Mid-80s John Deere 500C

[JeffroL]

I've always wanted a backhoe, mainly for pond maintenance, burying debris, digging stumps, repairing/replacing utility lines, and anything else that requires digging. A friend offered up what he thinks is a mid 80's 500C and I jumped at it. It's a fine running machine and he's giving it to me with 2 buckets, a 2' and a 3'. Here's the thing though - I don't know ANYTHING about really running a machine like this. Anyone know where I can get an owner's manual? Is there a way to determine exactly what year the machine is? I have the serial number. Any tip would be appreciated, plus any project ideas or safety tips.

 

[beenthere]

Good deal.. and manuals are available through a Deere dealer, or also online.

More pics would be great too..

TractorData.com John Deere 5C tractor information

 

[Tx Jim]

Check condition(PH) of coolant. Bad coolant condition causes engine cyl liner cavitation requiring an engine overhaul

 

[JeffroL]

Will do. The fellow I bought it from owns an excavating company. He has a LOT of equipment and says this is a very good machine. He just doesn't use it anymore, prefers his mini escavator for most jobs. So he let this one go along with the extra bucket. I'll check the coolant, thanks for pointing that out. I need a manual so I can review all these requirements and maintenance needs.

 

[texasranger556]

Looks like it's set up for hanging forks too.

 

[JeffroL]

Ah ha!!! That's what those hooks are for!! Thanks so much, you just solved one of the little riddles of this machine. I did not know what those were for.