How to Identify John Deere PowerTech Engines

Confusion exists between previous “Liter” designated 300 series John Deere® engines and newer “Powertech” engines. This is from engine model numbers, which indicate displacement, being the same as before. However, the engines are totally different with very little parts interchangeability.

For someone not totally familiar with the engines, the best way to quickly identify Powertech versus Liter designated engines follows:

• Below the serial number on the serial number plate, the model number for that engine is identified. The model number will conclude with the number 150, 151, 180, 220, 250, or higher. This will indicate that this is a Powertech engine.
• The front engine mounts will have an “L” shape bolt pattern for 3 mounting capscrews and will be facing outward on both sides of the engine, as well as the front as on previous 300 Series engines. This will indicate it is a Powertech engine.
• The water pump is mounted as a part of the front cover, right side (looking from the flywheel end), and in a lower position.
• The lift pump (fuel transfer pump) is located toward the rear of the engine instead of toward the front as in the “Liter” and “Inch” designated models. This will indicate it is a Powertech engine.
• Although the general appearance of the Powertech engines is somewhat similar to previously manufactured 300 Series John Deere® engines, the component parts have been changed extensively, including the following:

  Block, cylinder head, front cover, crankshaft, crankshaft bearings and thrust bearings, connecting rods and bearings, camshaft, balancer shafts, pistons and liners, flywheels, valve covers, thermostat housings, oil pump, oil filters and housings, lift pumps, fuel injection pumps, water pumps, and fan and water pump drive systems.

Please take care to properly identify the engine when ordering parts for the 300 Series engines to avoid confusion that may be created by the Powertech engines.

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