Reviving a Ford 555E Backhoe After Years of Dormancy

[MikePhua]

The Ford 555E and Its Place in Backhoe History
The Ford 555E was introduced in the mid-1990s under the Ford-New Holland brand, a product of the merger between Ford’s construction division and Fiat’s New Holland. Built to compete with the likes of the Case 580 and John Deere 310 series, the 555E offered a 4-cylinder diesel engine producing around 85 horsepower, a four-speed powershift transmission, and a robust hydraulic system capable of powering both loader and backhoe functions with precision.
With an operating weight of approximately 14,000 lbs and a digging depth nearing 14 feet, the 555E was designed for versatility—ideal for utility contractors, municipalities, and landowners. Thousands were sold across North America, and many remain in service today due to their mechanical simplicity and parts availability.
Starting a Machine That Sat for Years
One operator acquired a 555E that had been sitting idle for three to four years. Despite the long dormancy, the machine started immediately after installing a fresh battery—a testament to the durability of its electrical and fuel systems. However, the tachometer was non-functional, and the last recorded service was in 2013 at around 1,700 hours. The hour meter now read 1,900, suggesting minimal use since then.
Terminology annotation:
- Tachometer: An instrument that measures engine revolutions per minute (RPM), useful for monitoring engine load and performance. - Hour Meter: A device that tracks total engine run time, critical for scheduling maintenance intervals. - Settling Bowl: A pre-filter chamber that allows water and debris to settle out of diesel fuel before reaching the main filter.
Machines that sit for extended periods often develop biological contamination in the fuel tank—microbial growth that clogs filters and lines. Installing a large inline fuel filter ahead of the settling bowl and treating the tank with biocide is recommended to prevent recurring blockages.
Hydraulic System and Cylinder Repacking
The front loader cylinder on this 555E showed signs of leakage, a common issue on older machines. Repacking the cylinder involves replacing internal seals, which requires disassembly and specialized tools. Operators should prepare:

• Adjustable gland wrench
  
• Long-handled breaker bar (with pipe extension if needed)
  
• Lock ring pliers
  
• Drift punch for pin removal
  
• Loader stand or cribbing for safety
  
• Large socket for rod-end bolt
  

Terminology annotation:
- Gland Nut: A threaded cap that retains the cylinder rod and seals. - Repacking Kit: A set of seals, wipers, and O-rings used to restore hydraulic cylinder integrity. - Drift Punch: A blunt tool used to drive out pins without damaging surrounding metal.
New Holland’s documentation on internal cylinder parts has historically been inconsistent, so operators are advised to cross-reference part numbers and verify dimensions before ordering. Aftermarket kits from brands like Hercules and Bulldog often offer better value and include piston seals, which some OEM kits omit.
Manuals and Documentation Choices
When sourcing service manuals, operators face the choice between paper and PDF formats. Paper manuals are durable and easier to annotate, but PDFs offer convenience and reusability. Some vendors clutter digital manuals with watermarks or locked pages, so it’s wise to ask about formatting before purchase.
Recommendations:

• Use PDF for general reference and print specific sections for field use
  
• Seek original copyright editions (1998–1999) for accurate hydraulic diagrams
  
• Avoid sellers with poor feedback or vague descriptions
  
• Consider VHS-era training materials for legacy systems—some still offer valuable insights
  

Terminology annotation:
- PDF Manual: A digital version of a service or parts manual, often searchable and printable. - Watermark: A visible overlay added by vendors to mark ownership or discourage redistribution. - Locked Document: A PDF file restricted from editing or printing without a password.
One operator found a 1999 hydraulic training manual bundled with a VHS tape for $30—an unusual but effective resource for understanding the E-series hydraulic logic.
Parts Sourcing and Aftermarket Alternatives
New Holland’s part numbers have changed over time, and internal revisions are not always documented. Once a part number is identified, it can often be cross-referenced to aftermarket suppliers offering lower prices and faster shipping. Websites like Messicks and CEA Services allow part number searches and display kit availability.
Tips for sourcing parts:

• Always verify dimensions and seal types before ordering
  
• Read seller feedback carefully, especially on auction sites
  
• Confirm whether piston seals are included in repacking kits
  
• Use marine-grade hydraulic fluid for added corrosion resistance in humid climates
  

Terminology annotation:
- Cross-Reference: Matching a manufacturer’s part number to equivalent parts from other suppliers. - Piston Seal: A critical internal seal that prevents hydraulic fluid from bypassing the piston inside the cylinder. - Marine-Grade Fluid: Hydraulic oil formulated to resist water contamination and corrosion.
Conclusion
Bringing a Ford 555E backhoe out of retirement is a rewarding challenge. From fuel system cleaning to hydraulic cylinder repair and manual sourcing, each step reveals the machine’s resilience and the operator’s resourcefulness. With proper care, even a backhoe that sat for years can return to full service—digging, lifting, and loading with the same grit it had when it rolled off the line. In the world of legacy iron, revival is not just possible—it’s often the best kind of restoration.