Fixing up an old JD 850

[wct097]

Joined to get some info regarding my current project. A 1978 model John Deere 850 that's been sitting for a while. Found the engine was completely full of water. Pretty sure it's rainwater. Wouldn't turn over. We pulled the oil fill only to have water come gushing out. Got it towed today and after draining everything out, we found it would turn over (not seized). Going to try to get it back running, then fix it up and use it. Will be visiting for information along the way.

 

[travlitt]

:welcome:
From Texas

That sounds like a fun project. I refurbished A JD 720 a year or so ago. I really enjoyed that project.

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[Thall303]

:welcome:
From Texas

That sounds like a fun project. I refurbished A JD 720 a year or so ago. I really enjoyed that project.

Before:
View attachment 462817

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View attachment 462818

Interesting tractor. What is the tank in front of the steering wheel?

 

[airbiscuit]

I had a JD 850 for a number of years. That tractor performs beyond its hp rating.

 

[travlitt]

Interesting tractor. What is the tank in front of the steering wheel?

That is the fuel tank. It is a propane fueled tractor.

 

[wct097]

It looks pretty rough, but I think it's just weathered and not really abused.

All 4 tires pumped back up for the ride on the rollback. My goal for this tractor is to be able to maintain and clear my 1/4 mile long gravel driveway. We have about 12.5 wooded acres and I am sure I'll be using it for more than just the driveway.

The initial plan is to see if we can just get it running. Not going to put a lot into it until we really know what we're dealing with. If we can get the engine running, it's due for a number of fixes & replacements. I can't see having it running and not cleaning up the rust and repainting it.

 

[TBN Support]

Welcome to the forum. :welcome: Nice project!

 

[Wagtail]

G'day Mate and welcome to TBN from Downunder.

Enjoy the site and the project!

 

[motownbrowne]

:welcome:
From Texas

That sounds like a fun project. I refurbished A JD 720 a year or so ago. I really enjoyed that project.

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View attachment 462817

After:
View attachment 462818

Nice work. Just a few hours of your spare time, right?

 

[Thall303]

That is the fuel tank. It is a propane fueled tractor.

Thanks, had never seen one.