Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): John Deere 318 Hydraulic Levers, magnetic engine block heater, john deere 318

Question
The side hydraulic levers on my John Deere 318 are becoming harder to operate, especially now that the weather is colder here in Indiana. Do you have any suggestions on the cause of this and how I might fix it?

Thanks,
Dave

Answer
Hello Dave:

>>You can View a Breakdown/IPL of the Engine and Mower at this Site Addy, http://jdpc.deere.com/jdpc/servlet/com.deere.u90490.partscatalog.view.servlets.H... and Enter the Model Numbers and Click Find. Then Select your Model from the Search Results Area. Then Select the Sectional File. Then Select the Section of the Mower you Wish to View Online. *You can Drag the View Windows for Better Viewing.*
>>Normal Wear on the Internal Components of the Control Valve and the Heavy Viscosity of the Cold Hydraulic Oil cause this Problem.
>>Use a Thinner Viscosity Hydraulic Oil or Place a Magnetic Engine Block Heater on the Hydraulic Oil Tank and Keep the Hydraulic Oil Warm.
>>If you Hit a Snag or this Does Not Correct the Problem,  I Hope to be Here if You Require More Assistance. Hope this Helps. Let me Know What Happens, Please. May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. Be Safe and Happy. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

PS: I am Allowed to Answer 3 Questions a Day. If you See I am Maxxed Out, then Try Submitting your Question at or Just After 8pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Follow Up Questions are Received Anytime. Comments and Ratings are Greatly Appreciated. Thanks.

Respectfully

John