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The Ford 555B and Its Legacy
The Ford 555B tractor-loader-backhoe (TLB) was introduced in the late 1980s by Ford Industrial Equipment, a division of Ford Motor Company that had been producing agricultural and construction machinery since the 1910s. The 555B was part of Ford’s successful 555 series, which evolved from the earlier 550 and 555 models. Known for its rugged build, mechanical simplicity, and affordability, the 555B became a staple on farms, construction sites, and municipal fleets across North America. By the early 1990s, Ford had sold tens of thousands of these units before merging its industrial division with New Holland, forming what would later become CNH Industrial.
The 555B features a 3-cylinder diesel engine, mechanical fuel injection, and a gravity-fed fuel system. Its operating weight hovers around 14,000 pounds, with a digging depth of over 14 feet and a loader lift capacity exceeding 5,000 pounds. Despite its age, many units remain in service today, a testament to its durability and ease of repair.
Symptoms of Starting Trouble
A common issue reported by owners of aging 555Bs is difficulty starting the engine without ether, regardless of ambient temperature. The machine may crank smoothly, idle well once running, and show no signs of excessive smoke or oil consumption. Yet, it stubbornly refuses to fire without a brief shot of ether into the intake.
This behavior suggests a problem in one of the three critical areas of diesel combustion:
Understanding the Gravity-Fed Fuel System
Unlike modern machines that use electric or mechanical lift pumps to feed fuel to the injection pump, the 555B relies on gravity. Fuel flows from the tank through a petcock and strainer directly to the injection pump. This design, while simple, is vulnerable to blockages and air intrusion.
Key components to inspect include:
The Ether Dependency Trap
Ether, or starting fluid, is a volatile compound used to assist cold starts in diesel engines. While effective, it can mask underlying problems and lead to long-term damage if overused. Ether ignites at lower compression and temperature thresholds, bypassing the need for proper fuel atomization. However, repeated use can erode piston rings, damage valves, and create a psychological dependency—where operators reach for the can instead of diagnosing the root cause.
One fleet manager recalled inheriting a yard full of equipment where ether was used “by the case.” After implementing a strict no-ether policy, they discovered that most machines had low compression or clogged injectors. Once repaired, the need for ether vanished.
Diagnosing the Root Cause
To resolve starting issues without relying on ether, a systematic approach is essential. Begin with the basics:
Preventive Measures and Long-Term Solutions
To avoid starting problems in the future, owners should adopt a proactive maintenance strategy:
Stories from the Field
A retired firefighter in Texas purchased a 555B to maintain his property. Initially, the machine started flawlessly, but after a hot summer, it began requiring ether. After inspecting the fuel system, he discovered algae buildup in the tank—a common issue in humid climates. Flushing the tank and replacing the strainer resolved the issue, and the machine returned to normal operation.
In another case, a small-town mechanic traced a no-start condition to a collapsed rubber fuel line that looked fine externally. Replacing the line restored fuel flow, and the machine started without assistance.
Conclusion
The Ford 555B remains a dependable workhorse decades after its release, but starting issues can arise from overlooked components in its simple fuel system. Ether may offer a quick fix, but it’s no substitute for proper diagnosis. By understanding the interplay of air, fuel, and compression—and respecting the quirks of gravity-fed systems—owners can keep their machines running reliably and safely for years to come.
The Ford 555B tractor-loader-backhoe (TLB) was introduced in the late 1980s by Ford Industrial Equipment, a division of Ford Motor Company that had been producing agricultural and construction machinery since the 1910s. The 555B was part of Ford’s successful 555 series, which evolved from the earlier 550 and 555 models. Known for its rugged build, mechanical simplicity, and affordability, the 555B became a staple on farms, construction sites, and municipal fleets across North America. By the early 1990s, Ford had sold tens of thousands of these units before merging its industrial division with New Holland, forming what would later become CNH Industrial.
The 555B features a 3-cylinder diesel engine, mechanical fuel injection, and a gravity-fed fuel system. Its operating weight hovers around 14,000 pounds, with a digging depth of over 14 feet and a loader lift capacity exceeding 5,000 pounds. Despite its age, many units remain in service today, a testament to its durability and ease of repair.
Symptoms of Starting Trouble
A common issue reported by owners of aging 555Bs is difficulty starting the engine without ether, regardless of ambient temperature. The machine may crank smoothly, idle well once running, and show no signs of excessive smoke or oil consumption. Yet, it stubbornly refuses to fire without a brief shot of ether into the intake.
This behavior suggests a problem in one of the three critical areas of diesel combustion:
- Air intake
- Fuel delivery
- Compression
Understanding the Gravity-Fed Fuel System
Unlike modern machines that use electric or mechanical lift pumps to feed fuel to the injection pump, the 555B relies on gravity. Fuel flows from the tank through a petcock and strainer directly to the injection pump. This design, while simple, is vulnerable to blockages and air intrusion.
Key components to inspect include:
- Fuel tank strainer: Located inside the tank, often clogged with sediment or algae
- Fuel petcock: May be partially closed or obstructed
- Fuel lines: Prone to cracking or collapsing with age
- Manual shutdown lever: If slightly engaged, it can restrict fuel flow during cranking
The Ether Dependency Trap
Ether, or starting fluid, is a volatile compound used to assist cold starts in diesel engines. While effective, it can mask underlying problems and lead to long-term damage if overused. Ether ignites at lower compression and temperature thresholds, bypassing the need for proper fuel atomization. However, repeated use can erode piston rings, damage valves, and create a psychological dependency—where operators reach for the can instead of diagnosing the root cause.
One fleet manager recalled inheriting a yard full of equipment where ether was used “by the case.” After implementing a strict no-ether policy, they discovered that most machines had low compression or clogged injectors. Once repaired, the need for ether vanished.
Diagnosing the Root Cause
To resolve starting issues without relying on ether, a systematic approach is essential. Begin with the basics:
- Check air filter for obstructions or contamination
- Inspect fuel lines and tank strainer for blockages
- Verify manual shutdown lever is fully disengaged
- Test battery voltage and starter draw to ensure cranking speed is adequate
- Compression test: Healthy diesel engines should show 350–450 psi per cylinder
- Injector pop test: Confirms spray pattern and opening pressure
- Fuel pressure test: Ensures adequate delivery to injection pump
Preventive Measures and Long-Term Solutions
To avoid starting problems in the future, owners should adopt a proactive maintenance strategy:
- Replace fuel filters every 250 hours or annually
- Clean fuel tank and strainer during seasonal service
- Lubricate and adjust shutdown cable to ensure full travel
- Avoid storing diesel in open containers to prevent contamination
- Use fuel additives to clean injectors and prevent microbial growth
Stories from the Field
A retired firefighter in Texas purchased a 555B to maintain his property. Initially, the machine started flawlessly, but after a hot summer, it began requiring ether. After inspecting the fuel system, he discovered algae buildup in the tank—a common issue in humid climates. Flushing the tank and replacing the strainer resolved the issue, and the machine returned to normal operation.
In another case, a small-town mechanic traced a no-start condition to a collapsed rubber fuel line that looked fine externally. Replacing the line restored fuel flow, and the machine started without assistance.
Conclusion
The Ford 555B remains a dependable workhorse decades after its release, but starting issues can arise from overlooked components in its simple fuel system. Ether may offer a quick fix, but it’s no substitute for proper diagnosis. By understanding the interplay of air, fuel, and compression—and respecting the quirks of gravity-fed systems—owners can keep their machines running reliably and safely for years to come.
