My Tractor Forum banner

455 Engine Trouble

5310 Views 17 Replies 10 Participants Last post by  stumpuller454
Hi all,

I just recently purchased a used 2001 JD 455 with approximately 400 hrs on it. When I picked it up it was running great and I have been using it for the past month or so (on the same tank of gas) mowing my lawn with no issues. But just the other day I was in the middle of mowing when the engine immediately dropped from 100% rpm to a very rough running idle (uncommanded), before stalling completely. When I attempted to re-start it, it cranked over no problem but then immediately started running rough again and stalled. I was able to limp it back to the shed on a VERY rough idle during which time the rpm raced up and down a couple times between the commanded throttle position (practically full power) and back down to a very rough running idle. I did a quick check for any loose electrical connectors and checked out the fuel sediment bowl for any indications of water in the fuel, but everything looks good. The fuel pump and glow plugs seem to be making their usual healthy humm during start up attempts along with the fuel shut off valve actuating. One good thing is that it always fires up during every start up attempt.....I just can't get it to stay running. Another interesting fact is that I have succeeding in re-starting it and keeping it running for about 10 minutes once since the incident, but I did notice that the engine rpm's seem to oscillate (surging?) pretty consistently around any commanded throttle position.

Long story....,sorry, but I would appreciate the assistance of anyone who might have seen this type of issue on a 455 and/or might be able to help guide me in my troubleshooting efforts. Thanks!
See less See more
1 - 18 of 18 Posts
Gas?

You sure?

Sounds like it is running out of fuel.
I would start with changing the fuel filter, unless you have tried that already.
Were you able to see if the fuel solenoid was energized when the engine died?
455 is a diesel engine, if you're using gas try changing to diesel, that should help a lot!
455 is a diesel engine, if you're using gas try changing to diesel, that should help a lot!
I'm sure he meant to say Diesel:)
sounds like part of the fuel delivery system got gunked up when you were mowing. check your lines, and tank, and all other parts of your fuel system
I'm sure he meant to say Diesel:)

I hope so, but I don't want to assume anything! I've seen that mistake made before, and I hope he didn't do it!
I hope so, but I don't want to assume anything! I've seen that mistake made before, and I hope he didn't do it!
reminds me of the time when i was 12...i put 2 cycle fuel in our big toro 4 cycle snowblower... :fing20:
Sorry for the "gas" slip-up, I of course meant diesel....this is my first diesel tractor, so the word "gas" is still on the brain!

Yeah, I've picked up a new fuel filter and will be swapping it out, but I was told I should check out the fuel screen in the tank right before the pump as well. Also, i was not able to see if the fuel solenoid was energized when the engine died as it was covered up by the side panels at the time. Any other thoughts?
See less See more
I went through this and it was the filter (screen) at the pump in the tank. When I bought mine it was about 2.5 hours away and I think the trailer ride loosened things up. Ran the first tank of fuel through fine but then started having trouble. Once I replaced the screen, cleaned the tank it was good to go.
Doug
See less See more
Check the small hose between the pump and the sender in the tank. I've seen that split and starve the engine.
I went through this and it was the filter (screen) at the pump in the tank. When I bought mine it was about 2.5 hours away and I think the trailer ride loosened things up. Ran the first tank of fuel through fine but then started having trouble. Once I replaced the screen, cleaned the tank it was good to go.
Doug
Did you experience this on a 455? If so, was it difficult to get inside the tank to clean it out?
See less See more
"Did you experience this on a 455?" Yes.
" If so, was it difficult to get inside the tank to clean it out? " Not bad, pulled the access plate, drained the fuel. put gas in and sloshed around and drained it. Wiped out with heavy paper towel.
doug
Ok, I think i'll perform some quick fuel flow rate checks (against the JD spec's) and if they are low, i'll likely be opening up the tank to check out the screen and perhaps do a cleaning if needed. Thanks for the info!
Well after doing some fuel pump flow rate checks it became obvious that it was a fuel delivery issue. After working my way back to the fuel pump, I discovered a pinched fuel line and knew I had found my problem! It appears that the previous owner had removed the two bolts (and never replaced them) that keep the rear body panel (under the seat) connected to the chassis, and as a result the fuel line was able to gradually work its way out of its designated trough on top of the fuel tank and get partially pinched between the panel and the tank. The heavier the rider, the less fuel it got! Now she runs like a Deere again! Thanks everyone for your help!
See less See more
Glad to hear that it was a cheap fix. You've got a great tractor with a lot of life left in it.
great find, i had the fuse go once (for the pump) last summer on my 455, was afraid my pump may be going, replaced it and its still runnning strong! best investment i`ve ever made getting this big bad boy! best ever!!!
1 - 18 of 18 Posts
This is an older thread, you may not receive a response, and could be reviving an old thread. Please consider creating a new thread.
Top