John Deere 250 Skid Steer: Problems, Durability, Repairs

John Deere is a pioneer in the manufacture of agriculture, forestry, and construction machinery and ranks among the most popular brands in the industry. Among this popular machinery is a Skid Steer, machinery that stands out for efficiency, visibility, durability, and ease of use.

A skid steer is a versatile compact construction machinery used for hauling materials, landscaping, or for heavy-duty excavation. Skid Steers usually work alongside other construction machines such as excavators to supplement and complement construction or agricultural-related activities. They come with a variety of attachments that ensure their versatility which also reduces the need to have many heavy-duty pieces of machinery on site.

John Deere 250 Skid Steer

The John Deere 250 (JD 250) Skid Steer is a durable and efficient compact construction machine that comes with innovative features and exceptional durability that puts the steer stand out among its peers.

Skid Steers have a general lifespan just like any other equipment. However, they have an operational lifespan that is determined by the operation environment, maintenance, and how it is generally handled. The JD 250 Skid Steer has a generally projected lifespan of 5, 000 hours when properly maintained. The steer attachments are more durable than the steer itself, mainly because they are used separately at different times.

Though the JD 250 has that long durability, the tires and the undercarriage require constant monitoring and may call for regular replacements. But with proper routine maintenance, the Skid steer can have extended longevity.

Common Problems and their Repairs

Like all other compact construction equipment in the market, the JD 250 will develop issues along its line of duty. These problems may have easy DIY fixes while others require a specialist to deal with them.

1) Sudden Loss of Power

One of the most common problems associated with the JD 250 skid steer is the sudden loss of power. Although the loss of power is almost always associated with excessive loading, the hydraulic system could also contribute to this problem. Hydraulic pumps convert mechanical energy into amplified hydraulic energy. The hydraulic system is a critical component since the workload capability of the steer depends on them. You can easily access the hydraulic pump at the back to check if it is okay. Unbolt the pump and check the coupler and all its related splines. Try lubricating them and then bolt the pump back. If it does not work, then it requires an immediate replacement.

The loss of power could also come about as a result of problematic cylinders or oil/fuel filters. Inspect the filters to ensure they are working properly and consider replacing them if they are clogged.

2) Engine issues

Sometimes you may find out that the engine does not start properly as you would expect. The fuel system and the plugs could be the main culprits here. Check your fuel filters, and tank and change them as often as recommended. Clogged fuel injectors could also prevent the skid from operating normally. The glow plugs warm the engine especially when it is operating in a cold environment. If the glow plugs are not functioning properly, the engine will as well fail the performance test.

3) Faulty Control Systems

The operating joysticks may fail to perform the steering and loading operations. The problem usually arises from disconnected joints or loose actuators. The failure could also arise from faulty wires connecting the actuators with the hydraulic pump, or a faulty joystick circuit. A malfunctioning safety switch in a JD 250 skid Steer can affect the whole control system

4) Leaking Fluids

Leakage of hydraulic-related fluids is a common problem in the skid steer. The fluid usually leaks from the valves due to the tear and wear of the rubber seals and other fittings. Hydraulic fluid is critical in the operations of the skid steer. Apart from lubricating the steer components, it also scatters the heat within the operating zones to prevent overheating. A fluid leakage should be addressed immediately and the skid should not be put into operation until the problem is solved.

If you notice any leaked fluid, check all the relevant hydraulic fittings including lines and valves. Once the leak is located, replace the faulty fitting. Ensure all hoses and fittings are tightened properly and the section is completely sealed before the skid resumes operations. Remember that a hydraulic leak reduces the performance of the skid and once such leaks are repaired, you will notice a boost in performance.

5) Low Pressure

The JD 250 skid Steer may suffer from low pressure which may be directly related to the leakages highlighted above. The hydraulic system may fail to generate sufficient pressure for steer operations. Insufficient pressure means the steer cannot perform its routine tasks such as lifting or excavating. 

Low-pressure issues emanate from low fuel levels or a faulty pump that does not supply the required amount of fuel for the operations. The fuel must remain at the recommended minimum. The oil in the system must also be commensurate with the defined range so that the steer achieves maximum efficiency at a low cost. You have to top up fuel or oil if their levels are low since this could be a source of the low pressure in the JD 250.

There are possibilities that the low pressure is resulting from the clogging of the hydraulic system by a build-up of pressure which has no escape route. This problem can be solved by releasing the built-up pressure. To do this, first, disconnect your Steer battery and then pen the release valve located at the front of the hydraulic pump. After the pressure is released, start up the engine and let it run for a few minutes to force out any remaining pressure in the system. Close the valve and the Steer should now have full pressure.

6) Electrical Problems

At other times, the JD 250 may have problems starting the engine. Usually, the main cause of the engine not starting is electrical related. This could be a result of a blown fuse, worn-out connecting points, or a drained battery. The mentioned issues reduce or completely cut off the electrical supply to the engine, making it impossible to ignite it to life. Check through all these areas to ascertain that the fuses are okay, the connecting points are intact or the battery has enough power. If need be replace the required electrical component.

Another electrical-related problem is the parking brake and the booms which sometimes lock up and get stuck. The lock-up may be directly related to a jammed instrument cluster as a result of electrical failures. Sometimes, these electrical problems may even start the Skid on their own!

Check thoroughly all the electrical circuits in the cluster to identify any loose connections or worn-out sections. Additionally, look around the ignition to ascertain its wiring is in order since it is susceptible to short circuits. If you detect any problems in this area, repair them promptly, though the best option is to replace the cluster instrument altogether.

7) Problematic Sensors

The JD 250 comes with a host of sensors for its operability. However, having issues with these sensors, especially in the control panel is a common feature in the JD Steer. It is recommended that any faulty sensor be replaced immediately. But before replacing, examine the wiring links and setup leading to the sensors to ensure that the problem is the sensor and not the related wiring.

8) Choked Fuel Filter

When the fuel filter gets choked, the Skid steer will slow down and eventually stall completely. Even when operational, the throttle will not respond and the engine is unlikely to hit the expected maximum RPM. When such a problem arises, check all the filters and fuel lines to locate the source of this power loss. The culprit may be the fuel pick-up tube reaching into the inside of the fuel tank.

The fuel pick-up tube, which is submerged into the fuel, may, with time, become clogged with debris and algae within the tank, thus failing to supply the required amount of fuel for combustion. If that is the case, pull out the fuel pick-up pipe and blow it with a strong jet of air to unclog it. Check the inline filter to ensure the filter mesh matches the recommended rating before returning the filter and fuel pipe to the position.

Final Thoughts

Remember to always perform a walk-around inspection before starting your skid Steer. Check tires for wear and also check the inflation levels daily. Clear away any debris that you may notice and also check all fluid levels. Replace your filter and oil every 250 hours of operation, and fuel the filter after 500 hours. Check radiator coolant, chain case oil, and hydraulic coolant after 1000 hours.

Though the John Deere 250 Skid Steer comes with a warranty and is expected to perform exceptionally well, you must always pay close attention to its engine, control systems, and hydraulics. Such a routine check will ensure the parts are well maintained and any fault is detected early enough before it spreads to other sections.

Do not hesitate to seek expert opinion and assistance from qualified mechanics if your DIY fails, or you have detected a complex problem that you cannot fix.