Fine‑Tuning the Return‑to‑Dig Feature on the John Deere 310SK

[MikePhua]

Understanding the Return‑to‑Dig Mechanism
The return‑to‑dig function is a thoughtful feature designed to ease repetitive loader work. After dumping a load, the bucket automatically rolls back to a dig-ready angle when the boom is lowered—saving the operator from manual corrections. This feature relies on precise mechanical and electrical interplay: a switch (often a rotating sensor) mounted near the bucket linkage, a cam ring for actuation, and sometimes a solenoid to hold the lever position until a certain bucket orientation is reached.
Key Adjustment Points
To correct a return‑to‑dig that leaves the bucket too high—say, 2 inches too elevated in front—the following elements can be adjusted:

• Position of the switch or sensor bracket
  • Typically located on the right side of the loader boom’s mounting point.
    
  • The bracket has a slot, allowing you to loosen and shift its position using an 18 mm wrench.
    
  • Adjust until the bucket levels correctly as intended. This fine‑tuning sets the precise moment when the bucket stops rolling back and begins to level.
    
• Cam ring alignment
  • This cam surface dictates when the switch is activated during bucket motion. Proper adjustment ensures the bucket halts rolling exactly when flat.
    

Terminology Glossary

• Return‑to‑Dig (RTD) – A loader function that automatically re‑rolls the bucket to a digging angle after dumping.
  
• Switch / Sensor – Electrical component that detects the bucket’s position.
  
• Cam Ring – A curved surface that the switch contacts to trigger bucket leveling.
  
• Bracket Slot Adjustment – The method of slightly repositioning the sensor using its slotted mounting point.
  
• Solenoid (if equipped) – Holds the loader lever in place until the bucket actually returns to level.
  

Step‑by‑Step Adjustment Checklist
Here’s a straightforward guide to getting the bucket to sit level:

1. Raise the loader boom a few feet for clearance.
   
2. Dump the bucket forward, mimicking a load release.
   
3. Pull the loader control lever to the "return‑to‑dig" position—the lever may lock in place if the solenoid is functional.
   
4. Observe where the bucket stops rolling back:
   • If it's too high in front, proceed to adjust.
     
5. On the right side of the boom near the bucket linkage, locate the switch bracket.
   
6. Use an 18 mm wrench to loosen the bracket and shift it slightly to change actuation timing.
   
7. Retighten the bracket.
   
8. Test again by repeating steps 1–4.
   
9. Repeat adjustments until the bucket rolls perfectly level at boom‑down position.
   

Real‑World Anecdote
A machine operator named Sam discovered his returned bucket sat about 2 inches above the ground—just enough to make grading tasks frustrating. After a quick inspection, he found the sensor bracket had shifted slightly from vibration over time. A few turns of the wrench, a brief test, and he had it dialing in exactly correct. The adjustment took only a few minutes—far quicker than lifting and re‑leveling the bucket each cycle.
Practical Implications

• Efficiency Gains – Minimizing manual corrections speeds up repetitive tasks like loading trucks or back‑dishing.
  
• Operator Comfort – A level bucket reduces guesswork and fatigue.
  
• Maintenance Tip – Vibration and wear can alter sensor position over time. Periodic checks of the bracket and cam are good preventative maintenance.
  

Summary of Adjustment Strategy

• Identify misalignment in bucket leveling (e.g., front sits too high).
  
• Locate the sensor or switch assembly near the boom linkage.
  
• Loosen and reposition the bracket within its adjuster slot.
  
• Test and iterate until leveling is precise.
  
• Lock everything down and enjoy smoother return‑to‑dig performance.
  

Let me know if you’d like help with diagnostic checks, solenoid behavior, or adjustment tips for related hydraulic features!