I’m 26 now but when I was a kid my dad had a 95’ 955 first tractor I ever ran. Wish my dad didn’t sell it but getting into the snow removal industry we need to upgrade to something with a cab. Now that we have cabed tractors I wouldn’t want to go back to an open station brush mowing. Seeing dirt perfects 955 brings back lots of great memories
Great video guys! The 55 series are near and dear to my heart as well. I think the 55 series maybe one of the best used tractors to purchase for a first time owner. The only drawback is the lack of a quick change bucket system but I changed that on mine and nowadays it's an easy conversion. Thanks for spotlighting these tractors DP and TTWT!
I got a 4052M with 150 hrs. The only issues are hitting my leg on the diff locking lever when getting to the seat and my knee hits the key when turning around in the seat, shutting off the tractor. The 400e loader is great but the bucket is junk, already bent on top. I wanted the 4052 HEAVY DUTY but it had over 5 months wait time. When my wife asked why I wanted a tractor so bad I mumbled TTWT...
I'd have to agree with Dirt Perfect. In his case he didnt like the new jd as much and I can agree. The old john Deere's have been awesome machines and my 1025r has been too. Great video
It easy to tell its a skid steer bucket with the longer bottom. That extra length will really hurt the loaders capabilities compared to the correct short bottom bucket.
@@ExtremeRC4x4 ... and don’t forget the buckets weight . It will probably limit the capacity by 3-400 lbs... if not more considering how far out the cutting edge is from the pivot pins.
As an owner of a 790/ 1025r / 4044r I can say my go to has always been my stick 790. I am the original owner and absolutely love the tractor. It’s a Tank and has never let me down. The newer tractors are nice and have their purpose but my 790 gets it done every time. I recently purchased the 4044r and love the cab. Unfortunately they don’t make one tractor that does everything well…. At least that’s what I keep telling my wife. 😉
I watch both of you regularly. The first tractor I wanted was a 955. Interesting insight into the 4 series. My first JD was an X738. I really like this machine and plan to keep it forever. Next I bought a 2025R. I like this machine but I am always thinking bigger would have been better.
I agree with everything he said about the newer tractor. I have 7 ea. of the 55 series tractors. I have a 3046R and I hate it. Out of 8 tractors one leaks oil. The new one. I was told by John Deere they have to split the tractor to replace a $7.00 seal. And he’s 100% correct about the ergonomics.
I bought 950 in 1978 for the first 10 years of his life and did custom work for the Corps of Engineers on different lakes in Oklahoma, then we moved to the farm and started doing custom grading for other builders around and in the summertime, we used it to rake hay. Mechanically I never had to do anything at all until this last summer when my son was raking hay and he spun a bearing in the engine. They wanted more money for a short block than what the tractor was worth so we finally scrapped it. I bought the tractor brand-new and if I remember right I gave around $8500 for it and used it for over 40 years. So I believe I got my money out of that tractor.
Interesting review and history of the line up. You and Mike took us on a fun trip down memory lane and the reliability and salability of older tractors. Thanks for sharing. Blessings.
I run a 88' 1050. M 75 loader, quick attach Backhoe. I love it till death due us part. Told my wife she cannot ever sell it, our Boy gets it even if I die tomorrow. Growing up on a farm you learn thru work/ hard way lol so I knew what I needed but was hard to find what I wanted. After a year of looking 1ina million my neighbor surprised me and says hey wanna buy my 88' fully "loaded" Deere? Needless to say took me a day to drive it home. Some parts are sometimes hard to find for a good deal, but everything besides the original twin stick loader control it is legitimately the perfect 40hp tractor. The raw power, size weight/footprint is perfect. Easily (totally blew my fckn mind admittedly) pulled a 140+ ft tall white pine not limbed either, up a grade in the soft forest floor of our back lot. I don't have tires loaded, no weights just concrete blocks in my carryall I built for my usage, and front bucket loaded with American beech.
The 55 series is one of my favorites and I’m glad to finally see DP go through his (and Kleeman’s) fleet. Definitely not helping me resist wanting to scratch the itch I’ve perpetually had for a 755 for a long time. The older iron just seems to punch above its weight more than the new ones (grew up on a Yanmar YM180D and a bunch of JD equipment).
Hey Tim, maybe a topic for discussion (on video of course) would be that long bottom skid steer bucket on the H180. Deere does indeed offer a SSQA frame for their CUT loaders but in factory training, we were often cautioned about selling skid-steer buckets on CUT loaders because they can dramatically affect load/breakout capacity and the sight lines are all wrong. Of course Deere pushes their QA system, which is fine. But other manufacturers are using SSQA buckets on machines much smaller than the 4R to good results. Maybe shine some light on what the differences are between skid buckets and tractor buckets!
I run a 45 horse LS and it's ergonomically excellent. It's controls are fluid and responsive and it has enough power to the bucket to bounce the rear tires off the ground.
Sure do enjoy the videos when the two of you are together. I learned how to use a tractor on a 755 now I now own a 2320 and really enjoy using it on my property. Thanks for sharing and the stories. Stay safe
Excellent video. I looked long and hard for a 955 before buying my 3032e, then 3 of them popped up 6 months later. Grrrrrrrrr. Sounds like that 4 series was built on a Tuesday after a 3 day party weekend and half the assembly line called in sick. Those who work in a factory know what i mean....ha ha. The key switch on my 3E has been broke twice from me jumping on and off in a hurry and where it is located. One of the dumbest spots to put a key switch. The loader controls on the E series are not nearly as comfortable as the R series. Tim and Christy have had several vidoes showing how the hydraulics on these newer machines and their limitations. He was right when he said the engineering was designed by someone not use to tractors. I know engineering has to deal with costs and price competition when designing any product, but these tractors are not daily or yearly consumables, they are long term investments so one would think comfort, performance, and ease of accessing controls from the seat would be more heavily considered for the end user. Ive always said if the engineers had to work on the equipment they designed, it'd be much more user friendly.
The 55 series are the best tractors even. We have all original bought new a 2955 and 955. Great tractors and super reliable. Our 955 haves over 7000hr on it and runs like new
Huh... I had a 2007 JD 4720 with the eHydro. I absolutely loved that transmission for all the 3PT utility work, and, especially, FEL work I did with it. It had none of the "roll out" problems mentioned here. I set the Motion Match control at its mid point setting and never changed it. I never needed to use the brakes, even when going down steep hills. The eHydro also had the Load Match control that automatically compensates for load on the transmission. There was no need to manually "back off" on the transmission control pedals to effectively lower the gear ratio under heavy load. Actually, you could just bury the pedal and the Load Match would compensate as needed. Personally, I never found any operating condition that would have benefitted from turning Load Match off.
Hi from the town of Windsor Nova Scotia Canada . I have a 955 Johne deere with a 78-inch mower and 70A loader. Someone made the bucket a quick attachment. My dad and I made a 6-foot fisher snowplow fit it also . Also added a diverter valve for the power angel. I like the video on 55series a lot
Bought my first 955 3 years ago at a fire company mud sale. Came with loader and backhoe. Unfortunately the engine was blown. Found a turbo charged yanmar out of a john deere fairway mower. Fit right in with some creative pipeing for the air filter. Recently added double scv hidden under the fender only the handles can be seen unless you look for the valve. I will never part with this beast!
I remember reading on Tractorbynet when the 4066 came out, several people complained about the loader not being able to lift the front of the tractor off the ground. I started with a Deere 650 and went to the 2520 the first year they came out, Then to a 3320 that I kept for 13 years. I wish I had moved to a 4x20 series but I ended up jumping ship to Kioti.
I have a 855. It is one hell of a tractor to use. I’ve put it through a lot over the years and it never refuses to do the job. Only problem is getting parts to Ireland for it can bring tears to my eyes 😂
I have a 755 2WD and a new style 2025R. I do like the steering brakes but the one thing I like on the 2025R is with it in 4WD, all the wheels basically brake. When towing a trailer or other implements, this is a major advantage.
I have to say the 55 series are assume amazing tractors. We have a 855 at work... It is used and maybe a little abused over many years... But features wise it competes with modern compacts wise. I feel it would hold up well with my B2601 Kubota when working it.
it's funny how things appear randomly out of the air-just last night on Jeopardy. just last evening while we was watching the show Jeopardy, the question was asked how many people was on the ark. and here today u posted at the end about that. i really like the message u always post at the end-Thanks--and i watch dirt perfects videos too--i know he got bent out of shape at me-for always asking where the floor drains was in his foundation's he built-but i think he got over it--ha!
Loved this video! I can say my 2020 33R power reverser is a great tractor but the layout of the controls sometimes makes me scratch my head as to the reasoning.
You know I don't understand how DP is anything done cuz he's always showing up on other people's channel LOL y'all all do good work keep those tractor wheels turning
It would have been awesome if he had my 455 there to start with...smallest diesel tractor John Deere made at the time. I know it falls under a different heading, garden tractor, but still a great little machine!
I use to really like John Deere up till recently. Ive operated 3 different types, models slip my mind but definitelyin to 70hp range was the largest. The positioning of controls, visibility, comfort and price for what you get is simply not there anymore. Least youre able to get parts, but the challenge comes to how much are they going to cost? They have been wanting to force people into the newer stuff and have been steadily increasing prices to do it. On the flip side, I actually have a couple older JD lawn tractors and sold the LX176 model with a 48in cut. That little tractor was a beast. The other 2, 1 is NFS as its a project as its complete. The other is a 300 that hase everything but the grill, seat, and carburetor. Its not great looking, but least all panels are there. As fkr larger equipment, ill look at TYM or Mahindra. Like pervious comments, im conrect with my 6075 Cab. Beast of a tractor and take a beating.
@Tim. If you look closely at the side panels of that 855. You'll see they're from a 300 series John Deere as well as the push blade hookup on the bottom of the frame in the front.
I agree with Mike's comments on the 4 series. But I personally do NOT like a hydrostatic transmission at all. I borrowed a neighbor's Kubota 4400 hydrostatic before I hot mine. The neighbor's tractor "whined" coming out of my field road. I bought a GST (Glide Shift Transmission) with gears to have a better control of speed.
I have had a 955 for about 18 years I bought it in Rushville Ind and hauled it back to Pa it had 600 hrs on when I got it I have the loader , power angle blade & a 5 ft 3 point finish mower I plow both my driveways & 3 of my neighbors & mow over 6 acres of grass at least once a week I would trade it for a new one I watch D P all the time
That was a nice comparison… and an awesome line up of mean-greenies! I am not a JD fan because our local dealer is terrible about small tractor service. I had a JD400… they told me their mechanics hated working on it. They then kept it two months snd charged a fortune to test the hydraulic system. They ended up just changing the strainer, filter and fluid… which did nothing to help the problem. I decided to trade it for a 1025 with a backhoe. They offered me nothing in trade and kept trying to step me up to a bigger tractor. So, I drove across town and bought an orange BX. It was 10 years before I did business with JD again. My wife talked me into buying a new XUV590i Gator. The parking brake malfunctioned as they backed it off the trailer. The delivery guy sprayed some lube on the brake latch and it seemed to work Okay… for about a week. I called the dealer and told them I was bringing it back. They told me they would only give me the ‘used book value’ as a refund. That came to $1000 cost for one weeks use. I blew up and they agreed to have their technician look at it under warranty. Two weeks later, they delivered it back to me. It had a freshly lubricated parking brake lock which worked for about two more weeks. It is now about 3 years old and I have become an expert on lubricating the lock myself…. And, ordering maintenance parts online so my shadow doesn’t darken the dealer’s door! I still think JD makes good products… but I think I know why their local dealer hasn’t grown one bit in the last 10 years!
Nice video, my 855 is a nice machine, awesome with the front snowblower, which I will be installing soon... Guess I never looked at a 4m, operator comfort wise. Yeah it looks like they didn’t spend much time on that...
DP, speaking the truth. I really like the truth at the end of your video. Sometimes I'd like to have a small tractor, but the cliff I mow don't suit one.
My next door neighbor has a 6159U LS and he loves it bucket will pick up about 4000 lbs great hydralics come with everything the r series comes with plus some ,cant remember all of them and LS has a wider footprint,he pulls 8ft equipment ...
Great video Tim. Love seeing all the different John Deere machines together and hearing about them. I had a 4044R open station, as well as I still have a 4066R cab. I sort of agree with some of his complaints. The rear SCVs really do seem like an after thought on the open stations, Deere’s R4 cab model is totally different. Not sure about his complaint on the loader, mine seemed a lot more powerful then the 1,2,and 3R which I also have today or had owned before. Granted not near as strong as my 5 series, but of all the Deere CUT’s 1-4 series the 4R has by far the most powerful loader. The 4066R is still a small frame CUT , I have no doubt a 5045E’s loader can lift considerably more then the 4066Rs loader, even though it’s a 45hp tractor compared to a 66hp tractor. Frame size , wheelbase , and overall weight I think come into play when Deere is determining how powerful the want to make the loader. I have several Ehydro machines, I don’t think I have seen much issues like he is describing. I rarely have to even set my park brake, my ehydro holds it stopped simply taking my foot of the throttle pedals. I agree open station 4R ergonomics on the items he mentioned are far from ideal, and Deere could do better, Deere has done much better on other models.
Ive owned an operated many tractors over the years. Flipped my first one today. 4066m hd. I do have a steep driveway so I won't completely blame it on the tractor. I was taking medium weight loads of landscaping blocks down the driveway. 5 or so trips with no issues. On my last trip down I let off on the accelerator pedal as I had been doing with all the other loads.. The tractor immediately let loose like I pressed in a clutch. Long story short I did everything I could to stop the tractor but I ended up having to jump off, it flipped and thankfully landed back on its tires. I love the tractor, but the trans is a huge issue. It is not predictable at all. I can't believe Deere hasn't addressed this issue.
I love my 89 755 4x4! It has the quick attach 70 loader and works great. Wish it could lift a little more. I might try shimming the relief valve spring. I would like to add rear remotes, a front 3rd function and modify the loader with a skid steer quick attach but $$$$$!! The 55 series are great tractors and I've never had any problems with mine. Awesome video!!
Hi Tim, I own a 2017, 2032r. I believe you have a 2019, 2038r. My tractor has 300 easy hours on it and in cleaning it the other day I found the radiator to be seaping along the top tank crimp. I have hear of two other 2032r and 2038r s that are leaking in the same area. My tractor still has basic warranty left on it, but my John Deere dealer say that is not under warranty. Have you heard of others with this model of tractor having the same problem? Do you know of a forum that would.
There is a reason that older tractors are in such demand. It isn't just the emissions and computers. Older iron just seems to be built better, stronger, faster. No, wait, that's the $6 million dollar man. I'll stick with better and stronger. (^_^) My 1968 Ford is still running strong.
The slow response on the 4066R sounds like a CPU problem. I would try a code reader and see if you could update or reinstall software. May have some previous versions hanging up the CPU.
The problem I have with JD is the price. My first tractor was a Kubota because of the price difference between comparable tractors, AND finance rates. Back in 2002, $2000 was a huge difference between the two. Today its closer to $6000 difference comparing a 4044R to an L4060HSTC. Finance rates are 0 for 72 for Deere and 0 for 84 with Kubota. Considering my B2410 has been 100% reliable for nearly 20 years now, the L4060 is $6K less, and has a better finance term, I guess the green lost again. I highly considered a 3046R, but it was too small for my needs, and didn't direct compare to the L4060, except for price, it was in the same ballpark. If the Deere was more affordable I would not hesitate to get one. I don't like the plastic on them though, busted the hood on an X500 and a replacement was $1200.
I Have a 4066R cab tractor with a 440R loader and I have not experienced any of these issues . I was at the local Deere dealer and looked at a 4052R open station that they had and I probably would not buy that tractor based on the control placement which they haven't changed and are in the same place as his 4066R
I have a 4066R with cab and I have not experienced ANY of the problems described in this video. Granted, the cab model is quite different in that the visibility is better and that you cannot bump the hydraulic lever because it is mounted high. The hydrostatic roll-out that Dirt Perfect describes, is definitely not functioning as designed. He needs to have the tractor serviced because there is surely something wrong with it. In fact, it sounds potentially dangerous. Roll-out can be set to zero such that taking your foot off the pedal results in a very abrupt sudden stop. His loader lift capacity might be hampered by the far protruding SkidSteer bucket that he attached. But he might also have a hydraulic issue of some kind because I have absolutely no problem lifting a fully filled 275 gallon maple sap tote (2300 lbs) with a heavy-duty forklift attachment (about 250 lbs) that protrudes 48 inches forward.
I found this video researching JD 950 I am thinking about buying. Can you expand on the differences 950 vs 955. Tractor Data shows them virtually the same. I love Yanmar motors and both have it and the 950 has 8 speed same as the 955.
I recently bought a used 955 that has the 2 mid hydraulic remote sets for the loader but never had any rear sets installed (apparently 2 rear sets were optional). I know you have done a lot of hydraulic adding with summit, etc. on newer John Deere’s., so was wondering if you could offer any help on a 55 series. I would like to add the two John Deere originals sets if possible.
Yep I’m a big fan of the old jd tractors my oldest is a 1985 318 with over 7500 hours on it then there’s another jd318 a 1987 with about 6000 hours a jd 420 completely rebuilt and repowered this summer with about 15 hours and then my jd4200 a 1999 model with 3600 hours but would love any one of mikes 55 series tractors
I HAVE A JOHN DEERE r650 HAVEING TROUBLE GETTING IT TO RUN I HADE the head rebuilt new injectors it still will not start I have sprayed it with either it still won't start wondering if you can tell me what to try next
I’d like to say that as far as parts availability you can forget trying to find a replacement engine for the 855,John Deere dealer was absolutely no help.The only engine parts are for the newer generation Yanmar engine
You mentioned the Summit hydraulics remote kit in this video Tim. Their website says they are currently not available and may not ever be available. Do you have any inside information on that situation? I’m really needing the four outlet set up on my 3038E. For top and tilt and a homemade ripper set up I just completed….
Try this link: summit-hydraulics.com/product/electric-rear-remote-valve-kit-for-compact-tractors-two-spool-three-spool-four-spool/ It says available when I select it. Use TTWT for discount.
Yep there it is and it’s available. I read a little more about it and I’m not sure how I would be able to install it on my 3038E without power beyond. Plus I already have the WR long third function set up. You would be my hero if you would do a video explaining how to add rear remotes to my tractor that already has a third function plumbed into the rear housing. I know you don’t do a lot of videos on my tractor. The one you borrowed from good works tractors is the only one I can actually remember on your channel. John Deere sold thousands of these little guys and the loaders will out lift the 3046 series tractors….
No, the loaders will not outlift a 3046t, but anyway… You need power beyond which you can get from Deere. There is another version of this kit which includes 3rd function. So, you can replace your third function with this system. summit-hydraulics.com/ttwt has both kits.
Ok thanks. I know my loader is weak and it won’t out lift a 3046. I just put that on there to annoy you. Everything else about my tractor is great though.
Love my John Deere tractors thanks for the visit and awesome video Tim
I forgot the not when I said I would not trade it for a new one
DUDE... you been holding out on the toys.... woah.... ummmmm sigh... HI!!! :)
Have a brand new 4066 at work and I feel all the issues you have. I really think Deere dropped the ball on it.
@DirtPerfect can a JD 855 use a 7’ Box Blade ?
Hey the orange ones are good!
I’m 26 now but when I was a kid my dad had a 95’ 955 first tractor I ever ran. Wish my dad didn’t sell it but getting into the snow removal industry we need to upgrade to something with a cab. Now that we have cabed tractors I wouldn’t want to go back to an open station brush mowing. Seeing dirt perfects 955 brings back lots of great memories
Great video guys! The 55 series are near and dear to my heart as well. I think the 55 series maybe one of the best used tractors to purchase for a first time owner. The only drawback is the lack of a quick change bucket system but I changed that on mine and nowadays it's an easy conversion. Thanks for spotlighting these tractors DP and TTWT!
I got a 4052M with 150 hrs. The only issues are hitting my leg on the diff locking lever when getting to the seat and my knee hits the key when turning around in the seat, shutting off the tractor. The 400e loader is great but the bucket is junk, already bent on top. I wanted the 4052 HEAVY DUTY but it had over 5 months wait time. When my wife asked why I wanted a tractor so bad I mumbled TTWT...
Uhoh! I’m in trouble with your wife!
Great to see the 55 series get some air time. One of the best series made.
Green line up👍
I'd have to agree with Dirt Perfect. In his case he didnt like the new jd as much and I can agree. The old john Deere's have been awesome machines and my 1025r has been too. Great video
What a lineup, and beautiful background!
That bucket on the 4066R with its overhang is defiantly hurting the lifting capacity.
It easy to tell its a skid steer bucket with the longer bottom. That extra length will really hurt the loaders capabilities compared to the correct short bottom bucket.
@@ExtremeRC4x4 ... and don’t forget the buckets weight . It will probably limit the capacity by 3-400 lbs... if not more considering how far out the cutting edge is from the pivot pins.
@@rgd2598 Right, and that brings the lift capacity under a ton, for certain.
Just bought a mint 1996 955 with less than 500 hrs. 72” deck and 70a loader. Feel even more fortunate to own it after watching this video!
As an owner of a 790/ 1025r / 4044r I can say my go to has always been my stick 790. I am the original owner and absolutely love the tractor. It’s a Tank and has never let me down. The newer tractors are nice and have their purpose but my 790 gets it done every time. I recently purchased the 4044r and love the cab. Unfortunately they don’t make one tractor that does everything well…. At least that’s what I keep telling my wife. 😉
I had a 770 for 22 years, I loved that tractor.
I watch both of you regularly. The first tractor I wanted was a 955. Interesting insight into the 4 series. My first JD was an X738. I really like this machine and plan to keep it forever. Next I bought a 2025R. I like this machine but I am always thinking bigger would have been better.
We love our 755, she's damn near bullet proof.. nothing is perfect for everything but a great tractor loader combination.
Great video! For anyone looking for body panels for the 55 series, I’ve always had good luck on eBay.
I like and watch your video's also.
Good morning, Captain!
I agree with everything he said about the newer tractor. I have 7 ea. of the 55 series tractors. I have a 3046R and I hate it. Out of 8 tractors one leaks oil. The new one. I was told by John Deere they have to split the tractor to replace a $7.00 seal. And he’s 100% correct about the ergonomics.
I bought 950 in 1978 for the first 10 years of his life and did custom work for the Corps of Engineers on different lakes in Oklahoma, then we moved to the farm and started doing custom grading for other builders around and in the summertime, we used it to rake hay. Mechanically I never had to do anything at all until this last summer when my son was raking hay and he spun a bearing in the engine. They wanted more money for a short block than what the tractor was worth so we finally scrapped it. I bought the tractor brand-new and if I remember right I gave around $8500 for it and used it for over 40 years. So I believe I got my money out of that tractor.
I bet $8500 seemed quite expensive back then! …but yes, well worth it!
Interesting review and history of the line up. You and Mike took us on a fun trip down memory lane and the reliability and salability of older tractors. Thanks for sharing. Blessings.
I run a 88' 1050. M 75 loader, quick attach Backhoe. I love it till death due us part. Told my wife she cannot ever sell it, our Boy gets it even if I die tomorrow.
Growing up on a farm you learn thru work/ hard way lol so I knew what I needed but was hard to find what I wanted. After a year of looking 1ina million my neighbor surprised me and says hey wanna buy my 88' fully "loaded" Deere? Needless to say took me a day to drive it home.
Some parts are sometimes hard to find for a good deal, but everything besides the original twin stick loader control it is legitimately the perfect 40hp tractor. The raw power, size weight/footprint is perfect. Easily (totally blew my fckn mind admittedly) pulled a 140+ ft tall white pine not limbed either, up a grade in the soft forest floor of our back lot. I don't have tires loaded, no weights just concrete blocks in my carryall I built for my usage, and front bucket loaded with American beech.
The 55 series is one of my favorites and I’m glad to finally see DP go through his (and Kleeman’s) fleet. Definitely not helping me resist wanting to scratch the itch I’ve perpetually had for a 755 for a long time. The older iron just seems to punch above its weight more than the new ones (grew up on a Yanmar YM180D and a bunch of JD equipment).
Find a good condition 755 and you'll be impressed.. love ours
I love my 4066R I don't have any of those issues, but I have a cab on mine. So everything is set up differently.
💥 That is a nice fleet of green tractors.
*Keep on tractoring!*
Great video. Really enjoyed it
Hey Tim, maybe a topic for discussion (on video of course) would be that long bottom skid steer bucket on the H180. Deere does indeed offer a SSQA frame for their CUT loaders but in factory training, we were often cautioned about selling skid-steer buckets on CUT loaders because they can dramatically affect load/breakout capacity and the sight lines are all wrong.
Of course Deere pushes their QA system, which is fine. But other manufacturers are using SSQA buckets on machines much smaller than the 4R to good results. Maybe shine some light on what the differences are between skid buckets and tractor buckets!
I run a 45 horse LS and it's ergonomically excellent. It's controls are fluid and responsive and it has enough power to the bucket to bounce the rear tires off the ground.
Sure do enjoy the videos when the two of you are together. I learned how to use a tractor on a 755 now I now own a 2320 and really enjoy using it on my property. Thanks for sharing and the stories. Stay safe
Excellent video. I looked long and hard for a 955 before buying my 3032e, then 3 of them popped up 6 months later. Grrrrrrrrr. Sounds like that 4 series was built on a Tuesday after a 3 day party weekend and half the assembly line called in sick. Those who work in a factory know what i mean....ha ha. The key switch on my 3E has been broke twice from me jumping on and off in a hurry and where it is located. One of the dumbest spots to put a key switch. The loader controls on the E series are not nearly as comfortable as the R series. Tim and Christy have had several vidoes showing how the hydraulics on these newer machines and their limitations. He was right when he said the engineering was designed by someone not use to tractors. I know engineering has to deal with costs and price competition when designing any product, but these tractors are not daily or yearly consumables, they are long term investments so one would think comfort, performance, and ease of accessing controls from the seat would be more heavily considered for the end user. Ive always said if the engineers had to work on the equipment they designed, it'd be much more user friendly.
The 55 series are the best tractors even. We have all original bought new a 2955 and 955. Great tractors and super reliable. Our 955 haves over 7000hr on it and runs like new
I had a 655, 755, and now a 955 (and a 970)...all 4x4 and ALL awesome.
My 755 is a champ. It took a long time to find an affordable one.
A very instructional video. Thank you both for the comparisons. I especially like the 855, but Mike had especially good things to say about the 955.
"i thought you might steal it...so it took your key too" this was a good one!:D
Huh... I had a 2007 JD 4720 with the eHydro. I absolutely loved that transmission for all the 3PT utility work, and, especially, FEL work I did with it. It had none of the "roll out" problems mentioned here. I set the Motion Match control at its mid point setting and never changed it. I never needed to use the brakes, even when going down steep hills. The eHydro also had the Load Match control that automatically compensates for load on the transmission. There was no need to manually "back off" on the transmission control pedals to effectively lower the gear ratio under heavy load. Actually, you could just bury the pedal and the Load Match would compensate as needed. Personally, I never found any operating condition that would have benefitted from turning Load Match off.
You could get just a tiny bit more top end transport speed with Load Match switched off. That’s pretty much the only time you’d want it off.
Hi from the town of Windsor Nova Scotia Canada . I have a 955 Johne deere with a 78-inch mower and 70A loader. Someone made the bucket a quick attachment. My dad and I made a 6-foot fisher snowplow fit it also . Also added a diverter valve for the power angel. I like the video on 55series a lot
Bought my first 955 3 years ago at a fire company mud sale. Came with loader and backhoe. Unfortunately the engine was blown. Found a turbo charged yanmar out of a john deere fairway mower. Fit right in with some creative pipeing for the air filter. Recently added double scv hidden under the fender only the handles can be seen unless you look for the valve. I will never part with this beast!
My dad had a 955 he bought brand new in the early 90's. This brought back memories
I remember reading on Tractorbynet when the 4066 came out, several people complained about the loader not being able to lift the front of the tractor off the ground. I started with a Deere 650 and went to the 2520 the first year they came out, Then to a 3320 that I kept for 13 years. I wish I had moved to a 4x20 series but I ended up jumping ship to Kioti.
Thanks for the quick comparison of an older series of John Deere Tractors.
Great video. Love seeing all of them side by side. Love my 755.
I have a 855. It is one hell of a tractor to use. I’ve put it through a lot over the years and it never refuses to do the job. Only problem is getting parts to Ireland for it can bring tears to my eyes 😂
I have a 755 2WD and a new style 2025R. I do like the steering brakes but the one thing I like on the 2025R is with it in 4WD, all the wheels basically brake. When towing a trailer or other implements, this is a major advantage.
I like the duct tape holding the lights on the 1025R.
Tim, don't forget Neil Koch, resident 55 series connoisseur!
I have to say the 55 series are assume amazing tractors. We have a 855 at work... It is used and maybe a little abused over many years... But features wise it competes with modern compacts wise. I feel it would hold up well with my B2601 Kubota when working it.
it's funny how things appear randomly out of the air-just last night on Jeopardy. just last evening while we was watching the show Jeopardy, the question was asked how many people was on the ark. and here today u posted at the end about that. i really like the message u always post at the end-Thanks--and i watch dirt perfects videos too--i know he got bent out of shape at me-for always asking where the floor drains was in his foundation's he built-but i think he got over it--ha!
Loved this video! I can say my 2020 33R power reverser is a great tractor but the layout of the controls sometimes makes me scratch my head as to the reasoning.
You know I don't understand how DP is anything done cuz he's always showing up on other people's channel LOL y'all all do good work keep those tractor wheels turning
It would have been awesome if he had my 455 there to start with...smallest diesel tractor John Deere made at the time. I know it falls under a different heading, garden tractor, but still a great little machine!
Fact! The 455 actually took the place of the 655 in Europe. The 1st sub compact!
I use to really like John Deere up till recently. Ive operated 3 different types, models slip my mind but definitelyin to 70hp range was the largest. The positioning of controls, visibility, comfort and price for what you get is simply not there anymore. Least youre able to get parts, but the challenge comes to how much are they going to cost? They have been wanting to force people into the newer stuff and have been steadily increasing prices to do it. On the flip side, I actually have a couple older JD lawn tractors and sold the LX176 model with a 48in cut. That little tractor was a beast. The other 2, 1 is NFS as its a project as its complete. The other is a 300 that hase everything but the grill, seat, and carburetor. Its not great looking, but least all panels are there.
As fkr larger equipment, ill look at TYM or Mahindra. Like pervious comments, im conrect with my 6075 Cab. Beast of a tractor and take a beating.
@Tim. If you look closely at the side panels of that 855. You'll see they're from a 300 series John Deere as well as the push blade hookup on the bottom of the frame in the front.
I agree with Mike's comments on the 4 series. But I personally do NOT like a hydrostatic transmission at all. I borrowed a neighbor's Kubota 4400 hydrostatic before I hot mine. The neighbor's tractor "whined" coming out of my field road. I bought a GST (Glide Shift Transmission) with gears to have a better control of speed.
I have had a 955 for about 18 years I bought it in Rushville Ind and hauled it back to Pa it had 600 hrs on when I got it I have the loader , power angle blade & a 5 ft 3 point finish mower I plow both my driveways & 3 of my neighbors & mow over 6 acres of grass at least once a week I would trade it for a new one I watch D P all the time
I forgot the word not when said I would not trad it
I have SUCH fascination with smaller Deere garden tractors with the small Yanmar diesel like the 322 up to 455.
That was a nice comparison… and an awesome line up of mean-greenies!
I am not a JD fan because our local dealer is terrible about small tractor service. I had a JD400… they told me their mechanics hated working on it. They then kept it two months snd charged a fortune to test the hydraulic system. They ended up just changing the strainer, filter and fluid… which did nothing to help the problem.
I decided to trade it for a 1025 with a backhoe. They offered me nothing in trade and kept trying to step me up to a bigger tractor. So, I drove across town and bought an orange BX.
It was 10 years before I did business with JD again. My wife talked me into buying a new XUV590i Gator. The parking brake malfunctioned as they backed it off the trailer. The delivery guy sprayed some lube on the brake latch and it seemed to work Okay… for about a week.
I called the dealer and told them I was bringing it back. They told me they would only give me the ‘used book value’ as a refund. That came to $1000 cost for one weeks use. I blew up and they agreed to have their technician look at it under warranty.
Two weeks later, they delivered it back to me. It had a freshly lubricated parking brake lock which worked for about two more weeks.
It is now about 3 years old and I have become an expert on lubricating the lock myself…. And, ordering maintenance parts online so my shadow doesn’t darken the dealer’s door!
I still think JD makes good products… but I think I know why their local dealer hasn’t grown one bit in the last 10 years!
I bought a 955 new back in 1991 and i really miss it today.
I have an 80’s model 2150. I use it mainly for my tree business and landscaping business.
Nice video, my 855 is a nice machine, awesome with the front snowblower, which I will be installing soon...
Guess I never looked at a 4m, operator comfort wise. Yeah it looks like they didn’t spend much time on that...
This is 4R.
@@TractorTimewithTim apparently I had 4m on my mind lol
Hi Mr Dirt! Hi Tim!
2 of my favorite channels!
DP, speaking the truth. I really like the truth at the end of your video. Sometimes I'd like to have a small tractor, but the cliff I mow don't suit one.
The taped side lights looks familiar on the 1025
My next door neighbor has a 6159U LS and he loves it bucket will pick up about 4000 lbs great hydralics come with everything the r series comes with plus some ,cant remember all of them and LS has a wider footprint,he pulls 8ft equipment ...
Awesome tractor line up! I have an 855 4X4, it's been a great machine!
Awesome analysis on the tractors Mike.
Great video Tim.
Love seeing all the different John Deere machines together and hearing about them.
I had a 4044R open station, as well as I still have a 4066R cab.
I sort of agree with some of his complaints.
The rear SCVs really do seem like an after thought on the open stations, Deere’s R4 cab model is totally different.
Not sure about his complaint on the loader, mine seemed a lot more powerful then the 1,2,and 3R which I also have today or had owned before.
Granted not near as strong as my 5 series, but of all the Deere CUT’s 1-4 series the 4R has by far the most powerful loader.
The 4066R is still a small frame CUT , I have no doubt a 5045E’s loader can lift considerably more then the 4066Rs loader, even though it’s a 45hp tractor compared to a 66hp tractor.
Frame size , wheelbase , and overall weight I think come into play when Deere is determining how powerful the want to make the loader.
I have several Ehydro machines, I don’t think I have seen much issues like he is describing. I rarely have to even set my park brake, my ehydro holds it stopped simply taking my foot of the throttle pedals.
I agree open station 4R ergonomics on the items he mentioned are far from ideal, and Deere could do better, Deere has done much better on other models.
Ive owned an operated many tractors over the years. Flipped my first one today. 4066m hd. I do have a steep driveway so I won't completely blame it on the tractor. I was taking medium weight loads of landscaping blocks down the driveway. 5 or so trips with no issues. On my last trip down I let off on the accelerator pedal as I had been doing with all the other loads.. The tractor immediately let loose like I pressed in a clutch. Long story short I did everything I could to stop the tractor but I ended up having to jump off, it flipped and thankfully landed back on its tires. I love the tractor, but the trans is a huge issue. It is not predictable at all. I can't believe Deere hasn't addressed this issue.
Sorry to hear. I agree that the 3R and 4m/r transmission needs review.
I do know the 4M HD models solved the rear remote issue by putting them in a more logical place with the levers also being in a more logical place.
Great video, nice seeing the old 55 series John Deeres......
oh bless you for keeping your step dad from making a huge mistake a getting one of those ORANGE things.HAHAHAHAHAHA.
I don’t usually find those bargains with an easy fix either Tim.
I love my 3005 its been a solid machine .Mike has some nice old Deere's
I love my 89 755 4x4! It has the quick attach 70 loader and works great. Wish it could lift a little more. I might try shimming the relief valve spring. I would like to add rear remotes, a front 3rd function and modify the loader with a skid steer quick attach but $$$$$!! The 55 series are great tractors and I've never had any problems with mine. Awesome video!!
Hi yall enjoyed the video great information have a day love from TEXAS
I agree the lifting capacity is a lot to do with that bucket
They sold a 1055 when I worked for a Deere dealer in the early 80s.
Hi Tim, I own a 2017, 2032r. I believe you have a 2019, 2038r. My tractor has 300 easy hours on it and in cleaning it the other day I found the radiator to be seaping along the top tank crimp. I have hear of two other 2032r and 2038r s that are leaking in the same area. My tractor still has basic warranty left on it, but my John Deere dealer say that is not under warranty. Have you heard of others with this model of tractor having the same problem? Do you know of a forum that would.
Had the same problems with the 4 series. Just didn’t feel right.
There is a reason that older tractors are in such demand. It isn't just the emissions and computers. Older iron just seems to be built better, stronger, faster. No, wait, that's the $6 million dollar man. I'll stick with better and stronger. (^_^)
My 1968 Ford is still running strong.
This was a cool video!!🚜
The slow response on the 4066R sounds like a CPU problem. I would try a code reader and see if you could update or reinstall software. May have some previous versions hanging up the CPU.
I love my 3046r. its a workhorse
The problem I have with JD is the price. My first tractor was a Kubota because of the price difference between comparable tractors, AND finance rates. Back in 2002, $2000 was a huge difference between the two. Today its closer to $6000 difference comparing a 4044R to an L4060HSTC. Finance rates are 0 for 72 for Deere and 0 for 84 with Kubota. Considering my B2410 has been 100% reliable for nearly 20 years now, the L4060 is $6K less, and has a better finance term, I guess the green lost again. I highly considered a 3046R, but it was too small for my needs, and didn't direct compare to the L4060, except for price, it was in the same ballpark. If the Deere was more affordable I would not hesitate to get one. I don't like the plastic on them though, busted the hood on an X500 and a replacement was $1200.
Fantastic！
You mentioned Summit having a power beyond kit or parts for the 55 series… do you have part numbers? I couldn’t locate on their website. Thanks
Perhaps you can call them tomorrow?
I Have a 4066R cab tractor with a 440R loader and I have not experienced any of these issues . I was at the local Deere dealer and looked at a 4052R open station that they had and I probably would not buy that tractor based on the control placement which they haven't changed and are in the same place as his 4066R
The ID plate on my 4WD 855 says Yanmar, Yokohama Japan. No mention of Wisconsin.
Hmm. Interesting. We got several comments from former Horicon WI employees stating that they were made there. Obviously the engine came from Japan.
Good information.
I have a 4066R with cab and I have not experienced ANY of the problems described in this video. Granted, the cab model is quite different in that the visibility is better and that you cannot bump the hydraulic lever because it is mounted high. The hydrostatic roll-out that Dirt Perfect describes, is definitely not functioning as designed. He needs to have the tractor serviced because there is surely something wrong with it. In fact, it sounds potentially dangerous. Roll-out can be set to zero such that taking your foot off the pedal results in a very abrupt sudden stop. His loader lift capacity might be hampered by the far protruding SkidSteer bucket that he attached. But he might also have a hydraulic issue of some kind because I have absolutely no problem lifting a fully filled 275 gallon maple sap tote (2300 lbs) with a heavy-duty forklift attachment (about 250 lbs) that protrudes 48 inches forward.
I found this video researching JD 950 I am thinking about buying.
Can you expand on the differences 950 vs 955. Tractor Data shows them virtually the same. I love Yanmar motors and both have it and the 950 has 8 speed same as the 955.
955 is a US made tractor, 950 is a Yanmar tractor. Turns out they are radically different.
The 955 is a linkage hydrostat....not geared.
Pretty cool video guys!
How does a guy find a 70A loader!? My dad has a 755 and 955. Been trying to a loader for him for a few years. Help me out there guys!
Can you send me the serial number of your 4066R. It may have a software update to address the ehydro issues you are having.
I recently bought a used 955 that has the 2 mid hydraulic remote sets for the loader but never had any rear sets installed (apparently 2 rear sets were optional). I know you have done a lot of hydraulic adding with summit, etc. on newer John Deere’s., so was wondering if you could offer any help on a 55 series. I would like to add the two John Deere originals sets if possible.
If you can get power beyond, the summit kit we have would work.
The ports (plugs) to plumb into are all there on at least the 755 855 955...its just a matter of pipes, hoses and mounts.
Cool video even though my tractor is red. I enjoy both you and Mikes channels.
Yep I’m a big fan of the old jd tractors my oldest is a 1985 318 with over 7500 hours on it then there’s another jd318 a 1987 with about 6000 hours a jd 420 completely rebuilt and repowered this summer with about 15 hours and then my jd4200 a 1999 model with 3600 hours but would love any one of mikes 55 series tractors
i considered a 4 series and a 3039r and didn't like the visibility on either
I HAVE A JOHN DEERE r650 HAVEING TROUBLE GETTING IT TO RUN I HADE the head rebuilt new injectors it still will not start I have sprayed it with either it still won't start wondering if you can tell me what to try next
Sorry, I’m no diesel expert.
Never made anything like the 55's
We have a 2032r and I think the loader should lift more for its size
I’d like to say that as far as parts availability you can forget trying to find a replacement engine for the 855,John Deere dealer was absolutely no help.The only engine parts are for the newer generation Yanmar engine
Lots of professional guys in comment section😁
i had a riding mower with the same delay problem almost ended up in the road in front of a semi
You mentioned the Summit hydraulics remote kit in this video Tim. Their website says they are currently not available and may not ever be available. Do you have any inside information on that situation? I’m really needing the four outlet set up on my 3038E. For top and tilt and a homemade ripper set up I just completed….
Try this link: summit-hydraulics.com/product/electric-rear-remote-valve-kit-for-compact-tractors-two-spool-three-spool-four-spool/
It says available when I select it. Use TTWT for discount.
Yep there it is and it’s available. I read a little more about it and I’m not sure how I would be able to install it on my 3038E without power beyond. Plus I already have the WR long third function set up. You would be my hero if you would do a video explaining how to add rear remotes to my tractor that already has a third function plumbed into the rear housing. I know you don’t do a lot of videos on my tractor. The one you borrowed from good works tractors is the only one I can actually remember on your channel. John Deere sold thousands of these little guys and the loaders will out lift the 3046 series tractors….
No, the loaders will not outlift a 3046t, but anyway…
You need power beyond which you can get from Deere. There is another version of this kit which includes 3rd function. So, you can replace your third function with this system.
summit-hydraulics.com/ttwt has both kits.
Ok thanks. I know my loader is weak and it won’t out lift a 3046. I just put that on there to annoy you. Everything else about my tractor is great though.