54-Inch

*SELF*
Front Blade
(Serial No. 040001 – )

OPERATOR’S
MANUAL

John Deere
*OMM126795*
Lawn & Grounds Care Division
OMM126795 L4
North American Version
Litho in U.S.A
English
 INTRODUCTION
THANK YOU for purchasing a John Deere product.
This 54-Inch Blade can be used on the 318,
322, 332, 420, 425, 430, 445, and 455 Tractors.

It can also be used on the F911, F925, and F935

Front Mowers.

Throughout this manual the words 300 Series,

400 Series, and F900 Series will be refered to
as:
• Whenever you see 300 Series: This refers to models 318,
322, and 332 Tractors.
• Whenever you see 400 Series: This refers to models 425,
445, and 455 Tractors.
• Whenever you see F900 Series: This refers to models
F911, F925, and F935 Front Mowers.
• 420 and 430 Tractors will be spelled out as such.

Read this manual and your vehicle manual thoroughly. Failure to

do so could result in personal injury or equipment damage.
This manual should be considered a permanent part of your
machine and should remain with the machine when you sell it.
Measurements in this manual are U.S. customary units and their
metric equivalents. RIGHT-HAND and LEFT-HAND sides are
determined by facing in the direction the machine will travel
when going forward.
Product warranty is provided as part of John Deere’s support
program for customers who operate and maintain their
equipment as described in this manual. The product warranty is
explained on the warranty certificate you received from your
dealer.
 INTRODUCTION
Record identification numbers below. Be sure to record all the
numbers to help in tracing the machine if it is stolen. You also
need to give these numbers to your dealer when you order parts.

Date of Purchase: Dealer Name: Phone:

Serial Number:

400 Series Tractor Shown M72642

 TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Safety Signs
Safety-Alert Symbol .................................................................1
Machine Safety Labels.............................................................1

Preparing The Vehicle ...........................................................2

Installing – 400 Series

Park Vehicle Safely ..................................................................6
Avoid High Pressure Fluids......................................................6
Cable Assembly .......................................................................7
Installing Blade.........................................................................8

Installing – F900 Series

Park Vehicle Safely ..................................................................9
Avoid High Pressure Fluids......................................................9
Cable Assembly .....................................................................10
Installing Blade.......................................................................10

Installing – 300 Series

Park Vehicle Safely ................................................................12
Avoid High Pressure Fluids....................................................12
Cable Assembly .....................................................................13
Installing Blade.......................................................................13

Installing – 420 and 430

Park Vehicle Safely ................................................................15
Avoid High Pressure Fluids....................................................15
Cable Assembly .....................................................................16
Installing Blade.......................................................................16

Table of Contents
 TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Removing
Park Vehicle Safely................................................................ 18
Avoid High Pressure Fluids ................................................... 18
Removing Blade .................................................................... 19

Operating
Operate Safely....................................................................... 20
Wear Appropriate Clothing .................................................... 21
Operating Tips ....................................................................... 21
Before Operating Blade ......................................................... 22
Adjusting Skid Shoes............................................................. 23
Adjusting Blade For Digging .................................................. 23
Adjusting Blade For Clearing Or Leveling.............................. 24
Removing Objects Between Blade And
Mounting Bracket .............................................................. 24

Operating – 400 Series

Operating Blade..................................................................... 26
Using Differential ................................................................... 27
Stopping Tractor And Blade................................................... 28

Operating – F900 Series

Operating Blade..................................................................... 29
Using Differential ................................................................... 30
Stopping Front Mower And Blade.......................................... 31

Operating – 420 and 430

Operating Blade..................................................................... 32
Using Differential ................................................................... 34
Stopping Tractor And Blade................................................... 34

Table of Contents
 TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Operating – 300 Series
Operating Blade .....................................................................35
Stopping Tractor And Blade ...................................................36

Troubleshooting
Using Troubleshooting Chart .................................................37

Storing Blade........................................................................39

Assembly
Identify Parts ..........................................................................40
Fasten Front Hitch To Blade ..................................................40

Specifications
Blade Specifications...............................................................42
Recommended Lubricants .....................................................42

John Deere Service Literature

Order Form.............................................................................43

All information, illustrations and

specifications in this manual are based on
the latest information at the time of
publication. The right is reserved to make
changes at any time without notice.

COPYRIGHT© 2014
John Deere Horicon Works
All rights reserved
Previous Editions
COPYRIGHT© 1994, 1992 and 1996

Table of Contents
 SAFETY SIGNS
Safety-Alert Symbol
Read and recognize safety information.
Be alert to the potential for personal
injury when you see this safety-alert
symbol.
On your machine safety labels, the
words DANGER, WARNING, and
CAUTION are used with this safety-alert
symbol. DANGER identifies the most
serious hazards. In this manual, the
word CAUTION and this symbol call
attention to safety messages.

Machine Safety Labels

M47569

M78429
M78430

Safety Signs - Page 1

 PREPARING THE VEHICLE
Preparing The Tractor/Front Mower
BALLASTING IS REQUIRED FOR SAFE OPERATION OF
YOUR BLADE.

300 SERIES TRACTORS Ballast:

(318, 322, AND 332) • Six rear suit case weights with
bracket.
400 SERIES TRACTORS Ballast:
(425, 445, AND 455 • None required.
TRACTORS)
420, AND 430 Ballast:
• Four rear suit case weights with
bracket.
F900 SERIES (F911, Ballast:
F925, AND F935) • Six rear bumper weights and
cast iron rear bumper. (Rear
Weight Kit required.)

Preparing the Vehicle - Page 2

 PREPARING THE VEHICLE

Your tractor/front mower MUST have:

300 400 420 & F900
Series Series 430 Series
FRONT HITCH KIT X X X X
FRONT MOUNTING X
EXTENSION (430
BRACKET Only)
DUAL HYDRAULICS X
ON THE FRONT
AUXILLIARY X
HYDRAULIC KIT
HYDRAULIC OUTLET X
KIT (425
Only)
HYDRAULIC ANGLING X X X X
KIT

Preparing the Vehicle - Page 3

 PREPARING THE VEHICLE

To improve traction:
300 400 420 & F900
Series Series 430 Series
INSTALL CHAINS ON X X X X
DRIVE TIRES
INSTALL WHEEL X X X X
WEIGHTS ON DRIVE
WHEELS
INSTALL LIQUID BAL- X X X X
LAST IN DRIVE TIRES
PUSH DIFFERENTIAL X X X
LOCK BUTTON
DOWN, IF ONE
WHEEL IS SLIPPING.
DURING NORMAL
OPERATION DIFFER-
ENTIAL LOCK BUTTON
SHOULD NOT BE
ENGAGED
USE INDIVIDUAL X X X
WHEELBRAKES TO
REDUCE SLIPPAGE

To improve steering on the F900 Series:

• Install wheel weights in steering tires.
• Install liquid ballast in steering tires.
• Use individual wheel brakes to make sharp turns at slow
speeds.

Preparing the Vehicle - Page 4

 PREPARING THE VEHICLE
Recommended options on 300 Series:
• 4 Ply Front Tires

Recommended options on F900 Series:

• Weight Transfer Valve (F911, and F925)

Tire Inflation:*
400 Series,
300 Series 420 & 430 F900 Series
psi (kPa) psi (kPa) psi (kPa)
FRONT:
• 2 ply 14 (97 )
• 4 ply 22 (150 )
REAR 5–10 5–10
(35–70) (35–70)
FRONT:
• 2 ply (16x7.50) 14 (97) (425,
445, and 455)
• 4 ply (18x8.50) 22 (150 )
FRONT (DRIVE) 24 (165 )
REAR 28 (193 )
(STEERING)

* NOTE: If tractor tires contain liquid ballast (calcium

chloride solution), use a special air-water tire gauge to
check inflation pressure. Tire gauges are available from
your John Deere dealer.

Preparing the Vehicle - Page 5

 INSTALLING – 400 SERIES
Park Vehicle Safely
• Stop vehicle on a level surface, not on a slope.

• Disengage PTO

• Engage the park brake.

• STOP the engine.

• Remove the key.

• Before you leave the operator’s seat, wait for engine and all
moving parts to STOP.

Avoid High Pressure Fluids

• Escaping fluid under pressure can penetrate
the skin causing serious injury. Avoid the
hazard by relieving pressure before
disconnecting hydraulic or other lines. Tighten
all connections before applying pressure.

• Search for leaks with a piece of cardboard. Protect hands and

body from high pressure fluids.

• If an accident occurs, see a doctor immediately. Any fluid

injected into the skin must be surgically removed within a few
hours or gangrene may result. Doctors unfamiliar with this type
of injury should reference a knowledgeable medical source.
Such information is available from Deere & Company Medical
Department in Moline, Illinois, U.S.A.

Installing – 400 Series - Page 6

 INSTALLING – 400 SERIES
Cable Assembly
NOTE: MAKE SURE cable
assembly is in the REAR
hole on the front hitch.

Move cable assembly (A) to the rear

hole (B) on front hitch. A

New Style
M58974

Old Style
M47445

Installing – 400 Series - Page 7

 INSTALLING – 400 SERIES
Installing Blade
NOTE: Front Hitch Kit and Angling Cylinder Kit must be
installed before installing the Front Blade. Also
needed for 425 only is Hydraulic Coupler Kit.

1. Place blade on a level surface.

2. Release pins (A) from LOCKED
position (if locked out).
C

M78431

3. Use the tractors lower hydraulic

lever (B) to align the notches on both
sides of hitch, with rod (C) on the
Front Blade.
4. After the rod ends are in the hitch
notches, slowly raise blade by using
B
the tractors lower hydraulic lever.

M47369

5. Make sure that the Front Hitch

L-pins (D) have LOCKED in the
hole on the front blade mounting.

M78431

Installing – 400 Series - Page 8

 INSTALLING – F900 SERIES
Park Vehicle Safely
• Stop vehicle on a level surface, not on a slope.

• Disengage PTO

• Engage the park brake.

• STOP the engine.

• Remove the key.

• Before you leave the operator’s seat, wait for engine and all
moving parts to STOP.

Avoid High Pressure Fluids

• Escaping fluid under pressure can penetrate
the skin causing serious injury. Avoid the
hazard by relieving pressure before
disconnecting hydraulic or other lines. Tighten
all connections before applying pressure.

• Search for leaks with a piece of cardboard. Protect hands and

body from high pressure fluids.

• If an accident occurs, see a doctor immediately. Any fluid

injected into the skin must be surgically removed within a few
hours or gangrene may result. Doctors unfamiliar with this type
of injury should reference a knowledgeable medical source.
Such information is available from Deere & Company Medical
Department in Moline, Illinois, U.S.A.

Installing – F900 Series - Page 9

 INSTALLING – F900 SERIES
Cable Assembly
NOTE: MAKE SURE cable
assembly (A) is in
the REAR hole on front
hitch.
B A
Move cable assembly (A) to the rear
hole (B) on front hitch.

M58984

Installing Blade
NOTE: Front Hitch Kit and Angling
Cylinder Kit must be
installed before installing
the Front Blade. C

1. Place blade on a level surface.

A
2. Release pins (A) from LOCKED
position (if locked out).
M78431
3. Use the front mower inner
hydraulic lever (B) to align the
notches on both sides of hitch, B
with rod (C) on the Front Blade.
4. After the rod ends are in the
hitch notches, slowly raise blade
by using the front mower inner
hydraulic lever.
M58989

Installing – F900 Series - Page 10

 INSTALLING – F900 SERIES
5. Make sure that the Front Hitch
L-pins (D) have LOCKED in the
hole on the front blade mounting.

M78431

Installing – F900 Series - Page 11

 INSTALLING – 300 SERIES
Park Vehicle Safely
• Stop vehicle on a level surface, not on a slope.

• Disengage PTO

• Engage the park brake.

• STOP the engine.

• Remove the key.

• Move hydraulic lever back and forth several times to relieve

pressure.
• Before you leave the operator’s seat, wait for engine and all
moving parts to STOP.

Avoid High Pressure Fluids

• Escaping fluid under pressure can penetrate
the skin causing serious injury. Avoid the
hazard by relieving pressure before
disconnecting hydraulic or other lines.
Tighten all connections before applying
pressure.

• Search for leaks with a piece of cardboard. Protect hands and

body from high pressure fluids.

• If an accident occurs, see a doctor immediately. Any fluid

injected into the skin must be surgically removed within a few
hours or gangrene may result. Doctors unfamiliar with this type
of injury should reference a knowledgeable medical source.
Such information is available from Deere & Company Medical
Department in Moline, Illinois, U.S.A.

Installing – 300 Series - Page 12

 INSTALLING – 300 SERIES
Cable Assembly
NOTE: MAKE SURE cable
assembly (A) is in
the REAR hole on front A
hitch.

Move cable assembly (A) to the rear

hole (B) on the front hitch. B

M58974

Installing Blade
NOTE: Front Hitch Kit and Angling
Cylinder Kit must be
installed before installing
the Front Blade.
C
1. Place blade on a level surface.
2. Release pins (A) from LOCKED A

position (if locked out).

M478431
3. Use the tractors inner hydraulic
lever (B) to align the notches on
both sides of hitch, with rod (C) on
the Front Blade.
4. After the rod ends are in the B
hitch notches, slowly raise blade
by using the tractors inner hydraulic
lever.
M58980

Installing – 300 Series - Page 13

 INSTALLING – 300 SERIES
5. Make sure that the Front Hitch
L-pins (D) have LOCKED in the
hole on the front blade mounting.

M78431

Installing – 300 Series - Page 14

 INSTALLING – 420 AND 430
Park Vehicle Safely
• Stop vehicle on a level surface, not on a slope.

• Disengage PTO

• Engage the park brake.

• STOP the engine.

• Remove the key.

• Move hydraulic levers back and forth several times to relieve
pressure.
• Before you leave the operator’s seat, wait for engine and all
moving parts to STOP.

Avoid High Pressure Fluids

• Escaping fluid under pressure can penetrate
the skin causing serious injury. Avoid the
hazard by relieving pressure before
disconnecting hydraulic or other lines.
Tighten all connections before applying
pressure.
• Search for leaks with a piece of cardboard. Protect hands and
body from high pressure fluids.
• If an accident occurs, see a doctor immediately. Any fluid
injected into the skin must be surgically removed within a few
hours or gangrene may result. Doctors unfamiliar with this type
of injury should reference a knowledgeable medical source.
Such information is available from Deere & Company Medical
Department in Moline, Illinois, U.S.A.

Installing – 420 and 430 - Page 15

 INSTALLING – 420 AND 430
Cable Assembly
NOTE: MAKE SURE cable
assembly (A) is in
the REAR hole on front
hitch.
Move cable assembly (A) to the rear
A
hole (B) on the front hitch.
B

M58974

Installing Blade
NOTE: Front Hitch Kit and
Angling Cylinder Kit
must be installed
before installing the
C
Front Blade.
1. Place blade on a level surface. A

2. Release pins (A) from LOCKED

position (if locked out). M78431
3. Use the tractors inner hydraulic
lever (B) to align the notches on
both sides of hitch, with rod (C) on
the Front Blade.
4. After the rod ends are in the
B
hitch notches, slowly raise blade
by using the tractors inner hydraulic
lever.
M35518

Installing – 420 and 430 - Page 16

 INSTALLING – 420 AND 430
5. Make sure that the Front Hitch
L-pins (D) have LOCKED in the
hole on the front blade mounting.

M78431

Installing – 420 and 430 - Page 17

 REMOVING
Park Vehicle Safely
• Stop vehicle on a level surface, not on a slope.
• Lower blade to the ground.
• Disengage PTO
• Engage the park brake.
• STOP the engine.
• Remove the key.
• Before you leave the operator’s seat, wait for engine and all
moving parts to STOP.

Avoid High Pressure Fluids

• Escaping fluid under pressure can penetrate
the skin causing serious injury. Avoid the
hazard by relieving pressure before
disconnecting hydraulic or other lines.
Tighten all connections before applying
pressure.
• Search for leaks with a piece of cardboard. Protect hands and
body from high pressure fluids.
• If an accident occurs, see a doctor immediately. Any fluid
injected into the skin must be surgically removed within a few
hours or gangrene may result. Doctors unfamiliar with this type
of injury should reference a knowledgeable medical source.
Such information is available from Deere & Company Medical
Department in Moline, Illinois, U.S.A.

Removing - Page 18
 REMOVING
Removing Blade
1. Put L-pins (A) in the LOCKED
position.
2. With front hitch lowered back
tractor /front mower from front
blade.
A

M78431

Removing - Page 19
 OPERATING
Operate Safely
• Check vehicle brake action before you operate.
Adjust or service brakes as necessary.

• Inspect machine before you operate. Be sure

hardware is tight. Repair or replace damaged,
badly worn, or missing parts. Be sure guards
and shields are in good condition and fastened
in place. Make any necessary adjustments
before you operate.

• Clear work area of objects that might be thrown.

M39227
Keep people and pets out of the work area.
Stop machine if anyone enters the area.

• Do not keep blade in the TRIPPED position.

• Do not put hands between blade and mounting

bracket when removing objects that are stuck.

• Keep hands, feet, and clothing away from M39236

blade when blade is in the TRIPPED position
or is being pivoted.

• Be alert for traffic when crossing or working near roadways.

• Keep Front Mower platform clear of snow, mud, or ice.

• If you hit an object, stop the machine andinspect it. Make

repairs before you operate.Keep machine properly maintained
and ingood working order. Keep all shields andguards in place.

• Use recommended weights.

• DO NOT leave machine unattended when it is running.

• Do not operate equipment when you are tired or ill.

• Only operate during daylight or with good artificial light.

Operating - Page 20
 OPERATING
Operate Safely (Continued)
• Look carefully behind tractor/front mower before you back up.
• DO NOT let anyone, ESPECIALLY CHILDREN, ride on
machine or vehicle.
• DO NOT let children or an untrained person operate machine.
• Do not wear radio or music headphones while operating the
machine. Safe operation requires your full attention.

Wear Appropriate Clothing

• Wear close fitting clothing and safety
equipment appropriate for the job.
• Loud noise can cause impairment or loss
of hearing, wear a suitable protective device
such as earplugs.

Operating Tips

CAUTION: Help avoid injury from sudden stops.

c • Keep spring trip UNLOCKED except
for slow speed heavy digging and
grading.
• On machines with hydraulic down
pressure operate with blade in
FLOAT position except for slow
speed digging.
• Use rubber squeegee blade for high
speed operation.

Put blade at an angle:

• When clearing snow or light material.
• To use less power to move material.
• To decrease rear wheel slippage.

Operating - Page 21
 OPERATING
Operating Tips (Continued)
Operate at slow travel speed:
• When clearing or leveling.
• With hydraulic control lever not in the FLOAT position.
• With blade spring-trip LOCKED.
Do not use blade as a battering ram.
Operate engine at full throttle for best engine performance and
blading results.
If blade penetrates too much, raise blade or adjust height of skid
shoes.
To remove loose material (snow, slush) from a hard surface,
install OPTIONAL rubber squeegee on blade.
The blade is not intended to move a large amount of material.
Use common sense when you move material.
Raise blade when you are driving between jobs or when you are
not moving snow or dirt.

Before Operating Blade

1. Lower blade.
2. Lock the park brake.
3. STOP engine.
4. Remove the key.
5. Make operating adjustments as
necessary.
6. Follow PRESTARTING Checks in
your tractor/front mower operator's M39227
manual.
7. Check blade for:
• Loose or missing hardware or parts.
• Worn or damaged parts.
8. Learn controls. (See your tractor/front mower operator's
manual.)

Operating - Page 22
 OPERATING
Adjusting Skid Shoes
Skid shoes (A) can be adjusted in
increments of 6 mm (1/4-in.), and
increments of 13 mm (1/2-in).
• All models have twelve positions.
1. Raise blade. Put blocks under
center of blade.
2. STOP engine.
M35816
3. LOCK park brake.
4. Remove key.

NOTE: Adjust each skid shoe to same height.

5. Remove spring locking pin and drilled pin.

6. Move skid shoes up or down as desired.
7. Install drilled pin and spring locking pin.

Adjusting Blade For Digging

CAUTION: When blade is LOCKED in RIGID

c position, drive very slowly.

Turn J-pin (A) and put in hole in

blade.

M78431

Operating - Page 23
 OPERATING
Adjusting Blade For Clearing
Or Leveling
Pull J-pin (A) out of hole in blade.

M78432

Removing Objects Between Blade And Mounting

Bracket

CAUTION: Avoid Injury: Do not keep blade in

c TRIPPED position.
Do not put hands between blade and
mounting bracket to remove objects:
use a safe tool.
Keep hands, feet and clothing away
from a tripped blade or a blade that is
being pivoted.
Blade may cause injury when it snaps
back to NORMAL position after being
tripped. Stand where blade cannot hit
you.

Blade is designed to trip if an obstruction or solid object is hit

during blade operation. If this happens, blade should
automatically return to the OPERATING position.
If an object becomes wedged between blade and mounting
bracket, the blade will remain in the TRIPPED position. Use
extreme caution to remove the object.

Operating - Page 24
 OPERATING
Removing Objects Between Blade And Mounting
Bracket (Continued)

CAUTION: DO NOT put hand between blade and

c mounting brracket when removing
the object.

1. Stop engine.
2. Lower blade. A

3. Engage the park brake.

4. Remove the key.
5. Always stand in front of the
blade.
6. Using a breaker bar (A), put end
of bar between bracket and blade.
7. Apply downward pressure on
upper end of bar to lower the blade.
M35826
8. Keeping one hand on the bar,
remove the object.
9. Let up pressure to return the
bblade to the OPERATING position.
10. Remove the bar.

M35827

Operating - Page 25
 OPERATING – 400 SERIES
Operating Blade
1. START tractor engine.

CAUTION: Use a safe travel speed when you

c operate front blade.

2. Push lower hydraulic control lever

(A) all the way forward to FLOAT
position to lower blade:
• Use FLOAT position for most
operating conditions.
• Do not use FLOAT position for
A
slow-speed digging.
3. Pull lever rearward to lift blade. M47369
4. Move throttle lever (B) to FAST
position. Operate engine at full
throttle for best engine and blade
performance.
5. Put blade at an angle: B
• To clear snow or light material.
• To decrease amount of power to
move material.
M47562
• To prevent wheel slippage.
To Angle Blade To The Right: Move
upper hydraulic control lever (C) C
rearward.
To Angle Blade To The Left: Move
lever (C) forward.
NOTE: When you want blade to
operate in the opposite
direction of Step 5 above, M47369
switch hydraulic hose
connections.

Operating – 400 Series - Page 26

 OPERATING – 400 SERIES
6. Push hydrostatic control pedal (D)
slowly forward. Operate blade at a
safe travel speed.
7. If blade penetrates or trips too
much: D
• Raise blade.
• Adjust height of skid shoes.
• Slow down.
M47563
• Put blade at a sharper angle.
• Take a narrower cut to push less
material.
• Put control lever in FLOAT position.

Using Differential

CAUTION: Do not LOCK differential at high speed

c or turn tractor when differential is
LOCKED.

1. LOCK differential (A) for better

traction on slopes and in slippery
places.

To Lock Differential: Push pedal

down. Differential will stay LOCKED
A
as long as you hold pedal down, or
as long as wheel slip is unequal.
To Unlock Differential: Release M47564
pedal.

Operating – 400 Series - Page 27

 OPERATING – 400 SERIES
Stopping Tractor And Blade
1. Be sure foot is off hydrostatic
control pedals
2. Pull throttle back to slow.
3. Lower blade to ground.
4. STOP engine.
5. LOCK park brake.
6. Remove key.
M47563

Operating – 400 Series - Page 28

 OPERATING – F900 SERIES
Operating Blade
1. START front mower engine.

CAUTION: Use a safe travel speed when you

c operate front blade.

2. Push inner hydraulic control lever

(A) all the way forward to FLOAT A
position to lower blade:
• Use FLOAT position for most
operating conditions.
• Do not use FLOAT position for
slow-speed digging.
3. Pull lever rearward to lift blade.
M58989
4. Move throttle lever (B) to FAST
position. Operate engine at full
throttle for best engine and blade
performance. B
5. Put blade at an angle:
• To clear snow or light material.
• To decrease amount of power to
move material.
• To prevent wheel slippage.
M39485
To Angle Blade To The Right: Move
outer hydraulic control lever (C)
C
rearward.
To Angle Blade To The Left: Move
outer hydraulic control lever (C)
forward.
NOTE: When you want blade to
operate in opposite
direction of Step 5 above, M58989
switch hydraulic hose
connections.

Operating – F900 Series - Page 29

 OPERATING – F900 SERIES
6. Push hydrostatic control pedal (D)
slowly forward. Operate blade at a
safe travel speed.
7. If blade penetrates or trips too
much:
• Raise blade.
• Adjust height of skid shoes. D
• Slow down.
M39483
• Put blade at a sharper angle.
• Take a narrower cut to push less
material.
• Put control lever in FLOAT position.

Using Differential

CAUTION: Do not LOCK differential at high speed

c or turn front mower when differential
is LOCKED.

LOCK differential for better traction

on slopes and in slippery places.
• To Lock Differential: Push pedal
down. Differential will stay
LOCKED as long as you hold pedal
down, or as long as wheel slip is
unequal.
• To Unlock Differential: Release M38653
pedal.

Operating – F900 Series - Page 30

 OPERATING – F900 SERIES
Stopping Front Mower And Blade
1. Make sure foot is off hydrostatic
control pedal.
2. Pull throttle back to slow.
3. Lower blade to the ground.
4. Stop the engine.
5. Lock the park brake.
6. Remove the key.
M39483

Operating – F900 Series - Page 31

 OPERATING – 420 AND 430
Operating Blade
1. START tractor engine.

CAUTION: Use a safe travel speed when you

c operate front blade. Put two-speed
axle lever in the SLOW position.

2. Move two-speed axle lever to the

SLOW position.

M34474

3. Push inner hydraulic control lever

(A) all the way forward to FLOAT
position to lower blade:
• Use FLOAT position for most
A
operating conditions.
• Do not use FLOAT position for
slow-speed digging.
4. Pull lever rearward to lift blade. M35518
5. Move throttle lever (B) to FAST
position. Operate engine at full
throttle for best engine and blade
performance.

M35514

Operating – 420 and 430 - Page 32

 OPERATING – 420 AND 430
6. Put blade at an angle:
• To clear snow or light material.
• To decrease amount of power to
move material. C
• To prevent wheel slippage.
To Angle Blade To The Right: Move
outer hydraulic control lever (C)
forward.
M35518
To Angle Blade To The Left: Move
outer hydraulic control lever (C)
rearward.

NOTE: When you want the blade

to operate in the opposite
direction of Step 5 above,
switch hydraulic hose
connections.
7. Push hydrostatic control lever (D)
slowly forward. Operate blade at a
safe travel speed.
8. If blade penetrates or trips too
much:
• Raise blade. D
• Adjust height of skid shoes.
• Slow down. M35517
• Put blade at a sharper angle.
• Take a narrower cut to push less
material.
• Put control lever in FLOAT position.

Operating – 420 and 430 - Page 33

 OPERATING – 420 AND 430
Using Differential

CAUTION: Do not LOCK differential at high speed

c or turn front mower when differential
is LOCKED.

LOCK differential for better traction

on slopes and in slippery places.

• To Lock Differential: Push pedal

down. Differential will stay
LOCKED as long as you hold pedal
down, or as long as wheel slip is
unequal.

• To Unlock Differential: Release M34464

pedal.

Stopping Tractor And Blade

1. Move hydrostatic control lever (A)
to N (neutral) position.
2. Pull throttle back to slow.
3. Lower blade to the ground.
4. Stop the engine.
A
5. Lock the park brake.
6. Remove the key.
M35517

Operating – 420 and 430 - Page 34

 OPERATING – 300 SERIES
Operating Blade
1. START tractor engine.

CAUTION: Use a safe travel speed when you

c operate front blade.

2. Push inner hydraulic control lever

(A) all the way forward to FLOAT
position to lower blade:
• Use FLOAT position for most
operating conditions.
• Do not use FLOAT position for A
slow-speed digging.
3. Pull lever rearward to lift blade. M58980
4. Move throttle lever (B) to FAST
position. Operate engine at full
throttle for best engine and blade
performance.
5. Put blade at an angle:
• To clear snow or light material.
• To decrease amount of power to
move material. B
• To prevent wheel slippage. M56971
To Angle Blade To The Right: Move
outer hydraulic control lever (C)
rearward.
C
To Angle Blade To The Left: Move
lever (C) forward.
NOTE: When you want the blade to
operate in the opposite
direction of Step 5 above,
M58980
switch hydraulic hose
connections.

Operating – 300 Series - Page 35

 OPERATING – 300 SERIES
6. Push hydrostatic control pedal (D)
slowly forward. Operate blade at a
safe travel speed.
D
7. If blade penetrates or trips too
much:
• Raise blade.
• Adjust height of skid shoes.
• Slow down.
M58983
• Put blade at a sharper angle.
• Take a narrower cut to push less
material.
• Put control lever in FLOAT position.

Stopping Tractor And Blade

1. Move hydrostatic control lever (A)
to N (neutral) position.
A
2. Pull throttle back to slow.
3. Lower blade to the ground.
4. Stop the engine.
5. Lock the park brake.
6. Remove the key. M58983

Operating – 300 Series - Page 36

 TROUBLESHOOTING
Using Troubleshooting Chart
If you are experiencing a problem that is not listed in this chart,
see your John Deere dealer for service.
When you have checked all the possible causes listed and you
are still experiencing the problem, see your John Deere dealer.

IF CHECK
HYDRAULIC CYLINDER STOP engine and move
HOSES DIFFICULT TO hydraulic control levers back
CONNECT OR DISCON- and forth several times to
NECT relieve pressure.
BLADE WILL NOT ANGLE Hydraulic hoses not
CORRECTLY connected to tractor/front
mower couplers correctly.
BLADE WILL NOT RAISE Hydraulic hoses not
OR LOWER CORRECTLY connected to tractor/front
mower couplers correctly.
BLADE WILL NOT CLEAN Install OPTIONAL rubber
LOOSE MATERIAL SUCH squeegee. (See your John
AS SNOW OR SLUSH Deere dealer.)
FROM SURFACE
TRACTOR/FRONT MOWER Install tire chains and/or
DRIVE WHEEL SLIPPAGE calcium chloride solution in
tires. (See your John Deere
dealer.)
BLADE GOUGING HOLES Adjust skid shoes and/or
OR DIGGING TOO DEEP move hydraulic control lever
WHEN CLEARING OR FORWARD to FLOAT
LEVELING positon.

Troubleshooting - Page 37
 TROUBLESHOOTING

IF CHECK
BLADE PENETRATES TOO UNLOCK blade from RIGID
MUCH AND WILL NOT position and move hydraulic
FLOAT OVER UNEVEN SUR- control lever FORWARD to
FACES OR OBSTACLES FLOAT position.
BLADE WILL NOT PENE- LOCK blade in RIGID
TRATE WHEN DIGGING OR position and operate at a
OPERATING ON HARD slow travel speed.
SOIL SURFACES
Adjust skid shoes and move
hydraulic control lever out of
FLOAT position.
TRACTOR ENGINE LUGS Blade not angled correctly.
DOWN UNDER CERTAIN
CONDITIONS
FRONT MOWER BLADE LOCK blade in RIGID
SPRINGS DOWN TOO position and operate at a
OFTEN WHEN LEVELING. slow travel speed.
Adjust skid shoes and move
hydraulic control lever out of
FLOAT position.

Troubleshooting - Page 38
 STORING BLADE
Storing Machine Safely
Park tractor/front mower where you plan to store blade.

Apply a John Deere multi-purpose lubricant on exposed cylinder

rod.

Apply engine oil to pivot points.

Check all hardware for the proper torque.

Store blade indoors on a hard, level surface in a clean, dry place.

If blade is stored outdoors, put a sheet of plywood or wood
blocks under blade.

Thoroughly clean blade with soapy water and brush, or use a

high-pressure washer.

Inspect blade for worn or damaged parts. Replace parts as

necessary.

Apply touch-up paint where needed to prevent rust.

Put a waterproof cover over blade, if you store blade outdoors.

Storing Blade - Page 39

 ASSEMBLY
Identify Parts
Remove blade from box.

Fasten Front Hitch To Blade

1. Place blade on a level surface.
2. Install Front Hitch to tractor/front
mower. Refer to your Front Hitch Kit
Instructions. B

3. Release pins (A) from the A

LOCKED position (if locked out).
4. With hitch lowered, drive tractor
slowly forward to engage rod (B) in M78431
top of hitch.
5. Raise hitch slowly until pins (A)
LOCK into blade.

NOTE: Make sure that both pins

LOCK completely into
blade.

6. 400 Series, 300 Series and 420

and 430 Tractors: Lubricate pivot
pin (C) with John Deere NEVER-
SEEZ™ lubricant. A

NOTE: Photo shows blade and

hitch not installed on
tractor.
M78433

Assembly - Page 40
 ASSEMBLY
7. 400 Series, 300 Series and 420
and 430 Tractors: Grease L-pins (D)
(two on each side) , J-pin (E), and
the openings they fit into with John
Deere All-Purpose grease.
E

D D

M78434

• F900 Series: Grease L-pins (F)

(one on each side), J-pin (G), and
the openings they fit into with John
Deere All-Purpose grease
G
F

M78431

Assembly - Page 41
 SPECIFICATIONS
Blade Specifications

BLADE WIDTH:
• Straight 1.4 m (54 in.)
• Angled 15° 1.3 m (52-3/16 in.)
• Angled 27° 1.2 m (48-1/8 in.)
ANGLING POSITIONS:
• Right And Left 0–27°
BLADE SKID SHOES 12 Positions
BLADE TRIP Spring Trip
BLADE FLOAT Hydraulic
APPROXIMATE WEIGHT 45.5 kg (100 lb)

Recommended Lubricants

Gear Oil John Deere GL-5

Gear Lubricant
Grease John Deere MOLY HIGH
TEMPERATURE EP GREASE
John Deere HIGH
TEMPERATURE EP GREASE
John Deere GREASE GARDTM

(Specifications and design subject to change without notice.)

Specifications - Page 42
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Cut along dotted line - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
JOHN DEERE SERVICE LITERATURE
Order Form
John Deere Distribution Center Name __________________________
Department S/P
P.O. Box 186, Moline, IL 61266-0186 Address ________________________
To order these publications, fill out this form and
the payment information and mail it to the City ___________________________
address above. Make checks payable to John
Deere. Please allow three weeks for delivery. No
State __________________________
COD orders, please. Do not send cash or
stamps. To place credit card orders, call 1-800- Zip ____________________________
522-7448. If you want manuals or catalogs for
equipment not shown on this list, provide the
model number, serial number, and name of the Phone (_________________________
)
product.

Title Price
Order Number x Quantity = Total
Each
Parts Catalog PC1936 (Call 1-800- x =
522-7448
Operator’s Manual OMM126795 for current
x =
prices.) x =
x =
Fundamentals of Service (FOS) Manuals:
Engines FCP80101B (Call 1-800- x =
522-7448
Power Trains FCP81102B for current
x =
Electrical Systems FCP83101B prices.) x =
Hydraulics FCP82101B x =
Catalog of Available Service DB1112 N/C
Publications
Sub-total
Illinois state residents add 6.25% and Iowa
Method of Payment state resident add 4% for Retail Occupation
❑ Check or Money Order Tax or show tax exemption number. Other
Enclosed states excluded.
❑ John Deere Credit Card
❑ MasterCard Total Shipping & Handling
❑ Visa (from table below)
❑ American Express
❑ Discover (Prices subject to change without notice - DEC 91)
❑ Farm Plan Amount Due in U.S. Dollars
Credit Card Acct. No. Subtotal Shipping/ Optional shipping
Handling available. Please check
(13 or 16 digits)
$ .50 to 14.99 $3.00 and add cost to normal
____ - ____ - ____ - ____
15.00 to 24.99 4.25 shipping:
Expiration Date: 25.00 to 49.99 5.50
Signature: 50.00 to 99.99 7.50 ❑ 1 day air.........$15.00
100.00 and 4% of ❑ 2 day air.........$10.00
over sub total

Service Literature - Page 43

NOTES
 QUALITY DOESN’T END
WHEN YOU INVEST IN A DEERE
John Deere equipment is more than just a purchase, it’s an investment in quality.
That quality goes beyond our equipment to your John Deere dealer’s parts and
service support. This support is needed to keep you a satisfied customer.

That’s why John Deere has initiated a process to handle your questions or
problems, should they arise. The following three steps will help guide you through
the process.

Step 1 Refer to your operator’s manual

A. It has many illustrations and C. It gives ordering information for

detailed information on the safe parts catalogs, service and
and proper operation of your technical manuals.
equipment.
B. It gives troubleshooting D. If your questions are not
procedures, and specification answered in the operator’s
information. manual, then go to Step 2.

Step 2 Contact your dealer

A. Your John Deere dealer has the C. If the parts and service people
responsibility, authority, and are unable to resolve your
ability to answer questions, problem, see the dealership
resolve problems, and fulfill your manager or owner.
parts and service needs.
B. First, discuss your questions or D. If your questions or problems are
problems with your dealer’s not resolved by the dealer, then
trained parts and service staff. go to Step 3.

Step 3 Call the John Deere Customer Communications Center

A. Your John Deere dealer is the most efficient source in addressing any
concern, but if you are not able to resolve your problem after checking
your operator’s manual and contacting your dealer, call the Customer
Communications Center.
B. For prompt, effective service, please have the following ready before you
call:
• The name of the dealer with whom • Your 13-digit serial number which
you’ve been working. you recorded on the inside front
• Your equipment model number. cover of this manual.
• Number of hours on machine (if • If the problem is with an
applicable). attachment, your attachment
identification number.
C. Then call 1-800-537-8233 and our advisor will work with your dealer to
investigate your concern.