How to Change the Oil on a F525 Mower

The John Deere F525 mower uses a mower deck that mounts to the front of the unit. As with any other mower, it is important to perform routine maintenance to keep the mower running at peak performance. John Deere recommends changing the oil on a F525 mower every 50 hours of operation. One of the unique features of this mower is that the engine and transmission have the same reservoir. When changing the oil, you also change the oil in the transmission.

Things You'll Need

• Wrench
• Rags
• 6-inch long of 1/4-inch rubber tube
• Drain pan
• Oil filter (John Deere Part #AM107423 )
• 5W30 motor oil (3 one-quart bottles)

Instructions

1. Start the John Deere F525 and drive it to a level surface. Set the brake and lower the mower deck to its lowest position. Turn off the mower and take the key out of the ignition.

2. Position a drain pan under the oil drain plug. The drain plug is near the front right wheel of the F525 mower looking from the operators seat.

3. Remove the drain plug with a wrench and allow the oil to drain into the pan. Of you have a plug with a nipple end, slide a 6-inch long piece of 1/4-inch hose over the nipple. Turn the drain plug counterclockwise to open the drain. Thread the drain plug back into the mower once all oil has drained. If you have a newer model, turn the drain plug clockwise and remove the hose. Wipe the area around the drain plug with a clean rag to remove excess oil.

4. Lift the seat and hood on the mower. Find the oil filter on the right side of the mower. Turn the filter counterclockwise with a filter wrench and remove it from the mower. Open one of the bottles of oil and dip your index finger into the bottle. Apply a thin film of oil on the gasket of the new filter.

5. Thread the new filter onto the engine until the gasket makes contact with the base of the engine. Turn the filter another ¾ turn by hand.

6. Twist the yellow capped dipstick counterclockwise and remove it from the engine. Pour 2½ -quarts of 5W30 motor oil into the drain fill tube. Wipe the dipstick clean with a rag and stick it back inside the drain fill tube. Pull it out and check the oil level. The oil level should be near the "Full" mark.

7. Insert the dipstick into the fill hole and twist it clockwise to seal. Lower the hood and the seat. Start the mower and allow it to idle for five minutes. Drive the mower forward and backwards several times for a few feet.

8. Shut off the mower and check for leaks around the oil filter and the drain plug. Tighten as necessary.

Tips & Warnings

• If your drain pan is too tall to fit under the mower, drive the mower up on short blocks to raise it slightly.

• Call an auto parts store for used oil disposal.

References

• John Deere: F525 Owner's Service Manual
• John Deere: Maintenance Reminder Sheet