Regularly change the oil in your John Deere tractor because it is critical to the life of the engine. It is recommended to change the engine oil after the first eight hours of use, then every 50 hours of use. We suggest performing this task every spring as part of a regular maintenance routine for your John Deere. Here’s how to change the oil in your John Deere tractor.
Before performing any maintenance on your John Deere tractor, refer to your owner’s manual for recommended maintenance and safety information. Maintenance instructions vary by model, so depending on your riding lawn mower model our instructions may vary slightly. Check your owner’s manual to get instructions specific to your model, including information about the recommended oil type.
Begin by parking your mower on a flat, level surface. Turn the engine off and allow it to cool, remove the ignition key, and disconnect the spark plug ignition wire to prevent accidental starting.
Raise the hood on your John Deere tractor and locate the oil drain valve. Place a drain pan under the valve. Remove the drain cap and let the oil drain into the drain pan. Let the oil drain completely and then return the drain cap. Remove the oil dipstick and clean it with a rag.
Close the drain plug and move the drain pan underneath the oil filter. Turn counterclockwise to remove the oil filter. Use a wrench if the filter is too tight to loosen by hand. Drain the oil out of the filter and dispose of it. Use a rag to remove any dirt or old oil from the oil filter area. Place a few drops of clean oil onto the rubber gasket of the new oil filter and then spin the filter onto the engine.
Add new engine oil to your machine. Pour the new oil into the housing without overfilling. Check the oil level. Reinsert the dipstick for five seconds and pull it out again. Check the dipstick. The oil level on the dipstick should be no higher than the full mark. Reinsert the dipstick.
Start your John Deere tractor and let it run for 10 minutes before turning it off again. Check the oil level using the dipstick again. Add more oil if necessary until the oil level reaches the full mark. Reinsert the dipstick and make sure it fits snugly.
Lower the hood on the tractor and remove the drain pan. Properly dispose of the old engine oil.