Recent content by Ellen Deuch

My JD 450D LC excavator keeps overheating even after replacing the temperature sensor, thermostats, fan clutch, and cleaning the radiator. It runs fine at high RPM, but after 30-40 minutes of using the hydraulics, the engine temperature climbs into the red. Has anyone experienced this issue...

My boss wants to pull two scrapers behind our tractor instead of one. I'm wondering how operators keep an eye on the rear scraper while working. Any tips or experience with this setup?

My John Deere 310SE won't move because the transmission is bad, and I need to load it onto a trailer. Is there a safe way to disconnect or bypass the transmission without damaging the drivetrain? Any advice would be appreciated.

hi, I had something really similar happen on an older propane forklift, and it ended up being the regulator. It would only stay running if I feathered the fuel, so that's one of the first things I'd check.

I've found those estimators pretty helpful for planning, but I always leave a little extra in the budget since freight quotes can change once all the shipment details are confirmed.

My John Deere 450J randomly pulls hard to the left, making it difficult to load onto a trailer. The issue is intermittent. I have new speed sensors ready to install, but I'd like to test the current sensors and wiring first. Has anyone diagnosed this problem before?

I'm having trouble opening the hood on my John Deere 350D haul truck. I can hear the latch linkage moving when I pull the release handle, but the hood stays locked. I'm wondering if one of the linkage ball-and-socket connections has come apart or if there's another common cause. Has anyone dealt...

Common causes are a bad alternator, a relay staying energized, or an accessory that isn't shutting off properly.

We still run about eight of these machines, but parts are becoming difficult to find. If anyone has spare 641B components or knows of a reliable source, we'd appreciate any leads.

My Cat D6N ripper only works when I'm using the blade. The machine has a 4-way valve, but the ripper won't operate on its own.

I'm planning to build a small mountain lodge near the coast in Albania and need to excavate the foundations. What size excavator would you recommend for this type of project? Any advice from those who have done similar work would be appreciated.

My excavator monitor is stuck on the backup camera screen and several buttons have stopped working, including the menu and travel speed buttons. The machine still runs normally, but I'm stuck in slow travel mode and can't access the normal display. Has anyone run into this issue before or know...

My John Deere 770D grader recently developed a steering problem and now won't steer at all. The machine has been well-maintained and was working fine until the issue appeared. I don't have a service manual or hydraulic schematic yet, so I'm looking for advice on where to start troubleshooting...

One tip that's worked well for me is spraying exposed metal and hard-to-reach spots with a rust inhibitor before winter or rainy seasons. It takes a little extra time, but it can save a lot of headaches and repair costs later on.

I’d say get really good at one role first, then start picking up skills that overlap with where you want to go next. In my experience, certifications help, but volunteering for new responsibilities and learning from experienced people on site opened more doors than anything else.