Segment:
Compact Construction Equipment, Tractor Loader Backhoe (TLB)
Target User:
Owners, operators, maintenance technicians, parts departments of Ford 550 TLB
Key Competitors:
JCB 3CX, Case 580, New Holland LB series, John Deere 310 series
Manual Advantage:
Provides essential part numbers for ordering replacements, ensuring correct component fitment and minimizing downtime.
Clarity And Usability:
Illustrated format with clear descriptions and simple navigation aids like bookmarks and search.
Covered Systems:
Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Hydraulics, Loader Assembly, Backhoe Assembly, Chassis, Electrical System, Operator's Station, Attachments, Wear Parts
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (typical for factory parts catalogs, often 500+ pages)
Manual Type:
Illustrated Parts Catalog (IPC)
Digital Features:
Searchable by keyword, chapter bookmarks for easy navigation
Engine Components:
Engine block, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, valve train, fuel injection system, cooling system, lubrication system, air intake and exhaust components
Powertrain Components:
Transmission (Powershift, Manual), torque converter, drive shafts, differentials, axles, final drives
Hydraulic Components:
Hydraulic pump, control valves, cylinders (loader, backhoe, stabilizers), hydraulic lines, filters, reservoirs, hydraulic motors
Loader Assembly Components:
Loader arms, bucket, linkages, pivot pins, seals, quick attach components, control linkages
Backhoe Assembly Components:
Backhoe boom, dipper, bucket, swing frame, stabilizers, control linkages, pivot points, seals
Chassis And Frame Components:
Main frame, front axle housing, rear axle housing, steering components, braking system components, drawbar, counterweights
Electrical System Components:
Starter, alternator, battery, wiring harnesses, lights, gauges, switches, fuses, circuit breakers
Operator Station Components:
Seat, steering wheel, pedals, control levers, dashboard, ROPS/FOPS structure, cab components (if applicable)
Attachment Components:
Components for various factory-offered attachments, though primary focus is on inherent loader/backhoe
Wear And Consumable Parts:
Filters (oil, fuel, hydraulic, air), belts, hoses, seals, O-rings, lubricants, grease fittings
Part Identification:
Identification of all replaceable parts with corresponding part numbers
Assembly Disassembly Order:
Illustrations showing the sequence of component installation and removal for major assemblies
Component Interchangeability:
Information on whether parts can be interchanged between different configurations or serial number ranges
Troubleshooting Guidance:
While not a diagnostic manual, part numbers for common failure points are implicitly provided
Detail Level:
Highly detailed with exploded views of every component and assembly
Data Type:
Visual part identification, part numbers, quantity per assembly, supersession information
Application Scope:
Covers all factory-built configurations and options for the 550 Loader Backhoe Tractor
Engine Make:
Ford (likely Shibaura or Perkins derivative for this era)
Engine Model Examples:
Likely a 3- or 4-cylinder naturally aspirated diesel, e.g., Ford/Shibaura 4-236, 4-248, or similar
Engine Displacement:
Typically in the 3.0L to 4.0L range for this class of machine
Horsepower Range:
Approx. 60-75 HP (net flywheel)
Torque Range:
Approx. 140-180 lb-ft
Injection Type:
Indirect Injection (IDI) or Direct Injection (DI) with mechanical injection pump
Cooling Method:
Liquid-cooled
Oil Type Recommendation:
API CG-4 or CH-4 rated diesel engine oil, SAE 15W-40 or 10W-30 depending on ambient temperature
Transmission Type Standard:
Ford 4x4 Synchromesh Transmission with Power Shuttle (4 forward, 4 reverse gears) or optional Powershift
Transmission Type Optional:
Powershift Transmission (e.g., 6x4 or 8x4)
Clutch Type:
Wet, multi-disc clutch for power shuttle and powershift, single dry-disc for synchromesh
Transmission Fluid Specification:
UTTO (Universal Tractor Transmission Oil) or equivalent, e.g., Ford ESSEX M2C134-D
Rops Fops Compliance:
Equipped with Roll-Over Protective Structures (ROPS) and Falling Object Protective Structures (FOPS) compliant with relevant industry standards.
Braking System:
Hydraulically actuated, self-adjusting, wet disc brakes in rear axle housing.
Parking Brake:
Independent parking brake mechanism.
Safety Interlocks:
Typically includes interlocks for transmission engagement when operator is not seated or safety belt is not fastened.
Seat Belt:
Standard operator seat belt.
Lighting:
Work lights, hazard lights, turn signals (depending on configuration).
Engine Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 250-500 operating hours, check specific service manual
Hydraulic Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 1000-2000 operating hours, depending on operating conditions and fluid analysis
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Typically every 1000-2000 operating hours
Filter Replacement Intervals:
Engine oil filter, fuel filter, hydraulic filter, and air filter should be replaced per engine manufacturer recommendations or operating hours, often concurrent with fluid changes.
Hydraulic Fluid Specification:
UTTO (Universal Tractor Transmission Oil) meeting Ford M2C134-D or equivalent. Check reservoir capacity for correct fill volume.
Engine Oil Specification:
Diesel Engine Oil, API CG-4/CH-4, SAE 15W-40 (or as per ambient temperature chart in service manual). Check oil capacity.
Transmission Fluid Specification:
UTTO meeting Ford M2C134-D or equivalent. Check transmission oil capacity.
Hydraulic Leaks:
Common on older machines due to worn seals, hoses, and cylinder rods. Regular inspection and replacement of seals/O-rings are critical.
Loader Arm Bushings:
Wear in loader arm pivot points and bucket linkages can lead to play and reduced digging efficiency.
Electrical Corrosion:
Older wiring harnesses can suffer from corrosion, leading to intermittent electrical faults.
Backhoe Boom Play:
Similar to loader arms, wear in backhoe pivot points can develop over time.