The John Deere 5E series offers some of the most powerful and versatile utility tractors. If you like these tractors, the 5055E model can be worth the investment.
This tractor has a 55hp engine that delivers outstanding power to handle residential and agricultural tasks. But like other tractors, the John Deere 5055E has its drawbacks. The most common John Deere 5055E problems are starter, hydraulic, transmission, power reverser, steering, and fuel system issues. Thankfully, there are ways to troubleshoot these issues and get your tractor up and running again.
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John Deere 5055E Starter Problems
A faulty starter is every JD 5055E owner’s worst nightmare. The engine won’t start, and you’ll not get to the field to handle your projects.
Before checking for a problematic starter, ensure you have a functional battery, air filter, and fuel system. Then inspect the starter to ascertain it’s the culprit.
A bad starter might manifest in the following ways:
- Engine failing to turn over
- Unusual “clicking” noise while turning the ignition key
- Smoke or smell while starting
Starter problems in your JD 5055E might occur due to high resistance in the starter circuit, faulty electrical connections, a bad solenoid, or a defective starter.
How to Fix:
If the engine doesn’t turn over, use a voltmeter to check if you have a defective starter circuit, electrical connections, and starter. Tighten any loose wiring connected to the starter and replace the broken ones.
If you notice smoke or smell from the hood as you start the engine, the starter might be faulty due to overheating. Inspect the starter and replace it. You’ll also need to replace the solenoid if you hear a clicking noise while starting.
John Deere 5055E Hydraulic Problems
The John Deere 5055E is prone to hydraulic issues. According to many users, this tractor’s ball check valve can get stuck and affect the raising and lowering of the attachments.
The ball check valve gets stuck due to the accumulation of moisture. This moisture increases pressure in the hydraulic system, causing the fluid to overheat. Over time, extreme heat from the hydraulic fluid might boil the fuel tank.
Other issues that might cause your hydraulic system to act up are:
- Low oil level
- Air seeping into the pump
How to Fix:
Most John Deere 5055E problems resulting from the hydraulic system occur due to poor maintenance. So, always check and maintain the hydraulic system to keep your tractor in good shape. Use the 3-point hitch at least once a week to prevent moisture accumulation in the ball check valve.
If the parts in the hydraulic make annoying noises, check the oil level. A low oil level will cause lubrication problems. Add the recommended oil as required. You can change the oil if it appears thick or old.
Next, inspect the hydraulic pump inlet line to see if air leakage is the cause of degrading oil or overheating issues. Bleed the air from the pump and add fresh hydraulic oil. Then tighten or replace loose or broken components that cause air to sip into the pump.
John Deere 5055E Power Reverser Problems
The power reverser in John Deere 5055E is a manual transmission that allows you to operate the tractor at different forward and reverse speeds. This transmission is reliable but can act up and fail to work over time.
Some JD 5055E owners claim the power reverser doesn’t work when the weather gets cold. This issue occurs when they stop the tractor to unload and then start it to drive forward or reverse. When this problem occurs, the service indicator light might begin flashing, and you might get an error code.
Like most John Deere 5055E transmission problems, the power reverser issue might occur due to the following:
- Frozen transmission fluid
- Faulty relay
- Defective sensors
How to Fix:
If the weather is cold, start the tractor and allow it to warm for a few minutes. This step should help unfreeze the fluid. You can change the transmission fluid if the issue persists.
Then, check for a faulty transmission control relay or electrical connections. Replace the faulty relay and secure any loose connections. If you find bad or broken wiring, replace them.
Next, disconnect the sensors and check for voltage using your multimeter. Without voltage, the sensors might be defective and need replacing.
Transmission Slipping Issues
John Deere 5055E transmission problems don’t end with power reverser issues. Transmission slippage is a common problem that you’ll need to deal with from time to time. However, with regular maintenance, you can avoid the issue.
In most cases, a slipping problem in the transmission occurs due to insufficient lubricant. Below are other causes of transmission slippage problems:
- Blockage in the transmission
- Leaking hoses and lines
How to Fix:
Low lubricant is the primary culprit for slippage in the transmission. So, check the oil level and add more if necessary. Then, check for blockage in the transmission that’s blocking oil flow. Replace a clogged filter and flush a transmission cleaner to remove deposits and residue in the system.
If you notice a leakage in the system, check for worn or damaged hoses and lines. Replace these parts to see if you’ll resolve the leaking issue.
Fuel System Issues
John Deere 5055E problems related to the fuel system can manifest in different ways. The tractor might fail to start, lose power, backfire, or stall.
The following might be to blame if your tractor has fuel system issues:
- Clogged fuel lines
- Leaks in the fuel lines
- Defective injector pump
How to Fix:
Before checking for defective components, ensure the tank has sufficient fuel. You should also ensure you’re using the correct fuel type.
Then, check for leaks in the tank and lines and repair or replace the leaking parts. If you have clogged fuel lines, drain the fuel and clean the lines with a diesel injector cleaner. Replace the dirty/clogged filter and fill the tank with fresh fuel.
If the fuel system issues persist, examine the injector pump and clean it if necessary. You can replace it if it’s defective.
Steering Issues
Steering issues in John Deere 5055E can manifest in two ways. The steering might turn without resistance or become too tight to steer smoothly.
If your tractor’s steering is loose or turns without resistance, the cause might be a low oil level or malfunctioning steering cylinder. On the other hand, issues with the hydraulic connections or steering pump might cause the steering to feel too tight.
How to Fix:
Does your steering turn without resistance and cause difficulties when controlling the tractor? If so, check the oil level and fill the reservoir as required.
If the steering issue persists, examine the steering cylinder to see if it’s defective. Replace the cylinder if necessary.
Check for faulty hydraulic connections or steering pump if the steering is too tight. The steering pump might be clogged and needs cleaning. You can use a power steering cleaner to remove sludge and gum from the pump. Then replace any faulty connections.
Overheating
Overheating issues in your JD 5055E might occur due to poor maintenance. The engine might start to overheat, lose power, and stall. Failure to troubleshoot overheating issues might cause severe damage to fuel lines and the engine.
The JD 5055E will overheat due to the following:
- Issues with the cooling system
- Clogged air filter and radiator fins
- Misadjusted or damaged fan belt
How to Fix:
Check the cooling system and ensure you have sufficient coolant. If not, fill the reservoir to the recommended level. Then check if loose components cause the coolant to leak and secure them.
Next, examine the air filter and radiator fins if the engine overheats after fixing the cooling system. If they’re clogged, clean them to remove any stuck dirt or debris. Replace the filter and fins if they appear damaged.
Lastly, inspect the fan belt and adjust it if necessary. If it’s worn or broken, replace it.
Are John Deere 5055E Problems a Deal Breaker?
Not at all. The JD 5055E is a real workhorse you can use around your property or farm. It’s a durable utility tractor that will last years if well-maintained.
Note that most of these problems can affect any tractor. So, if you understand these issues well, you will diagnose and fix them on time. Then, maintain your JD 5055E regularly to circumvent these problems and keep your tractor running smoothly.
Hello! My name is Chris, and I am the founder of Yard Floor. When I was a toddler, my family had a lush green lawn. I was at the center of caring for and maintaining this lawn and even proceeded to take an associate’s Degree in landscaping. I am here to share my years of experience with you – be it repairing your mower/tractor or caring for your lawn.
