John Deere 450C Dozer – Crawler Tractor (Classic Mid-Size Dozer)

Description:

The John Deere 450C Dozer, built from 1974 to 1980, is a mid-size crawler tractor known for its simplicity, reliability, and durability. As the third generation in the 450 series, the 450C introduced key upgrades over the 450 and 450B, including wet steering clutches, sealed final drives, and improved hydraulic response.

With its naturally aspirated 4-cylinder diesel engine rated at ~65 HP, the 450C is well-suited for clearing, grading, backfilling, and slope work. It’s compact enough for small jobs yet powerful enough to tackle moderate site prep. The rugged undercarriage and optional 6-way blade make it a dependable machine in tough terrain.

Many 450C models remain in use today, thanks to their mechanical simplicity and the wide availability of affordable aftermarket parts.

Key Specifications:

• Engine:
  John Deere 4219D, 4-cylinder diesel, 219 cu in

• Horsepower:
  ~65 HP (at 2500 RPM)

• Transmission:
  8-speed gear drive (4 forward, 4 reverse)

• Hydraulics:
  Open-center system, ~13 GPM flow

• Blade Options:
  Straight, Angle, or 6-Way PAT blade

• Blade Capacity:
  Up to 1.3 cubic yards

• Operating Weight:
  ~13,000 – 14,000 lbs (varies by blade)

• Undercarriage:
  5 bottom rollers, 12" shoes, sealed track option available

Serial Number Information:

• Production Years: 1974–1980

• Starting Serial Number: 144000 (approximate)

• Serial Number Location: Stamped on a tag on the left side of the machine frame, just behind the track or under the seat near the clutch housing.
  Use this number to confirm part compatibility.

Key Features:

• ✅ Proven 4219D Diesel Engine:
  Naturally aspirated, efficient, and easy to rebuild.

• ✅ Wet Steering Clutches:
  Smoother turning with longer life in muddy or high-resistance terrain.

• ✅ Sealed Final Drives:
  Keeps out debris, reducing maintenance and downtime.

• ✅ Robust Blade Options:
  Supports straight, angle, or 6-way PAT blades for versatile grading.

• ✅ Compact but Capable:
  Fits into tight spaces while offering enough power for serious work.

Common Replacement Parts:

All available from Broken Tractor

• Engine Parts: Pistons, sleeves, water pumps, fuel injectors, complete overhaul kits

• Transmission & Clutch: Pressure plates, clutch discs, bearings, gear shafts

• Steering & Final Drives: Wet clutch kits, final drive seals, brake bands

• Hydraulics: Blade lift cylinders, hoses, seal kits, control valves

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

• Blade & Frame: Blade pins, cutting edges, tilt cylinders, blade arms

Maintenance Schedule:

• Engine Oil & Filter: Every 100 hours

• Fuel Filter: Every 200 hours

• Transmission Fluid: Every 250 hours

• Hydraulic System: Inspect and change fluid every 250 hours

• Track Adjustment: Weekly or as needed

• Cooling System Flush: Every 1,000 hours

Common Issues & Fixes:

• Stiff Steering or No Turn:
  Likely worn wet clutches or low hydraulic fluid — rebuild with steering clutch kits.

• Blade Drops When Parked:
  Caused by worn hydraulic seals — replace with cylinder seal kits.

• Track Slap or Vibration:
  Worn bushings or stretched chains — undercarriage kits available.

• Overheating Under Load:
  Dirty radiator or failing water pump — flush cooling system or replace with a new water pump.