As you fire up your trusty John Deere Gator RSX 850i off-road vehicle for another season of suburban yard care, you’re probably hoping for a smooth ride and neatly trimmed grass. Unfortunately, even the best machines can run into trouble now and then.
We’ve identified some of the most common John Deere RSX 850I problems and how to get your side-by-side utility vehicle back up and running so you can have the best-looking Gator on the block. From wonky wheels to temperamental throttles, we’ve got you covered.
So grab your toolbox, fuel up the side-by-side utility vehicle, and let’s get to work troubleshooting those issues in your RSX 850I.
7 Common Problems with the John Deere RSX 850I
The John Deere RSX 850I, while a reliable utility vehicle, has its share of reported issues. From transmission hiccups to electrical glitches, owners have noted a handful of recurring challenges. Awareness of these problems can help in ensuring smoother operations and timely maintenance.
1) Engine Problems
If your John Deere RSX 850i engine is acting up, it’s probably one of these common issues:
The air filter or fuel filter could be clogged. Check them and replace them if needed. Clogged filters reduce engine power and performance.
The spark plugs may need replacement. Old or worn spark plugs can’t ignite the fuel-air mix efficiently, causing the engine to sputter or stall.
There could be water in the gas tank or carburetor. Drain the tank and carburetor bowl, then refill with fresh, high-octane gas. Water in the fuel system leads to hard starts and a loss of power.
The carburetor may need adjustment or repair. If your side-by-side utility vehicle is hard to start, runs rough, or stalls at high speed, the carburetor likely needs servicing. See your John Deere dealer to have the carburetor inspected, tuned up, or repaired.
With some basic maintenance and troubleshooting, you’ll have your John Deere RSX 850i sport-utility side vehicle running as well as new in no time. Keeping on top of common engine issues will help maximize performance and extend the life of your UTV.
2) Charging Problem
If your UTV won’t start or stay running, the charging system could be the culprit.
Have the battery tested. Even if it’s fairly new, the cells can fail. Get a multimeter and check that it’s putting out at least 12 volts. If not, replace it.
Inspect the alternator belt. If it’s loose, frayed, or damaged, it won’t spin the alternator enough to charge the battery. Tighten or replace the belt.
Clean the alternator and battery connectors. Corrosion prevents current flow and is an easy fix. Scrub the connectors with a wire brush and coat them with dielectric grease.
Check the voltage regulator. If it’s malfunctioning, it won’t send the right charge to the battery. Has it been tested at a repair shop to determine if a replacement is needed?
With a fully charged battery, clean connections, a properly tensioned belt, and functional charging equipment, your UTV should be back up and running in no time.
3) Troubleshooting the Steering and Drive Systems
The John Deere Gator steering and drive systems are commonly prone to issues. Here are a few things to check if you’re having problems:
Loose or Damaged Steering Linkages
The steering linkages connect the front wheels to the steering wheel. If loose or bent, it can cause difficult steering, vibration, or noise. Inspect the rod ends and ball joints for damage or excessive play. Tighten or replace as needed.
Low Tire Pressure
Uneven tire pressure can make the RSX 850I pull to one side. Check that all tires are inflated to the PSI listed in the owner’s manual. Low pressure reduces traction and handling.
Faulty PTO Switch
The PTO switch engages the 850I blades. If stuck or malfunctioning, the blades won’t spin or won’t disengage when the switch is off. Test the switch to determine if a replacement is required. Exercise caution to avoid injury from spinning blades.
Hydrostatic Transmission Issues
The hydrostatic transmission powers the wheels. Slipping, noise, or uneven operation can indicate air in the lines or other internal issues needing service. Check the transmission fluid level first before operating to avoid damage.
4) Starting Problem
If your John Deere RSX 850I Gator won’t start, there are a few common issues to check. First, ensure the battery is charged and the connections are clean. Corroded or loose connections prevent the engine from turning over. You should also check that the spark plug is working properly and the fuel filter isn’t clogged. A clogged filter stops fuel from reaching the engine.
Finally, check if the safety mechanisms are engaged. The blade control lever, also known as the PTO, must be disengaged and the parking brake set for the UTV to start. If all else seems fine, it could indicate a problem with the starter solenoid or ignition coil, in which case it’s best to have a certified John Deere technician service.
5) Hydraulic Problem
If your UTV seems sluggish or the blades won’t engage, you may have a hydraulic issue. Heat is the most frequent cause of poor hydraulic performance. You should conduct a few crucial daily inspections to prevent issues. Personnel should, for instance, examine the oil levels, hoses, and connectors and listen for odd sounds emanating from the pump.
Check the Hydraulic Fluid Level
The hydraulic fluid reservoir is located in front of the engine; check that the fluid level is in the “full” range on the dipstick. Add fluid as needed.
6) Transmission Problem
If your UTV seems to slip or not move properly, you may have an issue with the transmission. The RSX 850I has a hydrostatic transmission, meaning it uses fluid to transmit power to the wheels. Over time, the fluid can break down or leak, causing the RSX to lose power or not move at all.
Check the transmission fluid level and refill as needed. It’s also a good idea to change the hydrostatic fluid every couple of years to keep things running smoothly. If the fluid level is fine but you’re still having problems, there may be an internal issue with the transmission itself. Unfortunately, hydrostatic transmissions can be expensive to repair or replace, so it may be worth consulting a John Deere dealer to diagnose and fix the issue.
7) Electrical Problem
If your side-by-side utility vehicle won’t start or is making strange noises, it could indicate an electrical issue. Check that the battery cables are clean and tightly connected to the terminals. Corroded or loose cables are common problems that can prevent the sport-utility side from starting. You may need to scrub off any built-up corrosion with a wire brush and tighten the cable clamps.
Also inspect the ignition switch, solenoid, and starter for damage or wear and tear. These parts supply the engine with power, so an expert technician will need to fix or replace them if they are broken. It’s best not to attempt complex electrical repairs yourself unless you have experience.
Conclusion
These are the common issues that can pop up with the John Deere RSX 850I and how to resolve them. With regular maintenance and following the tips we discussed, your trusty sport-utility side vehicle should provide many seasons of reliable service.
If bigger problems come up, don’t hesitate to take it to your local John Deere dealer to have a certified technician take a look. They’re the experts and can get you back to the machine in no time.
FAQs
Who is John Deere’s manufacturer?
Piaggio, a leading manufacturer of scooters and other power sports equipment in Italy, provided the engine for John Deere’s new Gator RSX850i.
How much horsepower does a John Deere RSX have?
The overhead-valve V-twin’s 839cc displacement yields 62 horsepower and 57.5 lb-ft of torque, as opposed to the 825i’s triple’s 50 horsepower and 47 lb-ft.
What do John Deere models include Kawasaki engines?
Kawasaki engines, which are more expensive than those found in the E series, are found in the John Deere X300 series of lawn tractors. Additionally, the front and rear tires on these tractors are more durable, and the steering components and tread designs have been improved. In lawn tractors, this is the premium.
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