Troubleshooting a John Deere winch can be a daunting task, especially if you are not familiar with the inner workings of the machine. However, with some basic knowledge and the right tools, you can easily troubleshoot and fix any issues with your winch. In this article, we will discuss common problems with John Deere winches and provide you with troubleshooting tips to help you get your winch up and running smoothly.
One of the most common issues with John Deere winches is the brake bands. If you are experiencing problems with your winch not holding or constantly winding in, it is recommended to check the brake bands. Over time, the springs in the bands can wear out, leading to decreased performance. It is recommended to change these springs regularly to ensure your winch is functioning properly.
Another important part to check is the adjustment of your winch band. It is important to measure the distance between the bottom of the pin to the bottom of the pin in your winch. This measurement should be at least 4 3/4 inches (John Deere Spec is 4 13/16 inches, but we find 4 3/4 is most effective) for optimal performance. If the adjustment is off, it can cause problems with your winch’s functionality.
In addition to these factors, the drum of the winch can also play a significant role in its performance. If the drum is too smooth or out of round, it can result in issues with the band and its ability to grip the drum. In this case, it is recommended to sandblast the drum to create a rougher surface and improve the band’s grip. Similarly, if the band is not even around the drum in the release position or free spool, adjust it to have only 1/8 inch of play around the drum. Adjusted correctly, you should see a bit of light evenly around the inside of the band.
It is also essential to check the winch pressure, which should be at least 1000 psi. You can check this by locating the pipe plug on top of the winch or the fitting that feeds the slave cylinder.
If the winch is not holding or is constantly winding in, it could indicate a problem with the springs, band, or adjustment. On the other hand, if the winch is not pulling at all, it could be due to faulty clutches or a cross-shaft bearing, especially in older models with a new control valve. In case of a winch not free spooling, it could be due to dirt or rust in the bearings or a faulty band adjustment.
If you experience a failure of all the discs in your winch, it could be due to low winch pressure, which should ideally be 1000 psi. However, if only one disk fails, it could be a faulty disc (though still check the pressure to be safe). In some John Deere models like 540A, 440’s, and dozers, if after replacing the valve and winch pump, and the winch is still not operating correctly, it could be due to a broken or cracked steel tube connecting the winch valve to the winch pump, or the winch pump could have sheared off the woodruff key.
Essentially, troubleshooting a John Deere winch simply requires proper maintenance. By regularly checking the brake bands, replacing the band springs, adjusting the winch, and maintaining adequate pressure, you can ensure that your winch works efficiently and serves you for a long time. In case of any issues, use the troubleshooting tips discussed in this article to get your winch back in working condition.
