Repairing Hydraulic Cylinders on the Ford 555D Backhoe Loader

[MikePhua]

Overview of the Ford 555D and Its Hydraulic System
The Ford 555D backhoe loader, produced in the 1990s under the New Holland brand, was designed for utility contractors, municipalities, and farm operations. With a four-cylinder diesel engine and a robust hydraulic system powering both loader and backhoe functions, the 555D became a popular mid-size machine across North America. Its hydraulic cylinders—used for steering, bucket lift, boom, dipper, and crowd functions—are known for their durability but can suffer from seal wear, rod damage, and gland corrosion over time.
Common Cylinder Issues and Field Observations
One of the most frequent maintenance tasks on aging 555D units is resealing leaking hydraulic cylinders. In one case, a severely leaking loader bucket cylinder was disassembled, only to discover that the dealer had supplied the wrong seal kit. While waiting for the correct parts, the operator turned attention to the steering cylinder, which had a rod pitted and dented from falling debris. The rod’s exposed location beneath the loader bucket makes it vulnerable to impact damage.
The dealer quoted $1,200 for a replacement rod, prompting consideration of alternative repair strategies.
Rod Repair Techniques and Surface Restoration
For low-use machines, minor rod damage can be addressed with manual techniques:

• File down raised dents using a fine hand file
  
• Polish the rod with emery cloth or 3M Roloc pads using the “shoeshine” method
  
• Ensure all high spots are removed to prevent cutting new seals
  
• Accept minor pitting, which may cause slight seepage but won’t destroy seals
  

This approach is suitable when the rod is not deeply gouged and the machine is not used in high-pressure or continuous-duty applications.
Seal Kit Compatibility and Gland Challenges
A recurring issue with Ford 555D cylinders is the transition between original and updated gland designs. CNH (Case New Holland) no longer stocks some original-style seal kits, instead offering kits that only fit updated glands and pistons. This forces owners to either:

• Buy a new gland and piston assembly, often costing hundreds of dollars
  
• Source individual seals from hydraulic suppliers
  
• Find aftermarket kits that match the original gland dimensions
  

One operator successfully used a $32 aftermarket kit from CEA Services, which included the elusive gland retaining wire. The kit was confirmed to fit a 1999 machine with the original gland, saving significant cost compared to the dealer’s offering.
Fabricating New Rods and Machining Considerations
For those with access to a lathe and basic machining skills, fabricating a new rod is possible:

• Order chrome-plated rod stock in the correct diameter
  
• Cut threads and machine the integral piston if required
  
• Ensure proper surface finish to avoid premature seal wear
  

However, integral pistons complicate fabrication, and not all operators are confident in their threading or lathe capabilities. In such cases, general repair machinists or hydraulic shops can fabricate rods to spec, often at lower cost than OEM replacements.
Recommendations for Owners and Technicians

• Inspect rod condition before ordering seals
  
• Confirm gland style and part number to avoid mismatched kits
  
• Use clear RTV sealant in the gland slot after installing the retaining wire to prevent corrosion
  
• Document cylinder part numbers and seal dimensions for future reference
  
• Consider replacing entire cylinders if damage is extensive and parts are unavailable
  

Conclusion
Repairing hydraulic cylinders on the Ford 555D requires a mix of mechanical skill, parts sourcing creativity, and practical judgment. Whether filing down a dented rod, sourcing aftermarket seals, or machining a new component, owners can restore functionality without excessive cost. With careful inspection and the right tools, even aging cylinders can be brought back to life—keeping the 555D working for years to come.