List of John Deere Lawn Tractor Transmission Problems (Troubleshooting Guide)
By
Vroomouk
In this brief guide, we are going to provide you with the common John Deere lawn tractor transmission problems and what are the solutions to these problems.
John Deere lawn tractor transmissions use primarily hydrostatic transmissions in their lawn mowers. This transmission works mainly by belt driven on lawn mowers and by shaft on tractors. However, there are many problems with John Deere lawn tractor transmissions and we’ll tell you how you can solve them.
What are the common problems with John Deere lawn tractor transmissions?
Most of the common problems with John Deere lawn tractor transmission are:
- Hydraulic system overheating
- Transmission slippage
- Transmission fluid leakage
- Cold hydraulic system malfunction
- Hydrostatic Transmission pump failure
Why is the Hydraulic system overheating a problem with John Deere lawn tractor 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 lawn tractor 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 lawn tractor 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.
Why is Transmission slippage a problem with John Deere lawn tractor transmissions?
John Deere lawn tractor 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 lawn tractor 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 lawn tractor 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 the Transmission fluid leakage a problem with John Deere lawn tractor 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 lawn tractor 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 lawn tractor 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 failure a problem with John Deere lawn tractor transmissions?
If your John Deere lawn tractor 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 lawn tractor 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 lawn tractor 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 Hydrostatic Transmission pump failure a problem with John Deere lawn tractor transmissions?
The John Deere lawn tractor 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 lawn tractor 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 lawn tractor 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.
How to diagnose these common problems with John Deere lawn tractor 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 lawn tractor transmission problems
How do I know if my lawnmower transmission is bad?
To know if the transmission is failing, carefully watch the transmission when the engine is running. If the pulley is spinning, and the wheels aren’t turning, the transmission is bad. Unfortunately, if this is broken, it may be time to buy a new mower because this part is generally unreplaceable
Why won’t my riding mower go forward or reverse?
Most probably your air and fuel filters for riding mowers can become clogged and negatively impact performance. Damaged or clogged air filters also can prevent your lawn mower from going forward or in reverse simply because the engine will overheat quickly.
Conclusion
In this brief guide, we have provided you with the common John Deere lawn tractor transmission problems and what are the solutions to these problems.
If you have any questions or comments please let us know.
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