Is Your John Deere L111 Acting Up? 7 Problems and Solutions from a Pro

The John Deere L111 is one of our favorites and is a garden warrior often entrusted with the duties of mowing expansive lawns and light towing and tilling tasks. This trusty tractor, however, comes with its own set of 7 problems.

As one fond owner, who affectionately calls his tractor ‘The Little Green Giant’, once said, “Just when you think it’s down for the count, it surprises you.” However, even for him, it’s not always a start-and-mow operation. Starting issues, often a result of a weak battery or a finicky ignition switch, can certainly add a twist to your gardening chores.

Under the hood, the engine might have its diva moments with temperamental carburetors, clogged fuel filters, and faulty spark plugs causing hiccups or even rendering the tractor a garden statue. “The Little Green Giant sometimes likes to play hide and seek,” the owner grinned.

Transmission troubles, like hydrostatic failures and uncooperative drive belts, can put a sudden stop to your gardening adventures. Electrical eccentricities, such as blown fuses and rebellious wiring, might sometimes leave you scratching your head.

The mower deck isn’t without its drama either, with potential blade damage and worn-out belts leading to uneven cuts or unexpected stalling. And let’s not forget the less common but still possible issues: a non-compliant steering wheel and the occasional puff of smoke.

John Deere L111 & Their Fixes

But fear not, fellow John Deere L111 owners. We’ve got you covered with our detailed troubleshooting guide. We’ll tackle each of these 7  common problems along with their solutions to keep ‘The Green Giant’ in fighting form. Your garden duty is set to be a breeze.

1. Starting Issues

One of the most common problems that can occur with the L111 is starting issues. These issues can prevent the engine from starting altogether or cause it to stall while in use. Starting issues can be caused by a dead or weak battery or a faulty ignition switch.

Symptoms and Causes

SymptomPotential Cause
Engine won’t startDead or weak battery
Engine stalls while in useFaulty ignition switch

Problems and Solutions

ProblemSolution
Dead or weak batteryCharge or replace the battery
Faulty ignition switchReplace the ignition switch
  • A dead or weak battery can be charged or replaced to solve starting issues.
  • A faulty ignition switch can be replaced to solve starting issues.

How to Fix Starting Issues

Charging or Replacing the Battery

  • A dead or weak battery can be charged or replaced to solve starting issues.
  • To charge the battery, you can use a wheeled battery charger/engine starter with a voltmeter. This type of charger can charge vehicle, boat, and heavy equipment batteries in 1-3 hours.
  • If the battery is old or cannot hold a charge, it may need to be replaced.

Replacing the Ignition Switch

  • A faulty ignition switch can be replaced to solve starting issues.
  • To replace the ignition switch, first, locate the ignition switch on the lawn tractor. It is usually located near the steering wheel.
  • Next, disconnect the battery and remove the old ignition switch by unscrewing it from its mounting bracket.
  • Finally, install the new ignition switch and reconnect the battery.

It is important to charge or replace a dead or weak battery because it can prevent the engine from starting altogether or cause it to stall while in use. Similarly, replacing a faulty ignition switch is important because it can also prevent the engine from starting altogether or cause it to stall while in use.

2. Engine Problems

These issues can cause the engine to run poorly or not start at all. Engine problems can be caused by carburetor issues, clogged fuel filters, and spark plug failure.

Symptoms and Causes

SymptomPotential Cause
Engine runs poorlyCarburetor issues
Engine won’t startClogged fuel filter
Engine misfiresSpark plug failure

Problems and Solutions

ProblemSolution
Carburetor issuesClean or rebuild the carburetor
Clogged fuel filterReplace the fuel filter
Spark plug failureReplace the spark plug
  • Carburetor issues can be resolved by cleaning or rebuilding the carburetor.
  • A clogged fuel filter can be replaced to solve starting issues.
  • Spark plug failure can be resolved by replacing the spark plug.

Step by Step Solutions on How to Fix Engine Problems

Cleaning or Rebuilding the Carburetor

  • Carburetor issues can be resolved by cleaning or rebuilding the carburetor.
  • To clean the carburetor, first, remove it from the engine and disassemble it.
  • Next, clean all of the parts using a carburetor cleaner and a soft brush.
  • Finally, reassemble the carburetor and reinstall it on the engine.

Replacing the Fuel Filter

  • A clogged fuel filter can be replaced to solve starting issues.
  • To replace the fuel filter, first, locate it on the lawn tractor. It is usually located near the fuel tank.
  • Next, remove the old fuel filter by unscrewing it from its mounting bracket.
  • Finally, install the new fuel filter and reconnect any hoses.

Replacing the Spark Plug

  • Spark plug failure can be resolved by replacing the spark plug.
  • To replace the spark plug, first, locate it on the lawn tractor. It is usually located near the engine.
  • Next, remove the old spark plug using a spark plug wrench.
  • Finally, install the new spark plug and reconnect any wires.

It is important to clean or rebuild a dirty carburetor because it can cause the engine to run poorly or not start at all. Similarly, replacing a clogged fuel filter is important because it can also cause starting issues. Replacing a failed spark plug is important because it can cause engine misfires and reduced performance.

3. Transmission Problems

This can cause the tractor to lose power or stop moving altogether. Transmission problems can be caused by hydrostatic transmission failure and drive belt issues.

Symptoms and Causes

SymptomPotential Cause
Tractor loses powerHydrostatic transmission failure
Tractor stops movingDrive belt issues

Problems and Solutions

ProblemSolution
Hydrostatic transmission failureCheck fluid levels and connections
Drive belt issuesReplace the drive belt
  • Hydrostatic transmission failure can be resolved by checking fluid levels and connections.
  • Drive belt issues can be resolved by replacing the drive belt.

Step by Step Solutions on How to Fix Transmission Problems

Checking Fluid Levels and Connections

  • Hydrostatic transmission failure can be resolved by checking fluid levels and connections.
  • To check fluid levels, first, locate the transmission fluid reservoir on the lawn tractor. It is usually located near the transmission.
  • Next, check the fluid level using the dipstick or sight glass. If the fluid level is low, add more fluid until it reaches the full mark.
  • Finally, check all connections in the L111’s transmission system for leaks or breaks. If any leaks or breaks are found, they should be repaired before using the lawn tractor again.

Replacing the Drive Belt

  • Drive belt issues can be resolved by replacing the drive belt.
  • To replace the drive belt, first, locate it on the lawn tractor. It is usually located near the engine and transmission.
  • Next, remove any covers or guards that are blocking access to the drive belt.
  • Finally, remove the old drive belt and install the new one.

It is important to check fluid levels and connections because low fluid levels or leaks can cause hydrostatic transmission failure. Similarly, replacing a worn-out drive belt is important because it can cause the tractor to lose power or stop moving altogether.

4. Electrical Problems

It can cause various electrical malfunctions, such as non-functioning headlights or the engine not starting. Electrical problems can be caused by blown fuses and faulty wiring.

Symptoms and Causes

SymptomPotential Cause
Non-functioning headlightsBlown fuse
Engine won’t startFaulty wiring

Problems and Solutions

ProblemSolution
Blown fuseReplace the fuse
Faulty wiringRepair or replace the wiring
  • A blown fuse can be replaced to solve electrical issues.
  • Faulty wiring can be repaired or replaced to solve electrical issues.

Step by Step Solutions on How to Fix Electrical Problems

Replacing a Fuse

  • A blown fuse can be replaced to solve electrical issues.
  • To replace a fuse, first, locate the fuse box on the lawn tractor. It is usually located near the battery or under the hood.
  • Next, identify the blown fuse by checking for a broken wire or a darkened glass window.
  • Finally, remove the old fuse and install a new one with the same amperage rating.

Repairing or Replacing Faulty Wiring

  • Faulty wiring can be repaired or replaced to solve electrical issues.
  • To repair or replace faulty wiring, first, locate the faulty wiring on the lawn tractor. This can be done by tracing the wiring from the source of the problem to the component that is not functioning properly.
  • Next, inspect the wiring for any visible damage or wear. If any damage is found, repair it using electrical tape or wire connectors.
  • If the wiring is beyond repair, it may need to be replaced.

It is important to replace a blown fuse because it can cause various electrical malfunctions, such as non-functioning headlights or the engine not starting. Similarly, repairing or replacing faulty wiring is important because it can also cause various electrical malfunctions.

5. Mower Deck Problems

One of the most common problems that can occur with the John Deere L111 is mower deck problems. These issues can cause uneven cutting, reduced performance, or cause the machine to stall. Mower deck problems can be caused by damaged blades and worn-out belts.

Symptoms and Causes

SymptomPotential Cause
Uneven cuttingDamaged blades
Reduced performanceWorn-out belts
Machine stallsDamaged blades

Problems and Solutions

ProblemSolution
Damaged bladesReplace the blades
Worn-out beltsReplace the belts
  • Damaged blades can be replaced to solve mower deck issues.
  • Worn-out belts can be replaced to solve mower deck issues.

Step by Step Solutions on How to Fix Mower Deck Problems

Replacing the Blades

  • Damaged blades can be replaced to solve mower deck issues.
  • To replace the blades, first, locate them on the lawn tractor. They are usually located under the mower deck.
  • Next, remove any covers or guards that are blocking access to the blades.
  • Finally, remove the old blades and install the new ones.

Replacing the Belts

  • Worn-out belts can be replaced to solve mower deck issues.
  • To replace the belts, first, locate them on the lawn tractor. They are usually located near the engine and transmission.
  • Next, remove any covers or guards that are blocking access to the belts.
  • Finally, remove the old belts and install the new ones.

It is important to replace damaged blades because they can cause uneven cutting, reduced performance, or cause the machine to stall. Similarly, replacing worn-out belts is important because they can also cause reduced performance or cause the machine to stall.

Two uncommon problems that can occur with the John Deere L111 are:

6. Faulty Steering Wheel

One of the less common problems that can occur is a faulty steering wheel. This issue can be caused by worn-out pinion gear and sector gear or loose connections. These issues can cause the steering wheel to become unresponsive or difficult to turn.

Symptoms and Causes

SymptomPotential Cause
Steering wheel unresponsiveWorn-out pinion gear and sector gear
Steering wheel difficult to turnLoose connections

Problems and Solutions

ProblemSolution
Worn-out pinion gear and sector gearReplace the pinion gear and sector gear
Loose connectionsTighten the connections
  • Worn-out pinion gear and sector gear can be replaced to solve steering issues.
  • Loose connections can be tightened to solve steering issues.

Step by Step Solutions on How to Fix Faulty Steering Wheel

Replacing the Pinion Gear and Sector Gear

  • A faulty steering wheel can be caused by worn-out pinion gear and sector gear or loose connections.
  • To replace the pinion gear and sector gear, first, locate them on the lawn tractor. They are usually located under the steering wheel.
  • Next, remove any covers or guards that are blocking access to the gears.
  • Finally, remove the old gears and install the new ones.

Tightening Loose Connections

  • Loose connections can also cause a faulty steering wheel.
  • To tighten loose connections, first, locate them on the lawn tractor. They are usually located near the steering wheel and under the hood.
  • Next, inspect all connections for looseness or wear. If any loose connections are found, tighten them using a wrench or pliers.

It is important to replace worn-out pinion gear and sector gear because they can cause a faulty steering wheel. Similarly, tightening loose connections is important because they can also cause a faulty steering wheel.

7. Smoke Coming from the Tractor

This issue can be caused by an excessive oil level, dirty air filter, or blown head gasket.

Symptoms and Causes

SymptomPotential Cause
Smoke coming from the engineExcessive oil level
Smoke coming from the engineDirty air filter
Smoke coming from the engineBlown head gasket

Problems and Solutions

ProblemSolution
Excessive oil levelReduce oil level
Dirty air filterReplace the air filter
Blown head gasketReplace the head gasket
  • An excessive oil level can be reduced to solve smoke issues.
  • A dirty air filter can be replaced to solve smoke issues.
  • A blown head gasket can be replaced to solve smoke issues.

Step by Step Solutions on How to Fix Smoke Problems

Reducing the Oil Level

  • An excessive oil level can cause smoke to come from the engine.
  • To reduce the oil level, first, locate the oil drain plug on the lawn tractor. It is usually located near the engine.
  • Next, place a container under the drain plug to catch the excess oil.
  • Finally, remove the drain plug and allow the excess oil to drain out until the oil level is within the recommended range.

Replacing the Air Filter

  • A dirty air filter can cause smoke to come from the engine.
  • To replace the air filter, first, locate it on the lawn tractor. It is usually located near the engine.
  • Next, remove any covers or guards that are blocking access to the air filter.
  • Finally, remove the old air filter and install a new one.

Replacing the Head Gasket

  • A blown head gasket can cause smoke to come from the engine.
  • To replace the head gasket, first, locate it on the lawn tractor. It is usually located near the engine.
  • Next, remove any covers or guards that are blocking access to the head gasket.
  • Finally, remove the old head gasket and install a new one.

It is important to reduce an excessive oil level because it can cause smoke to come from the engine. Similarly, replacing a dirty air filter is important because it can also cause smoke to come from the engine. Replacing a blown head gasket is important because it can cause smoke to come from the engine and reduce performance.

How We Created These Problems and Solutions Troubleshooting Guide

The troubleshooting guide was created through a meticulous process that involved identifying the most prevalent issues and their causes. 

Dead or weak batteries, along with faulty ignition switches, were found to be the primary culprits that caused the engine to fail to start or stall during operation. Following closely were carburetor issues, such as clogged fuel filters and spark plug failures, which severely affected the engine’s performance and starting capabilities.

Transmission problems, particularly hydrostatic transmission failure and drive belt issues, ranked next in importance, leading to power loss or complete immobilization of the tractor. 

Electrical problems, including blown fuses and faulty wiring, were also given high priority, as they resulted in various electrical malfunctions. 

Lastly, mower deck problems, such as damaged blades and worn-out belts, were addressed due to their impact on cutting quality and overall performance. 

Two less common issues, a faulty steering wheel caused by worn-out gears or loose connections, and smoke emanating from the John Deere, often caused by excessive oil levels, dirty air filters, or blown head gaskets, were included as well. 

In summary, the troubleshooting guide was meticulously crafted by considering the relative importance of each problem and providing detailed explanations for their causes and potential solutions.

Given these problems, should you sell and replace your existing L111 ?  

Having extensive experience with tractors like the L111, I understand the frustrations that can arise from encountering common issues. However, let me assure you that despite these challenges, repairing and keeping your tractor can still be a viable option. 

The starting issues, which may be caused by a dead battery or faulty ignition switch, can be easily resolved with a battery replacement or ignition switch repair. Similarly, engine problems such as carburetor issues or clogged fuel filters can be rectified by cleaning or replacing the affected parts—a relatively straightforward task. 

Transmission problems, including hydrostatic transmission failure or drive belt issues, can be resolved by replacing the faulty components, allowing your tractor to regain its power and mobility. 

Additionally, electrical problems like blown fuses or faulty wiring can be fixed by replacing the damaged parts and restoring the proper functioning of the headlights and engine. 

Lastly, L111 deck problems, including damaged blades or worn-out belts, can be addressed by replacing these components—a manageable maintenance task.

However, if your L111 continues to give you ongoing problems or causes significant downtime, it might be worth considering an upgrade to a newer model. This decision depends on your specific needs and the level of performance you require. 

If you find that your tasks demand a larger or more capable tractor, exploring options with increased power and features may be beneficial. Remember, the ultimate goal is to ensure that your tractor meets your needs efficiently and effectively, minimizing any inconvenience.

About Jeff Henderson

Have a question regarding your lawn tractor? Igra World writer Jeff Henderson may have covered it already on this site, if not you can contact him at jeff.h@igra-world.com and (417) 414-5099 if you have an problem you can't find an answer to. Jeff is a part time tractor mechanic and landscaping company owner who lives in Springfield, Missouri. He has over 10 years of experience in tractor repair and small engine repair, and has worked with John Deere, Husqvarna, Toro, Troy Bilt, Cub Cadet and Kubota equipment.

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