The John Deere 325G is a compact track loader (CTL) built for efficiency and versatility on construction sites, farms, and landscaping jobs. With about 74 engine horsepower (no DEF required), it boasts good maneuverability, power for attachments, and smooth track-based traction.
However, like any hardworking heavy machinery, the 325G has quirks, vulnerabilities, and specifics in terms of maintenance and reliability. This article breaks down its key specs, explores known issues, offers repair guidance, and answers frequently asked questions to help operators and buyers make informed decisions.
1. Specifications & Performance Overview
- Engine: ~74 hp (diesel, turbocharged), just under DEF-triggering threshold
- Operating Weight: Approx. 9,500 lb
- Rated Operating Capacity (ROC): ~2,500 lb
- Drive: Fully hydrostatic track drive
- Hydraulics: High-flow hydraulics for attachments
- Cooling: Heavy-duty radiator for demanding duty
Despite its compact classification, the 325G offers solid performance and excellent lift capacity for its class—making it a popular workhorse among John Deere CTLs. It also features push-button quick‑attach coupling for implements.
2. Common Problems & Practical Fixes
✅ A. Hydraulic System Leaks & Sluggishness
- Symptoms: Slow lift/dump, erratic controls, overheated hydraulics.
- Causes: Damaged hoses, worn seals, clogged hydraulic filters, malfunctioning relief valves.
- Fixes:
- Inspect hoses and fittings; replace damaged hoses.
- Bleed the hydraulic system fully.
- Replace suction and return filters.
- Calibrate or replace faulty relief valves to restore pressure.
B. Engine Overheating & Performance Loss
- Symptoms: Sudden temperature rise, oil smoke, power loss under load.
- Causes: Blocked cooling fins, low coolant, dirty air filters, worn injection components.
- Fixes:
- Clean radiator, coolers, and air intakes regularly.
- Replace thermostat and cooling fan if malfunctioning.
- Maintain coolant levels and replace filters per schedule.
- Replace injectors, adjust timing, and clear airflow obstructions.
C. Fuel Delivery & Engine Stalling Issues
- Symptoms: Engine runs briefly then dies; restarts only after priming.
- Causes: Air suction from fuel tank via cracked pick-up tubes, clogged vents, worn injector racks.
- Fixes:
- Inspect and replace sending‑unit pick‑up tube assembly.
- Ensure tank vent line is clear.
- Check for air entry with clear tubing or vacuum gauges.
- Confirm proper injector timing and rack position.
D. Electrical & Control Circuit Glitches
- Symptoms: Joystick unresponsive, battery drain, unexpected behavior in drive or attachments.
- Causes: Corroded wiring, faulty relays/joystick sensors, software anomalies, sensor errors.
- Fixes:
- Inspect connectors and grounds; clean terminals.
- Test wiring harness continuity; replace damaged cables.
- Use a multimeter/diagnostics tool to spot failing relays or sensors.
- Update firmware if controller anomalies are detected.
E. Control System—Joystick & Quick‑Attach Failures
- Symptoms: Loader controls don’t respond; attachment button does nothing.
- Causes: Faulty actuator coupler, safety switches or joystick calibration error (Mr. Motor Problems).
- Fixes:
- Check wiring and connectors at joystick and actuator.
- Recalibrate joystick per factory procedure: lower safety bar, hold joystick fully, cycle ignition and loader button.
- If nonresponsive, replace joystick board or actuator.
F. Undercarriage and Track Wear
- Symptoms: Tracks sagging, machine jerks or drifts, unusual vibration.
- Causes: Wear on rollers, idlers, sagging tension, trapped debris in undercarriage.
- Fixes:
- Clean track frames after each shift or muddy job.
- Maintain proper track tension per spec.
- Replace worn rollers and adjust alignment if drift or vibration occurs.
G. Tire & Track Drive Component Issues
Although CTL doesn’t have tires, similar category 325 (rubber-tire skid steer) has tire wear issues. For 325G track loader, inspect drive motors, sprockets and belts. Overheating or uneven terrain can strain tracks—monitor for overheating and debris .
3. Owner-Reported Insights (Reddit & Forums)
- Fuel Pick-Up Tube Failures: Many users report air ingress causing stalling after warm-up. Swapping pick-up and return lines or replacing assembly often solves it (Reddit).
- Track Cog Debris Issues: In freezing or muddy conditions, compact debris inside sprocket cogs can trigger safety shutdowns and startup errors.
- Auto Float Misunderstanding: Float mode doesn’t auto-level the bucket; it lets arms float—users should manually set bucket angle despite trigger hold.
- Fuel System Diagnostics: Even after engine replacement, unresolved fuel starvation issues persisted until sending unit was superseded due to faulty pick-up path.
4. Model Specifications & Performance in Depth
- Engine: ~74 hp turbo diesel with mechanical fuel system.
- Hydraulic Flow: Adequate for high-flow attachments like brush cutters, augers, and cold-planers.
- ROC: ~2,500 lb—ideal for loaders with attachments such as forks, buckets, or grapples.
- Size & Weight: Compact footprint, ~9,500 lb operational weight.
- Tracks: Designed for low ground pressure and better traction in rough terrain.
- Maintenance Interval Highlights:
- Engine & hydraulic filters every ~500 hr,
- Fuel filters in dusty use,
- Coolant cooling system at 1,000-hour servicing.
5. Maintenance Practices for Longevity
- Hydraulic Care: Replace return/suction filters, bleed air, clean fins, and regularly test relief valve pressure.
- Fuel Hygiene: Replace fuel filters often, use clean fuel storage, inspect vent lines, and proactively replace sending unit if assembly is damaged.
- Electrical Hygiene: Keep connectors dry, use dielectric grease, periodically test relays and sensors, and schedule firmware updates.
- Track & Undercarriage: Clean daily after muddy shifts, adjust tension weekly, check rollers and sprockets, lubricate pivot points.
6. FAQ
Q1: How many hours can a 325G skid steer last?
A: With proper maintenance, these units often reach 5,000–10,000+ hours before major rebuilds—especially if fuel system issues and tracks are well cared for.
Q2: Does the 325G require DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid)?
A: No—its engine is under 75 hp, so it doesn’t require DEF systems.
Q3: How much can the 325G lift?
A: Approximately 2,500 lb ROC (Rated Operating Capacity) when configured and ballasted properly .
Q4: Why did my machine stop moving suddenly mid-operation?
A: Likely due to hydraulic drive issues—possible hydraulic motor failure, overheated system, or track blockage triggering safety e-stop.
Q5: What does “auto float” button actually do?
A: It allows the lift arms to float (give way) during grading or contouring—but does not self-level the bucket on all models.
Q6: What are signs of a failing fuel pickup assembly?
A: Fluttering at warm engine, stalling until prime, air bubbles in line, or inability to restart unless fuel fed directly.
Q7: Can firmware cause drive or control issues?
A: Yes—electrical/software glitches are common. Keep firmware up to date with John Deere service tool to resolve erratic behavior.
7. Summary Table: Problems, Causes & Solutions
| Issue | Cause | Recommended Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Hydraulic sluggish/leaks | Filter clog, worn hose/seals | Replace filters, bleed system, repair hoses, adjust relief valve |
| Engine overheating | Dirty radiator, low coolant, clogged air | Clean coolers, maintain coolant, replace thermostat/fan if needed |
| Engine stalls when warm | Air in pickup tube | Replace pickup/return assembly, clear tank vent, test for air suction |
| Controls unresponsive | Faulty wiring, joystick, safety switch | Clean wiring, test sensors, recalibrate or replace joystick |
| Quick‑attach inoperative | Bad actuator or wiring | Inspect connector pins, test coupler relay/fuse, recalibrate button input |
| Track/undercarriage issues | Debris, sag, worn rollers | Clean track assembly, adjust tension, replace worn components |
| Track cog throws startup error | Frozen mud in sprocket | Clean absolute debris before operation in cold/muddy conditions |
| Battery drain or sensor errors | Corrosion, parasitic draw | Inspect all battery circuits, test sensors, update software |
Final Thoughts
The John Deere 325G CTL remains a capable, mid-tier workhorse in its class with solid lift capacity and terrain adaptability. Its weak points typically hinge on fuel delivery (air ingress), hydraulic wear, control electronics, and track contamination. By adhering to diligent maintenance and addressing early warning signs—particularly around fuel filters, wiring, track cleaning, and filter replacements—you can maximize uptime and performance.
✅ Inspect pick-up tubes after 4,000 hours, monitor hydraulic pressures, keep wiring dry, clean tracks daily, and update system firmware periodically.
🚫 Skip units with unresolved startup or stalling issues, missing maintenance history, or persistent control or fuel faults, unless you’re prepared for deep troubleshooting.
I’m David man behind Lawn Mowerly; I’ve been dealing with lawnmowers and Tractors with my father since I was a kid. I know every make and model and what each one is capable of and love helping people find the perfect equipment for their needs.