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This John Deere 240/245/260/265/285/320 Technical Manual (OEM #TM1426) runs 562 pages of factory service procedure for the full Lawn and Garden Tractor lineup. Wiring schematics carry labeled test points for electrical diagnosis, and the hydraulic diagrams cover both the hydrostatic power train and the lift circuit. The electrical section works through theory, component location, diagnosis, test points, and full schematics, backed by troubleshooting sorted by system. Engine coverage splits across three families, FC420V, FC540V, and FD590V, each with its own repair sequences and special-tool callouts. On the FC420V, the cylinder head cap screws take 32 N·m to start, then a final 52 N·m; the spark plug torques to 20 N·m. Search any term and pull the exact figure up on your phone before the first bolt moves. The 320 and the rest of the lineup get the same treatment.
What's Inside This John Deere 240–320 Manual
| System | Pages | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|
| Safety | 4-11 | - |
| General Information | 12-49 | Specifications, O-Ring Information, Metric Fastener Torque Values, Inch Fastener Torque Values, Fuel Information, Lubrication Information, Coolant Information |
| FC420V Engine | 50-109 | Specifications, Component Location, Theory of Operation, Troubleshooting, Tests & Adjustments, Repair |
| FC540V Engine | 110-169 | Specifications, Special or Essential Tools, Other Materials, Service Parts Kits, Component Location, Troubleshooting, Tests & Adjustments, Repair |
| FD590V Engine | 170-241 | Specifications, Special or Essential Tools, Dealer Fabricated Tools, Other Materials, Service Parts Kits, Component Location, Theory of Operation, Troubleshooting |
| Fuel Injection System | 242-245 | Remove, Inspect and Install Fuel Pump, Remove and Install Fuel Tank, Inspect Fuel Tank |
| Electrical System | 246-370 | Theory Information, Component Location, Theory of Operation, Diagnosis, Test Points, Tests, Schematics |
| Gear Power Train | 371-418 | Component Location, Theory of Operation, Diagnosis, Adjustments, Specifications, Other Material, Repair |
| Hydrostatic Power Train | 419-488 | Component Location, Theory of Operation, Diagnosis, Adjustments, Specifications, Repair |
| Steering | 489-496 | Component Location, Theory of Operation, Diagnosis, Adjusments, Repair |
| Hydraulics | 497-520 | Component Location, Theory of Operation, Diagnosis, Tests, & Adjustments, Other Material, Repair |
| Miscellaneous | 521-552 | Component Location, Theory of Operation, Diagnosis, Tests, & Adjustments, Repair |
Quick Reference Specifications
| Specification | Value | Page |
|---|---|---|
| All Models | ||
| Mower deck belt tension | Not specified as a numerical value for resetting; manual refers to condition of tensioning components and replacement of belt if worn or damaged. | p. 529 |
| Hydraulic lift linkage adjustment | Adjust linkage | p. 517 |
| Key Switch Continuity (Off position) | M—G (A and B) continuity | p. 348 |
| Key Switch Continuity (Run position) | B—A (C and D) continuity | p. 348 |
| Seat Switch Continuity | Continuity only when plunger is depressed | p. 351 |
| 240, 245 | ||
| Cylinder Head Cap Screw Torque (Initial) | 32 N·m (283 lb-in.) | p. 53 |
| Cylinder Head Cap Screw Torque (Final) | 52 N·m (38 lb-ft) | p. 53 |
| Starter Amp Draw (Max.) | 60 amps at 500 rpm | p. 18 |
| 240, 245, 260 | ||
| Battery Type | BCI Group, U1 | p. 14 |
| 265, 285, 320 | ||
| Battery Type | BCI Group, 22F | p. 15 |
| 260, 265 | ||
| Starter Amp Draw (Max.) | 85 amps at 500 rpm | p. 18 |
| 245, 265, 285, 320 | ||
| Transmission Neutral Switch Continuity (Hydrostatic) | Continuity only when plunger is depressed (brake pedal depressed) | p. 349 |
John Deere 240–320 Common Problems This Manual Covers
John Deere 240 engine cranks but will not start or starts briefly and dies after sitting.
Review the troubleshooting chart for no-start conditions. Measure the ignition coil air gap on page 19 and adjust to exactly 0.3 mm (0.012 in.). Inspect the spark plug and torque it to 20 N·m (177 lb-in.) using the specifications on page 54 before attempting to restart.
Manual Section: Section 3 - FC420V EngineTractor presents a no crank condition or intermittent crank when turning the key switch. p. 351
Test the safety interlock circuit starting with the seat switch on page 351. Verify continuity exists only when the plunger is fully depressed. Inspect the battery connections and confirm you have a solid 12 Volts at the terminals on page 14 before replacing the starter or ignition switch.
Manual Section: Section 7 - Electrical SystemHydrostatic transmission moves weakly or will not move tractor forward or reverse under heavy load. p. 448
Inspect the drive belt condition and verify the transmission neutral switch continuity on page 349. Ensure continuity exists only when the brake pedal is depressed. Adjust the hydrostatic control lever tension to 22-36 N (5-8 lbs) as shown on page 19 to restore positive linkage movement.
Manual Section: Section 9 - Hydrostatic Power TrainPower take off switch fails to engage the mower deck or cuts out during operation. p. 350
Remove the switch and perform a continuity test on page 350. Verify continuity between terminals B and E, and C and D in the OFF position. Confirm the battery maintains 12 Volts under load on page 14. Check the deck belt tension mechanism on page 529 for worn components.
Manual Section: Section 7 - Electrical SystemFrequently Asked Questions
What are the torque specs for the cylinder head bolts on a John Deere 260?
On the John Deere 260, tighten the cylinder head cap screws in the sequence shown. Initial torque is 32 N·m (283 lb-in.); final torque is 52 N·m (38 lb-ft). Apply it in 7 N·m (62 lb-in.) increments.
How to reset John Deere 260 mower deck belt tension
To adjust mower deck belt tension on a John Deere 260, put the transmission in neutral and release the clutch pedal. Loosen the belt guide (A) and the idler (B), then move the idler until the clutch pedal spring (C), measured inside between the caps, reaches 54–56 mm (2.1–2.2 in.). Hold the idlers in place and tighten the hardware.
What are the replacement specifications for battery?
Models 240, 245, and 260 take a BCI Group U1 battery at 12 Volts; models 265, 285, and 320 take a BCI Group 22F battery, also 12 Volts. On the 240 and 260, reserve capacity at 25 Amp is 41 Min. and cold cranking amps at 0°F is 340 Amp. On the 245, 265, 285, and 320, reserve capacity at 25 Amp is 60 Min. and cold cranking at 0°F is 335 Amp.
What are the replacement specifications for starter?
On the FC420V and FD590V, maximum starter amperage at no load is 50 amps at 6000 rpm; the FC540V runs 50 amps at 5000 rpm. Minimum brush length is 6 mm (0.240 in.) on the FD590V and 10.5 mm (0.413 in.) on the FC540V.
How will I receive this John Deere 240 & variants Technical Manual?
The complete 562-page searchable Technical Manual downloads right away. Read it on a laptop at your desk or a phone out in the field.
Can I print this John Deere 240 & variants manual?
No restrictions at all. Print individual pages, full chapters, or the entire manual. The PDF is completely unlocked.
Are there hydraulic schematics in this John Deere 240 & variants manual?
Yes, this John Deere 240 & variants Technical Manual includes hydraulic system diagrams, circuit schematics, and component specifications.
