How to Add Hydraulic Fluid to an 870 John Deere Tractor

The main purpose of hydraulic fluid is to transfer power in hydraulic machinery. John Deere recommends using John Deere Hy-GARD hydraulic fluid, John Deere JDM J20C, type F Automatic Transmission Fluid, or John Deere All-Weather Hydrostatic Fluid. The tractor should be parked on a level surface when adding fluid, and the fluid already in the transmission should be cold.

Things You'll Need

• Hydraulic fluid
• Funnel

Instructions

1. Locate the black fill tube/dipstick behind the driver's seat. Unscrew the top of the tube.

2. Check if the fluid is low. On older models you need to look down the fill tube to see if the oil is low. Oil should be filled to the bottom of the fill tube screen. On newer models, you can pull the dipstick out and see if the oil reaches the "Full Cold" mark on the end of the dipstick.

3. Put a funnel in the fill tube and begin pouring hydraulic fluid into the funnel. You do not want to pour too much fluid, so pour a little and remeasure. When you are finished, screw the top back on the fill tube.

Resources

• John Deere Manual - Hydraulic Fluid