Locating the GPS Module on a John Deere 310SK TC Backhoe

[MikePhua]

The John Deere 310SK TC and Its Telematics Integration
The John Deere 310SK TC is a mid-size backhoe loader designed for utility work, trenching, and material handling. Introduced in the early 2010s, the 310SK series featured Tier 4 Interim emissions compliance, improved hydraulic flow, and enhanced operator comfort. The TC variant includes four-wheel drive and a torque converter transmission, making it ideal for mixed terrain and urban job sites.
John Deere, founded in 1837, has long been a leader in agricultural and construction equipment. By the time the 310SK was released, telematics and GPS tracking had become standard in fleet management. JDLink, Deere’s proprietary telematics system, allows owners to monitor location, fuel usage, maintenance intervals, and fault codes remotely. The GPS module is a critical component of this system, often installed discreetly to prevent tampering or theft.
Core Specifications

• Engine: John Deere PowerTech 4.5L diesel
  
• Power output: ~96 hp
  
• Transmission: 4-speed torque converter
  
• Operating weight: ~7,000–8,000 kg
  
• Loader bucket capacity: ~1.0 yd³
  
• Telematics: JDLink-ready with optional GPS module
  

Terminology Notes

• JDLink: John Deere’s telematics platform for remote monitoring and diagnostics.
  
• GPS Module: A receiver that communicates with satellites to determine machine location.
  
• FICM (Fuel Injection Control Module): A component in diesel engines that controls injector timing and voltage; visually similar to some GPS units.
  
• CAN Bus: A communication protocol used to link electronic modules within the machine.
  

Identifying the GPS Module
On the 2014 John Deere 310SK TC, the GPS module is typically mounted near the battery box or under the operator’s platform. It may resemble a small cast aluminum box with cooling fins, similar in appearance to a FICM used in diesel trucks. Dimensions are roughly 5 inches wide and 6–8 inches long. The module is often secured with tamper-resistant bolts and connected via a sealed wiring harness to the CAN bus.
If the module is active, it may have a small LED indicator or antenna wire leading to the roof or dashboard. In some configurations, the GPS unit is integrated with the JDLink modem, which may be housed in a separate enclosure near the fuse panel or under the seat.
Anecdote from the Field
In Vancouver Island, a contractor searched for the GPS unit on his 310SK after purchasing the machine from a rental fleet. He found a finned aluminum box mounted beside the batteries but wasn’t sure if it was the GPS or part of the engine control system. After tracing the wiring harness, he confirmed it was the JDLink modem with integrated GPS. He later activated the system through a dealer and began receiving location updates and fault alerts via mobile app.
Installation and Activation Tips

• Check for antenna wire leading to roof or dashboard
  
• Trace wiring harness from suspected module to fuse panel or CAN bus
  
• Contact John Deere dealer with serial number to verify telematics configuration
  
• Use JDLink portal to activate GPS tracking and set geofence alerts
  
• Secure module with vibration-resistant mounts and weatherproof seals
  

Preventive Maintenance and Security Recommendations

• Inspect GPS module connections quarterly for corrosion or wear
  
• Update JDLink firmware annually for compatibility and security
  
• Use geofencing to detect unauthorized movement
  
• Label module location in service manual for future reference
  
• Consider adding a secondary GPS tracker for theft recovery
  

Conclusion
Locating the GPS module on a John Deere 310SK TC requires familiarity with telematics hardware and attention to visual cues. While the unit may resemble other electronic components, tracing the wiring and verifying its connection to JDLink can confirm its identity. In modern construction equipment, location is more than a point on a map—it’s a gateway to data, diagnostics, and control.