Looking for info on Ford 550 TLB

[TSO]

The original plate was on the LH side of the steering cowl. Probably worn off. Stamped s/n, 'true model' and date code are stamped into RH transmission ledge behind the starter. Date code would be like: 8A16B which translates-8=1978, A=Jan, 16=Day, B=Shift (day). The plate on the B/H. Is the backhoe model indicating length of stick, lever configuration, etc. Type the 19-... number into the New Holland parts model search. All the backhoes used on 550's are 750 models, but the 19-... number is the 'true model' again.
I have a 78 550 and love it. 30" bucket digs like crazy, but can get tippy dumping. Mine has the torque converter transmission and still grunts to a full bucket load when dozing. Just worked on a 575E with 4wd and it didn't seem out push its bucket.
Your fuel problem sounds like the filter in the tank has fallen off and the shutoff has clogged with debris. Look into tank with a flashlight to verify. Fix is remove hood, unbolt tank and lift high enough to remove shutoff (after you have drained the tank of course). You can get an aftermarket shutoff with screen if you want to have on hand.
Most likely hourmeter has been replaced several times during its life, so hours could be anybody's guess.

I didn't remove the tank yet, I'll do that once i get it home. When i was taking a look at the fuel tank, it looks like the mounting bolts are on that front plate where the air filter mounts, correct? From what i could see, it looks like the fuel line at the bottom of the tank is a hard line, correct? I was concerned that if i pulled the tank, i might damage the fuel line. Can you explain how the lines come off the tank? Thanks...

 

[bspeedy]

Good job gettting her running, TSO. Isn't it amazing that usable machines are left to rot like that?

 

[DJ54]

Looks like a ferrule nut to disconnect the fuel line from the tank. A line wrench, mating open end to hold the ferrule fitting, and do the one hand squeeze ought to break it loose.

Just noticed the video. Wow..!! Even got a "cab heater", and cooling system inline heater. Ought to make it start good when it's cold. Although as I recall, the one we had started pretty decent in cold weather.

 

[TSO]

Yeah that cab heater looks interesting. I was thinking it was radiant heat, but there's some plastic flexible tube running off the back of it. Will have to trace that and see what it does.

 

[TractorTech]

I didn't remove the tank yet, I'll do that once i get it home. When i was taking a look at the fuel tank, it looks like the mounting bolts are on that front plate where the air filter mounts, correct? From what i could see, it looks like the fuel line at the bottom of the tank is a hard line, correct? I was concerned that if i pulled the tank, i might damage the fuel line. Can you explain how the lines come off the tank? Thanks...

TSO, you need to remove the air cleaner and detach the "firewall" from the tank. Remove the fuel return line and fuel sender wire. Remove the fuel line from the filter head. The fuel tank is attached with 2 bolts at the front corners and 1 in the middle rear. Take out the front 2, lift and block the tank. Remove the rear bolt. Lift the tank enough to remove the fuel line at the valve OR manuver the tank out with the fuel line connected.

 

[TractorTech]

Can you guys see any issues with flipping the rear rims around, to widen the rear stance? Granted it's a new machine to me, so I haven't developed a "feel" to it yet, but it felt "tippy" to me.

You can flip the wheels if you want. If you operate it awhile, you will get the feel of it.

 

[TSO]

Well tomorrow is hopefully the day i get her back home.... Heading back down to try to get her loaded on the new trailer.

Just hoping the starter has a few more cranks left!

 

[TSO]

Well I was able to get her started again, filled up all the tires as they had leaked down a bit, and loaded her onto the trailer. I was able to load her going forward, it wasn't too bad after all. I just took it slowly in first gear and she climbed up no problem. Now for the ride home and getting her back to the little farm.

At least now that she'll be back at my place, I can start to do some more work to her as time permits.

 

[fried1765]

Well I was able to get her started again, filled up all the tires as they had leaked down a bit, and loaded her onto the trailer. I was able to load her going forward, it wasn't too bad after all. I just took it slowly in first gear and she climbed up no problem. Now for the ride home and getting her back to the little farm.

At least now that she'll be back at my place, I can start to do some more work to her as time permits.

View attachment 499212

That machine is a lucky find!
I assume that you were only trailering a short distance, but nylon straps are not adequate.
For your safety, and the safety of others, please get some chains, and binders, next time you need to trailer the machine.
Your PJ gooseneck looks great!

 

[TSO]

Thank you! Yes, I completely agree on the straps. This is a temporary one time haul for the time being. Drove slow and extra careful and made it home safely.