John Deere 550H Dozer – Mid-Size Hydrostatic Crawler

Description:

The John Deere 550H Dozer, produced from the early 2000s, is a mid-size hydrostatic crawler built for smooth, responsive grading with modern operator comfort. It features an 80 HP turbocharged diesel engine, twin-path hydrostatic drive, and a 6-way PAT blade, making it ideal for finish work, slope grading, and light clearing.

Key Specifications:

• Engine:
  John Deere 4045T, 4-cylinder turbocharged diesel

• Horsepower:
  ~80 HP (net)

• Transmission:
  Hydrostatic (HST), dual-path, infinite speed control

• Hydraulics:
  Open-center, ~16–17 GPM flow

• Operating Weight:
  ~17,000 – 18,000 lbs

• Blade Type:
  6-Way PAT (Power-Angle-Tilt) standard

• Blade Capacity:
  Up to 1.5 cubic yards

• Undercarriage:
  SALT (Sealed and Lubricated Track), standard or LGP

Serial Number Info:

• Production Start: ~2001

• Serial Number Location:
  Left side of the frame or under the cab steps — confirm before ordering parts.

Key Features:

• ✅ Turbocharged Diesel Power:
  The 4045T engine delivers strong pushing force and great fuel economy.

• ✅ Smooth Hydrostatic Control:
  Dual-path HST allows for seamless directional changes and tight turns.

• ✅ Comfortable Operation:
  Optional ROPS cab, ergonomic seat, low-effort joystick controls.

• ✅ Blade Versatility:
  Standard 6-way PAT blade handles fine grading and slope shaping.

• ✅ Reliable & Easy to Maintain:
  Wide-opening panels and grouped service points speed up maintenance.

Common Replacement Parts:

Shop them at Broken Tractor

• Engine: Turbochargers, fuel injectors, water pumps, rebuild kits

• Hydrostatic System: HST pumps, drive motors, relief valves

• Hydraulics: Lift cylinders, seal kits, hoses, control valves

• Undercarriage: Track chains, rollers, sprockets, idlers, recoil springs

• Blade Hardware: Blade pins, bushings, tilt cylinders, cutting edges

Maintenance Schedule:

• Engine Oil & Filter: Every 250 hours

• Fuel Filters: Every 250 hours

• HST/Hydraulic Fluid: Every 500 hours

• Cooling System Flush: Every 1,000 hours

• Blade & Undercarriage Greasing: Weekly or after heavy use

Common Issues & Fixes:

• Blade Lag or Drift:
  Worn cylinder seals or valves — fix with hydraulic seal kits

• Sluggish HST Performance:
  Check hydrostatic pump/motor wear — rebuild kits available

• Turbo Power Loss:
  Faulty turbo or air restriction — replace turbocharger and clean air intake

• Track Looseness or Noise:
  Common on high-hour units — replace with undercarriage rebuild kits