JD 4300 fuel pump failing?

[kak]

My JD 4300 seems to be starved for fuel. The tank has plenty of fuel, the sediment bowl is clean. Could the pump be the problem? How can I test the fuel pump to see if it is functioning properly? Thanks!

 

[kennyd]

How cold is it where you are? I would change the filter as a precaution anyway...

 

[TBDonnelly]

I just went through a fuel starvation issue on my tractor. As kennyd says, change the fuel filter. Wax in the diesel fuel can plug a fuel filter. Also check all the fuel lines that they are clear of any debri. When I changed my fuel filter I noticed the fuel bowl refilling very slowly from the fuel pump (my fuel pump is located between the fuel tank and the filter bowl). After extended use I noticed the fuel bowl was only 1/2 full. I ended up replacing the fuel pump to cure the problem.

Don

 

[the bear]

try takeing the line off the fuel pump and see if its pumping you need about 35psi so if you have a guage that you can install temperly check it out that way as the other boys have said check you lines for clogging and fuel filters. that has a manual pump on the bottom of the fuel pump and depends on the year make sure the key is turned on as it shuts off the fuel flow or check the wire to the pump and make sure it is attached

 

[kak]

Guys--
I checked the fuel filter and had the feeling that there must be something else going on. I ran across an old post regarding the fuel solenoid and an electronic part controlling it called a thermistor. So we went down that trail and got the engine running (started easily after removing the fuel solenoid and "working" the plunger by hand and reinstalling). I ordered the $3.65 thermistor from the John Deere dealer so that the "fix" isn't just temporary. I have to say that without my 14-year-old son's help I would not have been successful--the fuel solenoid has a bolt that is almost impossible to get to. His smaller hands made the difference. Thanks for your input!

Another question: What will glue the plastic covers? As time goes on, more and more of the plastic breaks and I assume that it would cost a lot to buy the parts new from John Deere. Gorilla glue holds a little while, but fails after a couple weeks. Thanks!

 

[beenthere]

What do you mean by "plastic covers" ?? I thought maybe the seat, but then you mention gorilla glue (which I wouldn't use on anything but wood).
Where are you located?

 

[kak]

I'm in western Ohio on the Indiana border near New Paris, Ohio. The plastic I'm talking about is covering the engine area, front panel covering the radiator, etc.


Thanks for input!

 

[E/S]

"What will glue the plastic covers? As time goes on, more and more of the plastic breaks and I assume that it would cost a lot to buy the parts new from John Deere. Gorilla glue holds a little while, but fails after a couple weeks."

Plastic welding is about the only thing I have ever done that holds very well.

E/S

 

[beenthere]

Ok, I think I follow what you mean.

I had a side-panel tab break, and Deere replaced the panel.

Later, I found a tab broken on the shroud over the instrument panel, and fixed it with epoxy and fiberglass mesh (similar to a boat repair). That worked ok, as it gave strength to the tab.

Thanks for the reminder about the thermister. Haven't had that problem yet, and hope I remember this if I ever do have it.

 

[kak]

So epoxy works? What kind of epoxy? (There seems to be a large variety of epoxy). Thanks!