Hydraulic System Restoration for the John Deere 8875 Skid Steer

[MikePhua]

The John Deere 8875 and Its New Holland Roots
The John Deere 8875 skid steer loader was introduced in the mid-1990s during a period when Deere partnered with New Holland to expand its compact equipment line. The 8875 is mechanically identical to the New Holland LX865, sharing the same frame, hydraulic system, and engine configuration. Powered by a 60-horsepower diesel engine, the 8875 was designed for grading, material handling, and light excavation. Its popularity stemmed from its reliability, ease of service, and compatibility with a wide range of attachments.
Hydraulic System Overview
The 8875 features an open-center hydraulic system with a gear-driven pump supplying fluid to the loader arms, tilt cylinders, and auxiliary circuits. The system operates at approximately 3,000 psi and uses a reservoir located beneath the operator’s seat. Hydraulic fluid is filtered through a spin-on filter and cooled via a radiator-mounted heat exchanger.
Terminology Explained

• Open-Center System: A hydraulic design where fluid continuously circulates until a valve is activated.
  
• Spin-On Filter: A replaceable cartridge that traps contaminants in the hydraulic fluid.
  
• Reservoir: The tank that stores hydraulic fluid for circulation.
  

Water Contamination in Hydraulic Fluid
Water intrusion into the hydraulic system is a serious issue that can lead to pump cavitation, cylinder scoring, and seal degradation. In the 8875, water typically enters through:

• Damaged filler caps or breather vents
  
• Condensation from temperature swings
  
• Improper storage in humid environments
  

Milky or frothy fluid is a clear sign of emulsification, where water mixes with oil and compromises lubrication.
Flushing and Restoration Procedure
To restore the system, follow these steps:

• Drain the reservoir completely Use the drain plug located beneath the machine. Collect and dispose of fluid according to environmental regulations.
  
• Replace the spin-on hydraulic filter Use OEM or high-quality aftermarket filters rated for 10-micron filtration.
  
• Flush the system with compatible hydraulic fluid Fill the reservoir with fresh fluid and run the machine for 15–30 minutes. Cycle all hydraulic functions to circulate fluid through cylinders and lines.
  
• Drain and refill again Repeat the process to remove residual water. Two full flushes are typically sufficient.
  
• Inspect breather and filler cap seals Replace any cracked or missing components to prevent future contamination.
  

A Story from the Field
In Texas, a rancher purchased a used 8875 and noticed sluggish loader response. Upon inspection, the hydraulic fluid was milky and thick. After two flushes and a filter change, the machine regained full power. He later installed a desiccant breather to prevent moisture ingress during storage, a simple upgrade that extended the life of his hydraulic components.
Preventive Maintenance Tips

• Check fluid clarity weekly
  
• Replace filters every 250 hours
  
• Store the machine indoors or cover the breather cap
  
• Use fluid with anti-foaming and anti-rust additives
  

Parts Sourcing Alternatives
While dealers offer OEM parts, many components are available through:

• Hydraulic supply stores for filters, hoses, and fittings
  
• Online retailers specializing in skid steer parts
  
• Salvage yards with compatible New Holland LX865 components
  

Conclusion
Water in the hydraulic system of a John Deere 8875 can severely impact performance and longevity. Through proper flushing, filter replacement, and preventive measures, operators can restore functionality and protect their investment. With shared lineage to the New Holland LX865, parts sourcing is flexible, and maintenance is straightforward—making the 8875 a resilient and serviceable machine for years to come.