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When it comes to purchasing heavy machinery like the John Deere JD850C dozer, potential buyers must assess a variety of factors before making a commitment. This particular model has been a popular choice for contractors and operators in need of a reliable dozer for land clearing, grading, and construction projects. However, like any piece of heavy equipment, it comes with its own set of advantages and potential challenges. In this article, we will discuss the features of the JD850C, common issues to look out for, and whether this dozer is a good fit for your needs.
Key Features of the John Deere JD850C Dozer
The John Deere JD850C is a mid-sized crawler dozer designed for a variety of applications, including construction, roadwork, and land clearing. This dozer is built for power and versatility, offering operators a combination of maneuverability and performance. Here’s a breakdown of its key features:
Before purchasing a used John Deere JD850C, it’s essential to consider its benefits:
While the JD850C has many advantages, there are some potential issues that you should be aware of before making a purchase. Here’s a list of common problems or areas that may require attention:
1. Hydraulic System Leaks
The hydraulic system on the JD850C is an essential part of its operation, controlling the blade, transmission, and steering. Over time, hydraulic hoses and fittings can develop leaks. This is a common issue in older models, especially if the machine has been subjected to rough working conditions.
What to check: Inspect the hydraulic lines and connections for any signs of leakage or wear. If you notice low fluid levels, there may be a leak in the system that needs to be repaired.
2. Under Carriage Wear
The undercarriage of a dozer takes the brunt of the machine's weight and friction, making it prone to wear over time. Track components such as sprockets, rollers, and idlers can wear down, especially if the machine has been used on rocky or abrasive surfaces.
What to check: Examine the tracks for signs of wear or damage. Check the rollers and idlers for excessive play, which can indicate that the undercarriage may need to be replaced soon.
3. Engine Issues
While the 6.8L diesel engine is generally reliable, any used machine could show signs of wear and tear, particularly in the engine’s cooling system, injectors, or fuel system.
What to check: Look for signs of coolant leakage around the engine, and listen for any irregular engine noises. Inspect the fuel system and ensure that the air and fuel filters have been regularly replaced. Also, check the exhaust system for any signs of excess smoke, which could indicate engine inefficiency.
4. Transmission Problems
While hydrostatic transmissions are usually more reliable than their mechanical counterparts, they still require regular maintenance. If the transmission fluid levels are low or if the fluid has not been replaced regularly, you may notice sluggish movement or jerky operations.
What to check: Ensure the hydrostatic transmission fluid has been replaced as per the manufacturer’s recommendations. Look for any signs of fluid leakage and check the transmission for smooth operation, especially when changing speeds.
5. Electrical System Failures
Older dozers may develop electrical problems, including issues with wiring, sensors, or the battery system. Problems like these can cause intermittent starting issues or erratic behavior of the lights and gauges.
What to check: Test the electrical system by checking the battery voltage and ensuring all lights, indicators, and gauges work properly. Inspect the wiring for any fraying or corrosion that may indicate future problems.
Should You Buy the John Deere JD850C?
The decision to buy a used JD850C dozer ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you are looking for a versatile, reliable dozer with low operating costs and a long lifespan, the JD850C is an excellent option. However, it is essential to consider the potential issues associated with this machine and factor in the costs of repairs or replacements for components like the hydraulic system, undercarriage, and engine.
Before making your decision, ensure that you:
The John Deere JD850C is a solid choice for anyone in need of a reliable dozer for construction or earthmoving tasks. It offers great power, versatility, and a relatively low cost of operation. However, like any used equipment, it’s essential to do your homework and check for potential issues that could lead to costly repairs. If you find a well-maintained JD850C, it can be an excellent addition to your fleet, providing years of service and efficient operation.
Key Features of the John Deere JD850C Dozer
The John Deere JD850C is a mid-sized crawler dozer designed for a variety of applications, including construction, roadwork, and land clearing. This dozer is built for power and versatility, offering operators a combination of maneuverability and performance. Here’s a breakdown of its key features:
- Engine Power: The JD850C is powered by a 6.8-liter, 6-cylinder diesel engine that provides ample horsepower for tough jobs. It delivers around 130 horsepower, which is ideal for medium-duty tasks.
- Hydrostatic Transmission: The dozer features a hydrostatic drive system, which provides smooth operation and ease of control. This transmission system allows for continuous variable speed control, giving operators flexibility in varying conditions.
- Blade Options: The JD850C can be equipped with different blade configurations to suit specific needs. Options include straight blades, angle blades, and universal blades. The blade sizes vary, but all are designed for efficient material handling.
- Comfort and Operator Controls: The dozer is equipped with an operator-friendly cab, offering good visibility, adjustable seating, and a modern control system. The controls are designed to be intuitive, reducing operator fatigue during long working hours.
- Durability: John Deere is known for producing durable, long-lasting machines, and the JD850C is no exception. Its heavy-duty construction allows it to withstand harsh working conditions and extended use.
Before purchasing a used John Deere JD850C, it’s essential to consider its benefits:
- Versatility: With its variety of attachments and blade options, the JD850C can handle a wide range of tasks, making it an excellent choice for a contractor looking to perform multiple types of work with one machine.
- Reliability: John Deere machines are known for their durability and longevity. The JD850C has proven to be a reliable machine in a variety of industries, including construction, forestry, and mining.
- Hydrostatic Transmission: One of the biggest advantages of this model is the hydrostatic transmission, which offers smoother operations, greater efficiency, and easier maintenance than traditional mechanical transmissions.
- Ease of Operation: The intuitive controls and ergonomic design of the JD850C’s operator station make it easy for both experienced and novice operators to use effectively.
- Fuel Efficiency: The JD850C is designed with fuel efficiency in mind, offering better fuel economy compared to older dozer models. This can lead to significant cost savings over time, especially in large-scale projects.
While the JD850C has many advantages, there are some potential issues that you should be aware of before making a purchase. Here’s a list of common problems or areas that may require attention:
1. Hydraulic System Leaks
The hydraulic system on the JD850C is an essential part of its operation, controlling the blade, transmission, and steering. Over time, hydraulic hoses and fittings can develop leaks. This is a common issue in older models, especially if the machine has been subjected to rough working conditions.
What to check: Inspect the hydraulic lines and connections for any signs of leakage or wear. If you notice low fluid levels, there may be a leak in the system that needs to be repaired.
2. Under Carriage Wear
The undercarriage of a dozer takes the brunt of the machine's weight and friction, making it prone to wear over time. Track components such as sprockets, rollers, and idlers can wear down, especially if the machine has been used on rocky or abrasive surfaces.
What to check: Examine the tracks for signs of wear or damage. Check the rollers and idlers for excessive play, which can indicate that the undercarriage may need to be replaced soon.
3. Engine Issues
While the 6.8L diesel engine is generally reliable, any used machine could show signs of wear and tear, particularly in the engine’s cooling system, injectors, or fuel system.
What to check: Look for signs of coolant leakage around the engine, and listen for any irregular engine noises. Inspect the fuel system and ensure that the air and fuel filters have been regularly replaced. Also, check the exhaust system for any signs of excess smoke, which could indicate engine inefficiency.
4. Transmission Problems
While hydrostatic transmissions are usually more reliable than their mechanical counterparts, they still require regular maintenance. If the transmission fluid levels are low or if the fluid has not been replaced regularly, you may notice sluggish movement or jerky operations.
What to check: Ensure the hydrostatic transmission fluid has been replaced as per the manufacturer’s recommendations. Look for any signs of fluid leakage and check the transmission for smooth operation, especially when changing speeds.
5. Electrical System Failures
Older dozers may develop electrical problems, including issues with wiring, sensors, or the battery system. Problems like these can cause intermittent starting issues or erratic behavior of the lights and gauges.
What to check: Test the electrical system by checking the battery voltage and ensuring all lights, indicators, and gauges work properly. Inspect the wiring for any fraying or corrosion that may indicate future problems.
Should You Buy the John Deere JD850C?
The decision to buy a used JD850C dozer ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you are looking for a versatile, reliable dozer with low operating costs and a long lifespan, the JD850C is an excellent option. However, it is essential to consider the potential issues associated with this machine and factor in the costs of repairs or replacements for components like the hydraulic system, undercarriage, and engine.
Before making your decision, ensure that you:
- Inspect the Machine Thoroughly: Conduct a detailed inspection of the engine, transmission, undercarriage, hydraulic system, and electrical components. If possible, have a professional mechanic or technician perform a pre-purchase inspection.
- Review Maintenance Records: Ask the seller for a detailed maintenance history to determine how well the machine has been cared for. A well-maintained machine will have fewer issues and offer better performance.
- Consider Your Usage Needs: If your project requires high mobility and versatility in confined spaces, the JD850C’s smaller size and powerful engine make it a good option. However, if your work demands a larger dozer with more horsepower, you may want to look for a different model.
The John Deere JD850C is a solid choice for anyone in need of a reliable dozer for construction or earthmoving tasks. It offers great power, versatility, and a relatively low cost of operation. However, like any used equipment, it’s essential to do your homework and check for potential issues that could lead to costly repairs. If you find a well-maintained JD850C, it can be an excellent addition to your fleet, providing years of service and efficient operation.
