Determining the Year of a John Deere 650H Crawler Dozer

[MikePhua]

Identifying the manufacturing year of a John Deere 650H crawler dozer is crucial for maintenance, parts replacement, and resale purposes. Unlike some equipment where the serial number directly indicates the production year, John Deere employs a different system. This article provides a comprehensive guide to determining the year of your 650H dozer using its serial number and other methods.
Understanding the Serial Number System
John Deere's 650H crawler dozers typically have a 13-character Product Identification Number (PIN), also known as the serial number. For example, a serial number might read:
T0650HX904570
In this format:

• T: Indicates the model series.
  
• 0650: Model number.
  
• H: Designates the machine type (e.g., high track).
  
• X: Represents the engine configuration.
  
• 904570: Sequential production number.
  

The 10th character in the serial number often denotes the model year. For instance, in the example above, "X" corresponds to a specific year, which can be cross-referenced with John Deere's coding system to determine the exact year of manufacture.
Locating the Serial Number Plate
To find the serial number on your 650H dozer, check the following locations:

• Left Front Frame: Just below the operator's station.
  
• Left Side of the Engine Frame: Near the engine compartment.
  
• Above the Track: On the right side of the machine, above the track.
  

The serial number plate is typically a metal tag with engraved or stamped characters. Ensure the plate is clean and legible before recording the serial number.
Using John Deere's Build Code Website
Once you have the serial number, you can use John Deere's Build Code website to obtain detailed information about your dozer, including its exact manufacturing date and specifications. By entering the serial number into the website's search function, you can access a report that provides:

• Exact build date.
  
• Factory-installed options.
  
• Service history (if available).
  

This tool is invaluable for verifying the machine's history and ensuring compatibility with replacement parts.
Consulting the Serial Number Range
For dozers manufactured between 1998 and 2004, John Deere has provided serial number ranges corresponding to each production year:

• 1998: 847675 – 880884
  
• 1999: 880885 – 893108
  
• 2000: 893109 – 902269
  
• 2001: 902270 – 910830
  
• 2002: 910831 – 916292
  
• 2003: 916293 – 925852
  
• 2004: 925853 and later
  

By comparing your dozer's serial number with these ranges, you can estimate its production year. For example, if your serial number falls between 893109 and 902269, your dozer was likely manufactured in 2000.
Additional Tips

• Engine Serial Number: If the product identification number is unreadable, you can locate the engine serial number on the right-hand side of the engine block or on the left side of the bellhousing. This number can also provide information about the engine's manufacturing date.
  
• Consult a Dealer: If you're unable to determine the year using the above methods, contact a John Deere dealer with your serial number. They can access proprietary databases to provide detailed information about your dozer.
  
• Service Records: Reviewing the machine's service records can offer insights into its age and maintenance history, which can be useful when determining its year.
  

Conclusion
Determining the year of a John Deere 650H crawler dozer involves understanding its serial number system, locating the serial number plate, and utilizing available resources like John Deere's Build Code website and serial number ranges. By following these steps, you can accurately identify the manufacturing year of your dozer, aiding in maintenance planning, parts procurement, and resale evaluations.