"New" used tractor--what to check?

[Bluelick]

I hope to be getting my first tractor next week, a JD 770. I know absolutely nothing about it at this point--haven't even seen it. I am in the process of trying to get whatever I can by way of a service history on it, but there might not be much information to be had.

If I end up approaching it without any service history, what would you suggest I do by way of inspection, service and things to check before (and after) I fire it up for the first time?

I asked the service guys at the local JD dealer, but they didn't have much to say--just check the coolant, oil and hydraulic fluid. I thought some of you might have additional suggestions.

I'm a decent car/truck/outboard/small motor mechanic but new to tractors and diesels. I don't have the operators manual or shop manual (yet) but I do have the operators manual for the 790 which I got from the JD site. I plan to order the JD service manual.

By the way, I have read the threads here on safety tips for newbies, and I do place a high priority on safety (former EMT with rural VFD). But in this thread, I'm really asking about the mechanical end of things.

Thanks!

 

[jenkinsph]

Who are you obtaining the tractor from, can this person walk you through a simple check out for operation? Reading the manual as you mentioned should help alot. You can learn plenty by participation on TBN with the rest of us. Enjoy your new to you tractor.


Steve

 

[wcpeabody]

I have a 770 also. I have had it just less then a year. I really like it. It seems like a good compromise between the old tractor (simple and easy to use) and the new fancy ones (that are harder to work on) that are nice to drive.

If it were me I would change all of the fluids and filters. Also grease all of the zerks.

While you are doing that give the tractor a good look over. If you have a front end loader you might want to check the bolt tightness.

Bill

 

[Bluelick]

Thanks for the responses. Steve, in this case the person I am getting it from probably has never been the one to use it, although I may be able to get some information about the shop that worked on it last. It's currently not running, but may not need more than a jump or a new battery.

It's being given to me (long story short: a gift), but I have to have it hauled in from out of state, so I won't even see it until it gets here. As one of my friends observed, "don't look a gift tractor in the radiator!"

This site has been a big help, I'm sure I'll be around a good bit once I get my hands on this.

By the way, the 790 operator's manual is here in case anyone needs it:
Introduction

I was able to save each section as a .pdf and print them out, so I'll be taking my new (green of course) three-ring binder home for some weekend reading!

 

[mfreund]

You have a smart friend!!

I would start off with fresh filters(air,fuel), change all fluids (engine oil,engine coolant,mfwd if equipped,and trans), check air pressure in tires, check the lights, go through all the work you can come up with and that should give you a preliminary assement of you "new" tractor.

Oh, Congratulation on the fine "purchase"

 

[jenkinsph]

Well good luck with it and read up on everything and ask your questions here. Hopefully someone will have answers for you.


Steve

 

[tugboat-2]

WELCOME ABOARD Bluelick ! Many good suggestions there,.. and I might add this: before you do anything,..give it a careful inspection, all over. Making note of "old" oil leaks, where oil and dirt have accumulated. Jot down a list of places or take photos to remember. Then give it a real good wash down with a pressure washer, careful not to spray the rad as the fins are easily damaged.

Then grab an armload of wrenches, sockets and Johnson bar if you don't have a torque wrench, . . . work your way around, under and over tightening everything you can get a wrench or socket on,...just make sure they are tight. Your wheel studs are important. Pay special attention to the places you noted as old oil leaks,...may be loose bolts or connections there?

When you've done your oil changes and greased everything you can find. Get it up and running, easy at first, trying all hydraulics and everything that might be pressurized. Shut it down and go all around, under and over again, looking, searching for any leaks or loose connections.

You sound like you are mechanically inclined so I'm sure you'll do a good job of checking and tightening things. Once you are reasonably satisfied all is ok, then jack up the revs and go to work and see what she can do,...(within safe limits of course). Its during and after a good workout, you'll find some leaks and things to tighten up,....again!

Once you're satisfied with it, get some matching paint and touch it up here and there till it looks like new again. You might wish to add some work lights or a tiltmeter etc? SOON, you will take pride in your shiny new tractor because you are now very well acquainted with 'er!!!

Very best wishes to you!
. . tug

PS: ....there is a cost for all this helpful information of course! The price is you must take many photos of your new tractor and post them here. An interesting concept might be to take before and after photos,...especially if she is rough and dirty on arrival. One thing we all love here is "photos" !!

 

[Bluelick]

I really appreciate all the good advice. Much of it is what I would do with a new-to-me outboard (including lots of research and using online resources and discussion boards) but of course there is a lot of new material with tractors in general as well as diesels and hydraulics in particular.

At least the last several years with a Murray rider has given me ample opportunity to get familiar with working on a mowing deck (the Murray has provided many chances to practice repair skills and fabricate replacements as various bits of junk fall off).

The 790 ops manual has been instructive, and I look forward to getting the tech manual once I get the tractor.

I do have torque wrenches, compressor, air impact wrench, other air tools, compression tester, meters, and all the other usual "toys" we like to have in the shop. What new items might I need to put on my wish list for diesel and hydraulic maintenance?

And, yes, I'll be taking lots of pics to post once it gets here. I've asked my benefactor to try to shoot some and send them to me before the tractor gets here, but that may not happen. Not everything in our sphere of interest is within our sphere of influence.