Starting Engine Overhaul on John Deere's Best Compact Tractor

Should I buy a new john deere tractor? Or put the time and money into this older john deere 755 compact utility tractor?
DISCLAIMER'. this is not a how to video and I am not responsible for any actions you take on your equipment or property
#captainkleeman
#johndeere
#compacttractor

[@robgratriex2367]

I wore the engine out on my 755 at just over 2600 hours. The cylinders were .011 over. Had the cylinders honed out and put bigger pistons in it. Got a rebuild kit off ebay but elected to get all the bearings from John deer for the quality. Had the injection pump rebuilt which cost an arm and leg. Tore the whole tractor down to the frame repainted and rebuilt everything. Grand total was about $2,500. Worth every penny.

[@fsj197811]

"No wonder I couldn't find it, it's hanging where it belong." I recognize this! I do that a lot when I clean up my tools and put them away.

[@ErictheAmateur]

My dad taught me a cool lesson when disassembling motors. He’d always lay a sheet of plywood under the engine stand. He said it absorbs falls better than concrete. It’s simply, but effective. He was a diesel mechanic for Yellow Freight.

[@JohnSmith-tv5ep]

MIKE, there used to be a commercial on TV years ago, "Honey!,...I bought a new Tractor!" I'm sure you've seen it?, cause what you're doing, you will make the 755 new again! Bring it back to new, don't rush, don't cut corners, be patient, it'll be BETTER than those 'tin stamped', over priced shiny ones! 👍👍 Carry on Capt'n.

[@fsj197811]

"Good news is, this one's only flat on the bottom." Kleeman, you're a crackup!!! 🙂

[@James_Scheid]

Just smile through the pain. It's all going to be OK. - Captain Kleeman, Philosopher and Life Coach. 😸

[@mr.soundtek5793]

The theory about letting a friend borrow your hoist for storage needs is a good idea. The only issue is when you go to pick it up, they either loaned it out to a friend, who loaned it to their friend, etc. OR they take you back behind the shed where they dragged it into the weeds where the sun and rain took care of it's quality. (take breath here)

[@workingwithadam]

You need to get your dry erase board out. I'm still stuck at the truck project. great channel Mike.

[@flick22601]

Have you already forgotten about the steamboat, backhoe, world headquarters and moving those limestone blocks he's got stored at DP's new farm? I probably missed a project or six but, that's the Cap'n and that's why we watch.

[@workingwithadam]

@@flick22601 the bridge and trail in the woods. I think the Capt. needs to remind us of them all.

[@CaptainKleeman]

If only I gave updates and made progress on a regular basis 🤣

[@flick22601]

@@CaptainKleeman We don't care about that Mike, just keep on doing what you're doing and we'll keep giving you a thumbs up, watching the videos and make comments.

[@mooshaker]

You got this Captain, I do believe you got 99% of life out of that belt.

[@Crewsy]

No. Not yet. Maybe 96% but that last 4% would go at the absolute worst time.

[@richard5652]

Sometimes a guy just has to admit he Loves his tractor. You really don't need to justify it to anyone . . . and I loved watching it 💌

[@andytrimble9579]

If you ever watch tractor time with tim, you will quickly realize what limitations the new tractors have. Rebuild that 755 and never let it go. Unless, of course, you find a 955. Good luck with the rebuild!

[@ErictheAmateur]

It would be cool if you went through an itemized cost breakdown after you get it all back together. I’m really impressed by your willingness to do things like this. It’s more intimidating that folks realize.

[@jimstewart8927]

I've been partial to green paint for a long time but when ALL manufacturers became only interested in cupholders and three range hydrostats I lost interest. I believe the only thing JD had to do with your model tractor was paint and decals. It's completely Yanmar and no knowledge of the 70 loader inception! My 3038 JD was purchased new in '11 and has 2600 hours and the engine performs as it did the first day. It has never been to the mailbox indicating it has worked for a living! Love what compacts can accomplish! Amazed at what you do with your 755, keep up the good work!

[@digdrivediy]

It was tough for me to do, but I finally had to retire my beloved 755 that had over 2800 hours, even though it still ran pretty good. I upgraded to a 755 with just 900 hours. It's weird having a nearly brand new machine. I think you're making a wise decision.

[@barrytaylor3278]

Awesome project!!!! Glad you decided to rebuild instead of replace. Great tractor....

[@unimog_jason]

I love my 755, I've had it for over 15 years and hardly ever skipped a beat. One major issue I had was the bolt broke off the end of the hydrostatic motor, which is a known issue on the older models. I had to split the machine in the process and while I was in there, I replaced a bunch of the steel lines since they were still available as of 5 years ago. If you're going this deep into the machine, it's not a lot more work to pull the hydrostat unit out and replace that bolt with the updated part, it may save a future teardown.

[@robertz2557]

Absolutely the best choice is to rebuild the tractor. The cast parts are made to be replaceable as they aren’t easily repaired like that steel on your tractor. I love that you’re not afraid to take on a project like this. I have only ever done on car engine rebuild and so glad i did that its a great experience plus the struggle you get to encounter like the launching of the pistons. Just make sure when you install them the studs dont hit the crank. Great video as always thanks.

[@Richard-C]

Mike you rebuilt the 555 , now the 755 is like child's play, you will end up with a brand new tractor and if you give yourself a 7 year warranty you'll know who to call to have it fixed if anything breaks down, i think you made the best decision, i don't know how old the 755 is but for sure it was built better than the new ones, great video 👍👍👍👍👍

[@Bman2020]

Smart move Mike the ole girl deserves 👍👋🇨🇦

[@mikesorg6746]

Great work Captain giving her the “‘Ol dazzle dazzle”.

[@rhondasweeney7271]

That tractor did need some love! This is going to be great. Thank you for sharing 👌 😊

[@paullangjahr4071]

I work with someone who has a LS 25hp. He has had it a couple years and has REALLY put it to work. He actually showed me a video of himself baling hay wife a full size kick baler and hay rack with about 75 bales. LOVES it and would like to upgrade to the 30 or 35hp, also with the loader. It like the small John Deere, sports the Yanmar diesel.

[@CaptainKleeman]

Those yanmar diesels are workhorses

[@allensharlow7763]

It’s certainly worth rebuilding, and it will be as good as new👍🍮😎

[@denjhill]

I'm with you. Big tractor for big jobs & a little tractor for cleanup and little jobs. I use a Case 580E for heavy digging and lifting. The little 21hp Kubota B7500 is so nimble and quick I use it all the time. Never regretted that decision.

[@shooterjohn7163]

Great and worthwhile project Mike. The old saying they don’t build them like they used to applies. You sir are doing an excellent job. Thanks for taking us along on the ride…John

[@davidwatsonii9469]

THE CAPT, KING OF THE ONE MAN SHOWS, LOVE THE CHANNEL, GOOD LUCK

[@robandnell4305]

The bearings look good enough to keep running. But as long asyour that far.. you are doing the right thing.

[@brucehuff5566]

Not a compact tractor guy but can't wait to learn something new from this series. Great video. Stay safe

[@robertrousseau5264]

Mike, I think you're doing the right thing. You've got over 3000 miles hours on it and it's not bad idea and putting a riddle in baggies is a great idea. I thought I had told you that a long time ago. But maybe I didn't, but you're doing the right thing. Keep what you got rebuild it and make work better like it was new. Attractors in good shape and you can afford a new one. Alright, this is Bob and bill beach Florida. God bless and say safe.

[@slowride55]

Last summer I rebuilt the engine in my cousins 955. The middle piston broke the skirt and wore the bore bad enough the block had to have dry sleeves installed. We were able to get EVERY part through Deere including pistons and crank bearings. They were reasonably priced in my opinion.

[@CaptainKleeman]

Yup. These machines are still easy to get parts for. One of the bigger reasons to keep it. If parts weren't available, I would probably upgrade to a little newer tractor

[@Midwest-small-engine]

This video keeps a fella motivated to keep wrenching thru the projects no matter the pain of the wallet always like seeing the success on the persons face when they get there machine back makes it worth it

[@Poorehouse]

Mike make sure you replace those engine mounts while the engine is out. I had several fail on my 955 and they are NOT intended to be replaced while the engine is installed. Rivets? Good ole’ ‘40’s tech…

[@CaptainKleeman]

It was one of the main points of the video....

[@grandy0406]

Great work. I love your determination to get it totally done right and go with the equipment you already own.👍🇺🇸🔧

[@Marine-72]

I have a '98 855 and what a good tractor. But, I noticed the pulley on the alternator is rubbing the fan shroud. Maybe the engine mounts. Alternator and shroud are tight? Oh yes, has 1068 hrs on the meter.

[@James_P60]

Awesome take down on the 755. It will be fun watching your progress on this tractor. Keep it up.

[@clarencewiles963]

Because all the work and to be able to see you have been there. Pressure washing is a must. Before putting everything back together. 😊

[@petermcdevitt8232]

I've really been looking forward to this rebuild! Often wondered how hard it would be to rebuild my 855! Thank you in advance!!

[@cereus57]

755 and 1025 are definitely different animals, stick with the rebuilding and you will come out ahead! Great job Mike. One complaint would be some more lights in your workspace, it's hard to see what you're doing when its different degrees of darkness.👀!!

[@CaptainKleeman]

Money on parts so I can fix the tractor or money on parts so you can see me not work on something...hmm . Lol appreciate ya watching!

[@philhunt9297]

Is it just me? but major brands like John Deere [where parts/servicing is a norm] will always 'upgrade' aspects but those upgrades will either require a specialist/dealership technician or a special tool that's specific to brand/machine [that costs 3 arms and 1.5 legs]

[@johndernberger1961]

Good job keeping multiple projects in order! Truly enjoy the channel.

[@CaptainKleeman]

Thanks! Some people seem to struggle with mutlitasking

[@thebear5454]

What you are doing Mike is called "Freestyle Shade-tree Mechanics". 😉Keep doing what you do best, we love it.

[@charleskirby9190]

Those 755s are little tractors, the 1025 is a beefed up lawnmower. Not saying you can't do tractor things with the 1025 but I think you'd be disappointed as you already seemed to have figured out.

[@danielmacdonald16]

I can't speak to the capabilities of a 755 but i have plenty of seat time on a 1025R as well as larger compact tractors (Ford, Kubota) and smaller garden tractors (Bolens, Deere). The 1025R is an incredibly versatile and well engineered small tractor. My 2 cents. Cheers.

[@davidestep94]

About 5 years ago i had jd put a new block in my 755 runs great ever since. Bought it used at 740 hr didnt know the history of it. It's a good looking machine. It had scored cylinders from overheating,they say the screen got clogged which causes overheating, but since the rebuild got it running good

[@psuu1]

Your 'little time and effort' = complete teardown and rebuild. My version would have been an oil change and some spray paint. Extra effort if the paint even matched. I've got a new(er) Kubota BX, and am now jealous of your loader mounts!

[@RyanWithAviators]

You know, with farm tractors and working utility tractors alike, it just makes sense to have rugged simplicity and over-built structure to it. Not over-engineered and gizmos.

[@CaptainKleeman]

Absolutely

[@mitchs2242]

Excited for this series. I definitely think you made the right choice, Mike. And those older JD sub-compact tractors really hold their value. I ended up buying a new 1025R because it was only a few thousand dollars more than a used 55 series. Well worth sinking the money into the rebuild. Can't wait for the next episode!

[@katherinerose446]

Thank you for showing us the inside,the parts and pieces,i hope you can remember where it all goes back on to 😊love ya captain and all of your content.God bless and stay safe.

[@Crewsy]

That one con rod bearing that you showed with the “little anomaly” as you called it looks like there’s something under the bearing and it created a high spot. After 16 years I built my last engine yesterday and start a new chapter of my work career on Monday in the paint department. I truly thought I’d retire building engines but for better or for worse that has changed.

[@CaptainKleeman]

Well good luck with the change and hope it works out for you sir!

[@fsj197811]

I would say that V belt is WELL used. I have a 1025R and ever since I saw your tractor have been wondering how they compare. Seems like they're pretty close spec wise. As always, thanks for sharing.

[@raytalbot5890]

240,000 miles to the moon I think on the tractor 🇬🇧🇬🇧👍👍

[@cliffpalermo]

Always admire the 755, i have a 2210 and i work it! Gotta say for it's age it takes it too! Im afraid of anything new especially considering the price and lack of repairability be doing the same thing as you

[@brentjones5227]

The fact it took 10 seconds to point out everything electric is a solid argument for not buying a new one. At least in this diy guys mind. I have a 430 (i believe same engine) 60 inch belly mount mower it is a tank, id be devastated if i had to replace it with one of the new pos moachines.

[@robandnell4305]

Like the way you will tackle most anything. Even if you send the pump off, i think i would cap the injector line ports on the pump.

[@sassafrasvalley1939]

Cap’n the 755 is a compact tractor… the 1025 is a sub-compact. Its smaller tires make it a rough ride, closer to the ground and cause lower implement height at both the front and rear. Plus, it has a narrower foot print. So tip over on slopes and when loads are elevated make it less stable to operate…. Stay away from the 1025… you’ll never be able to do with it what you do with the 7double nickel!!! (I have the Kubota equivalent to the 1025… BX23s… it is perfect for my needs. But, it could never do what your 755 can.) Now about this rebuild… it looks like the engine itself is in great shape. Hopefully all the ancillary parts are available and you can find them cheap!!!

[@HankinsExcavating]

I believe you made a good decision putting her under the knife! I have a ctl that I sank about $12k into this year and is much cheaper than $105k fo r sure!

[@goptools]

Hi Mike. I had some trouble commenting on your last video, so I hope this goes through. I agree that starting with the tractor you already know, is a better way to go. Fix what needs to be fixed, clean everything up, put it back together and use it. You can buy a lot of parts for 17K, and that wasn't even with the loader!

[@CaptainKleeman]

Exactly!

[@user-ff5ut5xm2z]

The 755 is going to make some really good videos , enjoy watching all your videos 👍🏻

[@larryk4146]

I have 955 I would do the same thing you are doing if it needed it. I do not think the new ones are made as well. The 955 fuel tank sits behind the dash and does have mechanical pump

[@robmatthews7972]

JD no longer sells factory installed loaders - they do that to get out of warranty costs. Dealer ad on loader on my 2025R was not covered under JD Warranty. I`ve had a Case VA, Ford 8N and Ford 1310.

[@kenmazer9481]

👍🏻👍🏻because one is just never enough. 🤛🏻🤛🏻

[@CMDSR]

Now that it’s into a bazillion pieces, I hope it’s that easy to get back together. 🐶

[@FenrirFabrication]

I was wondering when it was going to be time for the 755 to get some attention. Perfect timing as-well, right before the day gets moving. Thanks for the video.

[@ErictheAmateur]

Recording your disassembly is gonna be incredibly useful when you put all that back together. How many times have you been reassembling something and wondered what is this thing,and where did it go? 😂. Plus, we armchair type get the entertainment value as well. 👍🏻👍🏻

[@johnelliott6738]

Love the 3 cylinder Yanmar in my JD 2720!

[@calvincoolidge5545]

The John Deere 755, 855 and 955 were all good tractors back in the day. The new Deere tractors are built cheap. Everything is lighter duty and they don’t even chrome plate the hydraulic rods. In my opinion, the best replacement for these tractors is a Kubota B2650

[@rudyfisher7660]

You got plenty of wall space up there. Take to get back a barn number. Everything work. It goes hanging on the wall. That's that when you're ready to use it, put it back together there you go. Just make sure your hydraulics is all the way down and plenty of oil and wrap a rag around it

[@dansevern3291]

Well, honestly surprised that that tractor has a frame. I'm used to those that have to be "split." Interesting, and probably one of the reasons the capability of that little tractor has always impressed me. I think that's a good decision, to keep that one running, I still think simpler is better. Thanks for the video, take care.

[@Poorehouse]

It is split. The rear assembly with the trans, wheels, and three point are all one unit that the front frame bolts to.

[@francoisbouchard602]

Nice job Nice Garage good show 😃👏👏👏👍👍👍

[@SabineRiverValley]

I’m all about doing repairs to that old Deere and continuing running it, but if you were interested in getting a new tractor you should really look at a TYM. They have the 2515, a 25HP tractor with 2200lbs loader lift capacity and 3306lbs at the rear, all for about $20k. It has a TYM (Kukje) mechanically injected engine with no ECM/ECU computers on it. It’s just under 25HP, so it doesn’t have any of the emissions requirements. And then, if you wanted more HP, for $5k more you can get the T474, which is the 48HP of that engine. There’s no other brand out there that can compare to those capacities.

[@robertzapatka1082]

Less Talk????... That's what makes the Captain so awesome! Even if you spent $5,000. You're still way ahead with the tractor you have. I had a tractor for 12 years and replaced it with exactly the model, and everything on it was cheaper and flimsier.

[@seansysig]

Captain you should’ve checked a few things before dismantling. Check compression. Fuel pressure before and after injector pump.

[@CaptainKleeman]

Nah

[@gwbuilder5779]

Mike, Smart money says rebuild what you have.👌 Your machine is stronger in every way, the through frame cross members are easily twice as strong, not to mention the whole structure is more stable as well. Yes, there may be a few "Upgrades" or improvements, but they will certainly be a trade-off for something else. The value is in knowing what you already have and what it is currently capable of and every improvement just makes it better for so much less than anything you can acquire new. Don't forget to mention the running issues when you talk with Area Diesel so they can better diagnose all of your components. When they know there is a particular issue, they look even closer to make sure things don't get missed. Excellent folks. I would definitely recommend a complete teardown for the simple fact of being able to see the whole machine and insure no missed cracks or other needed repairs. The broken engine mounts and drive plate suggest additional movement that may just be those components, but could easily be a bent or failing bracket somewhere. Of course budget is always a factor. Keep er up there bud.🤙

[@fransinyard891]

Good morning sunshine! Love waking up to your videos! Really love the way you take things apart & clean & fix them! Great video my friend! Much love from Henderson Ga USA

[@stevenlatham4397]

Definitely the right choice. You’ll spend 1/3 the money and have twice the tractor a new one is. Those 55 series tractors are legendary

[@larryk4146]

Another thing I do with is every oil change I send a sample to Black Stone Labs

[@ClintHackney]

I have a 2018 1025R and a 1988 Ford 555B backhoe for the heavy lifting also.

[@CaptainKleeman]

That's a good combination

[@buddyreed2623]

Hello Mike. Yep, the best policy is definitely while you are there, replace or rebuild what needs it. You've rebuilt a motor before, this is just a little smaller. Best Bucks Spent. Have good days!

[@stan525]

soot will cause your rings to stick and cause smoking and low power that's a great tractor. looks like my kinda fun

[@daleerhardt1799]

Thanks for the morning motivation Mike! Now off to build the boss' raised beds.... i wonder where she got the idea...🤔🤣

[@charleswelch249]

I'm glad you are rebuilding the JD. You have experience with the 555, and now you will have both of them running great for a long time. Great choice and love your channel Mike.

[@CaptainKleeman]

Appreciate ya watching!

[@dougvazquez6571]

I have had an 855 for over 20 years. I agree with you, they are great machines.

[@CaptainKleeman]

💪

[@wilsonshedden2131]

Looking forward to seeing you rebuild your 755. Always enjoy your videos. Your attitude and your comments are excellent.

[@CaptainKleeman]

Appreciate the feedback!

[@DeirdreHickey-nx8nt]

Mike, “this is only flat on the bottom”😂😂😂😂😂

[@rockman531]

In 3-4-5 weeks we'll see a new video with the title "Some assembly required"!! That will be interesting to watch! Great video! Thumbs up! Safety first! Jim

[@Jeremy-de2of]

There is a 655 & a955 for sale around Charleston wv 7000 for the 655 & 8500 for the 955 seems like a good price on either one the 655 has a home brew loader on it

[@lonniechartrand]

An interesting video for sure! I am not a mechanic but I did sleep at a Holiday Inn!!!

[@CaptainKleeman]

Lol

[@richardwhite3711]

@ 1:55 emulating Neil would always be good in my book, and he wears your t-shirts as a show of solidarity

[@brotherbruce]

You did good taken it down that far. Maybe plastigage the bearings, replace the seals and the rings only if poor compression on any cylinder. A little late to check compression. And it will be fun they say.

[@ronnysplymouth68]

FYI ..... the notches in bearing always go on same side together

[@ronaldheit196]

One day late because I was in surgery so while resting in my hospital bed I've got a really cool episode of the Captain tearing down the 755's engine. In the process he finds some additional issues that need to be addressed. Can't wait to see the next episode. Especially since he knows to send out several items to professionals on those items.

[@alandawson2813]

Well Hello, I'm 13hrs behind on watching another captain video from when you posted it😂😂. Keep up the great work

[@CaptainKleeman]

Appreciate ya watching

[@fhuber7507]

The things you are finding that need attention are proof positive it was a good idea to take it apart.

[@criticalevent]

As much as I'd like to get a HST tractor, my old manual shift Kubota is pretty simple to work on and I paid cash for it, I don't think I'm willing to have another payment just for some luxury :)

[@wheeledjh9052]

I have a 955 and that thing is a tank. The hour meter on mine also doesn't work, once I get the quick attach forks built it will be perfect.

[@davidchapman8054]

Great video and very educational. Good choice rebuilding, cheaper, better workmanship and will last so much longer with your care.

[@tbix1963]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts, ideas and videos. Thanks for clarifying why you were doing all this, I was starting to ponder 🤔, he can’t just be doing this for content. I can feel the tension building the more parts you pull. I can certainly imagine your a bit overwhelmed. Looking forward to seeing the day you have put it all back together and running like a champ again. Wishing you and your family the best.

[@terryrogers1025]

Not what I think is relavent seeing how you have started the video series or any other time for that matter🙄, but you are doing exactly what I would do and have the same mind set I would have, its a good decision on the rebuild, they are excellent tractors. Looking forward to this series young man. Thanks for the video, going to enjoy watching the process.

[@everestyeti]

Good idea because rebuilding is definitely going to be a lot cheaper than buying new, parts on those things are failing cheap. Yes John Deere has gone backwards when it comes to servicing their equipment, it's like they had a meeting with the designers and engineers and the designers won the argument on the toss of a coin. I know Clint over at C&C also has thoughts on that issue as well. 👍

[@kirk467]

Thanks for sharing Mike, good luck with your overhaul my friend! See ya next time brother, Kirk from Louisiana sending prayers and positive thoughts to you and your family! 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👌🏻👍🏻👍🏻🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🙋🏼✌🏻

[@JohnSmith-lw2bm]

Area diesel service, trusted shop for all the KZbin diesel mechanics. You, Diesel Creek Matt, Tractor Time with Tim, etc.