I have a JD Lx288 and know it should have oil changed... looked through the manual to see what else I should be doing while that is in the works.

I have done minimal maintenance (ex used to do it), used it from new for 5 yrs with very few problems. I have some knowledge about parts/names and a vague idea what they do, just never applied that knowledge (highschool engine course... 20 years ago:eek:) So please keep it simple for me... LOL

1> when warming up the oil (thought I was going to do that oil change last night in the garage) the engine started "surging" and then died. Had it running about 20 minutes cutting lawn. Instincts were that I was out of gas -- being 1/4 mile from garage and just about dark -- so added gas. Surging continued after gas added (when working and in neutral), though didn't die.. . Fuel Filter???

2> Got it back to garage & can't find the oil drain valve by the pic in manual (of course it shows a diff't model - one with the pretty valve - one that is easy to find and USE lol). Will check underneath tonight... BUT if anyone knows, am I looking for a square, hex...???

3> the transmission oil is WAAAAAAAY over full line .. but is having it too full a problem? Read that this oil should not be drained or changed... Doesn't seem to have the ooomph it used to when in full throttle. What I read in manual is that is probably too much engine oil?? Or do I have them confused in my head.


TIA LB

I have a Briggs & Strattion Vanguard 16 HP V-Twinn Model 303777. What is the valve settings? Motor is running sluggish, valve have never been set.

My (JD LX288) progress, so far

Scariest part for me... the surging (Q1) was resolved by new fuel filter.. I am so proud,:o runs like a Deere!

Q2- unresolved. Had it up on ramps, followed all the oily dirt trails to case & can't find a plug, a hex, a square, a valve to drain engine oil. Do I have to take some part (s) off to find it? (the mower deck is off, just dealing with the tractor)

Any opinions on those oil vac things? I don't see how it would actually get all the oil out, and my best guess is the dirtiest stuff probably wouldn't be removed:confused: Oh the other hand, a vac would get me farther than where I am at now.

Q3 -- took out some transmission oil with a pipette and bulb (hey, I'm just a girl - but it worked ;) ) Still above the full line, but not to the point where it might spill out when turning corners:rolleyes:. Any opinions on problems by having too much transmission oil greatly appreciated!

TIA
LB

Ellebee,

What make and HP motor is in your mower?

Doing a quick search for your model John Deere I come up with a 18 HP Kawasaki. If that's correct it looks like the drain plug is at the base of the oil fill tube.

Oops, should have included that info

Tractor JD LX288
Engine: Model Briggs & Stratton
Engine Model Number DBS18- 350777
Horsepower 18 hp


Hey thanks for checking this out for me!
LB

Thanks jsfocke :D!!

My brain was stuck on the fact that I HAVE a JD manual & therfore I should be able to do this...

Your response widened that narrow train of thought and got me looking on the B&S site (:o)... where I learned how to look up my info from all those OTHER numbers not mentioned in the JD manual

TADA found 2 manuals with pictures for this engine series... Now I got my map, flashlight, both hands... I should be able to find something (if you are familiar with that saying... :p)

Much appreciated
LB

PS I think the Kawasaki is on the newer LX288's (?2005 +), making me prehistoric