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How to Troubleshoot a John Deere Gator

Keith Dooley

Gators are a series of utility vehicles manufactured by the John Deere Corporation. Typically, a Gator vehicle will feature seating for two people and a cargo bed for hauling a variety of loads. Several different models are available as well as a wide range of accessories.

Gators are used around private homes, farms, golf courses, construction sites and by athletic teams. John Deere Gators are designed to perform equally well on paved road or off-road terrain.

  1. Spray the Gator with a pressure nozzle to remove dirt and mud. Direct the stream of water underneath the vehicle to loosen and remove mud and dirt from around the wheels and axles. Debris may interfere with the normal operation of the Gator.

  2. Check the gas tank of the Gator with a flashlight. Open the cap of the tank and make sure there is enough fuel to start and operate the vehicle. Add enough fresh fuel to the tank for the Gator to start and run for a period of time.

  3. Examine the battery of the Gator. Check the terminal connections and tighten with an adjustable wrench if necessary. Brush away any corrosion from the terminals with a stiff bristled brush.

  4. Locate the spark plug on the engine of the Gator. Look for a wire leading to the cap of the spark plug. Remove the cap by pulling straight up. Remove the spark plug with a socket wrench and spark plug socket. Replace the plug, if necessary, with a new plug from the manufacturer.

  5. Check the fuse block for bad or blown fuses. The fuses are located in the passenger area of the Gator beneath the dash panel. Replace bad fuses with new ones of the same amperage.

Warning

Wear gloves and safety glasses when working with batteries. Keep open flame away from gas and engines.