The John Deere X320 is a popular budget-friendly lawn mower designed for mowing larger plots of land smoothly and efficiently. This model packs many valuable features for which this model enjoys high customer ratings. The X320 is the first lineup of the brand’s X300 series featuring two-wheel steering.
The John Deere brand is well-recognized and a top contender in purchasing lists, and the X320 model is considered safe. We love this model at Igra World and have personally mowed quite a few lawns with this lawn tractor!
However, it doesn’t mean you won’t face any issues with it. Like other mowers, the John Deere X320 can show some problems, especially after over-extended usage and in different conditions.
Remember that this mower doesn’t pack a hydraulic lift system. And although it’s a downside, the good part is that you won’t have to stress about maintaining a complex system. The primary concern about the John Deere X320 is the engine, electrical systems and the battery.
This article will discuss some the 10 most common issues with this lawn mower that customers reported online, what the causes of these problems are, and easy solutions to fix them all. Keep reading below!
1. John Deere X320 Low RPM Problems
The most common factors causing low RPMs and fluctuating RPMs in the John Deere X320 include a broken coil, clogged fuel filter, bad spark plugs, and bad fuel.
Some customers reported facing trouble with low RPM in the X320 model at wide-open throttle (WOT). This is important because might think the engine has become worn out, but it’s not the case usually. You may ask, “Why is my John Deere X320 running at low RPM?” and “Why is engine running like a weaker one and losing power?”
There are some common causes for this low RPM problem that we mentioned above, and repairing the issue to have a functioning tractor even after this problem is not a big deal– you can fix this low RPM issue independently as a DIYer via the steps below:
Solutions for how to fix low RPM problems
Below are the solutions on to increase the RPMs to their normal condition:
First, check the coil. Check if it can produce sufficient heat to combat a weak and hot spark. If not, change the coil, and your problem will be fixed..
If it doesn’t still fix the issue and raise RPMs, try to replace the air cleaner, oil, fuel filter, and greasing. However, while changing the fuel filter, make sure to orient it properly for the best result.
But if the issue persists, seek professional help.
2. John Deere X320 No spark on Both Plugs
The John Deere X320’s engine requires the spark generated by the plug sparks to ignite the fuel and start the engine. One of the most common causes of the X320 model not having spark on the plugs is due to losing the controller module.
This is important because if the plugs don’t work, the engine will also not start. Many users and owners have reported this after a few hundred hours of use.
Solutions for how to fix it No Spark on Both Plugs problems
Below are the solutions on to make sure that both your spark plugs work:
Is your mower’s control module fine? Check it out now! In most cases, the plugs fail to produce spark because of an unresponsive or faulty control module.
One of the most common issues with the X320 model is losing the controller module. So please change our (replace) the controller module to fix the problem.
3. John Deere X320 Engine Overheating
The causes of engine overheating in the John Deere X320 model is typically due to abuse and asking too much of the engine. This is a common issue reported by many owners. Also a blocked air intake due to a dirty filter is another common cause, as well as low oil. Overheating of the engine, and the engine overheating gives rise to various issues.
This is important, because engine overheating can escalate the component wear and tear exponentially, which will cost you more in the long term. So let’s find the possible reasons and fixes to them!
This model runs a 22HP Kawasaki 675cc 2-cyl gasoline, making it ideal for a big workload and uneven terrain. However, you may need to slow down the mowing speed and lighten the load to minimize the strain if it’s overheating–regardless of this powerful engine.
A major reason behind overheating is a blocked air intake screen. The blocked air intake prevents fresh air to enter the engine that is necessary to push out the old, hot air.
Solutions to Fix Engine Overheating Problems
The first step to fixing overheating problems in the X320 is the easiest one–you need to clean the clogged air intake screen to allow the flow of fresh air inside.
Another leading cause of overheating in this model is the fuel type used in your machine. In order to fix this, look at whether the oil level is sufficiently high. If the oil level is low, more friction will be produced, and eventually, more heat will be generated.
Next, check the oil viscosity. If the oil is too old and in freezing temperature, the oil quality deteriorates and affects viscosity.
4. John Deere X320 Transmission Malfunctioning
The transmission on the X320 may stop functioning after working for 700 to 900 hours. These transmission problems are almost always caused by simple wear and tear. However, a transmission oil change may temporarily alleviate the problem.
Many users are likely to experience transmission issues sooner or later.. Not surprisingly, it’s a common scenario with the transmission. This is not a fun thing, but it’s important to know that the quick solution at the end of the day is fixing or replacing the transmission.
Solutions to Fix malfunctioning transmissions
John Deere X320 packs the Tuff-Torq K58 transmission that can operate for 900 hours. Thus, it’s not unlikely to see your mower not working after 900 hours of mowing.
So what you can do is try employing the 5W50 synthetic transmission oil. If the problem persists, you may need to replace the transmission.
5. John Deere X320 Carburetor Problems
Common causes of carburetor problems in the John Deere X320 arise from problems include being unable to control power, lack of power, and the engine not starting. This is important because the carburetor is an important part of a machine’s engine system and your engine will not work right if this isn’t addresses.
Carburetors help control air burn and fuel (diesel or gasoline) within the engine. It gives a machine the power it requires to operate. They control the air and fuel flow through the throttle.
You can detect if there is any issue with the carburetor in your machine in one simple way:
The engine will seek power at higher speeds or when in idle mode.
Solutions to Fix carb problems
You can do the below items, in order, to fix your X320 carburetor.
Look for any oil leakage in the carburetor – it can be the main issue. Fix and seal immediately if there is any leakage.
Then, check the main adjustment screws. Replace the damaged or cracked screws. Or, you may just need to make a slight adjustment and tightening.
Next, check for the control cable and adjust it to ensure it has full carburetor control. That should entail most fixes!
6. John Deere X320 Engine Not Working Due to Clogged Carburetor
Carburetors getting clogged in the John Deere X320 is typically caused by varnish from ethanol-based fuels. This will eventually prevent the engine from functioning properly. This is important because air and gasoline need to stick together for many reason involving combustion.
So let’s find out how to clean and adjust the carburetor.
Solutions to Fix clogged carburetors
In order to begin this repair, remove every non-metallic part for cleaning the carburetor on your X320 tractor. You can then remove all other detachable parts using a small brush. Now take a carburetor cleaning spray to clean the parts in order to remove the ethanol varnish. Then leave it to sit on the carburetor for a few minutes.
After this, look for any varnish and carbon deposits and clean them off. Finally, change the fuel filter and put all the parts back together in the carburetor and engine.
7. John Deere X320 Steering isn’t Properly Working
Minor steering issues on your John Deere X320, like the calibration, is off can be caused by worn out steering components or loose bolts. This is important to fix because steering is essential for your lawn tractor as it helps you control your movements. So you should fix any issues with the steering before driving the X320 again.
These problems are usually easily solved. If the steering system wears out completely due to not doing these recommendations, it can be expensive to replace.
Solutions to Fix steering now working properly
In order to fix steering not working properly on the X320, avoid taking sharp turns or making turns at higher speeds. If you can’t avoid it, at least ensure enough space around your mower to prevent one from getting hurt.
If that doesn’t solve your problems, you may want to check that your steering wheel nut is tight. If so, the steering system and tie-rods will need to be checked and any loose steering components replaced.
8. John Deere X320 Fuel Pump Malfunctioning
The fuel pump on your John Deere X320 usually malfunctions due to a lack of maintenance or troubleshooting.
Those who aren’t well-versed in taking care of a mower can at least try to replace spark plugs, clean the fuel filters and fuel. It’s one of the most important things all owners can do.
Solutions to Fix a malfunctioning fuel pump
In order to fix the fuel pump, look for the spark plug and change it if needed. Also, note that the engine will run poorly or not start due to a dirty filter. So check whether the air filter is clogged. If it is, clean it to remove clogging.
Also, clean the air filter if it’s filthy. For example, a mower may not start due to a dirty fuel filter. However, cleaning a clogged oil filter is necessary as it can wear out the engine quickly, costing a lot to replace or fix.
The machine won’t function properly if the air filter isn’t operating properly. Change the air filter if required. After that, check your gas tank to ensure it contains gas.
It’s even possible that the battery is dead. It’s recommended to replace three years old batteries with a new set. Another possibility is that the fuel valve is closed or open. In that case, try to move the valve up and down manually and see if the problem is solved. Otherwise, fix the valve or replace it.
9. PTO Not Engaging
The PTO switch or clutch is not engaging on the John Deere X320 typically is caused by disconnected wiring. This is important because without the PTO the mower’s blades will not work without the necessary power. PTO stands for the Power Take-Off lever or switch.
Eventually, the clutch won’t be fast to engage. So how to fix it? Find it out below!
Solutions to Fix PTOs that aren’t working
For fixing the PTO clutch issue in a John Deere X320, look into the connecting wires. If the problem is in the wire, replace and reattach the wiring.
In case you see no apparent wiring issues, you may need to change the clutch.
10. The Mower is not Starting
Don’t worry if your John Deere X320 mower is not starting. It could be cause by several things For instance, the filters are clogged and dirty, or the spark plug isn’t well-tightened. On the other hand, a dead battery is also responsible for power issues. And without the necessary power, a mower won’t start.
Solutions to Fix it
To fix this problem of your X320 not starting, you have to detect where the issue is and change the fuel filters, battery, or spark plugs accordingly. Then, you can even charge the battery.
Final Thoughts
The John Deere X320 is a versatile mower packed with several valuable features. But like any other machine, the X320 can also malfunction, and you may face the issues mentioned above. The most common ones include the engine not starting and the transmission slipping.
The issues are annoying, but most of them are easy to fix. This article has discussed most of the possible X320 issues and easy solutions to fix them. If the problem persists, you can always avail yourself of professional help. You can get your sturdy machine back on track quickly and enjoy mowing!
FAQs
This engine-powered garden and lawn tractor is powered by a four-stroke gasoline engine, promising a 44.3 cubic-inch displacement. The engine can render 25 horsepower at 3,600 rpm.
Moreover, thanks to its hydrostatic transmission, you can maneuver the mower in all directions at any speed.
Hydrostatic transmissions consist of mechanical parts like a drive and differential axle and metal or rubber hoses through which the fluid passes. However, a broken hose, clogged filter, or failure of any mechanical part will give rise to hydrostatic transmission issues in your mower.
The key advantage of hydrostatic transmission is high efficiency and compactness. And their main downside is high cost, especially where it uses high-efficiency units.
