JD 655 Tiller Used

[CountryBoy 72]

There is a used JD 655 Tiller for sale at a local eqipment dealer, he is not a tractor dealer. Never used a 3 pt tiller either. It will be going on my 2520, know this is one of two that JD says I can use for my size tractor. Priced out a new 655 an the dealership wants 2898.00.He wants 2000.00 for it. Just from looking at it, the unit looks like its in really good condition an barely used.

Just wondering what you look for when it comes to used tiller units ?
Without hooking it to the tractor is there anything, or any signs that give it away that the unit is broken or been abused ?

Is there a badge that will tell me when the unit was produced ?
If there is, where will it be located ?

 

[Jdmano]

Check gearcase oils and chaincase oil. If they are clean levels are good. I would think it would be a good purchase. Also could check to see if you can feel bearing play by lifting up on the tiller shaft.

 

[CountryBoy 72]

I have to ask how you check the oils ? Is there a bolt i can remove, or do they have dipsticks ? How much play should there be in the shaft ?

 

[Jdmano]

Shaft will have a definite slop if bearing is out. Chaincase i think has a sight glass. Gearcase will either have a plug on the side. Or a breather plug on top with a tube that you sjould see oil on.

 

[CountryBoy 72]

Thanks Jdmano.If the bearing is getting sloppy, or worn. Are they expensive to replace ?

 

[Jdmano]

One pf the bearings is about 55 bucks. Proper maintenance goes a long ways. Just keep reminding yourself how much grease and oil you can use for 55 bucks.

 

[CountryBoy 72]

I definitely like to take care of the attachments and the tractor. Some people on the other hand don't. Will probably change the fluids right away and grease what needs it, If I buy it. Grease is free, I make sure things are greased regularly. Offered him less than what he was asking, will see whether he goes for it or not.

What needs to be greased on a tiller unit ? How often do the oils need replacing ?

 

[Jdmano]

The bearing opposite of the chaincase and the pto driveline. Inspect slip clutch for proper adjustment as well as inspect pto drive shaft length to prevent damage to your tractor and tiller. Gearcase and chaincase oil i would say 100 hours or yearly. Depending on amount of use. One thing i forgot to mention is inspecting tines to make sure none are cracked or broken. And bolts and hardware is tight. Of course always refer to operators manual for best operation and maintenance.

 

[Jdmano]

Another tip is not to back up with tiller in the lowered position and running. The loose dirt you just tilled could cause the rear shield to be pushed under and get grabbed by the tines. Seen it happen. Not good.

 

[CountryBoy 72]

What about shaft length; how will I know if its too short or too long or just the right length ?

 

[Jdmano]

The biggest issue is with it being too long. You want it to be short enough you can disconnect it with it connected. And short enough it doesnt bind during travel of three pt up and down. That said you want maximum length to keep the pto shaft strength. If that makes sense.

 

[jenkinsph]

There is a used JD 655 Tiller for sale at a local eqipment dealer, he is not a tractor dealer. Never used a 3 pt tiller either. It will be going on my 2520, know this is one of two that JD says I can use for my size tractor. Priced out a new 655 an the dealership wants 2898.00.He wants 2000.00 for it. Just from looking at it, the unit looks like its in really good condition an barely used.

Just wondering what you look for when it comes to used tiller units ?
Without hooking it to the tractor is there anything, or any signs that give it away that the unit is broken or been abused ?

Is there a badge that will tell me when the unit was produced ?
If there is, where will it be located ?

If you fins it to be in good shape and are paying cash I would offer $1700 and see if they take it. That would give you a little room for repairs if needed. Bet if he is asking $2000 he will take a little less.

 

[AKfish]

You might get lucky... but I wouldn't be surprised if he holds pretty firm. The unit looks to be in very good condition - likely low hours.

I had a JD 660 tiller and it was probably edging towards 20 years old. Very good condition, no leaks and the chain drive was also very tight - lot's of adjustment left.

I sold it for $1,800 and had guys lined up to buy it!!

Of course, I had also bought nearly an entire set of replacement tines that were still in the box and it had a new pto with slip clutch, too. That said, it is surprising how well rototillers hold their value!! They don't drop in price nearly as much as many other attachments for a given age.

AKfish