Thread Rating:
  • 0 Vote(s) - 0 Average
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
Troubleshooting Intermittent Blade Function Issues on John Deere 700J Dozers
#1
The John Deere 700J is a reliable dozer model widely used in earthmoving and construction projects. However, operators sometimes face intermittent problems with blade functions, causing the blade controls to stop working sporadically. Understanding the causes, diagnosing the problem, and applying proper solutions are essential to minimize downtime and maintain productivity.
Common Symptoms of Intermittent Blade Function Failure
  • Sudden loss of blade lift, tilt, or angle control.
  • Blade functions working normally one moment and then becoming unresponsive.
  • Controls occasionally feel “dead” or sluggish.
  • Warning lights or error codes may appear on the operator’s display.
  • No noticeable fluid leaks or mechanical damage visible externally.
Potential Causes
  • Electrical Issues
    • Loose, corroded, or damaged wiring harnesses and connectors affecting control signals.
    • Faulty switches or joystick controls within the cab.
    • Problems in the Electronic Control Module (ECM) or related sensors.
  • Hydraulic System Problems
    • Intermittent faults in hydraulic valves controlling the blade cylinders.
    • Air trapped in hydraulic lines causing inconsistent pressure.
    • Wear or contamination in spool valves affecting responsiveness.
  • Mechanical Components
    • Binding or sticking in blade cylinders or linkages.
    • Excessive wear causing erratic movement or failure to respond.
Diagnostic Steps
  • Conduct a thorough visual inspection of wiring and connectors for signs of damage or corrosion.
  • Use diagnostic tools to check for error codes in the ECM.
  • Test control switches and joystick inputs for consistent signal transmission.
  • Inspect hydraulic fluid condition and check for air in the system.
  • Examine blade cylinders and linkage for mechanical binding or wear.
Repair and Maintenance Recommendations
  • Repair or replace damaged electrical connectors and wiring.
  • Clean and lubricate control linkages and joystick mechanisms.
  • Bleed hydraulic lines to remove air pockets.
  • Service hydraulic valves, replacing seals or worn components as needed.
  • Replace faulty control switches or ECM modules if diagnostics confirm.
Terminology Explanation
  • Electronic Control Module (ECM): The computer that manages and monitors the machine’s electronic systems.
  • Spool Valve: A valve that controls hydraulic fluid flow direction to actuators like cylinders.
  • Bleeding Hydraulic Lines: Removing trapped air to maintain hydraulic pressure and function.
  • Joystick Controls: The operator’s input devices used to control blade movement.
Case Example
An operator reported the 700J blade functions would intermittently stop responding during grading work. After inspection, technicians found a corroded connector at the joystick harness causing a brief loss of electrical contact. Once the connector was cleaned and secured, the blade controls returned to consistent operation. This case illustrates the importance of electrical system maintenance.
Best Practices to Prevent Intermittent Issues
  • Schedule regular inspections of electrical wiring and connectors.
  • Keep hydraulic fluid clean and within recommended levels.
  • Train operators to recognize early signs of control issues.
  • Implement preventive maintenance programs focusing on control system health.
Industry Trends
Modern dozers increasingly rely on electronic controls, making electrical system health critical. Predictive maintenance tools and onboard diagnostics are becoming standard, helping operators address intermittent problems before they escalate.
Conclusion
Intermittent blade function issues on the John Deere 700J can stem from electrical, hydraulic, or mechanical causes. Careful diagnosis combined with routine maintenance ensures these problems are resolved quickly, minimizing operational disruptions. Staying proactive with inspections and repairs preserves dozer performance and extends equipment lifespan.
Reply


Possibly Related Threads…
Thread Author Replies Views Last Post
  Troubleshooting JCB 930 Freelift Mast Issues: A Comprehensive Guide MikePhua 0 11 8 hours ago
Last Post: MikePhua
  Troubleshooting a JCB 1CX with Peugeot Engine: Cranks and Fires but Won’t Run MikePhua 0 19 9 hours ago
Last Post: MikePhua
  Resolving Tracking Issues in Excavators: A Case Study of the CX135 MikePhua 0 19 9 hours ago
Last Post: MikePhua
  Charge Pressure Issues in Bobcat S570: Causes, Diagnosis, and Solutions MikePhua 0 19 9 hours ago
Last Post: MikePhua
  Troubleshooting Genie Z45/22 Platform Leveling Issues MikePhua 0 21 10 hours ago
Last Post: MikePhua
  Troubleshooting Seat Safety Switch Issues on the John Deere CT332 MikePhua 0 21 11 hours ago
Last Post: MikePhua
  Diagnosing and Addressing Smoke Issues on the Komatsu D37EX-21A Bulldozer MikePhua 0 21 11 hours ago
Last Post: MikePhua
  Troubleshooting and Repairing the Transmission of the Case 821 Payloader MikePhua 0 21 11 hours ago
Last Post: MikePhua
  Troubleshooting the Clutch Disconnect Circuit on the John Deere 580C Backhoe Loader MikePhua 0 5 11 hours ago
Last Post: MikePhua
  Troubleshooting Fuel Restriction Issues on the CAT D5N: Causes and Solutions MikePhua 0 21 11 hours ago
Last Post: MikePhua
  Troubleshooting Inoperative Control Handles on a John Deere 450D LC: Electrical Locks MikePhua 0 4 11 hours ago
Last Post: MikePhua
  Troubleshooting Control Function Issues on the Takeuchi TL26 Skid Steer MikePhua 0 23 11 hours ago
Last Post: MikePhua
  Diagnosing Electrical and Hydraulic Issues in the 1998 JLG 40H: A Practical Guide to Boom Lift Revival MikePhua 0 7 11 hours ago
Last Post: MikePhua
  Troubleshooting Issues with Link-Belt 330LX: A Comprehensive Guide MikePhua 0 7 11 hours ago
Last Post: MikePhua
  Troubleshooting and Solutions for Kobelco SK250 LC Bogging Down MikePhua 0 9 Yesterday, 10:01 PM
Last Post: MikePhua

Forum Jump:


Users browsing this thread: 1 Guest(s)