Repair manual question

JDFORLIFE · Jul 7, 2008

I am wanting to get the repair manual for my new tractor. The one it lists is the technical manual is this the right one and should I get the parts manual also. Thanks in advance Tim D.

TedLaRue · Jul 8, 2008

Buy the Technical Manual. It includes diagnostics and "theory of operation", color diagrams showing the hydraulic circuits under various selector positions, as well as the usual instructions on how to remove and replace this or that.

The paper version of your Technical Manual is $80 and the CD-ROM version is $40. You can search the CD-ROM (faster than leafing through the paper version), and then print out only the section you are working on. That's an advantage in addition to the lower price. But personally, I bought the paper version and would do the same again. I can lay it right up there on the fender wherever I'm working, and I can write in the margins, flip through the pages with my greasy fingers, etc.

The Parts Catalog just shows exploded views with the parts numbered, no prices. You can see all of the same information (including the diagrams) on the JD web site, and you can check prices and even order the parts (but I think you may have to pick up the parts are your local dealer unless they changed that). To access the parts catalog and check prices you have to create an account (free). Go here and click on "Need to register?".

I looked up your tractor just to be sure the parts information is out there, and it is (e.g., your starter motor costs $588 and the hydraulic pump costs $372 and the hydrostatic transmission "kit" costs $2961). Fortunately, these parts don't often fail on a JD unless they are badly abused.

Have fun with your new tractor, and I hope that Technical Manual doesn't get much use.

kennyd · Jul 8, 2008

Ted said it all...The technical manual is a great tool to have at your disposal. I have the CD version myself...

JDFORLIFE · Jul 8, 2008

Great thanks Ted I will just get the repair manual then. I was looking at the tractor yesterday and noticed that some of the problems that people where having here John Deere has seemed to address. The radiator seems to be about an inch from the fan now so no worries of it hitting. Their is a shroud over the transmission fan now as well, it does seem to protect it somewhat, but I think they could have done a better job. Their is now 2 holes on top of the rops for us to mount lights to. And someone has already pointed out they have a new bucket design that would allow you to hold more material in the bucket. Once again thanks for the help. This has been a great forum so far, I have learned alot so far. Tim D.

Spudland_Dave · Jul 8, 2008

TedLaRue said:
The paper version of your Technical Manual is $80 and the CD-ROM version is $40. You can search the CD-ROM (faster than leafing through the paper version), and then print out only the section you are working on. That's an advantage in addition to the lower price. But personally, I bought the paper version and would do the same again. I can lay it right up there on the fender wherever I'm working, and I can write in the margins, flip through the pages with my greasy fingers, etc.

Price depends on model...I paid ~$70 Something for the 3x20 Cab Tractors Service Manual on CD (TM2365)....but I love it. I got the CD so I can print out the pages I need and bring em to the Garage without worries about getting them dirty....Spill oil on it...no prob, I ask SWMBO to print me out another page.

Nuru · Jul 8, 2008

Dave thanks for the price and part number reference, I am ordering the CD today.

JDFORLIFE · Jul 8, 2008

Got mine coming $48 total shipped, small price to pay for so much information. Here is the part number for the cd rom manual TM2289CD

Nuru · Jul 9, 2008

JDFORLIFE said:
Got mine coming $48 total shipped, small price to pay for so much information. Here is the part number for the cd rom manual TM2289CD

$79 here shipped.

but it will probably be worth it in the long run.

Spudland_Dave · Jul 9, 2008

Nuru said:
$79 here shipped. but it will probably be worth it in the long run.

You would think they would all cost about the same....on the "Big Boys" they can run 250.00+

Wombat125 · Jul 9, 2008

Nuru said:
$79 here shipped. but it will probably be worth it in the long run.

I very much agree that it will be worth it.

If it makes you feel any better, the tech manual for the 5003 series tractors is $134 on CD, or $264 on paper

. It is over 1400 pages though. I got the CD.

This price differential is especially disturbing given that 5003 straddle mount gear tractor is probably much simpler than your 3020 hydro cab tractor.

For everyone buying the CD's, BURN A BACKUP COPY!!! My 5003 CD is burned and not stamped like a commercial music CD. The jury is still out on the longevity of this media. The copy will only cost you $0.25. Do it do it do it.