JD 4400 diesel starter removal/reinstall

steveinohio · Dec 28, 2019

I have my 1978 JD 4400 combine cleaned up and put away for the winter. Lately I've noticed the starter begins to act sluggish when starting. Batteries are good as well as the cables. Ive had the combine since October, 2000 and never had the starter off. Is there a best way to unbolt and remove/reinstall the starter? Do you have to bend over the top of the engine and reach down to the mounting bolts? Is there any other possible way to do this? Any and all assistance is always appreciated.

Tech 7 · Dec 28, 2019

You need to work from above and lean over the engine. You would benefit from a special wrench to get the mounting bolts off. SOME dealers will lend/rent the tool. if you feel the need, Snap On has a better (in my opinion) wrench, B4400 I think is the number

nh8260 · Dec 28, 2019

Not sure on this combine but the 20-40 series tractors had a starter that was not the easiest to remove. Best way i've found is a 1/4" ratchet and 1/4" extensions/socket. It is small enough to get the bolts that holds the starter on. Deere offered a wrench that was curved to get them off, never used it though.

JD Seller · Dec 29, 2019

Yes you will have to hang over the engine to get the starter off. The back bolt is hard to get too. I take it out first. A special wrench makes it easier. The Part number is JDE80 from JD. Cost about $40. I usually loosen the bolt with the wrench. Then use a 1/4 drive socket with a 12 inch extension to get the bolt out. It takes a smaller/short socket to reach the bolt as the starter body blocks it from straight access.

Mark-Ia · Dec 30, 2019

we used to find the large plastic plug in the bellhousing missing and allowing chaff to get to the starter.

notjustair · Dec 31, 2019

I?ve got one of those wrenches hanging on the wall. I?ve only used it twice since 1969 but I was convinced it saved my day and thwarted eternal damnation both times. Buy the wrench.

SVcummins · Jan 2, 2020

I always just use a 1/4 inch ratchet with a long extension if you have to put an adapter on for a 3/8 ratchet . I also put a stud in place of that bolt makes it a lot easier for me anyway to start a nut than a bolt

JIM MN · Jan 2, 2020

I have the factory made OTC-JDE-80 starter wrench they have been talking about.. I do not need anymore; would sell at a reasonable price. If interested, let me know..

JD 4400 diesel starter removal/reinstall

steveinohio

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Tech 7

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nh8260

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JD Seller

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Mark-Ia

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notjustair

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SVcummins

Well-known Member

JIM MN

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