I just bought a 1980 550JD with a 6 way blade and a ripper. It has a new UC. This is my first dozer. Tell me what you guys think of the JD550. I want to know the good and bad about these dozers. I will only be doing really lite work with it. Clearing brush and pushing out old fence. I live in Iowa so it will be running in good black dirt. Please tell me everything you know about this rig. This forum rocks!
i work with a guy that has owned a 550 for quite a while, ive never seen it but he swears by it, every time i see him hes got another story about a project hes got goin on, ive never heard him say a bad thing about it.
That sounds great! I am really looking forward to doing some fun stuff with it.
Anyone have anything else to say about a JD550? Just looking to find out anything good or bad about these dozers. Please let me know what you think of the JD550's!
Keep up with trans maintenance. These were pretty good dozers with a very expensive trans.(made by Twin Disc) that has a troublesome history. Steering clutches sare a common reservoir with trans, the debris can cause trans , problem in a hurry. Also if steering is not functioning properly - expect trans problem
I did not write that very well . I am trying to say that the trans -bevel gear- steering clutches & brakes all share the same oil reservoir. There are about half dozen drain plugs underneath and they all need to drained. Filter for trans is under seat- a bit awkward to change but should be done- then cut a part- look for any metal particles in pleats
I thought this might be of interest: 550JD with ATV backup support
Thanks for all the info. Right now the dozer steers easier to the left than the right. It's just a little sticky going to the right. This is a good looking rig and it has a new UC, pins, bushings and chain. The pads are 60% and it's a great running dozer. So what you are saying is sence I am having a little issue with the steering I may just be looking at a trans prob? Please tell me what to do. Will changing the trans fluid help with the steering? Should I do the trans asap or what. I just got the dozer last weekend and am really ready to try it out. Should I be looking at selling this dozer and looking for something else or are the 550s still a good enough rig to work for a farmer like me?
Check the filter under seat first, That is best indicater. I am not sure about "Sticky" - Do you mean lever (or pedal if you have a pedal steer) or do you mean brake does not work properly ? or clutch ? To clarify my earlier statement the machines I have seen with trans problems all have had steering problems- worn out clutches and or brakes.