Fuel Tank Replacement for the Ford 555 Backhoe and Restoration Strategies

[MikePhua]

The Ford 555 and Its Role in Construction History
The Ford 555 backhoe loader was introduced in the late 1970s as part of Ford’s push into the compact construction equipment market. Built for versatility, the 555 combined a front loader with a rear excavator, making it ideal for trenching, grading, and material handling. With a diesel engine producing around 60 horsepower and a robust hydraulic system, the 555 became a staple on job sites across North America and Europe.
Ford’s industrial equipment division, later absorbed into New Holland, sold tens of thousands of these machines. The 555 series evolved through several generations, including the 555A, 555B, and 555C, each with refinements in cab comfort, hydraulic flow, and drivetrain options. Despite its age, the original 555 remains in service today, especially in rural fleets and owner-operator yards.
Fuel Tank Design and Common Failure Points
The fuel tank on the Ford 555 is a steel unit mounted beneath or behind the operator platform, depending on configuration. It typically holds 15 to 20 gallons of diesel and includes a filler neck, vent tube, fuel pickup, and return line.
Key terminology:

• Fuel pickup tube: A pipe inside the tank that draws fuel to the injection pump.
  
• Return line: A hose that sends unused fuel back to the tank from the injector rail.
  
• Vent tube: A small line that allows air to escape during filling, preventing pressure buildup.
  
• Sediment bowl: A glass or plastic cup that collects debris before fuel enters the filter.
  

Common failure points:

• Rust-through at the bottom seam due to water accumulation
  
• Cracked filler neck from impact or vibration
  
• Leaking welds near mounting brackets
  
• Clogged pickup tube from sediment or algae growth
  
• Vent line blockage causing slow fill or fuel overflow
  

One operator in Ontario discovered his tank was leaking after noticing diesel pooling under the machine. Upon removal, he found a rust hole the size of a quarter near the drain plug—likely caused by years of condensation and untreated fuel.
Replacement Options and Sourcing Strategies
Finding a replacement tank for a Ford 555 can be challenging due to age and model variation. Options include OEM parts, aftermarket reproductions, salvage yards, or custom fabrication.
Sourcing paths:

• OEM dealers (New Holland legacy support)
  
• Aftermarket suppliers specializing in vintage construction equipment
  
• Tractor salvage yards with compatible units
  
• Fabrication shops that build tanks to spec
  
• Online auctions and classified listings
  

Recommendations:

• Match tank dimensions and mounting points precisely
  
• Verify filler neck angle and cap thread type
  
• Ensure pickup and return ports are in correct positions
  
• Use steel with corrosion-resistant coating or upgrade to aluminum
  
• Pressure test new tank before installation
  

One technician in Georgia fabricated a new tank using 12-gauge steel and TIG welding. He added a drain plug, baffle plate, and external sediment bowl for easier maintenance. The result was a tank that outperformed the original in durability and serviceability.
Installation Tips and Preventive Measures
Installing a new tank requires careful alignment and sealing. Improper installation can lead to fuel starvation, leaks, or vibration damage.
Installation steps:

• Drain old fuel and disconnect all lines
  
• Remove mounting bolts and lift out old tank
  
• Clean mounting area and inspect for frame cracks
  
• Install new tank with rubber isolators to reduce vibration
  
• Connect pickup, return, and vent lines with new clamps
  
• Fill tank and check for leaks under pressure
  

Preventive strategies:

• Add fuel stabilizer to reduce microbial growth
  
• Drain water from tank annually using bottom plug
  
• Use inline filters with water separators
  
• Paint exterior with rust-resistant coating
  
• Keep tank full during winter to minimize condensation
  

One fleet in Alberta added desiccant breathers to their fuel tank vents. This reduced moisture ingress and extended tank life by several years.
Alternative Solutions and Temporary Fixes
In emergencies, temporary repairs may be necessary until a replacement tank is sourced.
Stopgap measures:

• Epoxy patch kits for small rust holes
  
• External fuel cell mounted on loader frame
  
• Plastic marine-grade tanks with strap mounts
  
• Fuel bladder bags for short-term use
  
• Bypass pickup tube with external pump and filter
  

Cautions:

• Avoid using open-cell foam or sealants that degrade in diesel
  
• Do not weld on a tank with residual fuel vapors
  
• Monitor temporary setups closely for leaks and vibration
  

One operator in Maine used a marine-grade polyethylene tank strapped to the ROPS frame for a week while waiting on a salvage yard shipment. The setup worked safely and allowed him to finish a septic dig job without delay.
Conclusion
Replacing the fuel tank on a Ford 555 backhoe is a blend of mechanical precision and sourcing ingenuity. Whether restoring a vintage workhorse or keeping a legacy fleet running, understanding tank design, failure modes, and installation best practices ensures reliable fuel delivery and safe operation. In the world of aging iron, a sound fuel system is the heartbeat of productivity—and a well-fitted tank is its foundation.
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