Our tractor’s hydraulic system allows us to perform heavy tasks with minimal effort. This system is based on fluid mechanics, so we need to monitor the volume of this fluid regularly. But how to check hydraulic fluid on John Deere tractor? You can easily check it from the hydraulic reservoir dipstick.
Running out of Hydraulic fluid is not an option for us as this cripples your hydraulic apparatus and steering for a few models.
Therefore, we will also answer when and how frequently you should check the hydraulic fluid and the conduct of filling it into your tractor in today’s discussion.
So, let’s begin!
How To Check Hydraulic Fluid On John Deere Tractor
Checking Hydraulic Fluid on a John Deere tractor is a fairly easy job. However, it requires some protocols to get a proper reading out of it. All models of John Deere tractors either have a dipstick or sight glass. I will describe a step-by-step guide for checking hydraulic fluid levels for each method.
For Dipstick Gauge
- First of all, warm up your tractor by driving it for a few minutes, then park it on a flat surface. Afterward, lower all implements of your tractor. The warmed-up liquid will now settle down easily, and you’ll obtain a precise figure.
- Locate the hydraulic reservoir and clean it using a fresh cloth. Then unbolt the cap from it. The dipstick is generally located under it.
- Pull out the stick and wipe out the liquid from it. Then dip again, and now you will get a proper reading. You don’t need to pour liquid if the liquid volume is more than the optimum level according to the scale.
For Sight Glass Gauge
- Follow the first step for the dipstick gauge.
- Then locate the sight glass, which is generally on the rear side of the tractor and the fluid reservoir. Here, you will see the scale showing the fluid level. The ideal fluid level is slightly underneath the top mark on the glass.
This is how to check hydraulic oil on John Deere Tractor to get the most accurate figure. If you can’t find the gauge on your machine, check the John Deere tractor handbook for its location. You can also look it up on John Deere’s official site. The model number engraved over your decal will help you find it out faster.
The 4440 tractor also has a dipstick method of testing the fluid volume. So, in case you are wondering how to check hydraulic fluid on John Deere tractor 4440, follow the aforementioned procedure.
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When Should You Check Hydraulic Fluid On John Deere Tractor
The conduct of keeping your tractor sound and running requires performing a check of the hydraulic fluid level at least once within every 1000 hours of operation on the engine. This is a generous gap, to be exact, we recommended checking it more frequently, as it does not require much effort.
Moreover, after you refill the hydraulic fluid, check the fluid level after the first 100 hours of use. This is to check if the fluid level is optimum and if there is any leakage in the system.
Refill liquid and reattach filter at least once every 1200 hours on the engine. There is more on how to refill the liquid mentioned above.
When Should You Refill Hydraulic Fluid In Your Tractor
You should opt for refilling when the fluid level gets lower than the lowest optimum level as shown by the scale.
Moreover, the fluid and filter need to be changed at least once after 1200 hours run. One refill will keep your tractor running for a long time.
However, the best measure is to check for unwanted drainage after a hundred hours of engine operation after a refill.
How To Refill Hydraulic Fluid
Refilling hydraulic fluid can be a little stressful as it requires a lot of preparation. Changing hydraulic liquid involves draining all previous liquid as their property is damaged, and they usually get compressed beyond efficiency level. It also helps preserve the health of the John Deere tractor hydraulic system.
To change the fluid, put on gloves and lay some buckets under the drain pipe. Unscrew each drain bolt and the filter and drain all the hydraulic fluids from them, fixing your tractor on ground level the whole time.
Four-Wheel tractors will have more drain valves than two-wheel drives. Make sure to miss none.
Now, before pouring new fluid, attach the bolt again and install a new filter. Before installing, dip it with the John Deere hydraulic oil so that your pump doesn’t run dry.
Then, remove the cap from the fluid tank and pour it with hydraulic fluid little by little through a clean funnel. Don’t overflow and do frequent John Deere hydraulic fluid checks.
The liquid will take some time to spread and give out proper reading. When the fluid reaches maximum capacity, stop and put on the cap tightly again. Be careful so that no dust or debris falls inside. Moreover, don’t overpour much at a time as it may form air vessels that might disrupt fluid potency.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do you check hydraulic fluid with the tractor running?
Not at all. You will not get a proper fluid reading in this way. Let your engine run and cool down on a leveled ground, then check the fluid. Check our guide for more protocols to follow to get a more accurate measurement.
Where do you put hydraulic fluid in a John Deere tractor?
The hydraulic fluid spreads across the hydraulic systems and attachments. You can drain it from multiple valves, but a single input valve is sealed with a colored (yellow) cap and generally on the rear side of a John Deere tractor. You put hydraulic fluid refill there.
Can you overfill tractor hydraulic fluid?
If you are not careful enough while pouring, there is a risk of overpouring. It may hinder some hydraulic processes. So, you should not pour more fluid than the maximum level crossed with a straight line on the scale.
How to check hydraulic fluid level on John Deere tractor?
John Deere tractor has either a dipstick or sight glass to check the fluid level. Each checking requires different protocols. To get the most accurate reading for checking, follow the steps mentioned in our guide.
Final Thoughts
For all of us, our tractors are inseparable from the tasks of a productive day. And we all want our tractors to function efficiently and deliver their full performance.
To attain so, we have to attend to our machines from time to time. We hope today’s discussion has clarified when and how to check hydraulic fluid on John Deere tractor and how to refill it.
Take delight in fixing your machines and making them last longer. With it, We conclude the guide for now.
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- John Deere Hydraulic System Diagram- We Explained All-in-One For You!
- John Deere Hydrostatic Transmission Problems
Was it helpful?
If it has a motor Jason has a pretty good idea about how it works. Jason graduated in Automotive Mechanics Technology from Bishop State in 1992. After working on vehicles for 11 years he made the transition to selling tractors and lawn care vehicles. Currently, Jason writes and edits much of our content as he transitions into retirement with his lovely wife, Shelley.
