Headland Pistons

[lfc]

My 1800-hour 555A has cavitated cylinder #3, so the engine is at the machine shop for three sleeves. The headland pistons look ok and I could reuse them, but I think I've read about issues with these pistons so I'm not sure if I should just get new rings or just replace the pistons with aftermarket. CNH still lists the headland pistons but they are on backorder (according to my dealer) but it looks like rings are available.

 

[RodinNS]

If they measure out fine I'd just reuse them... but re-ring it. I'm not aware of any particular problem with headland pistons but then again I never had anything to do with them either...

Rod

 

[Bern]

FNH had BIG problems with those pistons when they first came out with the introduction of the 10 series tractors. It was so bad that they went back to using conventional pistons for a time.

If yours have made it this long without the top separating from the rest of the piston, it's pretty safe to say that you have an updated version that will continue to plug along. I'd re-use them if they otherwise checkout OK. They definitely have advantages over conventional pistons, start-ability being one of them.

 

[lfc]

Thanks guys for the advice. I dropped the pistons off with the machine shop and I'll have him measure them up to make sure they are in spec.

Of all the Fords I've had, my 4610 and the 555A are by far the best starters. The headland pistons must help.