I have a John Deere L 120 automatic transmission riding tracter. The tracter will no longer climb steep grades % I suspect the transmission belt is slipping. Is there any way to take up the slack in the trasmission belt.

me id check the drive belts !!! id bet there worn and slipping , if the inside of them shine like glass yep that's it !!

Belt path for JD 100 series, 42" cutting deck, 2 blades.

you dont

does it go in reverse ??? if no, suspect the belt, or did you have the wheels off of it recently ??? if yes then still suspect the belt or a bad transmission

try ck'ng the transaxle oil level some models have a tiny dip stick thats acessed under seat or between rear wheels others just have a sight plug (two pipe plugs that are directly over one another in side of transaxle) ck at wheel axle shafts for oil leakage (so u know where oil went) also ck for tightness of drive belt and clutch spring (in mid center) those last two are a bit tough to reach with mower deck on (you might have to remove it )

https://groundscare.custhelp.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/486/~/transmission-drive-belt-replacement---100-series-hydro-42-in

This is the instructions for a L118 you may be able to find the 145 at the same site

Hello,

The X300 has a self adjusting tensioner on the drive belt. Are you trying to mow uphill in the morning? or when the grass is wet? And did you buy it new, and how long has it been acting this way. Have you had a rear flat tire repaired latley? These are some questions that will help us answer you problem.

Thanks,Matt

If you need further help, I’m available over the phone at https://www.6ya.com/expert/matt_8dbc24bf722649ac

I have the same problem same year, same model. I changed the drive belt and it still won't go up steep hills that it used to easily climb. I don't see any way to adjust tension and it doesn't cover that in the operator's manual. What did you find out with yours?

this transmission is a sealed unit, no way to add fluid or change filter.