Diesel Particulate Filter Maintenance and Service

The Exhaust Filter includes the Diesel Oxidation Catalyst and Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF). The DPF is designed to retain residual ash, which is a noncombustible result of additives used in crankcase lubrication oils and the fuel. The DPF provides many hours of maintenance free operation. At some point the DPF will require professional service to remove the accumulated ash. The exact number of hours of operation before service is required will vary depending upon the engine’s power category, duty cycle and operating conditions, engine oil ash content, and fuel quality. Adhering to John Deere’s recommended oil and fuel specifications will maximize the hours of operation before professional DPF service is required.

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DPF Filter At Base Of Exhaust Pipe

As the engine owner, you are responsible for performing the required maintenance described in your Operator’s Manual. During normal equipment operation the DPF maintenance requirements will depend on the rate at which ash accumulates in it. Generally, DPFs on engines below 175 hp / 130 kW will require servicing at about 3,000 hours while engines at or above 175 hp / 130 kW will require servicing at about 4,500 hours. As ash levels rise in the DPF the capacity for soot storage is reduced and the back pressure of the exhaust system will rise more frequently. The Exhaust Filter’s dash lamp indicator or the diagnostic gauge will indicate when the DPF needs servicing.

The removal of DPF ash must be done by removing the DPF from the machine and placing it into specialized equipment. Do not remove ash by using water or other chemicals. Removing ash by these methods may damage the material securing the DPF in its canister, resulting in the loosening of the DPF element in the canister and subjecting it to damage from vibration.

Failure to follow the approved ash removal methods may violate U.S. federal, state and local hazardous waste laws, along with damage to the DPF resulting in potential denial of the Diesel Exhaust Filter emissions warranty. It is strongly recommended you take the DPF to an authorized John Deere service location or other qualified service provider for servicing.