How to Remove and Install a 440R Loader on John Deere Tractor

Looking to understand the removal and reinstallation process of the 440R loader on your John Deere 4-Series tractor? Whether you have the 4044R or another 4R model equipped with this loader, this guide will walk you through each step, and be sure to check out the video at the bottom of this article for a more in-depth run-through. Let's dive in!

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Preparation and Initial Steps

Begin by hopping into the cab. Ensure the parking brake is engaged, then lace your foot on the brake and start the tractor. Additionally, it's important to ensure the tractor is in Neutral, especially when removing the loader, to allow for slight movement if needed.

Removing the Loader

Once everything is prepped and the tractor is in Neutral, push forward on the loader control on the right-side panel inside the cab to lower it. Continue until the loader pushes into the ground, lifting the tractor's tires slightly. After ensuring the loader is lowered, step out of the tractor and locate the levers on the loader frame, like shown here. Push up on these levers to disengage them.

When you return to the cab, pull back on the loader control to lower the frame until it touches the ground. Again, ensure the tractor is in neutral and the parking brake is engaged. Turn off the tractor. Now, it's time to disconnect the hydraulic hoses on the right side of the tractor.

Hydraulic Hose Disconnection

Next, locate the couplers on the side. These have collars that you will need to pull back on. Give them a slight twist and push to release them. Each hydraulic hose has a color-coded cap. After releases the hoses, make sure to match the correct cap with the correct hose for storage, as shown here. This step is crucial for the loader to function correctly when reconnected.

Reinstalling & Testing the Loader

Reinstallation is essentially doing all of the previous steps in reverse.

To begin, drive forward, aiming to align the loader's pins with the tractor's mounts, as shown here. With the tractor in neutral and the parking brake engaged, turn off the tractor. Begin lowering the loader, ensuring the pins align correctly.

Next, begin reattaching the hydraulic hoses starting with the innermost hoses and working your way out. Ensure each hose clicks into place. Close the levers on the loader frame to complete re-installation.

After reinstalling, it's always a good practice to test the loader's functions. Raise, lower, and tilt the bucket to ensure everything is working correctly. Once everything is working properly, you're ready to use your loader!

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And there you have it! You've successfully removed and reinstalled the 440R loader on your John Deere 4 Series tractor. If you have questions about any of the information above or are just more of a visual learner, head over to our YouTube channel and watch our video (also attached below)! Leave a comment or question and receive a personal reply from Brent, our resident John Deere expert. Be sure to subscribe and thanks for reading!