The John Deere D170, a versatile lawn tractor in its class, has its fair share of problems (7 to be exact). A workhorse designed for mowing, hauling, and snow blowing, it can sometimes run into roadblocks that slow down its performance.
First off, transmission failure is a major concern, often due to a pesky clogged or broken component. The engine, the heart of the D170, may also present problems, from unexpected shutdowns to running sluggishly, much like an old man on a treadmill after a hefty lunch. A knocking engine sound could be a knell signaling trouble. As one owner put it, “It’s like the tractor’s heart is skipping a beat.”
A thirsty engine gulping more fuel than usual might hint at fuel system issues. A clogged chute, on the other hand, could hamper the tractor’s ability to spit out grass clippings, like a blocked artery disrupting blood flow. Drive belt issues, resulting from overheating or wear and tear, can bring your D170 to a grinding halt, just when you need it most.
But fret not, dear D170 owner! This troubleshooting guide is here to help. Written by a pro, it shines a light on these 7 common problems and provides solutions to get your beloved tractor back on track.
1. Transmission Failure
Transmission problems affect most lawnmowers regardless of their make and model. The John Deere D170 transmission is hydrostatic, meaning that it converts mechanical power into fluid power that is then reconverted into shaft power. The Kanzaki Tuff Torq HD K46 that equips the D170 is reliable in general, and you can expect it to last about 5,000 hours, on average. However, it can still fail sometimes. The most common K46 transmission problems include mechanical failure due to a clogged or broken component.
Symptoms and Potential Causes
| Symptom | Potential Cause |
| Leaking fluids | Broken hose or clogged filter |
| Foul smells | Old oil |
| Inability to change gears | Broken component |
| Struggles to change gears | Broken component |
Specific Problems and Solutions
| Problem | Solution |
| Mechanical failure due to a clogged or broken component | Remove the transmission from the mower, inspect it, and replace it if necessary |
| Burning smells or leaking fluids | Purge the system regularly and change old oil |
| Broken hose or clogged filter | Replace the hose or filter |
Step by Step Solutions on How to Fix Transmission Failure in John Deere D170 Tractors
Mechanical Failure due to a Clogged or Broken Component
- Remove the transmission: It is important to remove the transmission to inspect it for any broken or clogged components. Raise the back of your lawnmower with a mower lift or floor jack. Get under it and remove the transmission cover bolts with a socket wrench. Take off the cover carefully – fluids may spill from the hydrostatic transmission. Once you’ve removed the plate, unfasten the bolts that secure the transmission to the tractor and take it off.
- Inspect the old transmission: Inspecting the old transmission is important to determine if there are any broken or clogged components that need to be replaced. Check the transmission and see if there is anything broken – if anything’s broken, your riding mower needs a transmission upgrade. If nothing’s broken, clean it from grime and gunk. Replace the hydraulic fluid with fresh fluid for a smoother operation.
- Reinstall the transmission: Reinstalling the transmission is important to ensure that your lawnmower can operate properly. Whether you’re installing the same transmission after you’ve cleaned it or you’re replacing it with a new one, start by fastening it under the mower. Place the cover plate over it and secure it in place. Fill the tray with new hydraulic fluid to finish the job.
Burning Smells or Leaking Fluids
- Purge the system regularly: Purging the system regularly is important to prevent problems such as burning smells or leaking fluids. Hydrostatic transmissions come with multiple advantages, but they have one big drawback: they are made of many moving parts that can cause problems. You must also purge the system regularly and change old oil to prevent these problems.
- Change old oil: Changing old oil is important to prevent burning smells or leaking fluids. Old oil can cause these problems.
Broken Hose or Clogged Filter
- Replace the hose or filter: Replacing a broken hose or clogged filter is important to fix any transmission failures caused by these issues. A broken hose or clogged filter can cause the transmission to fail. Replace the hose or filter to fix this problem.
2. Engine Shutting Off Randomly
One of the most common issues reported by John Deere D170 owners is the engine shutting off randomly. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including fuel problems, electrical issues, and safety switch faults.
Symptoms and Potential Causes
| Symptom | Potential Cause |
| Engine shuts off randomly | Fuel problems (e.g. clogged fuel filter or fuel pump) |
| Electrical issues (e.g. loose terminals on the fuel solenoid) | |
| Safety switch faults (e.g. seat safety switch) | |
| Bad coil |
Problems and Solutions
| Problem | Solution |
| Fuel problems | Check and replace the fuel filter and fuel pump; blow out the fuel lines |
| Electrical issues | Check for loose terminals on the fuel solenoid |
| Safety switch faults | Check the seat safety switch |
| Bad coil | Check for a bad coil; if one coil fails, it may take both to the ground and kill the engine |
Step by Step Solutions on How to Fix Engine Shutting Off Randomly in John Deere D170 Tractors
Fuel Problems
If you suspect that fuel problems are causing the engine to shut off randomly, there are several steps you can take to diagnose and fix the issue. First, check and replace the fuel filter and fuel pump. This is important because a clogged fuel filter or a faulty fuel pump can prevent the engine from getting the fuel it needs to run properly. You can also blow out the fuel lines to ensure that they are not clogged. Another potential cause of fuel problems is a blocked fuel tank breather. Try taking the fuel cap off and see if it will crank 15 seconds later. This is important because a blocked fuel tank breather can prevent air from entering the tank, which can cause a vacuum to form and prevent fuel from flowing to the engine.
Electrical Issues
It can also cause the engine to shut off randomly. One potential cause is loose terminals on the fuel solenoid on the carburetor. Check for loose terminals and make sure they are making contact. This is important because loose terminals can prevent the fuel solenoid from functioning properly, which can cause the engine to shut off.
Safety Switch Faults
Safety switch faults can also cause the engine to shut off randomly. Check the seat safety switch to ensure that it is functioning properly. This is important because a faulty seat safety switch can cause the engine to shut off if it thinks that the operator has left the seat.
Bad Coil
A bad coil can also cause the engine to shut off after it heats up and fails. The D170 is a 2-cylinder engine and usually, one bad coil will not shut it down, unless the diode between the coils is bad. Therefore when the one bad coil heats up and fails, it takes both to the ground and kills the engine. If you suspect a bad coil, check for a failed coil and replace it if necessary. This is important because a failed coil can prevent the engine from running properly.
3. Engine Running Slowly
The John Deere D170 is a popular choice for homeowners with large lawns due to its 54-inch mower deck. This utility vehicle also behaves beautifully on challenging terrains. However, like any other vehicle, it can have problems sometimes. Some of the most common issues include transmission failure, vibrations, engine, and steering problems, or general mowing trouble. In general, all these issues are easy to fix, and you can prevent them with proper maintenance.
Symptoms and their Potential Causes
| Symptom | Potential Cause |
| Transmission failure | Mechanical failure due to a clogged or broken component |
| Rough running | Bad gas |
| Low compression | Worn rings or valves |
Specific Problems and their Corresponding Solutions
| Problem | Solution |
| Transmission failure | Remove the transmission from the mower, inspect it, and replace it if necessary |
| Rough running | Completely drain the fuel system to remove the bad gas |
| Low compression | Replace the rings or valves |
Step by Step Solutions on How to Fix Engine Running Slowly in John Deere D170 Tractors
Transmission Failure
Why it’s important: Transmission problems are one of the most serious issues faced by the brand. The transmission is hydrostatic, meaning that it converts mechanical power into fluid power that is then reconverted into shaft power. The Kanzaki Tuff Torq HD K46 that equips the mower is reliable in general, and you can expect it to last about 5,000 hours, on average. However, it can still fail sometimes. The most common K46 transmission problems include mechanical failure due to a clogged or broken component.
Steps to take:
- Remove the transmission: Raise the back of your lawnmower with a mower lift or floor jack. Get under it and remove the transmission cover bolts with a socket wrench. Take off the cover carefully – fluids may spill from the hydrostatic transmission. Once you’ve removed the plate, unfasten the bolts that secure the transmission to the tractor and take it off.
- Inspect the old transmission: Check the transmission and see if there is anything broken – if anything’s broken, your riding mower needs a transmission upgrade. If nothing’s broken, clean it from grime and gunk. Replace the hydraulic fluid with fresh fluid for a smoother operation.
- Reinstall the transmission: Whether you’re installing the same transmission after you’ve cleaned it or you’re replacing it with a new one, start by fastening it under the mower. Place the cover plate over it and secure it in place. Fill the tray with new hydraulic fluid to finish the job.
Tips: You must also purge the system regularly and change old oil to prevent problems such as burning smells or leaking fluids. The hydraulic and steering fluids must also be changed.
Rough Running
Why it’s important: Rough running can be caused by bad gas which can impair engine performance.
Steps to take:
- Completely drain the fuel system: Drain all fuel from the fuel tank and lines to remove any bad gas.
Tips: Make sure to use fresh gas when refilling.
Low Compression
Why it’s important: Low compression can be caused by worn rings or valves which can impair engine performance.
Steps to take:
- Replace worn rings or valves: Locate a mechanic who can replace worn rings or valves in your engine.
Tips: Regular maintenance can help prevent wear on engine components.
4. Knocking Sounds from the Engine
The John Deere D170 is a game changer for residential and commercial mower owners. It offers versatility, comfort, great turning, and ultimate control. The mower is equipped with an air-cooled, 4-cylinder engine. This John Deere model can travel nearly 8.8 kilometers per hour at its fastest speed. However, there are different John Deere D170 problems reported by users. Generally, the most common issues are related to fuel and hydraulic systems. They are also associated with unclean parts like spark plugs or filters.
Symptoms and their Potential Causes
| Symptom | Potential Cause |
| Knocking sounds from the engine | Stale fuel |
Specific Problems and their Corresponding Solutions
| Problem | Solution |
| Knocking sounds from the engine | Suspect the fuel quality when its engine makes unusual noises. This is not a sign of using a highly viscous fluid but a stale one |
Step by Step Solutions on How to Fix Knocking Sounds from the Engine in John Deere D170 Tractors
Knocking Sounds from the Engine
Why it’s important: Many users complain about knocking sounds from the engine as one of the most prevalent problems. You should suspect the fuel quality when its engine makes unusual noises. This is not a sign of using a highly viscous fluid but a stale one.
Steps to take:
- Check the fuel quality: If you suspect that the fuel quality is causing knocking sounds from the engine, check the fuel quality. If it is stale, drain it and replace it with fresh fuel.
Tips: Regularly check the fuel quality to prevent knocking sounds from the engine.
5. Increased Fuel Consumption
The John Deere D170 is a game changer for residential and commercial mower owners. It offers versatility, comfort, great turning, and ultimate control. The mower is equipped with an air-cooled, 4-cylinder engine. This John Deere model can travel nearly 8.8 kilometers per hour at its fastest speed. However, there are different John Deere D170 problems reported by users. Generally, the most common issues are related to fuel and hydraulic systems. They are also associated with unclean parts like spark plugs or filters.
Symptoms and their Potential Causes
| Symptom | Potential Cause |
| Increased fuel consumption | Misuse or poor maintenance |
Specific Problems and their Corresponding Solutions
| Problem | Solution |
| Increased fuel consumption | After using your John Deere D170 for quite some time, you will know its regular gas consumption. When you notice unusual changes in consumption rates, it could be due to misuse or poor maintenance. Sometimes, it is a mix of both |
Step by Step Solutions on How to Fix Increased Fuel Consumption in John Deere D170 Tractors
Increased Fuel Consumption
Why it’s important: After using your John Deere D170 for quite some time, you will know its regular gas consumption. When you notice unusual changes in consumption rates, it could be due to misuse or poor maintenance. Sometimes, it is a mix of both.
Steps to take:
- Check for misuse or poor maintenance: If you notice unusual changes in consumption rates, check for misuse or poor maintenance. For instance, trying to cut freshly watered grass makes the mower consume more gas.
Tips: Regular maintenance can help prevent increased fuel consumption.
6. Clogged Chute
There are different John Deere D170 problems reported by users. Generally, the most common issues are related to fuel and hydraulic systems. They are also associated with unclean parts like spark plugs or filters.
Symptoms and their Potential Causes
| Symptom | Potential Cause |
| Clogged chute | Unclean catcher bag |
Specific Problems and their Corresponding Solutions
| Problem | Solution |
| Clogged chute | The discharge chute is vital for the correct function and the safety of you and your John Deere D170. It prevents the cut grass and debris from entering the mower’s body. However, if the chute itself gets clogged, it can be hazardous. As a result, you must inspect the catcher bag regularly to ensure it is always clean |
Step by Step Solutions on How to Fix Clogged Chute in John Deere D170 Tractors
Clogged chute
Why it’s important: The discharge chute is vital for the correct function and the safety of you and your John Deere D170. It prevents the cut grass and debris from entering the mower’s body. However, if the chute itself gets clogged, it can be hazardous.
Steps to take:
- Inspect the catcher bag regularly: You must inspect the catcher bag regularly to ensure it is always clean.
Tips: Regular maintenance can help prevent a clogged chute.
7. Drive Belt Issues
The most common issues are related to fuel and hydraulic systems. They are also associated with unclean parts like spark plugs or filters.
Symptoms and their Potential Causes
| Symptom | Potential Cause |
| Drive belt issues | Overheating or wear out |
Specific Problems and their Corresponding Solutions
| Problem | Solution |
| Drive belt issues | Due to overheating or wear out, your John Deere D170 belt may be too damaged to function or hold your John Deere D170 operation |
Step by Step Solutions on How to Fix Drive Belt Issues in John Deere D170 Tractors
Drive Belt Issues
Why it’s important: Due to overheating or wear out, your John Deere D170 belt may be too damaged to function or hold your John Deere D170 operation.
Steps to take:
- Check for overheating or wear out: If you suspect that overheating or wear out is causing drive belt issues, check the belt for damage. If it is damaged, replace it with a new one.
Tips: Regular maintenance can help prevent drive belt issues.
How We Created these Problems and Solutions Troubleshooting Guide
The troubleshooting guide was meticulously crafted to address a range of common problems encountered with the John Deere D170.
Various issues were identified through extensive research and user feedback. Experts examined how these problems affected the mower’s functions, particularly the transmission, engine, fuel system, and discharge mechanism.
Through careful analysis and diagnostics, the guide aimed to resolve these issues. It provided step-by-step instructions on how to diagnose and troubleshoot each problem, recommending actions such as inspecting the transmission for clogged or broken components, replacing faulty spark plugs and carburetors, and addressing drive belt issues caused by overheating or wear out.
This comprehensive guide was designed to empower John Deere D170 owners to address these issues effectively and ensure the optimal performance of their mowers.
Given these Problems, Should you Sell and Replace Your Existing John Deere D170?
Having extensive experience and expertise with similar tractors, I understand the frustrations that can arise when facing common problems with the John Deere D170. However, let me assure you that despite these issues, it is worth considering repairing and keeping this tractor—especially if it has served you well over the years.
Ultimately, if your D170 continues to give you problems or causes excessive downtime, it may be worth considering an upgrade to a newer model. Alternatively, if your needs have grown or you require a more capable tractor, exploring larger or more advanced options may benefit you in the long run.
In summary, don’t be discouraged by these common issues—instead, view them as opportunities for improvement. With proper maintenance, repairs, and a little TLC, your John Deere D170 can continue to be a reliable workhorse, serving you well for many more seasons to come.
