When a Thrust Washer Fails Inside a John Deere 6320SE
Even the most reliable machines have their breaking point, and this John Deere 6320SE had done some real hard work.
When this tractor rolled into a Hawkes Bay workshop, they found a completely destroyed thrust washer deep inside the PowrQuad transmission. This had caused many issues inside of the transmission and meant a costly replacement of several components was needed.
While the transmission was apart, the mechanic decided to proactively replace additional components to refresh the clutch – not because they were damaged, but because they were accessible and due for attention.
This is smart repair strategy. When you’ve already invested in the labour to dismantle a transmission, replacing wear items that might fail in the next 500-1000 hours makes economic sense. It prevents having to tear the transmission down again soon after.
The Fix: OEM & Aftermarket Come to the Overhaul Party $$
Here’s where we provided real value: we supplied a mix of OEM and quality aftermarket parts to cut down the massive costs of a genuine rebuild while still delivering the same quality and reliability as genuine parts. By having the option of OEM and aftermarket parts, we were able to save the customer big $$$$ on this job.
We supplied everything needed to get this 6320SE back in the field including:
R101187 – Adapter Second Sun Gear
Central to the planetary gear system, ensuring reliable power transfer.
RE280055 – Clutch Drum
Essential for smooth gear engagement and preventing future shifting issues.
AL174123 – Torsional Damper Plate
Absorbs vibration and shock loads between engine and transmission.
L225515 – Transmission Splined Flange
Critical for proper torque transmission without slippage.
Plus a complete set of gaskets, seals, and bearings.
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ProPart Insights: Can You Prevent a Thrust Washer Failure?
The frustrating part about these jobs is that there is no warning. Failures in these PowrQuad transmissions are often spontaneous – the tractor operates normally one moment, then suddenly you’re facing a major issue. There’s no maintenance schedule or inspection that can reliably prevent this type of failure without taking the entire transmission apart for an inspection.
For farmers and contractors, this unpredictability is particularly challenging. A machine down means work isn’t getting done and rebuilds are never quick or cheap.
This is why it is recommended to replace other parts in the transmission while you’re in there. When you’ve already invested so many hours tearing down a transmission, replacing other wearing parts within the transmission will save the customer a lot of money and time compared to doing the job twice.
The Call to Action: Need Parts for a Complex Repair Job?
Tough jobs need tougher parts. Ask us for a quote on any tractor parts today!
We guarantee to put the right parts in your hands, and aim to make it easy for you in the process.
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