Case 960 Trencher – Specs, Parts & Maintenance Guide

Description:

The Case 960 Trencher is the largest and most powerful ride-on trencher in Case’s utility equipment lineup. Built for extreme-duty underground construction, the 960 is engineered to handle deep trenching, hard soil conditions, and long utility runs with ease. Outfitted with a turbocharged Deutz diesel engine, a hydraulic side-shift boom, and heavy-duty final drives, this machine delivers outstanding torque, trenching depth, and attachment flexibility.

Commonly used for fiber-optic networks, water mains, and large gas utility lines, the Case 960 offers optional backhoes, vibratory plows, and reel carriers, making it a complete solution for serious trenching contractors.

Specifications

Engine:

• Manufacturer: Deutz

• Model: F4L1011T (Turbocharged)

• Engine Type: 4-cylinder, air-cooled diesel

• Gross Horsepower: 86 hp (64.1 kW)

• Cooling System: Air-cooled, fan-driven

• Fuel Capacity: ~20 gallons

Trenching System:

• Max Trench Depth: 84–96 inches (depending on boom)

• Trench Width: 6–24 inches (various chain setups)

• Boom Type: Bolt-on chain with replaceable teeth

• Side-Shift: Hydraulic side-shift standard

• Auger & Backfill Blade: Standard

• Optional Attachments: Vibratory plow, reel carrier, backhoe, rock wheel

Transmission & Drive:

• Drive Type: Hydrostatic, articulated steering

• Travel Speed: 0–7.5 mph

• Final Drive: Heavy-duty planetary system

• Steering: Hydraulic articulation

• Drive Config: 2WD standard, 4WD available on select models

Hydraulic System:

• Flow Rate: Up to 30 GPM

• Operating Pressure: 3,000 psi

• Auxiliary Hydraulic Circuit: Yes

• Control Type: Lever or joystick (model dependent)

Dimensions:

• Operating Weight: ~8,900 lbs (4,037 kg)

• Overall Length: ~170 in (4.32 m)

• Width: ~70 in (1.78 m)

• Height to ROPS: ~86 in (2.18 m)

• Wheelbase: ~72 in (1.83 m)

Maintenance Essentials

• Air, Fuel, and Oil Filters: Replace every 250 hours

• Hydraulic Oil and Return Filters: Replace every 500 hours or sooner in dirty conditions

• Trencher Chains & Cutter Teeth: Inspect regularly for wear or damage

• Cooling System (Air-Cooled): Clean Deutz engine fins and inspect fan belt tension often

• Grease Points: Boom pivots, articulation joints, and auger bearings must be greased daily

Common Issues and Fixes

Hydraulic Overload or Slow Response
Cause: Clogged hydraulic filter or failing pump
Fix: Replace filters and test system pressure

Turbo Lag or Smoke on Start-Up
Cause: Dirty air filter or turbo seal wear
Fix: Replace air filter and inspect turbo system

Steering Drift or Resistance
Cause: Low hydraulic pressure or leaking steering cylinder
Fix: Flush system and rebuild steering components

Chain Breakage or Jumping
Cause: Loose tension or worn sprockets
Fix: Replace chain, sprockets, and adjust boom alignment

Serial Number Information

• Location: Left side of the frame, near the operator platform or under the engine compartment

• Tip: Serial prefixes (e.g., N8M or JAL) help verify engine configuration and correct hydraulic/filter kits