Mercedes Mullins
Water in the fuel tank of a John Deere tractor or lawn mower is a common issue. This can be caused by contaminated fuel, flooding, or issues with the carburetor. Water can also enter the fuel tank through the fuel cap or around the fuel line grommet on top of the tank. To resolve this issue, it is recommended to drain the fuel tank, replace the fuel filter, and refill with fresh fuel. Some products can also be used to detect water in the fuel tank, such as Water Thief or Mechanic in a Bottle. Additionally, it is important to check for any blockages or clogs in the fuel line and to ensure that the fuel pump is functioning properly.
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What You'll Learn
Draining the fuel tank and refilling with fresh fuel
Water can enter your fuel tank through the fuel cap or around the fuel line grommet on top of the tank. To remove it, you will need to drain the tank and refill it with fresh fuel.
The first step in draining the fuel tank is to remove the gas line from the carburetor. Next, drain the gas tank completely into a can. This will be faster with the gas cap off. Then, take the bowl of the carburetor off and drain it completely.
If your unit has a fuel pump, you will need to empty it by cranking the motor over a few times. This will also dry out the cylinder and push any water out through the spark plug hole.
You can then pour a couple of cups of fresh gas through the gas line, letting it drain into the can. Replace the fuel filter with a new one. Take the spark plug out and spray some WD-40 into the spark plug hole.
Finally, hook the bowl back up, ensuring the needle is in the right valve place, and pour the contents of the bottle into the now empty and dry gas tank.
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Using a water-detecting paste
Water in the fuel tank of a John Deere tractor or lawn mower can cause significant problems. One of the most common ways water gets into the fuel tank is through the fuel cap or around the fuel line grommet on top of the tank. To detect water in your fuel line, you can use a water-detecting paste.
Water-detecting pastes, such as Gasoila, McCabe H2O Plus+ Water Level Indicator Paste, or Kolor Kut, are designed to detect the presence of water in fuel tanks. These pastes change colour when they come into contact with water, making it easy to determine if there is water in your fuel tank. The pastes are usually yellow or green in colour and turn red when they react with water.
To use a water-detecting paste, start by cleaning the gauge line or dipstick that you will be using. Apply a small amount of the paste to the gauge line or dipstick and lower it into the fuel or oil tank. Wait a few seconds for the paste to react. If the paste changes colour, this indicates the presence of water in the tank.
Water-detecting pastes are simple to use and can be applied by anyone without special training or equipment. They are also versatile and can be used in various applications, including fuel storage tanks and fuel maintenance setups. These pastes are reliable and accurate in detecting water, even in extreme temperatures and challenging conditions.
In addition to using a water-detecting paste, there are other steps you can take to address water in your John Deere fuel line. These include draining the fuel tank, replacing the fuel filter, and refilling the tank with fresh fuel or diesel. It is also recommended to run an additive, such as Opti-Lube XPD, to help remove water from the fuel system.
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Cleaning the carburetor, gas line and gas tank
Water in the fuel tank of a John Deere tractor or lawnmower can be a serious issue. It can cause the engine to stop working, as seen in the case of a John Deere tractor that stopped working after the wife of a user filled the gas tank with contaminated gas during a flood.
To clean the carburetor, gas line, and gas tank of a John Deere tractor or lawnmower, follow these steps:
Step 1: Prepare the Machine
Before starting any work on the carburetor, ensure that no gas can be spilled by closing the fuel valve. If your machine does not have a fuel valve or if it is not functioning, you must empty the gas tank. Even with the fuel valve closed, some fuel may still spill, so be prepared for this.
Step 2: Remove the Carburetor
Detach the carburetor's fuel line. If your machine has a throttle and choke cable, remove it carefully. Next, remove the hardware attaching the carburetor to the air filter housing.
Step 3: Clean the Carburetor
- Slowly remove the springs, being careful not to stretch or damage them.
- Clean around the outside of the carburetor bowl and then remove the screw from the bottom of the bowl. Have a rag ready to catch any remaining gas.
- When removing the bowl, be cautious not to damage the o-ring that sits between the bowl and the carburetor.
- Use a flashlight to inspect the stem of the carburetor for any clogs. Clean the holes with a thick wire if necessary.
- Check for any white, crusty buildup on the carburetor and its parts. This buildup is caused by fuel additives, including ethanol, and can be removed with carburetor cleaner. It is challenging to remove all deposits, so focus on getting as much off as possible.
- Reattach the carburetor components, including the springs, filter housing, throttle, and choke cables (if applicable), and the fuel line.
Step 4: Clean the Gas Line and Gas Tank
- Drain the gas tank completely into a can. This will be faster if you remove the gas cap.
- Use a product like Mechanic in a Bottle to clean the gas line and gas tank. Follow the instructions on the product, and consider chasing it with a couple of cups of fresh gas.
- If your machine has a fuel pump, you will need to empty it by cranking the motor over a few times.
- Refill the gas tank with fresh, high-octane gasoline.
Step 5: Restart the Machine
Once the carburetor, gas line, and gas tank have been cleaned and reassembled, attempt to restart the machine. If it still does not function properly, you may need to seek professional help or consider replacing the carburetor.
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Using Opti-Lube XPD to remove water from diesel
Water can enter your John Deere fuel line in several ways, including through the fuel cap or around the fuel line grommet on top of the tank. This can cause issues with your tractor's performance and engine. To resolve this, it is recommended to drain the fuel tank, replace the fuel filter, and refill it with fresh diesel.
One effective way to remove water from diesel fuel and prevent future issues is by using Opti-Lube XPD. Opti-Lube XPD is a diesel fuel additive designed to improve the performance and longevity of diesel engines. Here are some key benefits and instructions for using Opti-Lube XPD to remove water from your diesel fuel:
Benefits of Opti-Lube XPD:
- Water separation: Opti-Lube XPD acts as a demulsifier, effectively separating water from diesel fuel. This prevents the formation of large, filter-plugging crystals and helps to ensure the proper functioning of your engine.
- Lubrication: This product increases the lubricity properties of ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD), reducing friction and wear on engine components. It also provides excellent lubrication for the fuel system, including fuel pumps and injectors.
- Injector cleaning: Opti-Lube XPD cleans injectors, removing residue buildup and helping to prevent future accumulation. This results in improved engine performance and reduced emissions, making it compatible with all vehicle emissions systems.
- Anti-gel properties: The additive contains an anti-gel component that keeps your fuel flowing smoothly, even in cold temperatures down to -10° F. This prevents wax crystallization and ensures proper fuel mixing.
- Enhanced fuel economy: By improving fuel injectors and increasing lubricity, Opti-Lube XPD enhances fuel mileage and power, providing greater fuel economy for both summer and winter driving.
Instructions for Use:
- Opti-Lube XPD is typically sold in one-gallon containers, which can treat up to 512 gallons of diesel fuel.
- For proper mixing, it is recommended to add Opti-Lube XPD at the pump while fueling. Ensure that the diesel fuel is not too cold and has not reached its cloud point to allow for effective mixing and anti-gel properties.
- Refer to the Opti-Lube XPD product instructions for specific dosage guidelines and safety information before use.
By following these instructions and using Opti-Lube XPD, you can effectively remove water from your diesel fuel, improve engine performance, and prevent future issues caused by water contamination in your John Deere tractor's fuel system.
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Replacing the fuel pump
Water in the fuel tank of a John Deere tractor or lawnmower can be caused by contaminated fuel, or water ingress through the fuel cap or a damaged fuel line grommet. To resolve this issue, the carburetor, gas line, and gas tank should be cleaned, and the fuel tank should be drained and refilled with fresh fuel.
If you need to replace the fuel pump on your John Deere equipment, here is a step-by-step guide:
Firstly, locate the fuel pump. On John Deere riders, the fuel pump is vacuum-operated and located on the engine. Disconnect the fuel line after the filter to check if fuel can flow into the filter. If it doesn't, you may need to raise the rear end with a jack to allow gravity to assist.
Next, remove the fuel suction tube from the tank and perform a vacuum test on it and the lines up to the fuel pump. This will help identify any leaks that may be causing issues. Put your finger over one end of the tube and suck on the hose to check for any vacuum leaks.
If you determine that the fuel pump needs to be replaced, start by disconnecting the fuel line and any electrical connections leading to the pump. Be sure to label or mark the lines to ensure proper reconnection during installation. Once the old pump is removed, install the new fuel pump, ensuring it is securely mounted and connected to the fuel lines and electrical system.
After installation, check for any leaks around the connections and ensure that the fuel lines are secure. Finally, refill the fuel tank with fresh fuel and start the engine to test the new fuel pump. If your equipment has two fuel filters, remember to drain and refill them or replace them entirely, as recommended by Deere.
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Frequently asked questions
Water may have entered your fuel line through the fuel cap or around the fuel line grommet on top of the tank.
You can use a product called "Water Thief" or "Mechanic in a Bottle" to detect the presence of water. Alternatively, you can check the bowl on the carb of your tractor to see if there is water in it.
You should drain the fuel tank and refill it with fresh fuel. You should also replace the fuel filter. If you have a newer machine, there may be a water-sensing circuit that will kill the motor before the water gets into the engine.
You should regularly drain and refill the fuel filter, especially if your tractor has two fuel filters, and one is a water separator. Deere recommends doing this every 10 hours of runtime. You can also add a small amount of alcohol to the fuel tank during the winter months to prevent the fuel from freezing.
