John Deere 510C Backhoe Loader – Parts, Specs & Serial Numbers

Description:

The John Deere 510C Backhoe Loader, produced from the mid to late 1980s, represented a major leap in performance and operator comfort within Deere’s 510-series. It featured a turbocharged diesel engine, powerful hydraulic system, and available four-wheel drive, making it ideal for roadwork, trenching, utility, and agricultural excavation. The 510C is especially valued for its improved wet disc brakes, PowerShift transmission, and a more spacious cab layout. It’s still widely used today for its strong build and ease of repair, backed by excellent aftermarket part availability.

Specifications:

Engine

• Model: John Deere 4276T

• Type: 4-cylinder, turbocharged diesel

• Displacement: 276 cu in (4.5 L)

• Net Power: 85 hp (63.4 kW) @ 2,200 rpm

• Cooling System: Liquid-cooled

• Fuel Capacity: 32 gallons (121 L)

Transmission

• Type: PowerShift

• Gears: 4 forward / 4 reverse

• Clutch: Hydraulic wet-disc

• Max Speed: 22.5 mph (36.2 km/h)

Hydraulic System

• System Type: Open center

• Pump Flow: 28.5 GPM (108 L/min)

• System Pressure: 2,750 psi (189.6 bar)

Backhoe Specs

• Max Digging Depth: 15 ft 4 in (4.67 m)

• Loading Height: 11 ft 4 in (3.45 m)

• Bucket Digging Force: 13,200 lbf (58.7 kN)

• Swing Arc: 180°

Loader Specs

• Lift Capacity to Full Height: ~6,200 lbs (2,812 kg)

• Breakout Force: ~9,300 lbf (41.4 kN)

• Bucket Widths: 72–86 in (1.83–2.18 m)

Dimensions & Weight

• Operating Weight: ~15,500 lbs (7,030 kg)

• Wheelbase: 84 in (2.13 m)

• Overall Length: 23 ft 5 in (7.14 m)

• Height to Top of ROPS/Cab: 9 ft 2 in (2.79 m)

Maintenance Essentials:

Service Intervals:

• Engine Oil & Filter: Every 250 hours

• Hydraulic Fluid & Filter: Every 500 hours

• Transmission Service: Every 1,000 hours

• Greasing Points: Loader arms, boom pivot, swing frame, stabilizers — daily

Commonly Replaced Parts:

• Hydraulic cylinder seal kits

• PowerShift clutch discs and solenoids

• Loader pins and bushings

• Wet brake rebuild kits and axle seals

• Water pumps, radiator belts, and thermostat kits

Common Issues & Quick Fixes:

• Hydraulic Creep or Weak Boom: Often due to worn cylinder seals — replace with seal kits

• Transmission Delay or Jerky Shifts: Worn clutch packs or solenoids — solved with PowerShift rebuild kits

• Brake Fade or Squeal: Wet-disc brake wear — fix with brake discs and seal sets

Pro Tips:

• Keep swing tower bolts torqued — early 510C models could develop frame wear from loose pivots.

• Clean hydraulic screens at each filter service to avoid valve spool sticking.

• If equipped with 4WD, inspect front axle seals and U-joints every 500 hours.

Serial Number Info:

• Location: Stamped on left frame rail near loader tower or under operator’s platform

• Serial Number Format: Begins with T0510CA_ _ _ _ _

• Be sure to use the full serial number when ordering to confirm fitment for transmission, brakes, and cylinders.