Preparing your trusty John Deere 110 lawn and garden tractor for winter often involves attaching a capable snow removal implement. Among the most sought-after is the robust John Deere 37A snowblower. This classic combination, while highly effective, isn’t always a straightforward “plug and play” affair. The John Deere 110, a venerable machine from a bygone era, possesses a unique frame and power take-off (PTO) system that requires specific consideration when mating it with the 37A. This guide is designed to walk you through the essential steps, considerations, and potential challenges of successfully hooking up your 37A snowblower to your John Deere 110, ensuring you’re ready to tackle winter’s worst with confidence and efficiency.
The compatibility puzzle: John Deere 110 and the 37A snowblower
While both the John Deere 110 and the 37A snowblower are iconic pieces of equipment, their direct compatibility isn’t inherently universal. The John Deere 110, particularly early models (often referred to as “round fender” or “square fender” depending on the year), features a specific frame design, a manual lift system, and a unique PTO engagement system that differs from later John Deere models. The 37A snowblower, conversely, was designed to be adaptable across various 100-series John Deere tractors, but typically requires a dedicated mounting kit to bridge these compatibility gaps. Without the correct intermediary components, attempting to force an attachment can lead to damage, instability, and a non-functional setup. Understanding that a specialized subframe and associated linkage are critical to success is the first, most important step.
Sourcing the right components and preparing for installation
The key to a successful hookup lies in obtaining the correct John Deere OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) or high-quality aftermarket attachment kit specifically designed for pairing a 37A snowblower with a John Deere 110. These kits typically include a front hitch or subframe, a lift rod, and potentially a PTO extension or adapter shaft. Searching for part numbers like BM15072 (or similar vintage numbers for the 110 series) can guide you, though availability might require checking online marketplaces, vintage tractor forums, or specialized dealers. Before you begin any installation, ensure your work area is clean, well-lit, and level. Always disconnect the tractor’s battery to prevent accidental starts. Gather necessary tools, which typically include:
- Wrench sets (both standard and metric, if applicable)
- Socket sets with various extensions and ratchets
- Torque wrench for securing critical fasteners
- Jack stands and a floor jack for safely elevating the front of the tractor
- Gloves and safety glasses
- Lubricant or penetrating oil for stubborn bolts
- A pry bar or large screwdriver for leverage
Here’s a breakdown of the specialized components you’ll likely need to acquire:
| Component | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 37A Subframe/Front Hitch | Connects snowblower to tractor’s frame | Must be specific for John Deere 110 to 37A; critical for proper mounting and stability. |
| Lift Rod/Arm | Links snowblower to tractor’s manual lift system | Ensures snowblower can be raised and lowered; often adjustable to achieve correct height. |
| PTO Drive Shaft Extension | Connects snowblower’s PTO to tractor’s PTO | Ensures correct length and engagement, accommodating the distance created by the subframe. |
| Mounting Hardware | Bolts, pins, washers, cotter pins | Specific grades and sizes are essential; ensure all included with the subframe kit for safety. |
Step-by-step attachment procedure
Once you have all the necessary components and tools, you can begin the installation. Always refer to your specific owner’s manuals for both the tractor and snowblower for precise diagrams and torque specifications.
- Prepare the tractor: Park the John Deere 110 on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and shut off the engine. Disconnect the battery. If needed, carefully lift the front of the tractor with a jack and secure it with jack stands for easier access to the undercarriage.
- Install the subframe: Position the subframe (front hitch) underneath the tractor. This component typically bolts to existing holes in the tractor’s frame rails, usually near the front axle and extending back towards the mid-section. Secure all bolts according to torque specifications. Ensure it’s level and tightly affixed, as this forms the primary connection point.
- Mount the snowblower: Roll the 37A snowblower towards the front of the tractor. The snowblower will typically have pins or hooks that engage with corresponding slots or holes on the subframe. Lift and slide the snowblower onto the subframe, securing it with the appropriate pins or cotter pins. Ensure a snug fit with no excessive play.
- Connect the lift mechanism: Attach the lift rod or chain from the snowblower’s lift arm to the tractor’s manual lift system. This connection allows you to raise and lower the snowblower using the tractor’s existing lever. You may need to adjust the length of the rod or chain to achieve the desired range of motion for transport and operating heights.
- Connect the PTO drive shaft: Carefully align and connect the PTO drive shaft extension (if required) between the tractor’s front PTO output and the snowblower’s input shaft. Ensure both ends of the shaft engage fully and lock securely. Check that all safety shields are in place and that the shaft has sufficient clearance throughout the snowblower’s full range of motion (raised and lowered positions) without binding.
- Final checks and adjustments: Double-check all bolted connections, pins, and cotter pins for security. Verify that the lift mechanism operates smoothly, raising and lowering the snowblower without obstruction. Check the PTO shaft for proper engagement and rotation. Inspect the snowblower’s auger and impeller for any obstructions and ensure the chute rotation mechanism works freely.
Fine-tuning, operation, and maintenance tips
After installation, a few final adjustments and considerations will ensure optimal performance and longevity for your setup. Properly adjust the snowblower’s skid shoes to maintain the desired clearing height above your paved or gravel surface. Typically, for paved drives, you want them set to skim just above the surface, while for gravel, a higher setting prevents picking up stones. Ensure the chute rotation control operates smoothly from the operator’s seat. For effective snow throwing, the chute’s deflector should be adjustable.
Consider adding front weights to your John Deere 110. A snowblower adds significant weight to the front, which can reduce steering control and traction in the rear. Adding ballast to the rear wheels or utilizing a rear weight bracket with suitcase weights will improve balance, steering, and overall performance. When starting the tractor with the snowblower attached, always ensure the PTO is disengaged. Engage the PTO slowly once the engine is running at the desired RPM, allowing the snowblower’s components to spin up gradually. After each use, clear any snow and ice from the snowblower, inspect for damage, and apply a light coating of lubricant to moving parts, such as the chute mechanism and greasing points, to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation for years to come.
Successfully attaching your 37A snowblower to a John Deere 110 is a rewarding project that extends the versatility of your classic garden tractor, transforming it into a formidable snow-clearing machine. We’ve explored the critical compatibility aspects, highlighted the necessity of acquiring specific mounting kits, and detailed the step-by-step installation process from securing the subframe to connecting the lift mechanism and PTO. Remember, patience, careful attention to detail, and adherence to safety protocols are paramount throughout. By following these guidelines, you not only ensure a secure and efficient setup but also preserve the longevity and performance of both your tractor and your snowblower. Embrace the winter knowing your John Deere 110, now properly equipped, is ready for action.