Case 380 Road Runn’r: A Compact Grader with Big Utility

The Case 380 Road Runn’r is a compact motor grader designed for light road maintenance, landscaping, and small-scale grading tasks. Though not as powerful or complex as full-size graders, the 380 offers a unique blend of maneuverability, simplicity, and versatility. It’s especially popular among municipalities, contractors, and rural operators who need a reliable machine for gravel roads, driveways, and site prep without the bulk or cost of larger units.

Terminology Notes

• Motor Grader: A machine used to create a flat surface during grading, typically equipped with a long blade that can be angled and lifted.
• Articulated Steering: A steering system that allows the front and rear halves of the machine to pivot, improving maneuverability.
• Hydrostatic Drive: A transmission system using hydraulic fluid to transfer power, offering smooth and variable speed control.
• Scarifier: A front-mounted tool used to break up compacted soil or gravel before grading.
• Circle Drive: The mechanism that rotates the grader blade to various angles for cutting and shaping.

Key Specifications

• Engine: Typically powered by a 3-cylinder diesel engine (e.g., J.I. Case or Continental), around 35–40 HP
• Transmission: Hydrostatic or mechanical drive depending on variant
• Blade Width: Approximately 6 feet
• Operating Weight: ~3,500–4,000 lbs
• Steering: Articulated frame with hydraulic assist
• Tires: Agricultural or industrial tread, often 12.4x16 or similar

Design Features and Functionality

• Compact Size: The 380 is narrow and lightweight, making it ideal for tight spaces and narrow roads.
• Simple Controls: Mechanical levers and linkages allow intuitive operation without complex electronics.
• Blade Control: Manual or hydraulic blade lift and angle adjustment for precise grading.
• Visibility: Open operator station or canopy provides excellent sightlines to the blade and surroundings.
• Transportability: Can be hauled on a standard equipment trailer, unlike full-size graders.

Use Cases and Field Applications

• Gravel road maintenance in rural areas
• Driveway shaping and drainage correction
• Small-scale site leveling and pad preparation
• Landscaping contouring and finish grading
• Snow removal with blade or optional V-plow attachment

A township in Iowa used a Case 380 for over a decade to maintain gravel roads and cul-de-sacs. The operator praised its ability to “cut washboards out of the road without tearing up the crown,” noting that its light footprint prevented rutting in soft spring conditions.

Maintenance and Reliability

The 380 Road Runn’r is known for its mechanical simplicity and ease of service. Common maintenance tasks include:

• Regular greasing of blade pivots and steering joints
• Hydraulic fluid checks and filter changes
• Engine oil and air filter replacement
• Tire pressure and tread inspection
• Blade edge replacement or resurfacing

One operator in Alberta rebuilt his 380’s hydraulic pump using off-the-shelf seals and a bench vise. “It’s a machine you can fix with basic tools,” he said. “No laptop required.”

Common Issues and Solutions

• Hydraulic drift: Caused by worn cylinder seals; rebuild kits are widely available
• Blade chatter: Often due to loose pivot pins or worn bushings; tightening and greasing resolves it
• Engine hard start: Usually linked to glow plug failure or fuel system air; bleeding and plug replacement recommended
• Steering stiffness: Hydraulic steering valve may need cleaning or seal replacement

Operator Anecdotes and Legacy

A retired road foreman in Georgia recalled using a Case 380 to grade church parking lots and school bus turnarounds. “It was small enough to get in, strong enough to get out,” he said. “We called it the Road Runn’r because it never stopped moving.”

Another story comes from a contractor in Oregon who used the 380 to shape trails in a forest preserve. The machine’s narrow profile and light weight allowed it to work between trees without damaging roots or compacting soil.

Conclusion: Small Grader, Big Impact

The Case 380 Road Runn’r may be modest in size, but its utility is anything but. Built for simplicity, maneuverability, and reliability, it remains a favorite among operators who value hands-on control and low operating costs. Whether maintaining gravel roads or shaping landscapes, the 380 proves that precision and performance don’t always require horsepower—sometimes, they just need heart.