The Massey GC GC1720 instrument cluster provides essential operator feedback for both tractor and mowing tasks. It includes a digital display and several warning lights to monitor engine, transmission, and hydraulic health.
Massey GC GC1720 Warning Light Symbols
| Symbol | Name | Color | What it means | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Master Warning (Stop) | RED | A critical system fault, such as low oil pressure or overheating, has been detected on your GC1720; stop the engine immediately to prevent damage. | Safely stop the tractor, turn off the engine, and consult the operator's manual for the associated fault code. | |
| Check Engine (MIL) | AMBER | The GC1720's engine control unit has logged a fault related to emissions or fuel system performance, often triggered by a sensor reading out of range. | Reduce load and operate at reduced RPM while you contact your dealer for diagnostic scanning. | |
| Engine Oil Pressure | RED | Engine oil pressure is below the safe threshold for your GC1720, possibly due to low oil level, a clogged filter, or pump failure. | Stop the engine immediately. Check oil level and add if low; if light persists, do not restart and seek service. | |
| Battery / Charging | RED | The alternator is not charging the battery properly on your GC1720, which may be due to a loose belt, faulty alternator, or wiring issue. | Check alternator belt tension and battery connections. If light stays on, have the charging system tested. | |
| Coolant Temperature | RED | Engine coolant temperature exceeds normal operating range on your GC1720, often caused by a dirty radiator, low coolant, or a failed thermostat. | Stop the engine and allow it to cool. Check coolant level and clean debris from radiator fins before restarting. | |
| Transmission Temp | AMBER | Hydrostatic transmission fluid temperature is high on your GC1720, potentially due to heavy load, low fluid level, or a blocked cooler. | Reduce engine load and allow the transmission to cool; check transmission fluid level when cool. | |
| Parking Brake | AMBER | The parking brake is engaged on your GC1720; this light typically stays on until the brake is fully released. | Ensure the parking brake lever is fully disengaged before moving the tractor. | |
| Glow Plug / Preheat | AMBER | The glow plugs are heating the intake air for cold starts on your GC1720; wait for the light to go out before cranking. | Turn the key to the preheat position and wait until the indicator extinguishes, then start the engine. | |
| Low Fuel | AMBER | The fuel level in your GC1720 is low; the light may come on when remaining fuel is less than a few liters. | Refuel with clean diesel as soon as possible to avoid running out and drawing air into the system. | |
| Water in Fuel | AMBER | Water has been detected in the fuel system of your GC1720, which can cause injector damage if not removed. | Drain the water separator bowl located near the fuel filter, and check for contaminated fuel sources. | |
| High Beam | BLUE | The high beam headlights are activated on your GC1720 for improved forward visibility. | Dim to low beam when approaching other vehicles or when working near bystanders. | |
| PTO Engaged | AMBER | The power take-off (PTO) is engaged on your GC1720; the shaft or implement is rotating. | Disengage the PTO before leaving the seat or performing maintenance, unless implement requires it. | |
| Work Lights | GREEN | The auxiliary work lights are turned on for better illumination during low-light mowing or loading. | Switch off when not needed to conserve battery power. | |
| Service / Hour Meter | GREEN | Indicates accumulated operating hours; when it reaches the service interval (e.g., 50 hours), an amber 'service' warning appears. | Perform scheduled maintenance as outlined in the GC1720 operator's manual when the service icon shows. | |
| Differential Lock | AMBER | The rear differential is locked on your GC1720 for maximum traction in slippery conditions. | Unlock the differential after the need for traction passes to prevent driveline windup. | |
| Fasten Seat Belt | RED | The operator's seat belt is not fastened, or the switch is faulty; on the GC1720, the engine may not start or may stall if the belt is not buckled with the PTO engaged. | Fasten the seat belt securely before operating the tractor. |
16 symbols shown. Icons follow ISO 2575 dashboard standards; exact graphics vary by model year.
Most Important Warning Lights
Engine Overheating
Common causes
- Clogged radiator fins
- Low coolant level
- Faulty thermostat
What to do
Stop the GC1720 immediately. Let the engine cool, then clean debris from the radiator with compressed air. Top off coolant only when cool, and replace the thermostat if the issue persists.
Low Oil Pressure
Common causes
- Low oil level
- Oil filter clogged
- Oil pump malfunction
What to do
Shut off the engine right away. Check the oil dipstick—add oil if low. If the light does not go out after topping off, do not run the engine; have the oil pump and filter inspected.
Charging System Failure
Common causes
- Loose or broken alternator belt
- Faulty alternator
- Battery cable corrosion
What to do
Check the alternator belt tension and condition. Clean battery terminals. If the red battery light remains, the alternator may need replacement; consult your dealer for the GC1720 specific part.
Transmission Overheated
Common causes
- Prolonged heavy load
- Low transmission fluid
- Blocked oil cooler
What to do
Reduce engine load immediately and let the hydrostatic transmission cool. Check fluid level with the engine idling and add Massey Ferguson approved fluid. Clean the transmission cooler fins.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my GC1720 not start when the glow plug light is on?
Wait until the glow plug indicator turns off—this typically takes 5–10 seconds in cold weather. Cranking before the light goes out may cause hard starting.
What does the amber wrench icon mean on the display?
It indicates a scheduled service is due (e.g., every 50 hours). Perform an oil and filter change as per the owner's manual, then reset the service reminder.
Can I continue mowing if the transmission temperature light comes on?
No. Reduce engine speed and allow the transmission to cool. If the light stays on after reducing load, stop and check fluid level. Overheating can damage seals.
How do I reset the check engine light on my GC1720?
You cannot manually reset it. The light will turn off after the underlying issue is repaired and a few ignition cycles. Have the fault code read by a Massey dealer.
Is it normal for the battery light to flicker at idle?
A brief flicker can occur if the alternator is not charging at low RPM. If it glows steadily, check the belt and charging voltage—should be above 13 volts at idle.
Why does the seat belt warning stay on even when buckled?
The seat belt switch may be faulty or the buckle connection is intermittent. Ensure the belt is fully inserted; if the issue persists, the switch harness may need replacement.