1990 JD 2155 versus new compact tractor

frank29 · Feb 16, 2006

I am in the market for a compact tractor in the 35 h.p. range with FEL, bushhog & back hoe. I have run across a 1990 model 2155 with 1900 hours for $13.5K. It has a FEL. I think h.p. is about 55.

It seem like the 2155 was designed for farming operations. I am interesed in grading driveway, bushhogging, and various tasks with a FEL and backhoe.

It seems like comparing apples and organges; but, I can't stop thinking about it.

How would this 5,000 lb two wheel drive tractor compare to the new 4 wheel drive, 3,000 lb tractors I have been looking at?

tarscraper · Feb 16, 2006

Look here for more specs on the 2155.

2155

Dutch445 · Feb 16, 2006

Frank,
From the tasks you mention, it isn't a bad idea to consider the 2155. Even though it is 2wd, it is much heavier, and much larger tires... and unless you are mowing someplace very muddy, you should be ok bushhogging. The 2155 will have a category 2 TPH, which means you can run some larger equipment, maybe even an 8' mower instead of 5 or 6.
Also, if you go with a hoe, you can get a larger hoe, and if you went with a PTO model, you will have tons of HP and hydraulic power to run it.
Surprisingly though, due to it's age, the tractor's hydraulic system isn't quite as powerful as you would think, compared to some of the newer compact tractors.
One negative will be maneuverability, much larger turning diameter etc. They weigh out at about 5300 lbs before a loader and any tire loading. Quite a difference there, which affects trailering etc.
Is this 2155 in nice shape?
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frank29 · Feb 16, 2006

( ..........Is this 2155 in nice shape?)I don't have a clue. My brother saw it in somebody's front yard with a for sale sign which included the basic info listed in my first post. It is located about 100 miles from me.

This would be my first tractor. Because of this, I have serious doubts on my ability to correctly judge its condition. The only plus I have in this regard is I have considerable mechanical aptitude (to the point of rebuilding car transmissions and engines).

frank29 · Feb 16, 2006

Can I assume parts availability is good for this 16 year old J.D. tractor?

plowrup · Feb 17, 2006

Parts availabiiity will not be an issue-do you realize that this is a Collar Shift Tractor? That means no Synchronizers, which means you will have to come to a complete stop to change directions, and double-clutch on the fly.

The 55 Series has had some issues with FEL Operation (Hydraulics) and contamination-

dgl24087 · Feb 17, 2006

I have a 1975 JD 1530, quite similar to the 2155, same HP, a little lighter in weight. This tractor will do things that I would never even think of using a compact tractor for. The higher weight adds stability as well as traction, manueverabilty is not a big issue with mine, at least not for me. I use it with a heavy duty 6' bush hog, it doesn't even know it's there. For that price, I'd go with the 2155.

rdln · Feb 18, 2006

I woudnt pass up a 2155 or 2355 mfwd tractor, I think they are neat.

I checked out machinefinder.com for you and would concur with the other poster that it seems to be the going rate maybe a little better.

As far 2wd with a loader???
If the 3pt will lift 2500lbs thats what i would have on it when using the loader although this has a longer wheelbase than the 5000lb tractor of my neighbors of which is the basis of this statement.

I have seen this unballasted tractor get stuck in an inch of mud on top of frozen ground with an empty bucket.

frank29 · Feb 18, 2006

( ........The 55 Series has had some issues with FEL Operation (Hydraulics) and contamination- )Does this stem from seal failure allowing outside contamination or is it some sort of internal problem?