Problem after changing fuel filter on JD 4500

paradox998 · Jun 21, 2022

I need some advice. I just changed the fuel filter on my JD 4500 tractor built in 1999
The manual says the tractor is self bleeding but now everytime I try to start the tractor it will start, run for 15 seconds and dies. Usually it increases rpm's just before dying. Do I need to bleed the injectors? I'm at a loss and would appreciate any suggestions. Thanks

Roadworthy · Jun 21, 2022

Read your manual for bleeding information. On my old tractor there was a bleeding sequence for eliminating air. My Kubota has a kind of valve to open before starting the tractor. After running for a bit you close this valve. I suspect it's to allow air to escape.

paradox998 · Jun 21, 2022

Unfortunately the manual just says that the tractor is self bleeding and leaves it at that.

dfkrug · Jun 21, 2022

Yeah, my 4300s were "self-bleeding", too.

Here is what I do: Fill tank all the way. Locate the hose coming out of the fuel filter. Follow it to the fuel pump. Whatever is the higher end of the hose, loosen it up until fuel comes out (engine off). Do this before attempting to bleed at the injectors. The system is supposed to pump out the air, but too much air before the pump and it may not work.

If your filter has a petcock, does it have 3 positions? If so, they will be ON, OFF, and air. Do you see air in the filter bowl? Some tractors do not have clear bowls.

paradox998 · Jun 21, 2022

Thanks I will give that a try. I appreciate the help.

My petcock only has on and off and even when off, diesel drips from the tank.

beenthere · Jun 21, 2022

On my 4300 I just continue to have it start, run for a short time, and shut off.
But by continuing, it does self bleed and stay running. Can't say how many restarts it takes, but in the end do not have to bleed the injector lines.

hummertom · Jun 22, 2023

On my 4300 the fuel pump went bad, drained the tank , drained the filter and replaced the element, cracked the lines all the way to the pump to eliminate most air, used priming pump lever on left of pump to build up pressure then , after successive starts it has run ever since.

paradox998 · Jun 22, 2023

I had a similar issue. I tried starting my tractor many times and gave up. The next day I planned to bleed the injectors, but decided to try cranking it a few more times. Each time I started it it would run a little longer. Finally it ran and after a couple of minutes of rough idle it evened out. Apparently sitting for the night seemed to help. The 4500 did self prime, but it takes a while.

kthompson · Jun 23, 2023

My JD was a pain when I change the fuel filter once. Turned out had some trashed on the gasket just enough to prevent it fulling sealing.

When I change a fuel filter I top it off if possible. Then with helper will shoot WD 40 into the air intake while they are cranking the engine. A diesel or all I have done this with will not only start but keep shooting shots into the air intake until it levels out and no bleeding needed.

Have done same on gas also.