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Stan: I have a 1989 855 2wd that I bought at a machinery auction 6 years ago. It had 1500 hrs on it (now 2000), and appeared to have lived it's life as a commercial grounds keeper. The tractor started and ran fine, but had a fuse block problem and a short circuit event (the PTO lever had sliced the main bus at the fuse block). After repair (less than $ 50) it was fine. I paid $ 7000 for it and that included a well-worn 6 ft (Model 72) belly deck. I have been happy with the deal. The deck has required all of the repairs over time, the tractor has required nothing more than filters, and has no evidence that the engine has ever apart (There is original uncracked paint on every fastener !.) Things I would examine: 1) Check that the injector cap nuts have never been wrenched...with low hours like that, there is no reason that they ever should have been removed 2) Check the tranny dipstick....mine just never drops and never gets dirty....I have changed the fluid only one time. 3) Make sure the tires reflect the low hours....the tach is VERY easy to replace ! 4) Does it have the complete 3 pt. hitch...I've been told by some that at one time it was optional equipment. 5) Does it have the factory installed 4-way selective control valve ? It's a must if you ever want to add a loader. I think near 10K is a bit salty myself, but I've seen them go for that. Parts for all JD's are high, but on these compacts, they seem very high indeed. I will say that mine has been the best JD I have ever owned, including a 4020 D (but I still keep my '55 70 D around for fun !), and is a pleasure to operate. Feel free to e-mail me with any questions. Frank-in=Tallahassee
70D/855
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