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Maybe OT --- Ford backhoe

A

Anonymous-0

Well-known Member
Hi to all..I would like to know more about backhoes. In question is a Ford 5550 backhoe. All I know is that it is an older machine. I think it is quite heavy, but sometimes that is a plus as the machine is built better with less electronics and such. If parts are scarce that alone is a big negative. I sure would like some more input of this backhoe. Thanks to all.
 
Don't know what a 5550 is. I have a 655A w/hyd. ex/hoe. I needed the size and reach. It has been a good machine, but parts are absolutely outrageous. Mine is a 1985 machine and many items are only available now as an "assembly". I have an idea that JD or Case might be better in that regard.
 
When I was looking for a backhoe the price and availablity of parts made the Ford 555 and Case 580 my top choices.I wound up buying a Case 580C extendahoe because the price was right.Would not recommend any Case 580 older than C as the tractor must be split to service the transmission.
 
Don't bank on it. I've got a Ford Industrial 4000 hoe, a Case 580CK hoe, and a Deere 300B hoe. Parts are extremely expensive for all - but the Ford is the easiest to find aftermarket parts for. It's always cheaper to fix.

In fact, I've got a monster Pettibone Multihoe -with an Allison trans and 3-53 Detroit Diesel engine - and just about the entire hoe is made from generic truck parts. Very easy to find parts and usually cheap.

Many of the farmers in my area have later Ford hoes - 545s, 555s, or something like that. All seem to like them. Pretty easy to maintain.
 
I think a 5550 is just the model before they went to the 555. I used to have some Ford catalogues from the early 80's. They did a comparison among all the popular models with a bunch of different operators that were experienced on different brands. To make the tests fair, all operators had to switch to all machines so no one would have an advantage. The 555 was the clear winner in terms of production. I know a guy who works for the local power company as a backhoe operator. He really liked the older Fords. He doesn't like the newer ones with the curved glass because it can distort your vision. He is a very good operator. He placed 2nd and 3rd. in the backhoe rodeo a few times. I think it was called the rodeo but might have been the backhoe olympics. Nothing wrong with Ford hoes. Backhoes that is. LOL Dave
 
The Ford 5550 came after the 5500. The 5550 morfed into the 7500 series. Not even close to the 550 series.

Had a 5500 years ago. Good big tough machine. Not so good for tight quarters, but if in the open it is a beast. Used to dig basements and load semis with it.

Not nearly as handy as todays machines, but they where bullet proof. Shares many driveline components with comparable Ag models.
 
I have a Pettibone Multihoe. I am just getting this machine up and going, I have used it a few times. After having the motor tore down five times or so. I am having tons of trouble. This thing is brute. Keep the rpm's up and I have lots of hydrolic power. I do wish it was 4wd. I may still make it that way. Like the jdemaris said it uses lots of truck parts. May use a 2.5 ton military front and open transfer case (chain and sprocket off rear yoke). Can you help me to figure out what transmission I have and why it doesn't work well when its cold? Low fluid? Old fluid? I am using ATF. I am looking for any information and all information when it comes to this thing! And looking for side curtains and a hood? Maybe a cab? It has been cold this winter in michigan!
 
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