Challenger 85C tractor

Challenger 85C

Power

355 hp

Production

1994-1996

Engine

Turbocharged intercooled diesel, 6-cylinder

Transmission

Full power shift

From the same series:

75C

Introduction

Challenger 85C Agricultural Crawler Tractor

The Challenger 85C is an agricultural crawler tractor manufactured by Challenger, a division of Caterpillar, in Peoria, Illinois, USA. Produced between 1994 and 1996, this machine was designed for heavy-duty field operations, utilizing a tracked drive system to optimize traction and minimize soil compaction.

Engine and Performance

The tractor is powered by a liquid-cooled, 6-cylinder turbocharged and intercooled diesel engine. With a displacement of 10.3 liters (629 cubic inches), the engine generates 355 hp at a rated speed of 2100 RPM. It features a compression ratio of 16:1 and utilizes dual dry element air cleaners. Cold weather starting is supported by ether injection and an engine block heater.

Transmission and Drive

The 85C utilizes a full power shift transmission providing 10 forward gears and 2 reverse gears, allowing for on-the-go shifting without the use of a clutch. The crawler drive system is supported by 30-inch tracks, contributing to the machine's total weight of 33,645 lbs (15,261 kg) and a wheelbase of 107.1 inches.

Hydraulics and Steering

The tractor is equipped with a closed-center hydraulic system with a pump flow of 27 gpm and an optional 35 gpm capacity, supporting 4 valves for implement operation. The steering system operates at a pressure of 6090 psi with a flow rate of 61.4 gpm. Maneuverability is assisted by power steering, while stopping is managed by hydraulic wet disc brakes.

Electrical System

The electrical system is based on a 12-volt architecture with a negative ground configuration. Power is supplied by two batteries providing 900 CCA. The system uses an alternator for charging, with a capacity of 115 amps.

Conclusion

The Challenger 85C is a specialized high-horsepower crawler tractor engineered for large-scale agricultural tasks requiring significant tractive effort and stability. Its robust chassis, combined with a high-capacity hydraulic system and power shift transmission, makes it a reliable choice for heavy tillage and primary cultivation work.

Production Information of Challenger, 85C

  • Agricultural Crawler tractor
  • Built in Peoria, Illinois, USA
ManufacturerChallenger (a part of Caterpillar)

Engine Specifications of Challenger, 85C

  • Liquid-cooled inline
  • 6-cylinder
  • Turbocharged intercooled diesel
Coolant capacity80 qts [75.7 L]
Oil capacity31.7 qts [30.0 L]
Air cleanerDual dry elements
Compression16:1
Compression(optional)Block heater
Displacement629 ci [10.3 L]
Power355 hp [264.7 kW]
Pre-heatingEther injection
Bore/Stroke4.92x5.51 inches [125 x 140 mm]
Starter volts12
StarterElectric
Rated RPM2100

Transmission Information of Challenger, 85C

Transmission variants 1

TypeFull power shift
Gears10 forward and 2 reverse
Oil capacity60 qts [56.8 L]

Mechanical Specs of Challenger, 85C

  • Cab standard.
  • Power steering
  • Hydraulic wet disc brakes
DriveCrawler

Power Information of Challenger, 85C

Rear PTO Type1000

Hydraulics Specifications of Challenger, 85C

Steering flow61.4 gpm [232.4 lpm]
TypeClosed center
Pump flow27 gpm [102.2 lpm]
Valves4
Capacity29 gal [109.8 L]
Steering press.6090 psi [419.9 bar]
Steering press.(optional)35 gpm [132.5 lpm]
Pressure2550 psi [175.8 bar]

Electrical System of Challenger, 85C

GroundNegative
Battery CCA900
Batteries2
Charging systemAlternator
Battery volts12
Charging amps115

Where it sits

With 355 HP, the Challenger 85C sits between 75C (325 HP) and 85D (370 HP) in Challenger's range. Its power puts it in the 99th percentile of 1990s models in our database (2097 machines).

Frequently asked questions

How much horsepower does the Challenger 85C have?

The Challenger 85C delivers 355 HP.

What years was the Challenger 85C produced?

The Challenger 85C was produced in 1994-1996.

What engine does the Challenger 85C have?

The Challenger 85C is powered by a Turbocharged intercooled diesel, 6-cylinder engine.

What transmission does the Challenger 85C use?

The Challenger 85C uses a Full power shift transmission.

Compare the Challenger 85C with another model