New Holland L553 Skid Steer Loader – Specs, Parts & Common Issue

Description:

The New Holland L553 Skid Steer Loader is a compact, radial-lift skid steer designed for reliability and simplicity in tight jobsite conditions. Produced in the late 1980s and early 1990s, the L553 became known for its robust diesel engine, durable chain-driven drivetrain, and easy-to-maintain hydraulic system. It’s still a trusted workhorse for farming, landscaping, and light construction tasks.

Key Specifications:

Engine:

• Model: Kubota V1902

• Type: 4-cylinder, liquid-cooled diesel

• Displacement: 1.9 L (116 cu in)

• Gross Horsepower: 35 hp

• Fuel Capacity: ~11 gallons

Transmission & Drive:

• Drive Type: Hydrostatic drive with mechanical chain final drives

• Control Type: Manual lever steering

• Travel Speed: ~6.2 mph

Hydraulic System:

• Hydraulic Flow: ~11.4 GPM

• System Pressure: ~2,000 psi

• Pump Type: Gear pump

• System Type: Open center

Performance:

• Rated Operating Capacity: 1,100 lbs

• Tipping Load: ~2,200 lbs

• Breakout Force (Bucket): ~2,500 lbs

• Lift Path: Radial

• Operating Weight: 4,200 – 4,400 lbs

Dimensions:

• Length (with bucket): 123 in

• Width (over tires): 55 in

• Height to Top of ROPS: 74 in

• Wheelbase: 35 in

• Dump Height (at full lift): ~88 in

Maintenance Essentials:

• Frequently Replaced Parts:

  • Hydraulic cylinder seal kits

  • Engine oil filters and fuel filters

  • Loader bushings and pins

  • Drive chains and sprockets

• Fluids:

  • Engine Oil: 10W30 diesel-rated

  • Hydraulic Oil: ISO 46 or NH-134 equivalent

• Service Intervals:

  • Engine oil/filter: Every 100 hours

  • Hydraulic filter: Every 250 hours

Common Issues & Quick Fixes:

• Hydraulic Weakness: Caused by worn pump or clogged return filter—replace filters and inspect hydraulic lines.

• Lift Arm Drifting: Internal leakage in lift cylinder—use hydraulic seal kits.

• Hard Starting (Cold Weather): Glow plugs often wear out—find replacements in engine parts.

• Chain Drive Noise: Worn or loose chains—adjust or replace with drive system parts.

Serial Number Location:

• Look for a metal tag near the operator’s seat base or stamped into the left side lift arm tower.

Pro Tip:

When loader arms lower slowly under load, it’s usually an internal cylinder leak—not always a pump issue. Inspect and reseal first to save time and cost.