The John Deere 44-inch snowblower is a two-stage attachment designed for use with Select Series John Deere tractors, notably the X300, X500, X520, and E/S 100 Series. It is intended for residential and estate snow removal, particularly in areas experiencing heavy snowfall. Installation involves connecting the snowblower to the tractor’s lift system and drive mechanism, while maintenance focuses on belt replacement, shear pin replacement, and lubrication. The unit features a 44-inch clearing width and an 18-inch intake height, utilizing an auger and rotor system for efficient snow discharge.
Installation Procedure
Installing the John Deere 44-inch snowblower requires several steps to ensure proper operation and safety. Prior to beginning, the tractor should be parked on a level surface with the parking brake engaged and the engine turned off. Removing the mower deck is the initial step. Safety precautions, such as removing the key and potentially disconnecting the spark plug wire, are recommended.
The installation process proceeds as follows:
- Rear Lift Bracket Connection: The rear lift bracket of the snowblower must be aligned with the holes in the tractor’s lift arms. Pins are then inserted and secured with cotter pins on both sides.
- Lift Link Attachment: Rear lift links are attached to the front hitch bracket, also secured with cotter pins and spring pins on both sides.
- Snowblower to Hitch Attachment: The snowblower head is positioned on the hitch, ensuring the support pins fit into the cradles. The lift system is raised to engage the pins into the housing, and these are then locked by rotating L-shaped pins.
- Belt Installation: The snowblower is raised and supported with blocks to reduce tension on the drive belt. The belt is then routed around the tractor’s drive sheave.
- Scraper Blade Adjustment: Once the unit is fully raised, the scraper blade and skid shoes are adjusted. The scraper blade should be slightly off the ground, while the skid shoes should be positioned slightly lower.
- Final Connections: The lift lock cable and PTO connection are installed, and the belt drive module is secured to the tractor frame, following the instructions in the tractor’s manual.
Belt Replacement
Replacing the drive belt on the John Deere 44-inch snowblower is a maintenance procedure that may be required periodically. The process involves the following steps:
- Preparation: The snowblower should be placed on a flat, stable surface, and all power to the blower should be disengaged.
- Guard Removal: Belt guards or covers protecting the belt and pulleys are removed by unscrewing the securing bolts.
- Tension Adjustment: The belt tensioner pulley is loosened, either by moving or loosening the spring or bolts that apply tension, to create slack in the belt.
- Gearbox Plate Removal (if necessary): In some cases, the gearbox plate may need to be removed to provide adequate access to the belt and pulleys.
- Belt Removal: The old belt is carefully slipped off the pulleys.
- Installation: A new belt (part number M155885 is mentioned in replacement videos) is routed around the pulleys, ensuring proper alignment.
- Reassembly: The gearbox plate (if removed) and belt guards are reinstalled.
Detailed schematics or diagrams from the official John Deere service manual or online parts diagrams are recommended for precise belt routing and component identification.
Shear Pin Replacement
Shear pins are designed to break under excessive stress, protecting the auger and other components from damage. Replacing broken shear pins is a common maintenance task. The procedure is as follows:
- Safety First: The snowblower must be turned off, the key removed, and the spark plug wire disconnected to prevent accidental starting.
- Locate Shear Pins: Shear pins connect the auger to the auger shaft. A broken shear pin will allow the auger to spin freely.
- Clear Obstructions: Any snow, ice, or debris around the auger and shear pin area is removed.
- Remove Broken Pins: Remnants of broken shear pins are removed from the holes in both the auger and shaft. Tapping may be required.
- Align Holes: The holes in the auger blade and auger shaft are aligned. This may require slight movement or pulling of the auger or impeller.
- Insert New Pins: A new shear pin (typically an M6 x 45 mm bolt) is inserted through the aligned holes.
- Secure: The pin is secured with a nut and tightened snugly, but not excessively, to avoid premature breakage.
Videos demonstrating this process are available to provide a visual guide.
Component Overview and Manual Information
The John Deere 44-inch snowblower service manual PDF provides comprehensive information for maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair. Key sections of the manual include:
- Safety Precautions: Guidelines for safe operation and servicing.
- Specifications: Dimensions, capacities, and recommended settings.
- Maintenance Schedules: Procedures for lubrication, belt adjustments, and gear oil changes.
- Disassembly/Assembly Instructions: Detailed instructions for major components.
- Troubleshooting Guides: Assistance in diagnosing and resolving common issues.
- Adjustment Procedures: Instructions for skid shoes, auger, and chute controls.
- Electrical System Diagrams: Component descriptions and schematics.
- Hydraulic System Schematics: Service information.
- Parts Diagrams and Lists: Aid in identifying and ordering replacement components.
- Torque Specifications: Proper tightening of fasteners.
- Special Tool Requirements: Usage instructions.
- Winterization/Storage Procedures: Protection during off-season.
The parts manual provides detailed information about the snowblower’s components and assembly, including instructions for chute installation, vertical knife attachment, hitch pin installation, and gear protector placement. It also includes parts diagrams and lists for sections such as the housing, skid shoes, cutting edge, 4-point hitch, driveline support, and drift cutters. Detailed breakdowns of assemblies like the chute and electric deflector, and the reduction box, are also provided.
Snowblower Features and Specifications
The John Deere 44-inch snowblower features a two-stage design with a 44-inch clearing width and an 18-inch intake height. The auger breaks down and moves snow towards the center, where a high-speed rotor discharges it through the chute. The chute can rotate up to 200 degrees and is controlled from the operator’s station. Adjustable skid shoes allow for use on various surfaces, including gravel driveways. Key components include a cast-iron gearbox with shear bolt protection, a durable UHMW polyethylene fan, and a high-density polyethylene discharge spout and deflector.
Pricing Information
Used John Deere 44 snowblowers can be found for around $1,890, depending on condition and seller. New models in Canada may cost approximately CA$3,372.00. Prices are subject to fluctuation based on location and availability.
Conclusion
The John Deere 44-inch snowblower is a robust attachment designed for efficient snow removal. Proper installation, regular maintenance – including belt and shear pin replacement – and understanding the component layout, as detailed in the service and parts manuals, are crucial for optimal performance and longevity. The unit’s two-stage design and adjustable features make it suitable for a variety of snow conditions and surfaces.