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JD 55 combine

K

Ken Brotsky

New User
I have a good JD 55 combine but the engine (JD) has lost power, compression in cyl. 1 and 3 has only 15 psi, probably broken rings. Quote from JD dealer is $12 to 14,000 for major overhaul, out of the question. Any other ideas? I have heard that a 6 cyl. chevy or ford engine will work with a specially fabricated adapter plate to mate the engine block with the drive case. I need suggestions because the rest of the 55 is good condition.
 
just a thought but why not look for a replacment engine? should be a lot of "55' machines around yet with a good engine, and the price they quoted is way out of line in my opinion also, is that a GO298 Hercules in it? I seen one on a craigs list ad from a Case combine they wee taking offers just a thought,, also it may just be the valves from running no lead fuel making the low compression be way cheaper if thats the case goodluck hope you can find a way to save her and some money cnt
 
How old of a unit is this? Late 55s had the Deere 303 gasser (if memory is still working) and plenty of them hit the scrap yards. On my 6600, (329 cubic inch Deere) the fan belt came off and I melted a piston. I treated it right, went to the junk yard and bought a used piston with rings. Threw it in, ran 4 more seasons until I found a cheap diesel.

I would patch it up as you are lucky to get 100 hours on it a year.

$14,000 for an overhaul? You could buy 3 or 4 cream puff 55s for that much money.
 
Pull the head and look at the valves.I if they are ok,look at the 'bad'cylinders.If they are just worn,slap some rings in the bad 'holes'.that 'bandaid' will probably last the life of the machine...
 
You are correct..The earliest 55s used a flathead Hercules,the 'middle'ones used a 217 JD engine,the latest ones used the 303.
 
If you can buy a used one its a lot simpler. I would get a 217 JD but watch where the radiator is hooked up,. We had two 55s and a 95. One 55 and the 95 had same radiator, the other radiator hooked up different. All were original combines aand motors.
 
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