John Deere X744 Runs then dies and turning key does nothing. Dash is also dead.

[rp4410]

I finally resolved the issue. I was able to trace it down to the cluster as being the culprit of the random shutoffs and wacky dash light flashing. Took the cluster apart and sure enough there was corrosion on the inside of the circuit board where the connector pins are soldered in. A little contact cleaner and a fine copper brush and everything is back to working order. I resealed the cluster on both sides with silicone and put a couple silica packs from recent packages inside as a way to help absorb any moisture that may find it's way inside. By the way, anyone looking to remove a steering wheel the easy way, use a 3" c-clamp and a 3 leg 6" puller. Open the c-clamp all the way and slide it under the steering wheel and then tighten clamp and much as possible. This then gives you ample surface for the puller legs to grab onto the c-clap and span the force evenly applied by the puller under the plastic steering wheel. Very easy. Thank you to all that offered suggestions and possible directions to solutions. Much appreciated!

 

[ruffdog]

Thanks for the update and steering wheel tip. Did you have to do some soldering or did you just clean the connections?

 

[rp4410]

Thanks for the update and steering wheel tip. Did you have to do some soldering or did you just clean the connections?

Just used the contact cleaner and copper brush, no soldering necessary.

 

[Richard001]

I finally resolved the issue. I was able to trace it down to the cluster as being the culprit of the random shutoffs and wacky dash light flashing. Took the cluster apart and sure enough there was corrosion on the inside of the circuit board where the connector pins are soldered in. A little contact cleaner and a fine copper brush and everything is back to working order. I resealed the cluster on both sides with silicone and put a couple silica packs from recent packages inside as a way to help absorb any moisture that may find it's way inside. By the way, anyone looking to remove a steering wheel the easy way, use a 3" c-clamp and a 3 leg 6" puller. Open the c-clamp all the way and slide it under the steering wheel and then tighten clamp and much as possible. This then gives you ample surface for the puller legs to grab onto the c-clap and span the force evenly applied by the puller under the plastic steering wheel. Very easy. Thank you to all that offered suggestions and possible directions to solutions. Much appreciated!


View attachment 588776View attachment 588777View attachment 588778View attachment 588779

Great job of trouble shooting and repair.

Does your machine sit outside?

Richard