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Deere 850B: Troubleshooting and Maintenance Tips
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The Deere 850B is a popular crawler dozer that is widely used in construction, mining, and other heavy-duty applications. Known for its power, durability, and versatility, the 850B is an essential machine in many industries. However, like any piece of heavy equipment, it requires regular maintenance and troubleshooting to ensure it continues operating at peak performance. This article covers common issues, troubleshooting steps, and maintenance tips to keep your Deere 850B in top condition.
Overview of the Deere 850B Crawler Dozer
The Deere 850B crawler dozer is part of John Deere's B-series of dozers, and it is known for its powerful engine, durable undercarriage, and strong hydraulics. The 850B is used for a variety of tasks, including earthmoving, grading, and site preparation. It is equipped with a diesel engine, a hydraulic system, and a range of attachments that make it versatile in various work environments.
Key Features and Specifications
  1. Engine
    • The Deere 850B is powered by a John Deere 6-cylinder, turbocharged diesel engine. It delivers a reliable power output for demanding tasks, providing high torque and fuel efficiency.
    • Engine Power: Around 160 horsepower.
    • Emissions Compliance: Complies with relevant emissions standards depending on the model year.
  2. Hydraulic System
    • The hydraulic system of the 850B is designed to provide smooth and powerful operation of the blade, ripper, and other attachments.
    • Hydraulic Flow Rate: Approximately 25-35 gpm, depending on the specific model.
    • Hydraulic Pressure: Designed to handle high-pressure tasks with ease.
  3. Undercarriage
    • The 850B features a rugged undercarriage designed for excellent stability and traction, especially when working in rough or muddy conditions.
    • It uses a high-strength track system, and regular track tensioning is essential to avoid premature wear.
  4. Operator Comfort
    • The operator’s cabin in the 850B is designed for comfort with good visibility, ergonomic controls, and easy access to essential maintenance points. The cabin also features a sealed design to minimize dust and noise exposure.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting Tips for the Deere 850B
While the Deere 850B is a reliable dozer, it can experience a few common issues related to the engine, hydraulics, and undercarriage. Here's how to troubleshoot and address these issues.
  1. Engine Performance Issues
    • Symptoms:
      • Difficulty starting the engine, rough idling, or stalling.
      • Decreased power output or engine misfires.
      • Excessive smoke from the exhaust.
    • Possible Causes:
      • Fuel System Problems: Blockages or issues in the fuel filter or injectors can restrict fuel flow and cause performance issues.
      • Air Intake Blockages: If the air filter is clogged, the engine won’t receive enough air, leading to poor combustion.
      • Timing or Compression Issues: Incorrect timing or low compression can cause rough idling and loss of power.
    • Troubleshooting Steps:
      • Check and replace the fuel filter if necessary.
      • Inspect and clean the air filter regularly to ensure proper airflow.
      • Perform a compression test to check the engine’s internal condition.
      • Inspect the fuel injectors for wear or blockages.
  2. Hydraulic System Failures
    • Symptoms:
      • Slow or unresponsive operation of the blade or other hydraulic attachments.
      • Loss of hydraulic power.
      • Leaks around hoses or hydraulic components.
    • Possible Causes:
      • Low Hydraulic Fluid Levels: Insufficient fluid can lead to poor hydraulic performance.
      • Hydraulic Pump Failure: If the pump is malfunctioning, it can affect the overall system pressure and flow.
      • Clogged Filters or Hoses: Dirty filters or blocked hydraulic lines can restrict fluid flow and cause inefficiency.
    • Troubleshooting Steps:
      • Check the hydraulic fluid levels and top them off if necessary. Ensure the fluid is clean and at the proper level.
      • Inspect hydraulic filters and replace them if they are clogged or damaged.
      • Check for leaks in hydraulic hoses or connections.
      • Test the hydraulic pump to ensure it is functioning correctly. Replace it if necessary.
  3. Undercarriage Wear and Tear
    • Symptoms:
      • Uneven track wear or a loose track.
      • Difficulty in maneuvering or loss of traction.
      • Visible damage to the undercarriage components (e.g., rollers, sprockets).
    • Possible Causes:
      • Improper Track Tension: Over-tightened or under-tightened tracks can cause uneven wear or damage to the undercarriage.
      • Excessive Track Wear: Regular use, especially in harsh conditions, can lead to excessive wear on the tracks.
      • Undercarriage Misalignment: Misaligned components can cause stress on the tracks and other undercarriage parts.
    • Troubleshooting Steps:
      • Regularly check and adjust track tension according to the manufacturer’s specifications.
      • Inspect the tracks and undercarriage for signs of wear and replace any worn parts.
      • Clean the undercarriage after use to remove debris and prevent damage.
      • Perform periodic alignment checks to ensure the tracks are properly aligned.
  4. Electrical System Issues
    • Symptoms:
      • Failure of lights, warning indicators, or control systems.
      • The dozer not starting or having intermittent electrical issues.
      • Blown fuses or corroded connections.
    • Possible Causes:
      • Battery Problems: A weak or discharged battery can lead to starting issues or electrical failures.
      • Faulty Wiring or Connections: Corroded or loose connections can cause intermittent electrical problems.
      • Blown Fuses or Relays: If fuses or relays blow, the electrical system may malfunction.
    • Troubleshooting Steps:
      • Check the battery voltage and connections. Clean the terminals if they are corroded and replace the battery if necessary.
      • Inspect the wiring for signs of wear or damage. Repair or replace any faulty wiring.
      • Check fuses and relays, replacing any that are blown.
Preventive Maintenance for the Deere 850B
  1. Regular Fluid Checks
    • Regularly inspect and change engine oil, hydraulic fluid, and coolant. Keeping fluids at the correct levels and replacing them on time ensures the engine and hydraulic systems operate efficiently.
  2. Track and Undercarriage Maintenance
    • Inspect the tracks, rollers, and sprockets for wear and tear. Clean the undercarriage regularly to prevent buildup of dirt, mud, or debris, which can cause excessive wear.
  3. Air and Fuel Filters
    • Replace air and fuel filters regularly to ensure clean airflow to the engine and proper fuel delivery. Clogged filters can lead to poor engine performance and reduced fuel efficiency.
  4. Keep the Cabin Clean and Sealed
    • Regularly clean the cabin to prevent dust and debris from building up, especially around the air conditioning and heating systems. Ensure all seals are intact to prevent the entry of dust or moisture.
Real-World Example: Deere 850B on a Construction Site
On a large construction site in the Midwest, a fleet of Deere 850B dozers was being used for earthmoving and grading operations. One of the machines started showing signs of slow operation and uneven track wear. The maintenance team quickly noticed that the undercarriage had been misaligned due to a recent track replacement, which caused uneven wear and poor traction.
After realigning the undercarriage and replacing some worn parts, the dozer was back to its optimal performance, and the operator could resume work without any issues. This quick response helped the company avoid further downtime and ensured the machine continued to operate efficiently.
Conclusion
The Deere 850B is a powerful and reliable dozer used in many demanding industries. Regular maintenance, proper troubleshooting, and attention to common issues can ensure that this machine operates at peak performance. By following the recommended maintenance practices and addressing issues promptly, operators can maximize the lifespan and efficiency of their Deere 850B dozer. Whether you’re working on a construction site or in a mining operation, keeping your machine in top shape ensures that you can meet deadlines and tackle tough tasks with confidence.
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