How to Change the Oil in a John Deere Gator
by Shelly Schumacher
John Deere Gator utility vehicles are hard working machines that demand the same maintenance attention as you would give your automobile. Changing the oil and following a proper maintenance schedule will help a Gator last for years to come. Like and automobile, the engine oil in a Gator breaks down over time from heat and friction generated inside the motor. Changing the oil on a Gator a straightforward process and should be easy for an individual who already does this type of maintenance on their own vehicle.
Step 1
Start the Gator and allow the engine oil to warm up. Run the engine for five minutes if it is cold.
Step 2
Park the vehicle on a level surface and lock the parking brake. The parking brake in the Gator is hand operated and is typically located next to the driver's seat.
Step 3
Turn the Gator engine off.
Step 4
Raise the cargo box on the Gator and lock the support rod into place.
Step 5
Place an oil pan beneath the oil drain plug.
Step 6
Remove the oil drain plug.
Step 7
Check to make sure the oil is flowing into the pan. Allow the oil to completely drain.
Step 8
Reinstall the oil drain plug.
Step 9
Proceed to step 10 if the Gator is not equipped with an oil filter, otherwise, place the drain pan beneath the oil filter.
Step 10
Remove the filter with an oil filter wrench and allow to drain into the pan. Attach wrench around filter and turn to the left until filter comes unscrewed.
Step 11
Install the new oil filter. Dab some clean oil on your finger and wet the gasket on the new filter. Hand tighten the new filter until it contacts the base, then tighten 1/2 turn further with the filter wrench.
Step 12
Remove the oil dipstick and fill the Gator engine with the correct quantity of oil. Consult the owner's manual for the appropriate oil capacity.
Step 13
Reinstall the dipstick.
Step 14
Start the Gator and make sure there is no oil leaking from the filter or the drain plug.
Step 15
Shut the engine off and check the oil level. Pull the dipstick back out and examine it to see if the oil is at the fill line. Add oil if necessary.
References
Things You'll Need
- Oil drain pan
- Adjustable wrench
- Oil filter wrench
- Oil filter (if equipped)
- Correct oil
Warnings
- Do not run engine in an enclosed area.
- Avoid contact with used engine oil.
Writer Bio
Shelly Schumacher has a diverse writing background that includes work in print as well as electronic publications. She has been writing for over 18 years and enjoys working with a variety of different clients on both writing projects and as a marketing and public relations consultant. Schumacher holds a Bachelor of Science in journalism from the University of Wisconsin.
