How to Troubleshoot a JD B

Check the fuel level in the Model B. Make sure that the tractor has enough gas to start and run properly. Add more gas to the tank if needed. If you have left gas inside the tractor’s tank throughout the winter, remove the gas with a siphon hose. This gas can get water in it and cause misfires in the engine.

Open the front hood of the tractor and locate the spark plugs. They are located on the engine and will be labeled in text. Pull the spark plugs out of the engine and use a rag to wipe them down. If the spark plugs aren’t working properly, the engine will not be able to run properly. Replace the spark plugs if needed.

Inspect the battery. The battery is located under the hood, next to the engine. Make sure that the battery terminals are not corroded. If they are, use a can of soda to clean them. Disconnect the terminals from the battery and pour regular Coke on them. The acid in the Coke will remove the corrosion. Use a rag to wipe off the corrosion. Make sure that the battery terminals are connected to the battery properly with a pair of channel locks. A loose connection can cause the tractor to die unexpectedly. Replace the battery, if needed.

Check the belts on the engine. If you have any broken belts, have a technician replace them. Special tools are needed to replace the belts in the tractor and you might not have them yourself. These tools include belt suppressors that will hold the engine parts back so that the belts can be fitted.

Add more transmission oil to the tractor if it will turn on but won’t move. The transmission port is on the right side of the engine and is labeled with text. Pour transmission oil into the port until it is full. Replace the oil completely if you see blue smoke coming from the exhaust pipe on the tractor.