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Oliver, Cletrac, Co-op & Cockshutt Tractors Discussion Forum
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Trade Up? Super 55 pros/cons

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Anonym

07-17-2006 08:56:02




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Hello everyone. I've been considering upgrading from my light-duty Ford 8N to something I can do a little more work with around my property. I recently stumbled onto a 1955 Oliver Super 55 for what I would think would be a decent price. I was just wondering what your opinions on this would be. I'm mainly looking at mowing/bushoging, garden work, moving some dirt, and using it to get in wood out of the woods.

It's a gas model and original as far as I can tell. Tin seems to be pretty straight with only minor dings and wear (probably around 90% paint). It has a swinging drawbar assembly (missing the drawbar), extra pair of hydro hook-ups, power steering, and a Wagner front-end loader (fully hydraulic w/ dual cylinders on the bucket).

The 3-pt hydraulics weren't working when I looked at it, but the dealer said they would get it fixed before selling it.

The clutch engages in the "almost out" position. Is there some adjustment on this, or will I have to look at replacing the clutch soon?

What do you think a fair price would be on this? Any pros/cons that should be brought up when compared to the 8N? Thanks for any advice up front.

Justin
in Indiana

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Skywalker3

07-18-2006 12:07:46




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 Re: Trade Up? Super 55 pros/cons in reply to Anonym, 07-17-2006 08:56:02  
I recently purchased a 550 with loader and hydraulics that sounds very similar to your potential tractor. My previos tractor was also an 8n with a Dearborn loader. The 550 has way more power, and the live power and hydraulics are very nice. The left hand shifter takes a while to get used to, but once you do, it is quite nice.
The only negative I have found is that parts are MUCH more expensive. And although I have not had to purchase anything major, it seems that parts are becoming harder and harder to find. Where as with the 8N, parts are readily available and reasonably priced.
I also read Shep's article and checked everything he suggested on the tractor first. My PTO was not working correctly when it was for sale (also at a dealer) They also agreed to fix before the sale. Big savings to me as they had to split the tractor and replace all PTO clutch plates. I recently repaired the three point system because it was not working correctly. I did not notice it before I purchased it. Make sure the three point will lift a heavy load (even at idle speed it should lift) and make sure the PTO works correctly before you agree to buy.
Good Luck.

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alaskapete

07-17-2006 13:12:25




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 Re: Trade Up? Super 55 pros/cons in reply to Anonym, 07-17-2006 08:56:02  
I have a super 55 diesel with a front end loader. It is a very strong tractor for its size. I wish it had power steering, but, then, I have a big wish list. You will be happy with that tractor.



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Anonym

07-17-2006 12:56:14




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 Re: Trade Up? Super 55 pros/cons in reply to Anonym, 07-17-2006 08:56:02  
Sounds like it's falling in the low end of the pricing catagories you gave, so it should be a decent buy (as long as they fix the 3-pt lift system!). Looks like I'll have to pursue this one a little more. Anyone interested in a nice 8N?!

Justin
in Indiana



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Matt Kane

07-17-2006 12:45:51




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 Re: Trade Up? Super 55 pros/cons in reply to Anonym, 07-17-2006 08:56:02  
I have a Super 55 Diesel, Wouldn't trade it for the world. They are twice the tractor of an 8n. 6 forward gears, 2 reverse, Plenty of pulling power for a small plow, etc. And I personally like the looks of them also. I have seen them from 4000 to 6000 with loader, 2500 to 3500 without. Great all around tractors. Prices depend on location.



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Anonym

07-17-2006 09:40:04




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 Re: Trade Up? Super 55 pros/cons in reply to Anonym, 07-17-2006 08:56:02  
Thanks for the comments. That's a very well written article as well! Yes, I was very impressed with the condition and operation of the tractor. Honestly, it looks and feels much more robust than the 8N, which makes me think it will be a lot better for my needs.

From the article, it sounds like I'm getting quite a few nice options with this tractor! Front-end loader, wheel weights, external hydraulics, swinging drawbar, power steering, etc. Anyone dare to give me an approximate value of something like this? I'm just wanting to make sure I'm not getting hosed on the purchase. I just hope they can figure out the 3-pt hydraulics soon!

And, as far as those orange tractors go, yea, I've noticed quite a few popping up here in south-central Indiana as well. But for my needs on a very limited spending allowance, this old Olie should be fine.

Justin

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ShepFL

07-17-2006 09:19:17




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 Re: Trade Up? Super 55 pros/cons in reply to Anonym, 07-17-2006 08:56:02  
I am prejudice but I think once you try the Oliver you will never look at the FORD the same way. Problem here lately is some orange rigs been trying to take over the place :)


Click link below for one of my contributions to YTMAG, be sure to read other's comments to this article to get a full picuture.

HTH,
ShepFL

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chief83

07-18-2006 05:36:27




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 Re: Trade Up? Super 55 pros/cons in reply to ShepFL, 07-17-2006 09:19:17  
Shep,
I really liked your article! I recently purchased a S55D, not running. I'm not into it yet but believe it needs a headgasket at a minimum. Where would you suggest I go for Waukesha parts?



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J Schwiebert

07-18-2006 18:21:53




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 Re: Trade Up? Super 55 pros/cons in reply to chief83, 07-18-2006 05:36:27  
If you take the head off also get the valve recession set to where it should be. Makes a large improvement in starting. Head gasket unless you have an odd set of sleeves and pistons will be available at NAPA. They don't know that but they have a gasket for it. Questions? find me on the hpoca form. J.



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old

07-17-2006 09:06:09




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 Re: Trade Up? Super 55 pros/cons in reply to Anonym, 07-17-2006 08:56:02  
Well I have never had an S55 but would love to own one. Compared to your 8N hands down you will profer the Oliver S55. More power, live PTO and hyds and just a better tractor all round. But I also like the olivers over a lot of other tractors because they always seem to out pull any other tractor I have in the same HP class. Shoot my Oliver 77s will out pull my Ford 841 and the 77 is rated at 38HP nad the ford 841 is rated at 46HP but the 77 pulls circle around the ford

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