The John Deere 955 is a highly regarded compact utility tractor that was produced from 1989 to 1998. Part of the 55 Compact Series, it is known for its reliability and versatility in various agricultural and landscaping tasks. Manufactured by John Deere in their Horicon, Wisconsin, and Augusta, Georgia, factories, this tractor offered users a dependable and powerful workhorse on the field. With its strong engine and multiple attachment options, the John Deere 955 became a popular choice for farmers and landowners looking for a compact yet capable machine to handle a wide range of tasks. Its legacy lives on as a testament to John Deere’s commitment to producing durable and efficient agricultural equipment.
| John Deere 955 Engine Specifications |
|---|
| Manufacturer | John Deere |
| Factories | Horicon, Wisconsin, USA; Augusta, Georgia, USA |
| Production Years | 1989 – 1998 |
| Series | 55 Compact Series |
| Type | Compact Utility Tractor |
| Engine |
|---|
| Model | Yanmar 3TN84RJ |
| Engine Horsepower (Net) | 33 hp (24.6 kW) |
| PTO Horsepower | 27 hp (20.1 kW) |
| Rated Engine Speed | 3200 rpm |
| Type | Diesel |
| Operating Range | 1400-3425 rpm |
| Number of Cylinders | 3 |
| Displacement | 87.3 cu. in. (1430 cm3) |
| Bore and Stroke | 3.31×3.39 in. (84×86 mm) |
| Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 |
| Lubrication | Pressured |
| Cooling System | Water-pump |
| Air Cleaner | Dry-Type with Safety Element |
| Engine Shutoff | Key |
| Engine Torque at Rated Speed | 73 Nm (54 lb-ft) |
| Fuel System Type | Indirect Injection – Direct Injection |
| Injection Pump Type | In-line with Electric Shutoff |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 6.6 gal (25 L) |
| Cooling System Capacity | 4.8 qt. (4.5 L) |
| Crankcase Capacity (w/filter) | 4.4 qt. (4.2 L) |
| Gallon/hr at 75% load (mowing) | 1.4 |
| Electrical System Type | 12 volt |
| Battery Size | 475 Amps |
| Alternator | 40 Amp |
| Starter Size | 1.9 hp (1.4 kW) |
| JD 955 Power Take-Off (PTO) |
|---|
| Type | Live Independent |
| Mid PTO Speed at 3200 engine rpm full load (1:1 gear ratio) | 2100 rpm |
| Rear PTO Speed at 3200 engine rpm full load (1:3 gear ratio) | 540 rpm |
| Clutch | Hydraulic Multi-Disk |
| Brake | Hydraulically Controlled |
| John Deere 955 Transmission |
|---|
| Transmission Type | Hydrostatic-2-range |
| Transaxle | Sunstrand Series 17 |
| Transmission Speed Ranges | High/Low |
| Number of Speeds | Infinite |
| Transmission Control | Two right-side foot pedals |
| Transmission Capacity | 4.5 gal. (17 L) |
| Separator Plates Thickness | 1.0 mm (0.039 in) |
| Brake Disks Thickness | 1.9 mm (0.075 in) |
| Clutch Pack-to-Face Distance | 43 mm (1.69 in) |
| Separator Plate-to-Cylinder Distance | 4.7 mm (0.185 in) |
| Top Plate Thickness | 2.9 mm (0.114 in) |
| Clutch Disk Thickness | 1.9 mm (0.075 in) |
| Separator Plate Thickness | 1.0 mm (0.039 in) |
| Piston Return Spring Free Length | 29 mm (1.14 in) |
| Differential Ring Gear Backlash | 0.15-0.21 mm (0.006-0.008 in) |
| Mechanical |
|---|
| Drive Wheels | 2WD/4WD (Optional) |
| Final Drive | Planetary |
| Brakes | Wet Disk |
| Steering | Power |
| Differential Lock | Standard |
| MFWD Gear Case | 3.5 qt. (3.3 L) |
| Hydraulics and Hitch |
|---|
| Type of System | Open Center |
| Working Pressure | 2500 psi (17240 kPa) |
| Pump Type | Gerotor Gear |
| Pump Capacity | 7.2 gpm (0.45 L/s) |
| Hitch Type | Cat. 1 |
| Hitch Lift Capacity (24 in. behind link arms) | 957 lbs. (434 kg) |
| Lift Control Type | Position |
| Hydraulic System Capacity | 4.5 gal. (17 L) |
| Tires and Treads |
|---|
| Front Tire Sizes (Standard) | 7.00×12 |
| Rear Tire Sizes (Standard) | 11.2-16 |
| Front Tread | 38.6 to 47.3 in. (98 to 120 cm) |
| Rear Tread | 40.4 to 45.5 in. (102 to 115 cm) |
| Dimensions |
|---|
| Weight | 1990 lbs (902 kg) |
| Wheelbase | 64 in. (162 cm) |
| Length | 110 in. (279 cm) |
| Minimum Width | 50.2 in. (127 cm) |
| Maximum Width | 58.9 in. (149 cm) |
| Height (hood) | 53.3 in. (135 cm) |
| Height (Standard ROPS) | 77.1 in. (195 cm) |
| Height (Folding ROPS) | 83.1 in. (211 cm) |
| Clearance (drawbar) | 10.9 in. (27 cm) |
| Turning radius (without brakes) | 8.8 ft (2.7 m) |
| Turning radius (with brakes) | 8.0 ft (2.4 m) |
| John Deere 955 Attachments |
|---|
| Option | 72-inch Mower Deck |
| Mower Deck Type | Mid-mount, 3-blade with hydraulic lift |
| Cutting Width | 72 in. (1820 mm) |
| Overall Width | 85 in. (2150 mm) |
| Cut Height | 1.5 to 8.6 inches (30 to 210 mm) |
| Height (to pin) | 77.3 in. (1960 mm) |
| Clearance, dumped bucket | 62 in. (1570 mm) |
| Dump reach | 27.5 in. (690 mm) |
| Dump angle | 45° |
| Reach at ground | 47. |
The John Deere 955 is a collectible tractor model with significant historical value, celebrated for its enduring legacy and distinctive qualities. What sets this tractor apart is its status as part of the 55 Compact Series, which represents a pivotal era in the evolution of compact utility tractors. Produced from 1989 to 1998, this tractor embodies the renowned craftsmanship and reliability associated with John Deere.
One of its standout features is the robust Yanmar 3TN84RJ engine, delivering a net horsepower of 33 and PTO horsepower of 27. This powerful engine ensured the tractor’s ability to tackle various tasks efficiently. Its diesel engine, with a displacement of 87.3 cubic inches, boasts a high compression ratio of 18.0:1, contributing to its exceptional performance.
The John Deere 955 also distinguishes itself with a hydrostatic-2-range transmission, providing infinite speeds for precise control during operation. Its hydraulic multi-disk clutch and wet disk brakes enhance its stopping power and maneuverability. Additionally, the tractor’s live independent PTO offers flexibility for various implements and attachments.
Advantages of the John Deere 955 include its versatility, reliability, and compact size, making it suitable for a wide range of tasks on small to medium-sized properties. Its ease of operation and maintenance further add to its appeal. However, some collectors and users may find disadvantages in terms of its age, potentially limited availability of spare parts, and the challenges associated with maintaining older equipment.
In the realm of collectible tractors, the John Deere 955 stands out as a symbol of John Deere’s enduring commitment to innovation and excellence in the agricultural industry. Its historical significance, combined with its practical utility, makes it a prized addition to any tractor collection.
