A malfunction is one of the most frustrating things that can ever happen to you while operating a John Deere 345. When you take your John Deere 345 out to mow your lawn and find it malfunctioning, you know it is going to cause several hours or hundreds of dollars to fix it.

Before you try to fix anything wrong with your John Deere 345, get your unit to an authorized dealer, I recommend you go through this article correctly. This post has discussed the most common John Deere 345 problems and their solutions. In most cases, John Deere 345 has minor issues, and their solution can be as simple as tying a knot. 

‘9’ John Deere 345 Problems

John Deere 345 Ignition Module Problems

The ignition module is essential for all mowers to create electricity to ignite fuel and oxygen. If there is any problem in your John Deere 345 ignition module, the electricity used by the engine cylinder to ignite oxygen and fuel will fail, which in turn shuts off the engine piston.

Therefore, if you find your John Deere 345 running erratically due to the ignition module getting damaged over time, here are a few causes and a solution to help you solve this problem. 

Signal Interruption: the ignition module is more complex than it sounds. Its job is to send a clear signal to the sensor and the computer to determine the engine’s proper firing and timing sequence.

If there is any interference on the call, the timing of your John Deere 345 will not be maintained. After that, a mower will missfire. To fix this, you will need to contact your authorized technician.

Airflow Sensor Wire: if the airflow sensor wire is corroded or clogged with debris or fuel, it will not be able to understand or receive the ignition module signal to start the John Deere 345. This is another problem with the ignition module, which affects the wiring on the airflow sensor. If this is the case, the solution can be as simple as changing the airflow sensor wire.

Electrical Short: if you need to know where the ignition module is located in your John Deere 345 ignition system, stop there. The ignition module can be either outside or inside the distributor, where it may get contaminated with chemicals and debris. This may further escalate the corrosion of the ignition module. If there is any short circuit or electrical short, call your mechanic. 

Firstly you should take a quick look at the front of the engine. If any spark plug comes out of the shroud, check and address it first. You can take the help of a multimeter to detect a bad spark plug. A bad spark plug causes most symptoms of a bad ignition module. However, if this is not a problem, get your unit to the authorized manufacturer for proper diagnosis.

John Deere 345 Engine Problems

  • Engine not starting But Cranking: This usually happens when you have an incorrect starting procedure. Avoid any operator error and verify the correct starting procedure.
  • Empty Fuel Tank: It is essential to check the fuel in the tank before operating the mower.
  • Blocked Fuel Filter: If you notice a fuel filter full of water or plugged, address it. If it is in bad condition, replace the fuel filter.
  • Restricted Exhaust: A John Deere 345 will have many engine issues if the exhaust is restricted. Check and correct it first.
  • Faulty Injection Pump Or Nozzle: If you notice the nozzle or pump deterioration, replace it. Sometimes it only needs repair. Nevertheless, you should first consult an authorized diesel repair station.
  • Blocked Injection Pump: If there is any acclimation of debris in the injection pump, insufficient fuel or airflow in the fuel system will halt your John Deere 345 engine. Keep the injection pump clean.
  • Worn-Out Timing Gears: If the timing gear is worn out, replacement is suggested.
  • Excessive Backlash: If you are experiencing backlash from your mower, check its timing gear. If it needs repairing, do it.
  • Valve Disturbance: It is essential to check and adjust the valve clearance from time to time.
  • Worn Out Connecting Rod Bearings: The first check and determine whether it needs a replacement or repair. Do as required.
  • Crankcase Problem: Oil might be too heavy; use a proper viscosity oil.
  • Loose Connections: If any connection is loose or corroded, tighten it first to prevent engine problems.
  • Hour Metre Started But Malfunctioning: If your electric system is not functioning or functioning erratically, it can be due to a blown-out fuse. Replace it with a new fuse. If the electrical system malfunctions, there might be a faulty battery connection. Replace the battery connection and tighten it correctly.
  • Low Oil/Air Pressure: It is essential to keep your John Deere 345 on regular maintenance to prevent low oil or air pressure. As suggested by manufacturing specs, your John Deere 345 tire should have adequate fuel. It is essential always to check it using a dipstick.
  • Restricted Crankcase Vent Tube: This usually occurs when the crank oil level is too high. Keep your vent tube clean and free from improper oil. Fill the crankcase with the required quality and viscosity oil.

John Deere 345 Fuel Pump Problems

Fortunately, with a premium John Deere 345, you also get a sensor that helps you regulate fuel flow into the carburetor. However, if the sensor fails to work correctly, the pump will not provide enough fuel for the engine to run and operate.

These may cause the engine to backfire or randomly shut up. This might be the primary cause of your John Deere 345 fuel pump problem. To fix this issue, you don’t need any electronic tools. You first need to check if the sensor is working or right or not.

The process of reviewing the sensor involves nothing but your time. If your John Deere 345 pump’s sensor seems faulty, replace it. Here is how to check for faulty sensors and replace them.

Checking For Faulty Pump Sensors To Replace 

  1. First, get your John Deere 345 to a flat surface. 
  2. Secondly, pour some gas into the tank if it seems empty. 
  3. Thirdly, you need a Pan underneath your John Deere 345’s engine. So do slide one. 
  4. Now, you need to find the rubber fuel line that must be located on your engine’s side. To do this, the first pop opens the hood.
  5. After successfully finding the rubber fuel, follow it to the carburetor of your John Deere 345 engine.
  6. Once you know where the carburetor is, unplug your fuel line’s pins and wirings.
  7. Now, you need to place an alligator clip on the battery. It will help if you put it on the (+) part of the battery While connecting the other few lines where the wires were connected first.
  8. The other alligator clips should be on the (-) part of your John Deere 345’s battery, while the other wire connection is attached to the fuel line.
  9. Now, you need to drain all the fuel into the pan. 
  10. If you notice fuel pumping out rapidly, the pump is functioning correctly.  
  11. If you notice oil prickling out, congrats, you found the problem. Replace the pump.

John Deere 345 Camshaft Problems

In John Deere 345 camshaft l, problems usually occur when lifters don’t rotate. The camshaft is essential to your John Deere 345 engine and other vehicles. Sadly, many causes of camshaft failure in John Deere 345 can include mechanical properties, load on the machine, speed, and lubricant properties.

As per a manufacturer, repairing a concept is never advised or suggested. However, camshafts can be rebuilt with low wear as long as it doesn’t escalate or become excessive.

Even though a few models from John Deere have some high-performance engines with repairable camshafts, they could be more cost-effective. If there is any problem with your John Deere 345’s camshaft, replace it with the new one as the best choice. The cost of replacing a camshaft can be between $1000 and $2000, depending on the model.

John Deere 345 hydrostatic problems

It is worrisome if your John Deere 345 has a hydrostatic transmission problem. It can be a daunting task and will consume a lot of time to find the root cause of this problem. Hydrostatic transmission usually has many mechanical components like a driving machine, metal hoses, and differential.

If any mechanical components fail or get broken, it will affect the hydrostatic transmission function. Besides this, poor maintenance may also cause your mower hydrostatic transmission issues. It is essential to service your John Deere 345’s hydrostatic transmission system, which includes changing the filter and replacing the hydrostatic oil with the new one.

According to the study, the leading cause of hydraulic failure in John Deere 345 tends to be air and water contamination. Sadly, faulty pumps, temperature issues, or breaches can escalate air and water contamination.

If you notice your John Deere 345 overheating, check the oil level and inspect the heat exchanger. It is worth checking the inline pressure filter, pump, and motor case for excessive bypassing. Also, don’t bother to examine the crosspost relief valves.

John Deere 345 Starting Problem

If the transmission gear shift lever is not in the correct position, the John Deere 345 may have a starting problem. Place the range shift lever to neutral. Besides this, you should move to half-throttle if the engine throttle is not pushed forward.

Also, check for any loose or corroded battery connection that might be causing a starting problem in your mower. It’s worth cleaning all contacts and retightening them.

If you notice that the fuel shutoff valve is closed, open it at the water separator to start the engine. Other than this, there can be other causes of John Deere 345 not starting. Below, I mention a few other common issues and fixes for more not creating.

Stale fuel/improper fuel level: if the fuel level is unacceptable, refill it to its total capacity. Other than this, open the gas cap and waft toward the nose. You must drain the fuel if you notice any stale or sour smell. Sta fuel usually has a pungent, unpleasant odor and clumps if you look clearly as you empty it.

Wrong Engine Oil Viscosity: Occasionally, replacing your John Deere 345 engine oil is recommended. Other than this, if you have poor viscosity oil, it will halt the engine. Change the engine oil and fill it with the correct viscosity oil for the conditions. Also, l, make sure you are only using the engine oil your manufacturer has recommended. 

Plugged Fuel Filter: When you experience decreased performance, it shows a lack of maintenance. Keeping the mower’s fuel filter clean is essential to prevent debris and grass clippings acclimation.

If you think that a bad fuel filter seems to be the culprit of the engine not starting, it may need complete replacement. Replace it if you notice any oil, torn, or signs of a crack in the filter.

Clogged Air Intake Filter: This occurs due to a lack of maintenance or error. If you notice your John Deere 345 providing lower gas mileage or operating in less consistent power, you may need to replace the air filter completely.

Blown Fuse: Your John Deere 345 engine might not be starting due to a blown-out fuse. Therefore, check for faulty screws using a multimeter tester and replace them if found. Make sure you are measuring the fuse on a non-conducting surface.

If you think your multimeter is not functioning right, test it by touching the testing rods together. If you get similar measurements and readings, the fuse is good. But if it does change, your fuse might need a complete replacement.

John Deere 345 Transmission Problems

They can be many transmission problems that vary model by model. But a typical cause of John Deere 345 transmission problems tends to be insufficient oil. If you notice your John Deere 345 not mowing with the engine running, you should check the transmission oil.

If it is too low, you find the main culprit. Also, fill the transmission up to the mark. If the transmission oil is sufficient for the machine to work, check if it is too cold. Cold transmission oil will also result in a John Deere 345 not working correctly. It is advised to let your John Deere 345 engine warm up a bit in the winter season before operating on the lawns.

John Deere 345 Carburetor Problems

The carburetor problem is a prevalent issue of John Deere 345 that almost all its users complain about and contact their authorized dealer or mechanic. If you notice any mulching, bagging, or discharge from a John Deere 345, there is something wrong with your John Deere 345 throttle system or carburetor.

The leading cause of the carburetor problem is poor maintenance and air exposure, and the throttle cable’s moisture tends to degrade its overall condition. It is advised to keep your throttle system on proper maintenance using spray-on lubricant.

Throttle cables are essential for several functions of your John Deere 345, including blade speed. Therefore, its maintenance should also be a part of the care routine.

John Deere 345 Charging Problem

Fortunately, most John Deere models have good-quality batteries capable of being charged for a prolonged period. However, if you encounter any charging problems, check for signs of damage if your John Deere 345 battery is not holding a charge connected to the charger.

It should be fully charged within 8 hours. If you notice your battery is not fully charged within that time frame, you should replace it. Any battery of John Deere 345 that takes more than 8 hours to charge will likely deteriorate or die.

But if you notice your John Deere 345 battery is not being charged, repair your charger. You can also get your charger or battery checked and repaired at your nearest mechanical shop. 

Conclusion

Knowing how to repair a John Deere 345 mower will save you time and money. Maintaining a John Deere 345 can be expensive. However, if you keep up with their regular maintenance, you can avoid frequent problems and significant setbacks in the upcoming future. 

  1. Always use the correct type of replacement part on your John Deere 345. 
  2. It would help if you also cleaned the blade regularly. When you are cleaning them, make sure to pull the plug off. 
  3. You should also grease and oil any John Deere 345 mowing parts accordingly. 
  4. Always use the oil as the manufacturer recommends and recharge the John Deere 345 battery according to its instruction. 
  5. After mowing your lawn, you should store your John Deere 345 in a cool, dry, and covered space. 

I tried my best to give you all the information about the John Deere 345 problem, and if you like this article, check out our other post. See you in the following article, till then take care and goodbye.