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John Deere 310SL and Its Transmission Design
The John Deere 310SL is a mid-size backhoe loader introduced as part of Deere’s L-series lineup, designed for construction, utility, and agricultural applications. With a net peak horsepower of 103 hp and a maximum operating weight of over 17,000 lbs, the 310SL combines mechanical durability with electronic control systems. Its power shift transmission allows seamless gear changes under load, using clutch packs and solenoid-actuated valves to manage torque flow between the engine and drivetrain.
John Deere, founded in 1837, has long been a leader in agricultural and construction machinery. The 310SL builds on decades of backhoe development, with over 100,000 units of the 310 series sold globally since its inception. The L-series introduced improvements in hydraulic flow, operator comfort, and emissions compliance, making the 310SL a popular choice for fleet managers and independent contractors alike.
What Is PEMO Additive and Where Is It Used
PEMO is a proprietary additive formulated to reduce brake chatter and improve lubrication in limited-slip differentials and wet brake systems. It is commonly mixed with gear oil in rear axles and final drives, especially in machines that experience frequent directional changes or operate in muddy conditions. PEMO works by modifying the friction characteristics of the fluid, allowing smoother engagement of clutch packs and brake discs.
However, PEMO is not designed for use in hydraulic or transmission systems that rely on precise pressure modulation and solenoid control. In power shift transmissions like the one in the 310SL, fluid viscosity and friction coefficients are tightly calibrated to ensure proper clutch engagement and gear timing. Introducing PEMO could alter these parameters, leading to delayed shifts, clutch slippage, or solenoid malfunction.
Why PEMO Should Not Be Used in the Transmission
The transmission fluid in the 310SL serves multiple roles:
A Case from Northern Alberta
A contractor operating a 310SL in Alberta added PEMO to the rear axle to reduce brake noise during winter trenching. The results were positive, with smoother stops and less vibration. Encouraged, he added PEMO to the transmission fluid. Within two weeks, the machine began exhibiting delayed shifts and intermittent neutral lockout. After flushing the system and replacing solenoids, the issue resolved. The technician confirmed that the additive had altered the fluid’s friction profile, interfering with clutch pack timing.
Recommended Practices for Smoother Shifting
If the goal is to improve shift smoothness in the 310SL, consider these alternatives:
While PEMO additive offers benefits in axle and brake systems, it is not suitable for use in the power shift transmission of the John Deere 310SL. The transmission relies on fluid properties that are carefully engineered for clutch modulation and hydraulic control. Altering these properties with unapproved additives can lead to performance degradation and costly repairs. For smoother shifting, stick to OEM fluids and maintain the system with regular service intervals and diagnostic checks.
The John Deere 310SL is a mid-size backhoe loader introduced as part of Deere’s L-series lineup, designed for construction, utility, and agricultural applications. With a net peak horsepower of 103 hp and a maximum operating weight of over 17,000 lbs, the 310SL combines mechanical durability with electronic control systems. Its power shift transmission allows seamless gear changes under load, using clutch packs and solenoid-actuated valves to manage torque flow between the engine and drivetrain.
John Deere, founded in 1837, has long been a leader in agricultural and construction machinery. The 310SL builds on decades of backhoe development, with over 100,000 units of the 310 series sold globally since its inception. The L-series introduced improvements in hydraulic flow, operator comfort, and emissions compliance, making the 310SL a popular choice for fleet managers and independent contractors alike.
What Is PEMO Additive and Where Is It Used
PEMO is a proprietary additive formulated to reduce brake chatter and improve lubrication in limited-slip differentials and wet brake systems. It is commonly mixed with gear oil in rear axles and final drives, especially in machines that experience frequent directional changes or operate in muddy conditions. PEMO works by modifying the friction characteristics of the fluid, allowing smoother engagement of clutch packs and brake discs.
However, PEMO is not designed for use in hydraulic or transmission systems that rely on precise pressure modulation and solenoid control. In power shift transmissions like the one in the 310SL, fluid viscosity and friction coefficients are tightly calibrated to ensure proper clutch engagement and gear timing. Introducing PEMO could alter these parameters, leading to delayed shifts, clutch slippage, or solenoid malfunction.
Why PEMO Should Not Be Used in the Transmission
The transmission fluid in the 310SL serves multiple roles:
- Cooling clutch packs
- Lubricating gears and bearings
- Transmitting hydraulic pressure to shift valves
- Maintaining friction balance for clutch engagement
- Viscosity changes could affect pump efficiency and pressure regulation.
- Friction modifiers might reduce clutch grip, causing gear hunting or neutral drop.
- Chemical incompatibility could degrade seals or damage solenoid coils.
A Case from Northern Alberta
A contractor operating a 310SL in Alberta added PEMO to the rear axle to reduce brake noise during winter trenching. The results were positive, with smoother stops and less vibration. Encouraged, he added PEMO to the transmission fluid. Within two weeks, the machine began exhibiting delayed shifts and intermittent neutral lockout. After flushing the system and replacing solenoids, the issue resolved. The technician confirmed that the additive had altered the fluid’s friction profile, interfering with clutch pack timing.
Recommended Practices for Smoother Shifting
If the goal is to improve shift smoothness in the 310SL, consider these alternatives:
- Flush and replace fluid with fresh Hy-Gard every 1,000 hours or annually.
- Inspect and clean solenoid valves for debris or varnish buildup.
- Calibrate clutch packs using diagnostic software to ensure proper engagement timing.
- Avoid aggressive directional changes under load, which can wear clutch surfaces prematurely.
While PEMO additive offers benefits in axle and brake systems, it is not suitable for use in the power shift transmission of the John Deere 310SL. The transmission relies on fluid properties that are carefully engineered for clutch modulation and hydraulic control. Altering these properties with unapproved additives can lead to performance degradation and costly repairs. For smoother shifting, stick to OEM fluids and maintain the system with regular service intervals and diagnostic checks.
