- Common John Deere 1025r Problems - April 18, 2022
John Deere is certainly one of the more reliable tractor brands on the market. There’s something to be said for over a century of brand longevity!
That said, even the venerable line of John Deere tractors sometimes suffers from mechanical problems. The John Deere 1025r is no exception.
There are several common problems that you might encounter with your John Deere 1025. Here’s a quick guide to fixing them.
John Deere 1025r Transmission Problems
Transmission problems are a common complain on the 1025r. Fortunately, they are also the easiest to fix!
Here are some common diagnoses:
- Low Transmission Oil: The first thing to check with your transmission oil levels. If low, fill it up! Here’s an instructional video for how to change your John Deere 1025r transmission oil:
- Cold Transmission Oil: Particularly as you get below freezing, the oil viscosity can change, leading to rough starts or even not starting at all. A common solution here is start at 1/2 or 1/3 throttle before idling up.
- Neutral Transmission Position: This might seem like a fairly rookie mistake, but if you are unfamiliar with the 1025r check to ensure the gear shift is set to in gear before attempting to start.
John Deere 1025r Engine Problems
Engines are the more complicated and critical problem areas, particularly as your tractor ages. Here are some common problems with the 1025r:
- Engine Overheating: This one can be due to a variety of issues. Start by checking the radiator fan for excess debris. Blocked airflow could cause overheating, particularly on hot summer days after extensive use. Another issue could be a misaligned fan belt. Ensure that it is tight and secure around the rotor. Finally, check your tractors coolant levels. Frequently running dry may also be indicative of a coolant link somewhere in the line, a common problem on older tractors.
- Hard Starts: This is difficult to isolate the problem, but a few common issues could be old or low oil levels (particularly after going unused) OR an issue with the starter itself.
John Deere 1025r Hydraulic Problems
This video below summarizes the common hydraulic problems on the 1025r (and 1023r) better than text:
Faulty Hydraulic Lines: Clogged lines might be identifiable on inspection, but the actual cause can be poppet valves incorrectly depressing (or not at all). Simply disconnected and firmly reconnecting the male / female ends (as shown in the video) may be the fix! Try this first. If this does not solve the problem, you may need to replace one or both of the ends (male and female).
John Deere 1025r Brake Problems
A common issue with the 1025r is inadequate braking on hills. This is obviously a safety concern, so I recommend having your local dealer diagnose and fix (this should be covered by warranty). While it’s possible to adjust the brakes with an impact torque wrench.
Here’s a video of the DIY process:
John Deere 1025r Steering Problems
This one could we related to a variety of issues:
- Low Hydraulic Fluid: This could be related to “hydraulic problems” and often the same issue.
- Low Tire Pressure: Particularly after extended lack of use, check your tire pressure. The right tire pressure is right around 28, but a range of 25-30 is generally acceptable.
Final Word on John Deere 1025r Issues
All tractors, and all equipment for that reason, will eventually experience an issue. It’s part of the job of owning and operating equipment. A problem can usually be solved with simple troubleshooting.
While the John Deere 1025r is certainly not without typical tractor problems, it’s generally among the more reliable tractors I’ve had the please of dealing with.