1969 110

Achilles · Mar 3, 2009

I now have my hands on a pretty mint, restored 1969 John Deere 110 garden tractor. I took it for a ride when I got it home and it is god awefully slow. I had it in 4th with the variator all the forward. I am quite familiar with the 214 which seems very similiar to me. The 214 is a rocket compared with this. Maybe 4-5x's faster. I am not looking for a racer, but perhaps something faster than me walking in a hand stand. I observed that the variator increased speed only minimally (less than 5% maybe). The 214, although different machine takes off with the variator full forward. Any suggestions or words of wisdom???

Thanks,

John

yankeerider · Mar 3, 2009

Had a problem like that on my same era 112. There is a hex bolt head in a recess just below the variator- make sure that hasn't been tightened to where it restricts the movement of the variator (not the lever you use, but the mechanism which you can view from underneath if there's no mower deck in the way.)

Also make sure the belts aren't stretched and worn.

mfreund · Mar 4, 2009

Congratulations on your purchase

Achilles · Mar 5, 2009

I took your advice yank and no dice. I went through the whole procedure per manual and no difference. Belts look relatively new with no cracks but that's not to say they are not stretched. After the the 2nd notch I put the variator full forward and no increase in speed and there is no resistance in the lever. It kinda just flops forward. I fully adjusted clutch and break. No different. I can't figure this thing out. Perhaps a BFH may help but this 40 year old is too much of a beauty. Anyone???

John

yankeerider · Mar 5, 2009

It's been over 15 years since I worked on one. IIRC, the variator works on a variable diameter sheave between the primary and secondary belts. I think there's supposed to be a spring on it, too. Have you checked whether the floating sheave "divider" is free to move? (Requires belt removal)

4runner · Mar 5, 2009

Achilles,
Check here
Weekend Freedom Machines

WFM is a very active forum on Deere garden tractors of this vintage. I have learned a lot from these guys.
Good luck,
Bob

Achilles · Mar 14, 2009

thanks Bob.

jd110 · Mar 15, 2009

I agree with yankeerider, most variator problems are associated with the center variable sheave sticking or worn out. Incorrect or worn belts or springs are also problems. The 110 should be just as fast as your 214. If the tractor was rpainted, it could be paint gumming up the sheave also. If you remove both belts, #14 sheave needs to slide freely back and forth in between #12 outer sheaves. Also if the bushing, #13 is worn, it can allow the sheave to "cock" and bind.