John deere 4520 problems include issues with the electrical system as well as problems with the transmission. The electrical system can experience issues with the alternator and starter, while the transmission can have problems with shift quality and overheating.

The john deere 4520 is a versatile and powerful tractor that is popular among farmers and agricultural professionals. However, like any other piece of heavy machinery, it can experience problems and malfunctions from time to time. Understanding the common problems that may arise is essential to ensure that your tractor is always running at its best.
In this article, we will discuss the most common problems that are associated with the john deere 4520 tractor and provide you with tips and advice on how to resolve them. So, let’s get started.
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Overheating Issues
John deere 4520 is a popular tractor model among farmers, but like any other machine, it can also experience its fair share of problems. One of the most common issues that farmers face is overheating. It’s not only frustrating but also a potential threat to the machine’s longevity.
We’ll discuss the symptoms, causes, and preventive measures for john deere 4520 overheating issues.
Symptoms Of Overheating
Overheating can be identified by the following symptoms:
- Steam or smoke coming out of the engine bay
- An increase in temperature gauge readings
- Reduced power and performance
- Fluids leaking from the engine
- Unusual noises coming from the engine
Causes Of Overheating
There are various reasons why john deere 4520 might overheat, including:
- Low coolant levels
- Damaged or leaking radiator
- Faulty water pump
- Clogged radiator or coolant passages
- Malfunctioning thermostat
- Dirty or clogged air filters
- A broken fan or the fan not working correctly
- Towing heavy loads
- High outside temperatures
- Worn-out spark plugs or ignition timing out of sync.
Preventative Measures
Fortunately, farmers can take the following preventative measures to avoid john deere 4520 overheating issues:
- Regular maintenance, including checking and replacing coolant, oil, and air filters
- Proper use of the tractor, avoiding overloading and driving within the manufacturer’s recommended speed limit
- Cleaning the radiator and coolant passages regularly
- Inspecting the fan and water pump belt for wear and tear signs
- Making sure that the radiator cap, hose clamps, and connectors are tight and sealed.
Signs That Indicate Overheating Issues
Apart from the symptoms mentioned above, other signs can point towards john deere 4520 overheating problems:
- Boiling sounds coming from the radiator
- A sweet smell resembling burnt rubber or exhaust coming from the engine
- The temperature gauge showing an increase in temperature
- The engine warning light turning on
- The engine shutting down unexpectedly.
To avoid long-term damage to your john deere 4520, it’s always a good idea to take preventive steps. Keep an eye out for overheating signs and attend to them immediately to prevent further damage. By following these simple steps, you can extend the lifespan of your tractor and ensure it works effectively for years to come.
Electrical Problems
Symptoms Of Electrical Problems
Some of the signs and symptoms of electrical problems in a john deere 4520 tractor are as follows:
- The tractor’s engine fails to start
- The lights and electrical components of the tractor fail to function
- Fuses regularly blow or trip, and circuits breakers frequently trip
- The battery discharges rapidly
- The alternator fails to charge the battery
- The tractor’s engine revs up suddenly, then dies down
Causes Of Electrical Problems
The following are the primary reasons for electrical problems in john deere 4520 tractors:
- Loose or corroded electrical connectors
- Damaged wiring
- Defective switches and relays
- Faulty ignition coils or starter motors
- Malfunctioning alternators or regulators
- Dead batteries
Common Electrical Issues With The John Deere 4520
Some common electrical problems that john deere 4520 owners often encounter are:
- Corroded or dirty battery terminals
- Wiring harness issues due to rodents or wear and tear
- Burnt-out fuses or circuit breakers
- Damaged or worn-out alternator or generator brushes
- Malfunctioning ignition switches
- Blown bulbs and bad wiring connections causing flickering or dimming headlights
How To Troubleshoot Electrical Issues
Here are some tips for troubleshooting electrical problems in john deere 4520 tractors:
- Check the battery for corrosion, loose connections, and low voltage.
- Test the alternator, starter motor, and voltage regulator with a multimeter.
- Look for damaged or worn-out wiring and replace or repair as needed.
- Test switches and relays for continuity and proper function.
- Clean corroded electrical connections and replace damaged connectors.
- Inspect and replace blown fuses or tripped circuit breakers.
Remember that electrical problems in john deere 4520 tractors can be caused by a variety of factors. It’s always best to get professional help if you’re unsure about what you’re doing.
Hydraulic System Problems
John deere 4520 is regarded as a reliable tractor that performs exceptionally well on farms. However, like any other machine, it is not immune to problems. One of the most critical components of the tractor is its hydraulic system, which is responsible for providing the power required for most tasks.
In this blog post, we will discuss the common hydraulic system problems that the john deere 4520 can experience, their signs, causes, and possible troubleshooting solutions to help you get your tractor back into operation.
Symptoms Of Hydraulic System Problems
The hydraulic system problems on the john deere 4520 can lead to numerous symptoms that farmers may notice while using the tractor. Here are some of the most common signs you should look out for:
- Low hydraulic fluid levels
- Abnormal noises during operation
- Slow or erratic movements of hydraulic components
- Leaking hydraulic fluid
- Overheating of the hydraulic system
Causes Of Hydraulic System Problems
Hydraulic system problems on the john deere 4520 can be due to several factors, which may vary from one situation to another. Some of the possible causes include:
- Blocked hydraulic filters
- Contaminated hydraulic fluid
- Worn-out hydraulic pumps
- Damaged hydraulic hoses
- Faulty seals and connectors
Common Hydraulic System Problems With The John Deere 4520
The john deere 4520 can experience several hydraulic system problems that farmers should be aware of. Here are some of the most common issues and their possible causes:
- Loss of power: This issue may arise due to low hydraulic fluid levels, dirty hydraulic filters, or worn-out hydraulic pumps.
- Noisy hydraulic system: If you hear abnormal sounds coming from the hydraulic system, it could indicate that the hydraulic pump is worn out or that there is air in the system.
- Slow or erratic movement: This can be due to a blocked hydraulic filter, contaminated hydraulic fluid, or a worn-out hydraulic pump.
- Leaking hydraulic fluid: This is usually a sign of a faulty seal or connector, damaged hydraulic hose, or even contaminated hydraulic fluid.
Troubleshooting Hydraulic System Problems
It is always better to identify and resolve hydraulic system problems on the john deere 4520 as early as possible. Here are some potential troubleshooting solutions:
- Check the hydraulic fluid levels and refill if necessary.
- Inspect the hydraulic filters and replace them if clogged.
- Flush and replace contaminated hydraulic fluid.
- Inspect all hydraulic hoses and connectors and replace damaged parts if necessary.
- Check the hydraulic pump and replace it if it is worn out.
- Bleed the hydraulic system to remove any trapped air.
The hydraulic system of your john deere 4520 is crucial, and it is essential to recognize the common problems that may arise. Regular maintenance, inspection, and early problem detection can help save money, time, and hassle when operating your tractor.
Fuel System Problems
Symptoms Of Fuel System Problems
Fuel system problems in the john deere 4520 can manifest in various ways. Some common symptoms indicating problems with the fuel system are:
- Difficulty starting the engine
- Reduced power output
- Engine stalling
- Excessive smoke coming from the exhaust
- The engine running erratically
- Decreased fuel efficiency
Depending on the severity of the fuel system issue, the symptoms may differ. However, if you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to have your tractor inspected by a mechanic to avoid further damage.
Causes Of Fuel System Problems
Several factors contribute to fuel system problems in the john deere 4520. Some common causes include:
- Using contaminated fuel
- Clogged or dirty fuel filters
- Malfunctioning fuel injectors
- Faulty fuel pumps
- Accumulated debris or dirt in the fuel tank
- Components experiencing wear and tear
- Corrosion or damage to fuel lines
To avoid fuel system problems, it’s crucial to identify the root causes of the issue.
Common Fuel System Problems With The John Deere 4520
Some common fuel system problems john deere 4520 owners face are:
- Clogged fuel filter
- Dirty fuel injectors
- Malfunctioning fuel pump
- Fuel leaks
- Defective carburetor
- Air leaks
- Failing fuel gauge
Routine checks of the fuel system can help prevent these problems from occurring.
Preventative Measures To Avoid Fuel System Problems
Taking preventative measures can help you avoid fuel system problems in the john deere 4520. Some preventive measures are:
- Regular maintenance and inspection of the fuel system
- Regularly changing the fuel filter and fuel line
- Use of a fuel additive to prevent the buildup of deposits
- Keep the fuel tank clean and free of debris
- Clean the fuel injectors regularly
- Only use high-quality fuel from reputable dealers
By following these preventative measures, you can reduce the chances of facing fuel system problems in your john deere 4520.
Transmission Problems
John deere 4520 is a popular tractor model for its versatile and powerful performance. However, like any machinery device, it’s not immune to problems, and one of those common issues is transmission. We will focus on the john deere 4520 transmission problems.
Symptoms Of Transmission Problems
Transmission problems can lead to a variety of symptoms that can indicate issues with the tractor. Here are some of the most common indicators of transmission problems with john deere 4520:
- Difficulty in changing gears or abrupt gear changes
- Slippage or hesitation while picking up speed
- Whining, grinding, or other unexpected noises coming from the transmission system
- Burning smell or unusual transmission fluid leakage
- Reduced tractor speed or sluggish response time
Causes Of Transmission Problems
Understanding the causes of transmission problems can help prevent or mitigate issues with john deere 4520. Some of the common causes of transmission problems with this model include:
- Lack of proper maintenance, such as irregular transmission fluid changes
- Worn-out clutch or gears due to excessive use of tractors
- Incorrect shifting technique while operating the tractor
- Overloading the tractor beyond its rated capacity
- Manufacturing defects in the transmission system
Common Transmission Problems With The John Deere 4520
Although john deere 4520 is known for its smooth performance, it has some common transmission problems. Here are the most prevalent transmission issues with this model:
- Transmission fluid leakage
- Clutch slippage or wearing out
- Gear grinding or slipping
- Faulty transmission control module
How To Troubleshoot Transmission Problems
To troubleshoot transmission problems with your john deere 4520, follow these steps:
- Keep the tractor manual handy and refer to it for guidance.
- Check for transmission fluid leaks regularly and refill as needed, or change the fluid as recommended in the manual.
- Test the clutch and gear shifting with hands-on experience to check for consistency.
- Look for warning signs such as unusual noises while the tractor is running, or unusual odors.
- Hire professional help if needed for a complicated issue.
Being aware of common transmission problems with john deere 4520 is crucial for farmers and tractor owners. Regular maintenance and checks can help prevent such issues, but in case of a problem, timely diagnosis and repairs can save money and time.
Frequently Asked Questions For John Deere 4520 Problems
What Are Common Problems With John Deere 4520?
The most common problems are transmission issues, engine problems, and electrical glitches.
How Do I Troubleshoot My John Deere 4520 Tractor?
Check fluids, examine fuses and batteries, and look for any loose wires or connections.
Why Won’T My John Deere 4520 Start?
The issue can be caused by a faulty ignition switch, starter motor, or fuel system.
How Much Does It Cost To Fix A John Deere 4520?
The cost can vary depending on the extent of the repair, but it can range from $100 to $1,500 on average.
How Often Should I Service My John Deere 4520?
Routine maintenance should be performed after 200 hours of usage, including checking and changing fluids, filters, and inspecting belts.
Conclusion
Overall, the john deere 4520 is a reliable tractor that has been able to tackle a variety of tasks for farmers and landowners. However, like any piece of machinery, it is not without its problems. Common issues include overheating and hydraulic system malfunctions.
It’s important to stay on top of regular maintenance and inspections to prevent such problems from arising. If a problem does occur, promptly contacting a certified john deere mechanic can save you time and money in the long run. By being aware of potential problems and taking steps to address them, you can ensure that your john deere 4520 continues to be the reliable workhorse you need it to be for years to come.
Don’t let these problems discourage you from investing in a high-quality tractor that can help you get the job done efficiently and effectively.