Case IH JX55 upgrade to JX65

JasonSmith · Jul 14, 2014

Hopefully someone out there can help me. I have a JX55 that I use for making hay and could really use another 5hp, 10 would be wonderful. I have compared the differences between the JX55 and the JX65 and they have the same engine (3 cyl Iveco 178.85ci) but the JX65 has a turbocharger. I called my local Case IH dealer and was told I could modify my 55 to be a 65 by replacing the exhaust manifold, adding the turbocharger and then he said something about advancing the timing of the injector pump, I think. He also said they wouldn't be able to do that sort of thing so I'm on my own. Anyone out there have experience with this that could provide some assistance? Other than "cough up some money and buy a bigger tractor" because as much as I'd love to, it's not gonna happen right now. Pictures of a JX65 engine would be greatly appreciated too. Thanks in advance.

Jason

495man · Jul 14, 2014

Interesting project, cost of the turbo and manifolds?

Can you get 5 HP just by turning up the pump and not doing the turbo etc?

jm. · Jul 14, 2014

Might also check on larger radiator, most times with the hp increase the heat is also more of an issue. I would bet there is a difference in radiator or fan between the 55 and 65, If you 55 is high hours or half worn out probably would not be worth the effort and associated cost.

ss55 · Jul 14, 2014

Check what all those modifications will cost, they add up fast (close to $2000 for engine parts without any labor?). An add-on turbo often decreases the resale price of a tractor because buyers correctly assume it has been over-worked. Dealers normally remove an add-on turbo and sell it separately in order to get a decent price for an add-on turboed tractor.

You should be able to gain another 10 percent or more power by over-fueling your tractor beyond its best economy range. The fuel economy will be poor for those extra HP and it will wear your tractor faster. But you might be money head to just over-fuel your tractor for a while until you can justify buying a larger tractor.

JasonSmith · Jul 15, 2014

Thanks for all the comments and advice. The cost of the exhaust manifold is $565 and the turbo is $1015. I'm not sure if that includes the oil return hose/line or not so yeah probably looking at $2000 for the upgrade if I went that route. For 10hp, that would be worth it to me, still cheaper than selling mine and buying another. I only have 820 hours on this tractor. Case IH used the same radiator on the 65 as they did on the 55, but that was/is a concern I have because my baler works the engine hard and the temp gets up there a bit. It's a small baler, NH Roll-Belt 450. I have the hp when I turn off the air-conditioner but then I cook in the cab! So yep I'll try pumping more fuel and see if I get the extra hp I'm looking for. Thanks again. I'll post results on here later.

Jason

495man · Jul 15, 2014

Never crossed my mind about A/C cab! Yep, the A/C is robbing you.

I run a 4x4 on 42 PTO HP and only lack for power heading up steeper hills with full chamber. I try to head down hill or be empty on those windrows.

Case IH JX55 upgrade to JX65

JasonSmith

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495man

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jm.

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ss55

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JasonSmith

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495man

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