John Deere T550 Overview

The John Deere T550 is a powerful and reliable combine harvester designed for efficient crop harvesting in tough conditions.

It is known for its high threshing performance, excellent grain and straw quality, and reduced power requirements.

The John Deere T550 features a unique multi-drum threshing system that ensures a consistent crop flow without sharp bends or abrupt changes, improving overall efficiency.

It is part of John Deere’s T Series combines, built to handle large-scale farming operations.

Key Specifications and Features

  • Engine: 6.8-liter PowerTech PSS diesel engine producing 224 kW (305 hp) maximum power (ECE R120 standard).

  • Threshing Drum: Large 660-mm (26-inch) diameter for effective threshing.

  • Separator: Tangential Plus Separator with an 800-mm rotor, one of the largest on the market, providing enhanced separation capabilities.

  • Separation Area: Total active separation area of 3.30 m² and large walker area for superior grain separation.

  • Cleaning System: Total cleaning shoe area of 5.20 m² with advanced cleaning technology.

  • Channel Width: 1,400 mm.

  • Interactive Combine Adjust (ICA) system for automatic combine optimization.

  • Large and comfortable cab designed for operator comfort during long hours.

  • Harvesting Capacity: Suitable for various crops with high throughput and efficiency.

  • Transport Speed: Up to 30 km/h.

Jd t550 Engine Details

The John Deere T550 is powered by a Stage IIIB compliant John Deere PowerTech PSS engine with two in-series turbochargers for increased boost pressure.

The engine features a four-valve cylinder head and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) to meet emission standards and improve fuel efficiency.

It is electronically controlled to balance power output and fuel consumption optimally.

John deere t 550 Price Range

The price of a John Deere T550 combine harvester varies significantly based on year, condition, and dealer.

Recent listings indicate prices ranging from approximately $200,000 to $400,000 USD for used or new machines depending on specifications and working hours.

Common Problems and Considerations

  • Some users report the need for regular maintenance of the threshing and separating system to maintain performance.

  • As with all large combines, fuel consumption can be high under intense workloads.

  • Operator comfort and visibility are praised, but continual checking of sensor and electronic systems is recommended to avoid downtime.

  • Availability of parts and service may vary by region.

How does the John Deere T550 compare to other combines in performance?

The John Deere T550 combines strong performance and efficiency, comparing favorably to other combines in its class due to several key factors:

  • It is powered by a 6.8-liter PowerTech PSS engine producing 224 kW (305 hp), which delivers reliable power for demanding harvesting tasks.

  • The John Deere T550 features the industry’s largest rear separator drum at 800 mm diameter and an active separation area of 3.30 m², allowing efficient grain-threshing and minimal losses even in challenging crop conditions.

  • The total cleaning shoe area of 5.20 m² is among the largest in its class, enhancing grain cleaning quality and throughput.

  • It uses John Deere’s unique multi-drum threshing system ensuring smooth crop flow and excellent grain and straw quality.

  • Interactive Combine Adjustment (ICA) automates machine optimization for consistent high performance with minimal operator input.

  • Compared to more powerful John Deere models like the T670, which has a 335 kW (455 hp) engine and larger separation/cleaning areas, the T550 is positioned as a mid-range option balancing efficiency with power.

  • It offers competitive throughput and fuel efficiency with modern Stage IIIB emission-compliant engines and diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) systems.

  • Customers and contractors appreciate the T550 for fast unloading rates, broad header compatibility, excellent straw quality, and relatively easy control adaption from other brands.

In comparison to competitor combines in similar horsepower ranges, the John Deere T550’s large separation and cleaning areas, combined with advanced automation for adjustment and operation, make it competitive with models like the Case IH CT 5050 and Sampo Rosenlew SR 3085 Superior, offering a good balance of performance, grain quality, and operator comfort.

Summary

Overall, the John Deere T550 is a strong performer in the mid-tier combine harvester market, prized for excellent grain and straw quality, a high degree of automation, and reliable throughput, suitable for a wide range of crops and conditions.

It offers a blend of power, efficiency, and advanced threshing and cleaning technology suitable for medium to large farming operations.

Its powerful engine, large separation and cleaning areas, and operator-friendly cab make it a versatile and productive machine.

While prices are premium, the investment reflects its capability and reliability in demanding agricultural tasks.