1997 John Deere 855 Tractor Specifications and Features

The 1997 John Deere 855 is a compact utility tractor designed for a range of agricultural and landscaping tasks. Equipped with a reliable 3-cylinder, liquid-cooled diesel engine, it delivers a solid 24 horsepower, making it ideal for both light and medium-duty applications. The 855’s PTO power output of 19.5 hp ensures efficient operation of various implements, such as mowers and tillers.
With a 4WD drivetrain, this model provides excellent traction in challenging terrains. The transmission features a standard 8-speed gear shift, offering precise control over speed and torque. Whether you’re working on flat land or sloped surfaces, the 1997 John Deere 855 provides versatility and stability. Its compact size makes it maneuverable in tight spaces, enhancing its effectiveness in tasks that require agility.
Maintenance is simplified thanks to easily accessible components and a durable build. The tractor’s hydraulics system supports a lifting capacity of up to 1,100 lbs at the 24-inch point, enabling the handling of a variety of attachments. Whether you’re using the 855 for farming, gardening, or small-scale construction work, its performance and durability make it a practical choice for operators who need a reliable and efficient machine.
1997 John Deere 855 Specs
The 1997 John Deere 855 is a compact utility tractor designed for a variety of tasks. It comes with a range of features that enhance its performance and reliability.
The tractor is powered by a 3-cylinder, liquid-cooled diesel engine, with a displacement of 1.3L (78.3 cubic inches). This engine delivers 24.7 horsepower, ensuring it can handle both light and medium-duty tasks. Its fuel tank capacity is 12.5 gallons, providing extended operation without frequent refueling.
Transmission options include a 5-speed gear transmission with a single range, allowing smooth shifts and versatile operation. It is equipped with a power take-off (PTO) system, with both rear and mid-PTO options available, making it ideal for running various attachments such as mowers, tillers, and snow blowers.
- Engine Type: 3-cylinder diesel, liquid-cooled
- Horsepower: 24.7 hp
- Transmission: 5-speed gear, single range
- PTO Options: Rear and Mid
- Fuel Capacity: 12.5 gallons
- Hydraulic System: 4.3 gpm (gallons per minute)
The 855 features a 4WD system, ensuring better traction and stability on uneven or slippery surfaces. Its front axle is designed for durability, offering reliable support during demanding work conditions. The tractor’s weight is balanced with its 1,355 lb (614 kg) operating weight, making it maneuverable yet robust enough for tough tasks.
The hydraulic system provides 4.3 gpm flow, enabling smooth operation of front-end loaders and other attachments. The 1997 John Deere 855 also offers a comfortable operator platform with clear visibility and easy controls for extended use.
Overall, the 1997 John Deere 855 is a versatile, powerful compact tractor designed for a wide range of applications, from landscaping to small farm operations.
Engine Specifications and Performance

The 1997 John Deere 855 is powered by a 3-cylinder diesel engine with a displacement of 1.1 liters. This engine delivers 24.7 horsepower, making it a reliable option for various tasks such as light farming and landscaping. The engine is known for its durability and fuel efficiency, providing excellent performance across different conditions.
The liquid-cooled engine ensures consistent operation even during prolonged use. It is equipped with a mechanical fuel injection system, which enhances fuel efficiency and provides a smooth response during operation. The engine operates at a rated speed of 2800 RPM, offering a solid balance of power and economy.
The 855 is designed with a simple, easy-to-maintain engine layout. Routine maintenance, including oil changes and air filter replacements, is straightforward, helping reduce downtime and keep the tractor running efficiently. The engine’s fuel tank has a capacity of 9.5 gallons, giving it a solid operating range for longer jobs without frequent refueling.
Overall, the engine’s design ensures reliable and consistent power output, whether for light-duty tasks around the yard or more demanding projects. The 1997 John Deere 855 is an excellent choice for users seeking a blend of performance, efficiency, and dependability in a compact utility tractor.
Transmission and Drive System Features
The 1997 John Deere 855 is equipped with a reliable hydrostatic transmission system, designed to deliver smooth and continuous power. The transmission offers infinite speed control, making it ideal for a wide range of tasks, from light mowing to heavy-duty pulling. This system allows the operator to adjust speed without the need to shift gears, ensuring ease of use and efficiency in various conditions.
Its drive system features four-wheel drive (4WD), which enhances traction and stability, especially in challenging terrain. The 855’s 4WD system engages automatically when needed, providing extra power to the wheels for better control on slippery or uneven surfaces. This makes it highly capable in wet or hilly areas, offering better performance than two-wheel-drive models.
The compact size of the John Deere 855, combined with its robust drive system, allows it to maneuver effectively in tight spaces. Whether working in a small garden or a large field, the tractor maintains strong pulling capacity and durability across all tasks.
For users looking for reliable performance, the 1997 John Deere 855’s transmission and drive system ensure power is efficiently delivered where needed. This results in consistent operation, minimal downtime, and an overall more enjoyable experience during use.
Operator Comfort and Cabin Layout
The 1997 John Deere 855 features a well-designed operator cabin that enhances comfort during long working hours. The seat is adjustable, allowing operators to find a position that suits their preferences. The cabin layout offers clear visibility of the surroundings, reducing the risk of accidents and making tasks more efficient. The controls are intuitively placed, providing easy access to essential functions without distracting the operator.
The steering wheel can be tilted for a more personalized driving position, improving ergonomics. For those using the tractor for extended periods, the cabin’s noise insulation helps reduce fatigue, while the climate control system ensures comfort in various weather conditions. The floor mats are designed to be durable and easy to clean, keeping the cabin neat after outdoor work.
For added convenience, the 1997 John Deere 855 includes ample storage space within the cabin. Small tools or personal items can be securely stored within reach, minimizing the need for operators to leave the seat. The cabin is spacious enough to prevent any feeling of being cramped, which is crucial for maintaining focus during tasks.
Lastly, the cabin’s design allows for easy entry and exit. The wide door openings and step designs provide stability and safety when climbing in and out of the vehicle. Overall, the operator cabin of the 1997 John Deere 855 is built for comfort and practicality, making it ideal for various farming or landscaping tasks.