Check out some similar questions!

ellebee · May 28, 2009, 08:16 AM

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

Dogfight3 · May 28, 2009, 05:05 PM

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.

ellebee · May 29, 2009, 08:43 AM

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

jsfocke · May 29, 2009, 11:03 AM

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.

ellebee · May 29, 2009, 09:09 PM

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

ellebee · May 30, 2009, 07:47 PM

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