New to me 318, some operation/maintenance/adjustment questions.

Joe Malovich · Apr 22, 2017

SN M00318X014319
I don't know when it was made, 1966hrs, just purchased for $1250 with 50" deck SN M01013X016126

When starting I need to physically push the direction lever over in the neutral slot trigger the switch, on my 314 I just need the lever to be in neutral without pushing it. Is there a specific adjustment for this? it seems like I'm just flexing some steel arms and maybe they aren't preloaded enough to trigger the switch?

I can't move the direction lever from N unless I press the brakes half-way. Another adjustment?

When I move the lever from R>N it is a very abrupt stop unless I very gingerly move the lever up. On my 314 it is a smooth transition forward and reverse. Another adjustment?

It's also surging, but I'll start with a carb cleaning.

Help with these things would be appreciated.

Kish318420 · Apr 22, 2017

Yep, linkages are out of adjustment, and the shift should seat very easy into the N slot. Do you have the TMs? PM if you don't have them, there are 4 versions of hydraulic linkages on this model. So you may need to go to JD parts and pull those up for the right one. If linkages are badly worn you may need help from a machinist to fashion repair parts.

For surging, cleaning is a good place to start, but you may need to do a de-carbon job and adjust valves. Also change fuel filter. Plus check to make sure governor linkages are in the correct holes.