Ford 555B Backhoe Loader – Parts, Specs & Serial Numbers

Description:

The Ford 555B Backhoe Loader is a robust and reliable workhorse, designed for heavy-duty tasks in construction, agriculture, and landscaping. Manufactured in the mid-to-late 1980s, the 555B is known for its durable powertrain, dependable hydraulics, and ease of maintenance.

This model features a Ford 4-cylinder diesel engine, powerful hydraulics, and either a manual or torque converter transmission. It's built to last and remains popular among contractors and operators for its balance of performance and simplicity.

Specifications

Engine

• Type: Ford diesel, 4-cylinder

• Displacement: 201 cubic inches (3.3L)

• Horsepower: 63 HP @ 2200 RPM

• Cooling System: Liquid-cooled

• Fuel Capacity: ~24 gallons

Transmission

• Type: Torque converter with power shuttle

• Gears: 4 forward / 4 reverse

• Max Speed: 18.7 mph

Hydraulics

• System Pressure: 2500 PSI

• Pump Flow: 28 GPM (combined)

• Backhoe Dig Depth: Approx. 14 feet

• Loader Lift Capacity: 5,300 lbs (to full height)

Dimensions & Weight

• Operating Weight: Approx. 13,000 lbs

• Wheelbase: 84 inches

• Overall Length: 276 inches

• Height (top of cab): 109 inches

Maintenance & Common Parts

Routine maintenance is straightforward on the Ford 555B. You'll want to keep an eye on:

• Hydraulic hoses and seals – prone to wear and leaks
  ? Shop Ford 555B Hydraulic Cylinder Seal Kits

• Brake assemblies – known issue on older models
  ? Ford 555B Brake Replacement Kits

• Loader pins and bushings – especially at high-use joints
  ? Ford 555B Loader Bushings & Pins

• Cooling system – regularly flush and check for radiator corrosion
  ? Ford Radiators & Cooling Parts

• Transmission slipping or delay – inspect torque converter and shuttle shift linkage
  ? Ford 555B Transmission Parts

Pro Tips

• Grease all pivot points frequently to extend pin and bushing life.

• Replace hydraulic filters every 250 hours.

• For digging precision, check the boom swing cylinder for drift—often a worn seal issue.

Serial Number Info

• Serial Number Location: Stamped on a tag near the right side of the engine block or loader arm tower.

• Serial Number Prefixes: Commonly starts with "C" or "A" followed by numbers.