Ford 555A Backhoe Control Pattern and Operator Adaptation

[MikePhua]

The Ford 555A and Its Place in Backhoe History
The Ford 555A was introduced in the early 1980s as part of Ford’s evolution in the tractor-loader-backhoe (TLB) market. Building on the success of the earlier 550 and 555 models, the 555A featured a more refined hydraulic system, improved operator comfort, and a reliable diesel engine. It was designed for utility contractors, municipalities, and rural landowners who needed a dependable machine for trenching, loading, and general excavation. Ford’s backhoe division, later absorbed by New Holland, produced thousands of these machines, many of which are still in use today due to their mechanical simplicity and ease of repair.
Two-Lever Control System Explained
The 555A uses a traditional two-lever mechanical control system for the backhoe. This setup predates the now-common pattern selector valves found on modern machines. Each lever controls a set of hydraulic functions:

• Left lever: typically controls the boom and swing
  
• Right lever: typically controls the dipper and bucket
  

This configuration is often referred to as the “backhoe pattern” or “SAE pattern,” which differs from the “excavator pattern” (ISO) used on most modern excavators. The lack of a pattern change valve means that operators must either adapt to the existing layout or physically reroute hydraulic hoses to change the control logic—an uncommon and labor-intensive modification.
Pattern Memory and Operator Muscle Reflex
Operators who are accustomed to one pattern often find switching to another disorienting. This phenomenon, known as “pattern memory,” is deeply ingrained through hours of repetitive motion. For example, an operator trained on the John Deere backhoe pattern may instinctively swing the boom when intending to curl the bucket on a CAT-pattern excavator. This mismatch can lead to jerky movements, reduced productivity, or even minor accidents.
One seasoned operator recalled nearly damaging a truck tailgate when switching from a backhoe to an excavator with a different control pattern. The muscle memory was so strong that his reflexes overrode conscious correction.
Adapting to Fixed Control Patterns
For machines like the 555A that lack a pattern selector, the best approach is adaptation through practice. Recommendations include:

• Spend 10–15 minutes daily performing repetitive motions with the backhoe to build new muscle memory
  
• Practice in an open area with no obstructions until confident
  
• Avoid switching between machines with different patterns during the learning phase
  
• Label levers with temporary stickers to reinforce function mapping
  

Most operators report that within a few days of consistent use, the new pattern becomes second nature.
Hydraulic Wear and Maintenance Considerations
While the 555A’s controls are mechanically simple, age-related wear can affect responsiveness. Stiff levers, internal valve leakage, or worn linkage bushings can make precise control difficult. To improve performance:

• Inspect and lubricate all pivot points
  
• Replace worn control linkages or bushings
  
• Check for hydraulic leaks under the floorboard, a common issue in older machines
  
• Flush and replace hydraulic fluid if contamination is suspected
  

Conclusion
The Ford 555A remains a capable and reliable backhoe, but its fixed two-lever control system reflects an era before operator customization became standard. While it lacks a pattern change valve, most operators can adapt with time and practice. Understanding the control layout, respecting pattern memory, and maintaining the hydraulic system are key to getting the most from this classic machine. For those willing to learn its quirks, the 555A still has plenty of work left in it.