Is a JD 855 too big for me?

[reg855jd]

Please. I have an 855.. very nice clean machine, but the 70A loader with a bucket full of dry blackdirt cannot be lifted more than a couple feet off the ground. Checked all the regular stuf, nothing helps. If mine is an exception to the rule I would appreciate any help in correcting this. I use a 6 foot/960 pound power rake on the 3 pt. and it handles that great!! I would not buy another 855 knowing what I know now, I need more power for what I do. What you will be doing it may work for you. Check out how it feels, and be realistic in what you expect from it.

 

[BigEddy]

I haven't tweaked my pressure relief nor have I tested it to see what it activates at so it is where it was when it came to me.

But for comparison - the other day I had to move some solid concrete blocks - 8x8x16" solids about 60-75 lbs each. I loaded 6 across, 3 high plus another 3 on the top (21 blocks) for 1250-1500lbs into the bucket and had no problem lifting them (although I didn't lift them very high as I had no counterweight on!) I calculate a struck bucket of gravel at 1350-1800lbs, and have never not been able to lift a load I've tried. The only time my relief would open would be if I dug too low into a bank and couldn't break the bucket load out through the bank.

You say you have checked the normal stuff. I'd start with cylinder leakage as it is simple. Does a heavy load stay put or move down? When you say a couple of feet off the ground - is it always the same height, or does it vary - (think dent / defect in the cylinder wall at that height that allows leakby) Then I'd look at the system pressure to determine when the relief is opening / if it is opening. Lots of info here as to how to correct / tweak the pressure if it is not to spec.

I think yours must be an exception - there are a few other 855 owners who might weigh in with their experience.

 

[reg855jd]

Please..
Thank you very much for reply with my 70A concern! I did.... Check out the pressure..OK. The cylinders are NOT on backwards!! yes it does matter. There is a little bit of weeping but not what I would call significant leakage. The barrels seem straight and true, do not believe I have a bent ram either. Has less than 400 hrs. I'm not the original owner but I do not think it has been abused. As I say I can pick up a 960 pound power rake with the three point so I would seem the line presure is up to snuff.
Anybody have some help on this..... The crowd rams are slightly larger bore than the lift rams. Has anyone put the larger bore crowd "bucket" rams on for lift? Yes it will slow up the hydraulics but will it get me more lift power? They are about $400 each new, I have looked and looked for used but no luck. Lots to spend if it will not help me. Anybody have sugestion for a larger loader? Money is very tight, but I need a loader that will earn it's keep too. Your feedback and sugestions would be appreciated. Thank you...