The John Deere 317G is a reliable, compact track loader used in construction sites, industries, and farms. Despite being the company’s smallest tracked skid steer, it offers outstanding performance even in challenging conditions.
With its powerful engine, vertical lift boom, and hydraulic system, this track loader tackles various jobs, including loading, grading, and digging. However, it’s not immune to issues. The most common John Deere 317G problems are starting issues, hydraulic system problems, parking brakes problems, engine issues, and valve issues
If you’re a JD 317G owner, learning more about the problems you might experience with your skid steer is essential. Fortunately, this article discusses potential issues plus effective fixes.
Contents
Starting Problems
Since the John Deere 317G does all the hard work, its parts are susceptible to damage with time. A common problem you’ll experience with this loader is starting issues.
Starting problems can be frustrating, especially when you have an upcoming project. Generally, your track loader will fail to start due to battery, starter motor, ignition switch, or fuel system issues.
Effective fixes:
The first thing you’ll want to check is the battery. An undercharged or defective battery might be the cause. Leave your battery to charge overnight to see if that can solve the problem. If your battery won’t hold a charge, it might be defective and needs replacing.
Still on the battery, you should inspect the terminals for dirt or corrosion. Clean them with water and baking soda if they appear corroded. You can also use battery terminal cleaners to remove all the gunk.
The starter motor is the next component to inspect if the loader won’t start. Turn on the key and listen for a “metallic ticking” noise. If you hear the noise and the engine fails to start, the starter motor is faulty and needs replacement.
If that won’t fix the problem, inspect the ignition switch for signs of wear, damage, or loose connections. To fix the problem, remove all connections and reconnect them. If the ignition switch appears damaged or worn, replace it.
Lastly, inspect the fuel system. For a low fuel level, add fuel and check the filter for clogs. Replace the filter if it has dirt and debris.
Hydraulic System Issues
The JD 317G’s hydraulic system provides the power to lift and push items. Your track loader may operate poorly or fail to work when the hydraulic system malfunctions.
A failing hydraulic system usually presents symptoms such as leaks, weak movements, and strange noises. The primary culprits are:
- A low fluid level
- Wrong hydraulic fluid
- A clogged filter
- Defective seals or hoses
Many John Deere 317G owners have also complained that the hydraulic system often shuts down under heavy loads. This problem starts when lifting heavy objects with the loader arms.
The skid steer’s hydraulic system doesn’t produce any power to raise the loader arms. This issue causes the hydraulic system to shut down suddenly.
If the system shuts down under load, an overfilled hydraulic reservoir might be the culprit. If there’s more fluid than required, there’ll be no space for generating pressure to lift the loader arms. Moreover, clogged filters in the system might also be the cause.
Effective Fixes:
Be cautious when fixing John Deere 317G problems from the hydraulic system. Wear protective gloves to avoid touching hydraulic fluid with bare hands.
Start by checking the level of hydraulic fluid. The dipstick should help you determine if the fluid is low. You can also check the user’s manual for the recommended fluid level. Add fresh fluid if necessary.
If the problem results from the wrong hydraulic fluid, drain it and add the recommended fluid. You’ll also need to replace the fluid if it appears old or contaminated.
Check the fluid filter and replace it if it appears damaged or clogged.
If you have a leaking problem, check the seals and hoses. Loose or damaged seals and hoses can result in hydraulic fluid leaks. Tighten loose fittings and replace the components if damaged.
If the hydraulic system shuts down under load, check the fluid level in the reservoir. Remove the excess fluid to stabilize the system. Replacing clogged fluid filters can also help solve this problem.
Engine Issues
The John Deere 317G might have engine issues after excessive operations. Since the engine is your skid steer’s heart and soul, fix it promptly before it suffers severe damage.
Some common engine problems you might experience include stalling, low power, and overheating.
A clogged air filter or dirty radiator might cause overheating in your track loader. Dirt particles and debris can clog up the filter or radiator and prevent air from cooling the engine.
Address an engine overheating problem because it might deteriorate with continuous use. In some cases, the engine might catch fire and cause severe damage.
Effective Fixes:
Check the fuel filter if your track loader has a stalling or low power problem. Replace the filter if it’s dirty. Then, inspect the fuel line for dirt and debris. Drain the fuel and add high-quality, fresh fuel if necessary.
If the engine is overheating while operating, the problem could be the air filter. A clogged air filter will inhibit airflow into the engine, resulting in overheating issues. An overheated engine provides low power and performs poorly. Clean or replace the filter as necessary.
If the radiator looks dirty, clean it with warm water and a cleaning solution. If mud or any other sticky substance is inside the radiator, use a cleaning product to remove the stubborn particles.
Valve Problems
Valve issues are among the most common John Deere 317G problems. With time, your skid steer might struggle to lift heavy loads or get stuck. When these issues occur, the first thing to check is the valve.
If your JD 317G has valve problems, it might be difficult for the foot pedal to control the valve.
Effective Fixes:
To get started, raise the boom and release the controls. In most cases, this fix might resolve the problem. If it doesn’t, inspect the valve for any blockage. If there is debris, clean it out.
The next thing to check is the bolt on the pivot point. When the bolt is too tight, it causes the track loader’s lineage to fasten. Loosen the bolt and see if you have the issue solved.
Are you still experiencing valve problems? If so, check the lubrication grooves for debris that might cause the control spool to rub against the loader’s control valve housing. If there is any debris, remove it.
If the centering spring doesn’t move freely against the tension, seek advice or help from a professional.
Parking Brakes Problem
Does your John Deere 317G stay in motion despite applying the parking brake? If so, there’s a problem with the parking brake. In most cases, this problem results from a worn or stretched brake.
A faulty parking brake can compromise your safety and anyone around. It’s advisable to address this problem to avoid risking your safety.
Effective Fixes:
Examine the cables to see if they’re loose or broken. If you find any loose cables, disconnect and reconnect them firmly. If there are broken cables, replace them.
If none of the above resolves the parking brakes problem, inspect the parking brakes for signs of aging or damage. A professional mechanic can help you repair or replace the brakes.
Final Thoughts
Like other skid steers, the JD 317G is susceptible to problems due to heavy use for a long period. If you experience the above John Deere 317G problems, follow our instructions to resolve them. You can also seek advice or help from a professional if you can’t fix the issues yourself.
You can prevent some of these problems by maintaining your track loader. Inspect it regularly to spot and address issues before they become severe.
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