John Deere 350C Dozer – Crawler Tractor (Third-Generation Model)

Description:

The John Deere 350C Dozer, manufactured from 1975 through the early 1980s, marked the third evolution of the 350 series and introduced some of the most substantial improvements to date. With an upgraded John Deere 3-cylinder diesel engine, wet steering clutches, and sealed final drives, the 350C was built for heavier-duty applications while retaining the compact footprint that made the series so popular.

The 350C delivers approximately 50 horsepower, making it ideal for land clearing, slope work, backfilling, and light construction tasks. With a dependable 8-speed manual transmission and an improved open-center hydraulic system, the 350C offered smoother control and greater long-term reliability.

Deere also upgraded the undercarriage and blade mounting systems, reducing downtime and improving load handling. Today, the 350C remains a favorite among landowners, municipalities, and equipment rebuilders.

Key Specifications:

• Powered by John Deere 3-cylinder, 152-cubic inch diesel engine

• Produces 50 HP at 2500 RPM

• Dry-type clutch

• 8-speed gear transmission (4 forward, 4 reverse)

• Open-center hydraulic system delivering 11–13 GPM

• 48-inch track gauge

• 12-inch track shoes

• 5 bottom rollers per side

• Operating weight: 10,800–11,500 lbs (varies by blade type and counterweight)

• Blade options: straight (S), angle (A), 6-way PAT

• Blade capacity: up to 1.2 cubic yards

Serial Number Information:

• The John Deere 350C serial numbers began at approximately 140001 in 1975.
• Serial Number Location: The ID plate is typically mounted on the left side of the machine frame, just behind the track, or beneath the operator’s seat.
• Always verify the model and serial number before ordering parts.

Key Features:

• Upgraded Engine Output: A refined 3-cylinder diesel engine produces more usable torque for tougher pushing tasks.

• Wet Steering Clutches: A major improvement over dry systems, offering longer life and smoother turning in mud and hills.

• Sealed Final Drives: Better protection from dirt, debris, and water intrusion.

• Simplified Service Points: Easier access to clutch housing, hydraulic fittings, and cooling components.

• Expanded Blade Options: Compatible with straight, angle, or 6-way blades for broader job versatility.

Common Replacement Parts:

Maintain and restore your JD 350C with high-quality parts from Broken Tractor:

• Engine Components: Pistons, liners, water pumps, gaskets, fuel injectors, glow plugs, and complete rebuild kits.

• Clutch & Transmission: Clutch discs, pressure plates, bearings, and transmission gears.

• Steering & Final Drive: Wet steering clutch kits, brake bands, and final drive seals.

• Hydraulics: Lift cylinders, control valves, hoses, and cylinder seal kits.

• Undercarriage: Track chains, sprockets, bottom rollers, idlers, and recoil springs.

• Blade Parts: Cutting edges, blade arms, pins, tilt cylinders, and push frames.

Maintenance Schedule:

For optimal operation, change engine oil and filter every 100 hours, fuel filters every 200 hours, and transmission fluid every 250 hours. Wet steering clutches should be inspected and topped off regularly. Hydraulic system service is recommended every 250 hours, with cooling system flushes every 1,000 hours. Check track tension weekly and grease blade pins every 10 hours of use.

Common Issues & Fixes:

• Hard Steering or Jerky Turns: Often due to worn or contaminated wet clutch packs — replace with steering clutch kits.

• Hydraulic Leaks or Weak Blade Action: Typically caused by worn cylinder seals or old hoses — use hydraulic seal kits and inspect fittings.

• Track Looseness or Noise: May indicate stretched track chains or worn adjusters — replace with undercarriage rebuild components.

• Clutch Slipping Under Load: Check clutch disc wear or pressure plate fatigue — restore with a clutch rebuild kit.