John Deere 850B Stopped Dead in Its Tracks: Troubleshooting and Solutions

[MikePhua]

Introduction
The John Deere 850B is a reliable and rugged compact track loader, often used for a variety of tasks. However, like any piece of machinery, it can encounter issues that bring it to a halt unexpectedly. One such issue reported by an operator was the machine "stopping dead in its tracks," which left the operator puzzled about what went wrong. In this article, we will explore possible causes for this problem and discuss troubleshooting methods and potential solutions.
Possible Causes for the Machine Stopping Dead
Several factors could cause a John Deere 850B to suddenly stop functioning, especially when operating in the field. Some of the most common causes include:

1. Hydraulic System Failures
   • The hydraulic system is responsible for powering various machine functions, including lifting, steering, and movement. If there's a hydraulic failure, the machine could stop moving altogether.
     
   • Possible hydraulic issues include low fluid levels, a clogged filter, or a malfunctioning hydraulic pump.
     
2. Fuel System Problems
   • A blocked fuel filter or a clogged fuel line can prevent proper fuel flow to the engine, causing the machine to stall. Fuel pump failure or issues with the fuel injectors could also be a contributing factor.
     
   • Air in the fuel system can also lead to engine failure, as the engine will not receive the correct fuel mixture.
     
3. Electrical Problems
   • A malfunctioning electrical system can cause the machine to lose power unexpectedly. This could involve issues with the battery, alternator, or electrical connections.
     
   • Faulty wiring or blown fuses can interrupt the machine’s ability to start or continue running.
     
4. Transmission Issues
   • Transmission problems, such as low fluid levels or a failing transmission pump, can prevent the machine from moving. A stuck gear or issues with the transmission's internal components can also cause the loader to "freeze" in place.
     
5. Engine Problems
   • The engine itself could be the root cause of the machine stopping suddenly. Common engine problems include overheating, fuel starvation, or issues with the ignition system. A lack of power or stalling can happen when the engine isn't receiving enough fuel, air, or spark to keep running.
     

Troubleshooting Steps
When your John Deere 850B stops dead in its tracks, it’s crucial to systematically troubleshoot the problem to find the root cause. Here are some steps to help you diagnose and fix the issue:

1. Check the Fuel System
   • Inspect the fuel filter and fuel lines for clogs or restrictions. Replace the fuel filter if necessary.
     
   • Check the fuel tank for adequate fuel levels and ensure that the fuel is free from contaminants.
     
   • Bleed the fuel system to remove any trapped air, which can prevent fuel from reaching the engine.
     
2. Inspect the Hydraulic System
   • Check the hydraulic fluid level and ensure that it is within the recommended range. Low fluid levels can cause the loader to stop functioning.
     
   • Examine the hydraulic filters and hoses for blockages, leaks, or signs of wear.
     
   • If the hydraulic pump is malfunctioning, it may need to be replaced.
     
3. Test the Electrical System
   • Inspect the battery and connections for corrosion or loose terminals. A weak or dead battery can cause the loader to stop.
     
   • Check the fuses and circuit breakers to ensure that there are no blown fuses or tripped breakers.
     
   • Test the alternator to ensure that the electrical system is charging the battery properly.
     
4. Check the Transmission Fluid
   • Inspect the transmission fluid level and quality. Low or dirty fluid can cause the transmission to malfunction, preventing the loader from moving.
     
   • Look for signs of transmission leaks and address them accordingly.
     
   • If the transmission is stuck in a particular gear, the issue may involve the transmission control valve or internal components.
     
5. Examine the Engine
   • Ensure that the engine is receiving enough air for combustion. Check the air filter and clean or replace it if clogged.
     
   • Look for signs of overheating, such as steam or a hot engine temperature gauge. If the engine is overheating, check the coolant levels and radiator.
     
   • Test the ignition system to ensure the spark plugs are firing correctly.
     

Common Solutions
Once you’ve identified the cause of the issue, the next step is to implement the right solution. Here are some common fixes based on the potential problems discussed:

1. Replace Fuel Filters: If the fuel system is clogged, replacing the fuel filter and ensuring the fuel lines are clear can resolve the problem.
   
2. Add or Replace Hydraulic Fluid: Top up the hydraulic fluid to the recommended level, and replace any faulty filters. If there’s a hydraulic leak, repair or replace the damaged parts.
   
3. Recharge or Replace the Battery: If the battery is dead or weak, recharge it or replace it with a new one. Check for any corrosion on the battery terminals and clean them if necessary.
   
4. Replace Blown Fuses: If any fuses are blown, replace them with the correct amperage rating.
   
5. Fix Transmission Leaks: If there’s a transmission leak, locate the source and repair or replace the faulty component. Ensure the transmission fluid is at the correct level.
   
6. Service the Engine: If the engine isn’t running properly, check the air filter, fuel injectors, and spark plugs. If the engine is overheating, flush the radiator and replace the coolant.
   

Conclusion
If your John Deere 850B suddenly stops dead in its tracks, the cause could be related to the fuel system, hydraulic issues, electrical malfunctions, transmission problems, or engine failures. By following a systematic troubleshooting process, you can identify the root cause and take the necessary steps to get your machine back up and running. Regular maintenance, such as checking fluid levels, replacing filters, and inspecting electrical connections, can help prevent such issues from occurring in the future.