Is a JD 855 too big for me?

davesisk · May 25, 2005

I have a small property, but it still needs a lot of landscaping work (FEL and digging, mostly). There's stumps to dig out, areas to level and try to get grass to grow, some trees although I've cut most of them out.

There's a dealer within 120 miles who has a JD 855 hydro with FEL and mower for sale, asking price is $8500. I don't really need to mower, but do need the FEL. I've got a Power-trac PT1418 right now (hit the URL in my sig for pics and details), which is a really small and maneuverable machine. From looking at pics, this 855 looks to be quite a bit larger and heavier (1800 lbs vs. the PT's 1200 lbs). The weight is probably good for digging...I just need to keep it light enough that I can move it on a 5x10 trailer (around 2500 lbs). I'd imagine the loader is around 500 lbs, so I'm looking at 2300 total. I'd like to add a really small backhoe to this guy (like in 3-4' reach...that's about what I have with the front-hoe on the Power-trac and that's really all I need). Since no hoe that small exists I'll probably end up building one (which is what I did for the PT hoe!).

Anyway, I'm really looking forward to a reliable diesel vs my really old gasoline powered PT...I'm just a little concerned that this might be a little too big. But then I had to rent a 6000 lb Bobcat to do some major digging...the PT was just too light. Looks like to the top of the ROPS on pics of the 855 is around 6 or 6.5 feet...based on that I'd imagine the tractor + FEL is around 10 feet or so, so it should fit on a 5x10 trailer for those occasional uses for church or helping a friend do something.

Anyway, any thoughts? I think this is a pretty good price unless it's in bad shape mechanically. I don't know the year, but I'm assuming it's the oldest that was hydro. The dealer says the paint isn't great because JD had some paint issues with that vintage, and that they haven't checked it out mechanically, but there doesn't seem to be anything wrong with it other than the paint. Sound like it's worth a 120 mile drive to check out?

Thanks!
Dave

RoyJackson · May 25, 2005

I'd definitely make the trip to see that machine.

I can't say it would be sized right for your needs, but the 855's were tough and reliable machines. A buddy of mine had one for about 10 years. When he upgraded to a 4310, he got $12500 and the dealer sold for it for over $13K. That surprised my buddy and I!

When I was looking to upgrade from my Deere 670, I saw a lot of 855's on Machinefinder.com. They really hold their price..most were over $10K.

Which brings me to a point. The price you mentioned in your post seems really good...if the tractor has MFWD. For $8500, that tractor might be 2WD which isn't so great with a loader.

davesisk · May 25, 2005

Thanks for the post. The ad does indeed say it's 4WD. Does anyone happen to know the approximate dimensions and weight of this guy with FEL attached? Anyone know if these models have power steering? I've tried to find this model and it's specs on John Deere's site, but no dice.

Thanks,
Dave

RoyJackson · May 26, 2005

According to another website, the 855 weighs 1958 lbs. Add about 500 lbs for the Loader. All the MFWD units have power steering.

It has 24 Gross HP and 19 at the PTO.

Although the site didn't list length and width, it's about 12 feet long and a bit under 50" wide.

davesisk · May 26, 2005

Roy:

Thanks for the reply. Is that 12' with or without the loader? I'm trying to determine if this guy will fit on my 5x10 trailer...

Dave

JDLou · May 26, 2005

davesisk:

I am by no means an expert on the 855, but I did notice your concerns with weight for moving around on a 2500lb-capacity trailer because I am looking for a suitable trailer to move a 2210 and weight capacity is on my mind as well. My only comment, for what it is worth, is that, based on the weight of that base tractor (1900+ lbs), 500lbs seems a bit on the low side for the loader and you may want to inquire specifically, especially since you're getting pretty close to your trailer's limit. I am basing this on two things that may not have much to do with anything, but that I tell you in the spirit of fully disclosing my methodology:

(1) I own a 2210 which has a base tractor weight of 1400lbs;
(2) I've been told from multiple sources that the loader (arms, masts, bucket and all) weighs about 600lbs.

Based just on shear weight ratios, I am thinking the 855 loader weighs more than 500lbs. You should factor into your "weighing" of my thoughts on this that I think you've already heard from 2-3 people that know far more about that specific tractor than I.

As always, the safest bet is to inquire.

JDLOu

Dennisfly · May 26, 2005

Dave,

I have an 855. It is my first tractor. I use it on 3 acres where I built a weekend home. I'm very satisfied with it. I pull a five foot bush hog, have a model 52 front end loader, and a 6 foot Woods rear blade. It handles all of the attachments well. I have AWD, ag tires, and 100 Lb. weights on each rear wheel. I bought a Markham tooth bar which really increased the capability of the loader. If you fill the front end loader you do need some weight on the rear. With the ballast and the rear blade installed it works out pretty well. Otherwise, it can get tippy. The ten foot trailer sounds small to me. Mine isn't at my residence or I would measure it for you.

I wouldn't count on digging out any very large trees without the backhoe. I don't have a backhoe (though of course I would like one). I was advised not to use a 3 point backhoe as it would be very hard on the tractor. Deere made a frame mount that you can buy used but they are pretty expensive. I believe it is a model 97.

I have moved quite a bit of dirt, defined a dry creek bed, hauled stones, wood, dragged whole trees, bush hog regularly, and maintain a 500 ft. gravel driveway.

It is amazing how little fuel the thing uses. The tank, 6 gallons I think, lasts a very long time.

Mine is not pretty but it is mechanically sound. Don't buy a fixer that requires manufacturer's parts because they are very expensive from Deere.

I'd buy another 855 again in a heartbeat. If it's in good shape (not necessarily pretty) the price sounds good.

davesisk · May 26, 2005

Hey, thanks for the post. Judging from the photos, it sure looks like the tractor itself is under 10' long (assuming the ROPS is about 6.5' high). With the loader on I'd imagine it's 13' or so long tip-to-tip. But I could raise the loader enough to position the bucket over the trailer tongue. So, I think it *might* fit. I rarely tow my current machine anywhere...maybe once or twice a year for something, so I'm thinking in terms of just being able to get it home without additional expense. I do know I'd have to remove the mower to get it on the trailer though. The trailer is 5' wide, and I seriously doubt I can get the tractor on there with the mower attached. I plan to ask if they have any interest in just keeping the mower...I don't actually need it.

The trailer I have is actually rated for 2990 lbs (although it has a 3500 axle and 1800 lb tires). My Isuzu Rodeo is rated to tow 3000 lbs and 600 lb tongue weight. So, sounds like I'd be getting awefully close to the limits. I've towed 2000+ lbs of sand with it, and I can definitely tell the weight was back there, but I didn't have any issues to contend with...just drove very conservatively (like left major distance between me and whatever vehicle in front of me) since the trailer doesn't have brakes. If I buy this guy, I probably need to look at installing brakes on the trailer (although it might be cheaper just to sell it and buy one with brakes already...don't know haven't priced it).

Thanks for all the advice folks...it is much appreciated!
Dave

755inNY · May 26, 2005

I have a 1987/1988 vintage brochure for the 55 series. I had a 755 for 16 years before trading up to a 4310 last summer.

The brochure lists the length for the 855 with 3PH at 110.3 inches.
The height of the ROPS is 75.6 inches.
Width with turf tires 46.2 - 52.3 inches
Weight 1800 lbs for 2WD. I think the MFD adds a 100 lbs or so.

Wheelbase is 64 inches

I don't know if they changed any of the specs I listed for later years.

Jeff

BigEddy · May 30, 2005

I have an 855 with the 70A loader, #7 backhoe, mid-mount etc.

Great tractors.

Tractor itself is just under 2000 lbs, the loader is 750lbs so plan on 2750lbs installed, without the mower on.

I measured it tip to tail, and it is 12' even from the bucket to the ends of the 3pt arms with both horizontal. The bucket is 54" wide, and my wheels are 53" turned out.

I've trailered mine several times, with and without the backhoe, with my F150. You notice it's back there! I would not tow it without brakes, even for short local hauls. 3000 towing rating doesn't give a lot to spare, and with no brakes, you're way closer to the margin. Add no length for balancing the tongue load, and I'd recommend renting / borrowing a 16' tandem with brakes for the trip.

If you have anything more than an acre, and the work you suggest, I'd say the 855 is a good size, especially if you don't plan on mowing with it. These are great tractors and hold their value well. Look after it and you'll get your value back any time you run out of things to do, but I'm betting once you have one, you'll never let it go. Don't give away the mower though, they are always in demand, and add considerably to your resale value.