Troubleshooting Rear Controls on a John Deere 210LE: Common Causes and Solutions

[MikePhua]

When operating a John Deere 210LE, or any other piece of heavy equipment, functionality issues can arise that interfere with work efficiency. One common issue faced by operators of the John Deere 210LE is when the rear controls suddenly stop working. This can be frustrating, especially when you're in the middle of a task, and it’s important to address the issue quickly to avoid downtime. In this article, we’ll explore the potential causes of rear control failures and how to troubleshoot and resolve the problem.
Understanding the Problem: Rear Controls Stopped Working
The rear controls on the John Deere 210LE are crucial for operating the backhoe and other rear attachments. When these controls stop functioning, it can significantly hinder the machine’s performance. The issue can occur suddenly, and there are various reasons why the rear controls might cease to work, including hydraulic issues, electrical problems, or mechanical failures.
Common Causes for Rear Controls Failure

1. Hydraulic Issues:
   The John Deere 210LE uses a hydraulic system to operate the rear controls. A common cause of rear control failure is a loss of hydraulic pressure or fluid. Low hydraulic fluid levels or a leak in the hydraulic system can prevent the rear controls from functioning properly.
   • Low Fluid Levels: If the hydraulic fluid is below the recommended levels, the system will not have enough pressure to operate the rear controls. Regular checks of the hydraulic fluid can help prevent this issue.
     
   • Hydraulic Leaks: Leaks in the hydraulic lines or seals can lead to a loss of pressure, which can prevent the rear controls from functioning. Inspect the hydraulic hoses, cylinders, and valves for visible leaks.
     
   • Clogged or Dirty Hydraulic Filters: Over time, the hydraulic filter can become clogged with debris, restricting the flow of fluid and causing the system to malfunction. Replacing the filter can restore proper fluid flow.
     
2. Electrical Problems:
   The John Deere 210LE’s rear controls also rely on electrical components, such as switches and relays, to function. If there is an electrical issue, the controls may not respond.
   • Blown Fuse: A blown fuse can prevent electrical signals from reaching the rear control system. Check the fuse box and replace any blown fuses related to the rear control functions.
     
   • Faulty Wiring or Connections: Loose or damaged wires can interrupt the electrical signal required to operate the rear controls. Inspect the wiring harness and connectors for any signs of wear, corrosion, or disconnections.
     
3. Control Valve Malfunctions:
   The control valve directs the hydraulic fluid to the appropriate parts of the machine to operate the rear controls. If the control valve is faulty or blocked, the rear controls may not function properly.
   • Sticking or Jammed Valve: If the control valve is sticky or jammed due to dirt, rust, or debris, it may not allow the hydraulic fluid to flow properly. Cleaning or replacing the valve may resolve the issue.
     
   • Worn Seals or Components: Over time, the seals and internal components of the control valve can wear out, causing fluid leaks or inefficient operation. Replacing worn parts is necessary for proper functioning.
     
4. Hydraulic Pump Issues:
   The hydraulic pump is responsible for generating the pressure needed to power the hydraulic system. If the pump is not working efficiently or is malfunctioning, the rear controls will not operate as expected.
   • Pump Failure: A failed hydraulic pump may not generate enough pressure to operate the rear controls. This can result in slow or unresponsive controls.
     
   • Pump Airlock: Sometimes, air can become trapped in the hydraulic system, preventing the pump from generating sufficient pressure. Bleeding the hydraulic system can eliminate airlocks and restore function.
     
5. Operator Errors or Setting Issues:
   Sometimes, the issue may not be mechanical at all. It's possible that the operator inadvertently made a setting adjustment or misunderstood the control configuration.
   • Control Lever Mispositioned: Ensure that the control levers are in the correct position and are not stuck or obstructed. Double-check the position of any manual overrides or safety switches.
     
   • Mode Selection: Some equipment has different modes for rear control functions (e.g., auto and manual). Make sure the correct mode is selected for the rear controls.
     

Troubleshooting and Fixing the Rear Controls

1. Check Hydraulic Fluid Levels:
   The first step in troubleshooting hydraulic issues is to check the fluid levels. If the fluid is low, refill the system with the appropriate hydraulic fluid as recommended in the operator's manual. If fluid levels are adequate but the problem persists, move on to checking for leaks.
   
2. Inspect for Leaks:
   Look over the hydraulic lines, hoses, cylinders, and seals for any visible signs of leaks. If you find a leak, the affected part will need to be repaired or replaced. Even small leaks can cause significant performance issues, so be thorough in your inspection.
   
3. Replace Hydraulic Filters:
   If you suspect that the hydraulic filter is clogged, remove and inspect it. If it’s dirty, replace it with a new filter to ensure proper fluid flow. Clogged filters can restrict hydraulic fluid flow and cause system failures.
   
4. Inspect Electrical Components:
   Check the fuse box for any blown fuses, and replace them as necessary. Next, inspect the wiring harness and connectors for signs of wear or corrosion. Make sure that all electrical connections are tight and free of dirt or moisture.
   
5. Test the Control Valve:
   If the hydraulic system seems to be functioning properly but the rear controls still don’t work, the control valve may be the issue. Try cleaning the valve and ensuring it is free of debris. If cleaning doesn’t work, consider replacing the valve or any worn components inside it.
   
6. Check the Hydraulic Pump:
   If the hydraulic pump is suspected to be the problem, listen for unusual sounds or poor performance when the system is operating. A failed pump may need to be replaced. If the pump is airlocked, bleed the system to release any trapped air.
   
7. Review Operator Settings:
   Lastly, verify that the control levers are set correctly and that the machine is in the proper mode for rear control operation. Sometimes, an operator may mistakenly leave a lever in an incorrect position, leading to confusion with the machine’s functionality.
   

Conclusion
When the rear controls on your John Deere 210LE stop working, it's important to diagnose the problem systematically. Start with the simplest issues, such as low hydraulic fluid or blown fuses, and work your way through to more complex problems like hydraulic leaks or control valve malfunctions. By following these troubleshooting steps, you can identify and resolve the issue, getting your machine back to work quickly and efficiently. Regular maintenance, including hydraulic checks, electrical inspections, and parts replacements, can also help prevent future control issues.