Sourcing and Installing a Winch for the John Deere 355D Track Loader

[MikePhua]

The John Deere 355D and Its Versatile Utility Role
The John Deere 355D track loader was introduced in the late 1980s as part of Deere’s push to offer compact, maneuverable machines for forestry, construction, and land-clearing operations. With an operating weight of approximately 20,000 pounds and powered by a reliable 4-cylinder diesel engine, the 355D was designed to bridge the gap between dozers and loaders. Its hydrostatic transmission and low ground pressure made it ideal for working in soft terrain, while its rear frame and drawbar configuration allowed for auxiliary attachments—including winches.
Though not factory-equipped with a winch in most configurations, the 355D’s rear structure is compatible with several aftermarket and OEM winch systems, provided the mounting points and hydraulic or PTO interfaces are properly adapted.
Terminology Clarification

• Winch: A mechanical device used to pull or lift loads via a cable or rope wound around a drum.
  
• PTO (Power Take-Off): A shaft that transfers mechanical power from the engine to auxiliary equipment.
  
• Hydraulic Winch: A winch powered by the machine’s hydraulic system, offering variable speed and high torque.
  
• Drawbar: A steel bar at the rear of the machine used for towing or mounting attachments.
  
• Fairlead: A guide that directs the winch cable and prevents it from binding or fraying.
  

Choosing the Right Winch for the 355D
When selecting a winch for the 355D, several factors must be considered:

• Mounting Compatibility
  The rear frame must accommodate the winch baseplate. Some units may require custom brackets or reinforcement.
  
• Power Source
  Hydraulic winches are preferred for track loaders due to their simplicity and integration with existing systems. PTO-driven winches are less common unless the machine has a dedicated PTO output.
  
• Line Pull Capacity
  For forestry or recovery work, a winch rated between 30,000 and 50,000 pounds is typical. This ensures sufficient pulling force for logs, stumps, or disabled equipment.
  
• Cable Type and Length
  Steel cable offers durability, while synthetic rope reduces weight and recoil risk. A 100–150 foot line is standard for most applications.
  
• Control System
  Remote or cab-mounted controls allow safer operation. Manual clutch engagement may be acceptable for occasional use but is less efficient.
  

In one case from British Columbia, a logging crew retrofitted a JD 355D with a Carco hydraulic winch salvaged from a decommissioned dozer. After fabricating a mounting plate and plumbing the hydraulic lines, the winch was used to haul cedar logs up steep slopes with minimal strain on the machine.
Installation Guidelines and Safety Considerations
To install a winch on the 355D:

1. Inspect Rear Frame and Drawbar
   Ensure structural integrity. Reinforce if necessary to handle winch loads.
   
2. Fabricate or Source Mounting Brackets
   Use high-grade steel and match bolt patterns to the winch base.
   
3. Connect Hydraulic Lines
   Tap into the auxiliary hydraulic circuit. Use pressure-rated hoses and install a flow control valve if needed.
   
4. Install Fairlead and Cable Guides
   Position to minimize cable wear and ensure smooth spooling.
   
5. Mount Control Interface
   Place switches or levers within reach of the operator. Include emergency stop functionality.
   
6. Test Under Load
   Perform a pull test with a known weight. Monitor hydraulic pressure and winch drum behavior.
   

Maintenance and Operational Tips
To keep the winch in optimal condition:

• Grease drum bearings monthly
  
• Inspect cable for frays or kinks before each use
  
• Flush hydraulic lines annually
  
• Replace seals and gaskets every 1,000 hours
  
• Keep control linkages clean and responsive
  

In 2012, a contractor in Maine used a winch-equipped 355D to recover stuck equipment during a wetland restoration project. The machine’s low ground pressure and winch capability allowed it to operate in saturated soil where wheeled vehicles failed.
Recommendations for Sourcing and Retrofitting
If you're seeking a winch for your 355D:

• Contact salvage yards specializing in forestry equipment
  
• Look for winches from older JD 450 or 550 series dozers with similar mounting geometry
  
• Consult with hydraulic shops for custom plumbing solutions
  
• Consider brands like Carco, Allied, or PACCAR for heavy-duty winch systems
  
• Budget for fabrication and installation labor—retrofitting may take 10–20 hours depending on complexity
  

Conclusion
Outfitting a John Deere 355D track loader with a winch transforms it into a powerful recovery and forestry tool. With careful selection, proper mounting, and hydraulic integration, the machine gains significant versatility in rugged terrain. Whether pulling logs, assisting stuck equipment, or anchoring on slopes, a well-installed winch enhances the 355D’s value and capability across a wide range of field operations.