanical skill, special tools, and patience. Make sure you have:

• An engine hoist or lift tables for removing components
• Basic and specialty hand tools for teardown
• Torque wrenches for proper reassembly
• Gear oil and filters for the final drive
• Access to the service and repair manual for torque specs and procedures

After gathering all your tools, replacement parts, and supplies, clear out plenty of room to work around the machine. Be sure to use jack stands for safety.

Step-By-Step 85XT Drive Motor Replacement

With the right preparation, you can swap out an 85XT drive motor yourself and get back to work quickly. Use caution during each step of this process:

1. Remove the Final Drive

Start by removing the final drive assembly from the machine. This contains the sprockets that transfer power to the tracks. Remove the drive chain, unbolt the final drive, disconnect the hydraulic lines, then lift it off the machine.

2. Detach the Drive Motor

Next, unbolt the drive motor from the main frame. Carefully remove the hydraulic lines and chain drive assembly connected to its output shaft. You may need to slightly raise the boom or tilt the bucket linkage for better clearance.

3. Lift Out the Old Motor

Attach an engine hoist to the lifting eyes on the drive motor. Slowly raise it up and out of the engine compartment. If needed, use pry bars to loosen the motor from the mounting surface before lifting.

4. Install the Replacement

After cleaning the drive compartment, reverse the process to install the new drive motor. Torque all fasteners to factory specs once reassembled. Refill the final drive housing with approved gear oil to the proper level and bleed air from the hydraulic lines.

5. Test and Adjust the Machine

Start the 85XT and thoroughly test operation. Let it warmup slowly while checking for leaks. If the tracks spin too fast or too slow, adjust the sprocket alignment between the final drive and motor. Finally, take it through a full load test before putting the machine back into service.

Getting Service and Support

For most do-it-yourself mechanics, replacing the drive motor on a Case 85XT is an achievable task. But if certain steps seem too difficult, don't hesitate to call in a professional service tech. Their expertise can get the job done quickly, avoiding potential injuries or damage from mistakes.

Your Case dealer can also provide factory parts, tools, manual access, and troubleshooting advice for 85XT drive unit repairs. Proper maintenance goes a long way towards preventing major failures down the road.