List of John Deere Hydrostatic Transmission Problems (5 Warning Signs)

In this brief guide, we are going to provide you with the common John Deere hydrostatic transmission problems and what are the solutions to these problems.

John Deere hydrostatic transmissions are used primarily in their lawn mowers. This transmission works mainly by belt-driven on lawnmowers and by the shaft on tractors. However, there are many problems with John Deere hydrostatic transmissions and we’ll tell you how you can solve them.

What are the common problems with John Deere hydrostatic transmissions?

Most of the common problems with John Deere hydrostatic transmission are:

  • Transmission fluid leakage 
  • Cold hydraulic system malfunction
  • Transmission slippage
  • Hydrostatic Transmission pump failure
  • Hydraulic system overheating

Why is the Transmission fluid leakage a problem with John Deere hydrostatic transmissions?

John Deere transmissions are very advanced and leakage proof systems and if anything is leaking out of them then this could cause transmission overheating. It is definitely a sign of a problem which may cause serious trouble for you in the future.

What signs are shown by this John Deere hydrostatic transmission problem?

You would get an error such as P0842 or errors in the similar range which are associated with transmission fluid pressure. If these sensors get a low pressure this will indicate there is not enough fluid and a leakage somewhere in the transmission.

What is the solution to this John Deere hydrostatic transmission problem?

Detecting where the leak is and closing it, is the most obvious solution to fix this sign before it causes mechanical damage to your car. Usually the gaskets or the seals in the transmission are worn out or broken to cause a fluid leak.

Why is Cold hydraulic system malfunction a problem with John Deere hydrostatic transmissions?

If your John Deere hydrostatic transmission is too cold, it becomes a serious threat to your system. First, the hydraulic fluid becomes thick and unable to reach the pump. In the long run, the hydraulic system will be unable to dissipate heat and damage the transmission.

What signs are shown by this John Deere hydrostatic transmission problem?

You would notice on the sign dashboard if your hydraulic system is too cold to work and needs some preheating to start working. 

What is the solution to this John Deere hydrostatic transmission problem?

You would need to fill some anticoagulant in your transmission fluid to stop it from becoming too thick. Also, if the temperature sensor is detecting a low temperature too frequently then there is a need to visit your mechanic.

Why is the Transmission slippage a problem with John Deere hydrostatic transmissions?

John Deere hydrostatic transmission system is not designed to slip and if you are experiencing slippage then it could cause slow response or further damage to the transmission system. So, it is definitely a sign of a problem with the hydrostatic components of the transmission.

What signs are shown by this John Deere hydrostatic transmission problem?

You will be able to hear the transmission slip while driving and this would be a good sign if there is slipping. Also, an error code will be displayed if you use a diagnostic tool.

What is the solution to this John Deere hydrostatic transmission problem?

The solenoids of the two gears might be worn out and need to be replaced. Also, there is a chance that these solenoids might also be broken. Rarely, complete mechanical failure occurs with these transmissions.

Why is Hydrostatic Transmission pump failure a problem with John Deere hydrostatic transmissions?

The John Deere hydrostatic Transmission Oil Pump is generally reliable, but sometimes they lose efficiency very early in life and it’s struggle to produce pressure quickly begins to deteriorate as it ages. This will mainly affect the shifting performance of the vehicle.

What signs are shown by this John Deere hydrostatic transmission problem?

While driving you will surely notice the shifting difficulty and in worst case complete failure for this problem. As this is a shifting failure, only while driving at the set speed and rpm will you notice this problem.

What is the solution to this John Deere hydrostatic transmission problem?

Usually the transmission oil pump is worn out and needs to be replaced to solve this problem. Also in other cases it has been seen that oil pumps can be removed and rebuilt to solve this issue. 

Why is the Hydraulic system overheating a problem with John Deere hydrostatic transmissions?

Because transmission gears and shafts tend to get damaged, worn, and malfunction under high heat levels. This results in lower than the acceptable performance from the vehicle and high fuel consumption as well as lowering the life of mechanical components in the gearbox.

What signs are shown by this John Deere hydrostatic transmission problem?

Usually when an hydrostatic transmission overheats an error is shown. This error is not immediately visible on the screen but requires a diagnostic tool to get these actual error codes.

What is the solution to this John Deere hydrostatic transmission problem?

After cooling down the transmission check the gearbox oil for its condition. Change it if it is too thick and completely black. Also, check your clutch if it is the problem behind this malfunction.

How to diagnose these common problems with John Deere hydrostatic transmission precisely?

If you are an experienced driver then you can use common diagnostic tools such as OBD-II immediately and fix those errors. For others, the only way to precisely diagnose these signs is to visit your local mechanic or service station who will have a more accurate diagnostic tool to check these signs. 

How to prevent getting these problems in the first place?

Regular maintenance is an easy way to extend the life of your transmission. Failing to have your transmission serviced on time, will result in catastrophic wear to internal components, which include the hydraulic system which is the heart of the hydrostatic transmission. 

FAQs: John Deere hydrostatic transmission problems

What Goes Bad in hydrostatic transmission?

Frequently, failure of any mechanical component, a broken hose, or clogged filter will cause hydrostatic transmission problems. Hydrostatic transmissions include mechanical parts such as a differential and a drive axle, plus rubber or metal hoses the liquid is pushed through. 

Do hydrostatic transmissions wear out?

The hydrostatic transmission has relief valves, so you can’t work around it’s designed intent, but you certainly can damage them if you try, just like a gear transmission. You can stress it by being rough with it, these last every bit as long as gear transmissions

Conclusion

In this brief guide, we have provided you with the common John Deere hydrostatic transmission problems and what are the solutions to these problems. 

If you have any questions or comments please let us know.

Citations:

https://www.houzz.com/discussions/1665279/deere-l110-transmission-problems