Troubleshooting a 2004 John Deere 320 That Won’t Start Without Ether

[MikePhua]

If your 2004 John Deere 320 skid steer won’t start without the assistance of ether, it can be frustrating. While it may start temporarily with ether, the underlying issue can be more complex, and relying on ether regularly is not a long-term solution. This article outlines common causes for this issue, steps for troubleshooting, and possible fixes to help get your skid steer running properly again.
Possible Causes
There are several reasons why your John Deere 320 may not start without ether. Understanding these causes will help you narrow down the issue and find the best solution.

1. Fuel Delivery Problems:
   One of the most common causes for a machine to not start without ether is fuel delivery issues. If the fuel system is not supplying fuel to the engine properly, it could prevent the engine from starting. Potential issues include a clogged fuel filter, a bad fuel pump, or air in the fuel lines.
   
2. Air Intake Blockage:
   The engine requires a proper air-fuel mixture to ignite. If there is any blockage in the air intake system—such as a clogged air filter or a problem with the air intake valves—the engine may struggle to start. Poor airflow can also cause the engine to run rough even after it starts.
   
3. Faulty Glow Plugs:
   Glow plugs are essential in helping the engine start, particularly in cold weather conditions. If the glow plugs are faulty or worn out, they will not properly heat the combustion chamber, making it difficult to start the engine. This could be a likely cause if the machine is having trouble starting in cooler conditions.
   
4. Weak Battery:
   A weak or undercharged battery might cause the starter motor to turn over slowly, preventing the engine from starting. Even if the battery appears to work intermittently, it might not be providing enough power to start the engine properly without assistance from ether.
   
5. Starter Motor Issues:
   If the starter motor is malfunctioning, it may not be able to generate enough power to start the engine. This could be another reason why the machine starts with ether but fails to start normally.
   
6. Engine Compression Issues:
   If there’s low engine compression due to worn pistons, valves, or gaskets, the engine may struggle to start. While this is a less common cause, it can happen if the machine has experienced significant wear and tear.
   

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide

1. Check the Fuel System:
   • Inspect the fuel filter for clogs or signs of dirt and debris. Replace it if necessary.
     
   • Ensure that the fuel pump is functioning properly and that fuel is flowing freely to the engine.
     
   • Bleed the fuel system to remove any air pockets that could prevent proper fuel delivery.
     
2. Inspect the Air Intake:
   • Check the air filter for clogs. A dirty or clogged air filter can severely restrict airflow, making it difficult for the engine to start.
     
   • Look for any cracks or blockages in the intake hoses and ensure that they are properly connected.
     
3. Test the Glow Plugs:
   • Use a multimeter to test each glow plug. If any glow plugs are faulty, replace them.
     
   • Ensure that the glow plug relay is functioning and sending power to the plugs.
     
4. Examine the Battery:
   • Check the voltage of the battery using a multimeter. If the voltage is low, charge or replace the battery.
     
   • Inspect the battery terminals for corrosion or loose connections, and clean or tighten them as needed.
     
5. Check the Starter Motor:
   • If the battery is fine but the starter motor seems to be struggling, it may need to be replaced or serviced.
     
   • Listen for unusual noises from the starter motor, such as grinding or clicking, which could indicate that it is not engaging properly.
     
6. Assess Engine Compression:
   • Perform a compression test on the engine. If the compression is low, you may need to address worn-out components, such as pistons or valves, which may require more extensive repairs.
     

When to Seek Professional Help
If the above troubleshooting steps don’t resolve the issue, it may be time to consult a professional mechanic. Issues such as engine compression problems, a malfunctioning fuel system, or internal engine wear may require specialized tools and expertise to diagnose and repair.
Conclusion
A John Deere 320 that requires ether to start often points to underlying issues with fuel delivery, air intake, glow plugs, or the battery. By following a step-by-step troubleshooting process, you can address common causes and restore the machine’s ability to start normally. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can also help prevent future starting problems. If you are unable to fix the issue yourself, don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance to get your skid steer back to full operational health.