Backhoe John Deere 410 Backhoe: How do I start it?

Ron Swain · Jun 12, 2014

Hello. I am new to the forum, and the thing that caused me to join is that I have a simple question for those of you familiar with the JD 410.

I have a backhoe that was my uncle's. Due to estate settlement, I am now responsible for this backhoe, which I have never run before. It is a 1978 JD 410. I know it will need new batteries and fluids before I attempt to start it, because it has been idle for several years, though it is in pretty good shape.

My ultimate question is how I get this backhoe started. I see no place for a key, and many of the in cab decals are faded and unreadable. There is a red button on the right side fender that I think might be the starter, but again, it is pretty banged up and there is no decal. If someone can take me through, step-by-step on the procedure of starting this machine, I would be greatly appreciative!

Tx Jim · Jun 12, 2014

I recommend since you're unfamiliar with the 410 to get an operators manual and read it. As far as I know 410's had a key. Here's the part number that you can get from a JD dealer T23877 Key - KEY,SWITCH ADD 2.90 USD The parts photo is from the 410 parts catalog

Cherokee140 · Jun 12, 2014

A great many things can happen from 1978 to 2014...that is a few years, and I would bet some...cough...modifications have been made.

You might have your work cut out for you.....do any family members ever run the machine besides your uncle?

Gary Fowler · Jun 12, 2014

You might be able to trace the wiring from the starter back to where the key should be. It might just be hot wired, (two wires twisted together to make it hot) then jump the solenoid with a screwdriver.

To prevent vandalism, your uncle may have put the starter key in a very hidden location also. Just have to search the wiring for it. It could also have an interrupter switch between the battery cables to shut off power. Depending on how well your uncle took care of his equipment, it could be any of the above.

Ron Swain · Jun 13, 2014

Thanks for the suggestions, folks. I went ahead and ordered a manual, and I think that this weekend I'll get it figured out. Thanks to Gary for pointing out that the wiring may be "custom." I think that I will spending a while with my tester figuring out what the wiring scheme is. I'm not very mechanical, so you guys are a great resource!

Ron Swain · Jun 26, 2014

thank you guys! I got it started. There was a shut off in the ignition, and it is a 12V, so there's only one battery.I might put a pos/neg shutoff in the line between the battery and starter to save the battery. The hydraulic pump is great and the pins are tight. I had to bang on the starter because it was stuck, but no problems since. I hope I don't have any more questions, because it works so well . I'l