If you own a John Deere LA135 lawn tractor, you probably rely on it to keep your lawn looking its best. However, like any machine, the LA135 can experience problems from time to time. In this article, we will outline some of the most common problems with the John Deere LA135 and provide a troubleshooting guide to help you get your machine up and running again.
The John Deere LA135 is a lawn tractor that is equipped with a Briggs & Stratton gasoline engine with a displacement of 0.7 liters. It has a 42-inch cutting deck and can mow up to 1.5 acres per hour. It is a reliable machine that can provide years of service when properly maintained.
Common Problems with John Deere LA135
Despite being a reliable machine, the John Deere LA135 can experience problems. Below are some of the most common problems that owners of the LA135 may encounter.
Engine Problems
The engine is the heart of the LA135, and it can experience a range of problems. Some of the most common engine problems include:
- Failure to start: If the engine fails to start, it may be due to a dead battery, a faulty starter motor, or a clogged fuel filter.
- Overheating: Overheating can be caused by a lack of coolant, a malfunctioning radiator fan, or a broken water pump.
- Loss of power: If the engine is running, but the tractor is not moving, it may be due to a broken drive belt or a damaged transmission.
Transmission Problems
The transmission is responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels. Some of the most common transmission problems include:
- Failure to shift gears: If the tractor is stuck in one gear, it may be due to a damaged shift linkage or a faulty clutch.
- Jerky movements: Jerky movements can be caused by a worn-out transmission or a low level of transmission fluid.
- Strange noises: If you hear grinding or whining noises coming from the transmission, it may be due to worn-out gears or bearings.
Electrical Problems
The electrical system of the LA135 is responsible for providing power to the lights, starter motor, and other electrical components. Some of the most common electrical problems include:
- Dead battery: If the battery is dead, the tractor will not start. This can be caused by a faulty alternator or a drained battery.
- Blown fuses: If the fuses are blown, the electrical components will not work. This can be caused by a short circuit or a faulty component.
- Faulty wiring: If the wiring is damaged, the electrical components may not work properly. This can be caused by rodents or wear and tear.
Steering Problems
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The steering system of the LA135 is responsible for controlling the direction of the tractor. Some of the most common steering problems include:
- Difficulty steering: If the steering is stiff or hard to turn, it may be due to a faulty steering gear or a worn-out steering wheel.
- Loose steering: If the steering wheel feels loose or wobbly, it may be due to worn-out ball joints or tie rods.
- Vibrations: If the tractor vibrates while in motion, it may be due to a damaged steering damper or worn-out tires.
Deck and Blade Problems
The deck and blade of the LA135 are responsible for cutting grass and maintaining the appearance of your lawn. Some of the most common deck and blade problems include:
- Uneven cutting: If the grass is cut unevenly, it may be due to a dull blade or a damaged cutting deck.
- Belt slipping: If the blade belt slips or comes off, it may be due to a worn-out belt or a damaged pulley.
- Poor quality of cut: If the grass is torn instead of cut cleanly, it may be due to a dull or damaged blade.
Fuel System Problems
The fuel system of the LA135 is responsible for delivering fuel to the engine. Some of the most common fuel system problems include:
- Failure to start: If the engine fails to start, it may be due to a clogged fuel filter or a faulty fuel pump.
- Poor performance: If the engine runs poorly, it may be due to a dirty carburetor or a clogged fuel line.
- Fuel leaks: If you notice fuel leaking from the tractor, it may be due to a damaged fuel line or a faulty fuel cap.
Brake Problems
The brake system of the LA135 is responsible for slowing down and stopping the tractor. Some of the most common brake problems include:
- Weak brakes: If the brakes feel weak or spongy, it may be due to a low level of brake fluid or worn-out brake pads.
- Noisy brakes: If the brakes make a squealing or grinding noise, it may be due to worn-out brake pads or rotors.
- Sticking brakes: If the brakes stick or fail to release, it may be due to a faulty caliper or a damaged brake line.
Troubleshooting Guide for John Deere LA135
If you encounter any of the problems outlined above, you can use the following troubleshooting guide to diagnose and fix the issue.
Engine Troubleshooting
- Check the battery: If the engine fails to start, check the battery to ensure it has enough charge.
- Inspect the starter motor: If the battery is charged, but the engine still won’t start, inspect the starter motor for damage or wear.
- Check the fuel filter: If the engine runs poorly or won’t start, check the fuel filter to ensure it is not clogged.
- Inspect the drive belt: If the engine is running, but the tractor is not moving, inspect the drive belt for damage or wear.
Transmission Troubleshooting
- Check the shift linkage: If the tractor is stuck in one gear, check the shift linkage to ensure it is not damaged or disconnected.
- Check the clutch: If the tractor won’t shift gears, check the clutch to ensure it is functioning properly.
- Inspect the transmission fluid: If the tractor moves jerkily, check the transmission fluid level and condition.
Electrical Troubleshooting
- Check the battery: If the tractor won’t start, check the battery to ensure it is charged and functioning properly.
- Inspect the fuses: If certain electrical components are not functioning, check the fuses to ensure they are not blown.
- Check the wiring: If the tractor has an electrical issue, check the wiring for any damage or loose connections.
Steering Troubleshooting
- Check the steering gear: If the steering is stiff or difficult to turn, check the steering gear to ensure it is functioning properly.
- Inspect the ball joints: If the steering wheel feels loose or wobbly, inspect the ball joints for wear or damage.
- Check the steering damper: If the tractor vibrates while in motion, check the steering damper to ensure it is not damaged.
Deck and Blade Troubleshooting
- Sharpen or replace the blades: If the grass is cut unevenly or torn, sharpen or replace the blades as needed.
- Replace the belt: If the blade belt slips or comes off, replace the belt and inspect the pulleys for damage.
- Inspect the cutting deck: If the grass is cut unevenly, inspect the cutting deck for damage or misalignment.
Fuel System Troubleshooting
- Replace the fuel filter: If the engine runs poorly or won’t start, replace the fuel filter and inspect the fuel lines for damage or leaks.
- Inspect the carburetor: If the engine runs poorly, inspect the carburetor for any dirt or debris that may be blocking fuel flow.
- Replace the fuel pump: If the engine won’t start or runs poorly, replace the fuel pump and inspect the fuel lines for damage or leaks.
Brake Troubleshooting
- Check the brake fluid level: If the brakes feel weak or spongy, check the brake fluid level and add fluid as needed.
- Replace the brake pads: If the brakes make a noise or feel weak, replace the brake pads and inspect the rotors for wear.
- Inspect the brake calipers: If the brakes stick or fail to release, inspect the calipers for damage or wear.
FAQs
How often should I change the oil in my John Deere LA135?
It is recommended to change the oil in your John Deere LA135 every 50 hours of operation or annually, whichever comes first.
How do I know if my John Deere LA135 needs a new battery?
If the engine is slow to crank or fails to start, it may be time to replace the battery. You can also use a multimeter to test the battery’s voltage.
How often should I sharpen or replace the blades on my John Deere LA135?
It is recommended to sharpen or replace the blades on your John Deere LA135 at least once per mowing season, or more frequently if you mow more than once per week.
Can I use regular gasoline in my John Deere LA135?
No, it is recommended to use gasoline with an octane rating of at least 87 in your John Deere LA135.
How often should I inspect the air filter on my John Deere LA135?
It is recommended to inspect the air filter on your John Deere LA135 before each use and clean or replace it as needed.
Conclusion
The John Deere LA135 is a reliable and efficient tractor, but like any machine, it is prone to certain problems. By understanding the most common issues and using the troubleshooting guide, you can diagnose and fix these problems quickly and easily. Proper maintenance and care can help to prevent these problems from occurring in the first place, ensuring that your John Deere LA135 continues to perform at its best for years to come.
