Deere 855 - how is it, and the right tractor 4 me?

tpetty · Mar 29, 2005

I'm close to buying a slightly used 2004 X485, but wonder whether I should buy a larger tractor instead. I have about 4 acres. Although the main job will certainly be mowing, I would like to have a FEL to move rip rap, mulch, etc. Tilling would be nice, but would be pretty rarely needed.

I could get a johhnybucket for the X485. With the bucket, I could get the X485 (with a year of warranty remaining) for about $8500. I've seen several 855's on ebay fairly local to me that may sell in the $9000-10000 range with 1000 hrs and MMM and FEL. What do you think - newer, smaller X485 or the considerably older tractor with PTO/3 point/true FEL?

I don't know much about the 855. What are it's strong/weak points? Thanks.

KennedyDiesel · Mar 30, 2005

I'd also suggest considering the x495. The diesel will run stronger and longer on a tank of fuel.

I haven't got much familiarity with the 855, but a friend has one and really likes it. I believe he uses it to pull a large golf course "reel type" mower on his large lawn area which he originally mowed with an older 400 Deere.

johan3400 · Mar 30, 2005

I have no experience with an x485, but have used an 855 with FEL at a golf course. The projects you describe, would push me to the 855. or I would look at a dealer and think about a 4210 Excellent purchase programs right now and warranty and such. I would really move to a desiel larger tractor, you can not go wrong. Seems to me the larger tractor would hold up better.

RoyJackson · Mar 30, 2005

The 855 is an extremely tough machince, as are all those Deere's of that vintage.

A friend of mine owned one for 10 years or so...had 950 hours on it when he traded up for a 4310 (855 ran great...he just wanted a newer tractor). He ran that 855 mighty hard...did the job too.

Of course, they also hold their price quite well. But I'd sure give an 855 tractor a good look over the lawn tractors.

BigEddy · Apr 4, 2005

I have an 855 with FEL, MMM and BH. I love it.
I use the 855 for the loader and the BH more than I mow with it. My 2 acre lot has a house, driveway, pond/creek, pool, orchard and a lot of trees in it. Other than the back of the yard there are few open spaces, so I mow most of it with a 322 with 50" deck. I do mow the back with the 855 and 60" mower. The 855 will mow much faster (more than 60 vs 50 would make you believe) but is awkward around the trees.

So it depends on your lot and your usage. If your 4 acres is open ground, I'd say go with the 855. It is way more tractor for the money. But if your 4 acres is full of "obstructions" you might find it difficult to maneuver.

If you plan to move much material, go with the 855 or everytime you have to shovel material into a trailer or a wheelbarrow - you will curse your decision not to get a FEL.

FWIW my 855 has 1200 hrs on it with nary an issue.