John Deere 990 Repair Guide: Parts, Diagrams, Manuals

The John Deere 990 is a compact utility tractor built for property maintenance, light field work, loader jobs, mowing, grading, and other small-acreage tasks rather than basic suburban lawn care. It uses a Yanmar diesel engine, a mechanical gear-drive layout, and the heavier utility-style systems owners usually expect from a simple, durable compact tractor.

This guide is written for DIY owners in the USA and Canada who want a practical, symptom-first repair and maintenance reference before ordering parts or deciding whether a job belongs in the garage or at the dealer. It covers troubleshooting, common service parts, maintenance intervals, manuals, parts diagrams, buying strategy, and a detailed FAQ built around the problems owners actually notice first.

John Deere 990 model overview

The John Deere 990 sits in Deere’s compact utility tractor range rather than the lighter lawn tractor lineup, so owners should think of it as a small diesel work tractor with more in common with other compact utility models than with D or S Series riding mowers. It was designed for users who need a rear PTO, three-point hitch capability, and straightforward mechanical operation for mowing, loader work, blade work, and general property maintenance.

For repair purposes, the main systems on the John Deere 990 are the diesel engine and fuel system, intake and cooling system, clutch and gear-drive transmission, PTO and hydraulics, steering and brakes, and the electrical/safety starting circuit. That matters because most problems trace back to one of those system groups, and diagnosis gets faster when you start with the visible symptom rather than swapping random parts.

Common service parts owners often look up for this tractor include the engine oil filter, fuel filter, air filters, hydraulic or transmission fluids and filters where applicable by configuration, battery, fan belt, glow or preheat-related electrical items, and common wear items such as switches, hoses, and PTO or clutch-related linkage parts. On tractors used with rotary cutters or finish mowers, deck or implement blades and attachment belts may also matter, but those part numbers depend on the exact mower or implement rather than the tractor alone.

Troubleshooting the John Deere 990 by symptom

The best way to troubleshoot a John Deere 990 is to begin with what the owner sees: no crank, hard starting, low power, smoke, hydraulic weakness, poor PTO performance, overheating, or unusual noise. That symptom-first approach keeps diagnosis efficient and reduces the chance of replacing good parts.

The main symptom groups on this tractor are starting issues, running and power problems, smoke and overheating, clutch or transmission problems, hydraulic or PTO problems, steering and brake issues, and electrical or charging faults. Each group points to a smaller set of likely causes, which is why a structured check sequence usually works better than jumping straight to major teardown work.

John Deere 990 emergency repair needs

Some John Deere 990 problems need immediate attention because they can quickly turn a manageable repair into a major bill. Stop using the tractor right away if you have engine overheating, a serious fuel or oil leak, brake failure, loss of steering control, sudden hydraulic failure while carrying a load, heavy driveline noise, or smoke that changes sharply under normal work.

Starting issues

A John Deere 990 that will not crank or will crank but not start may have a battery, cable, switch, fuel delivery, air-in-fuel, or compression-related problem. On a diesel compact tractor, repeated cranking without diagnosis can flatten the battery and hide the original fault.

Common causes:

• Weak battery or corroded cable connections.

• Faulty key switch, safety switch, or starter circuit issue.

• Fuel restriction, contaminated diesel, or air in the fuel system.

• Cold-start aid or preheat issue where equipped.

Basic checks:

1. Verify battery voltage and clean both cable ends.

2. Confirm the tractor is in the correct starting condition and all safety interlocks are satisfied.

3. Check for fuel flow, clogged filter signs, and recent fuel contamination.

4. Bleed the fuel system only as described in the operator information.

5. Move to dealer-level diagnosis if cranking speed is normal but the engine still will not fire.

John Deere 990 running and power loss problems

When the John Deere 990 starts but feels weak, bogs under PTO load, or runs unevenly, owners usually notice it first as lost work capacity rather than a specific failed component. Continued use can increase smoke, heat, and fuel system stress.

Common causes:

• Restricted fuel filter or poor fuel quality.

• Dirty air filter or intake restriction.

• Throttle linkage or governor-related issue.

• PTO or implement load beyond what the tractor can comfortably carry.

Basic checks:

1. Inspect the air cleaner and replace dirty elements.

2. Replace the fuel filter if service history is unclear.

3. Confirm fresh diesel and inspect the tank for contamination.

4. Test under a lighter load to separate engine weakness from implement overload.

5. Escalate to compression or injection-system diagnosis if the problem remains.

Vibration and noise

New vibration or sharp mechanical noise on a John Deere 990 should never be ignored because it can point to driveline, clutch, PTO, fan belt, engine mount, or implement imbalance issues. Noise that changes with engine speed is different from noise that appears only when moving or engaging the PTO.

Common causes:

• Loose hardware, shields, or mounts.

• Worn belt, pulley, or fan-drive component.

• PTO shaft or attached implement imbalance.

• Clutch, transmission, or driveline wear.

Basic checks:

1. Stop the tractor and inspect all visible hardware and shields.

2. Isolate whether the sound changes with engine rpm, ground speed, or PTO engagement.

3. Check belts and rotating components for wobble or damage.

4. Disconnect the implement if safe to do so and retest.

5. Treat internal clutch or transmission noise as dealer-level until proven otherwise.

Overheating and leaks

Overheating on the John Deere 990 can damage the diesel engine quickly, and fluid leaks can create both fire and mechanical risk. A compact tractor working in dusty mowing conditions can plug cooling surfaces faster than many owners expect.

Common causes:

• Blocked radiator screen or cooling fins.

• Low coolant or a failing hose, clamp, or water pump area component.

• Belt slip affecting cooling performance.

• Oil, diesel, or hydraulic leaks from hoses, fittings, or seals.

Basic checks:

1. Let the tractor cool completely before opening anything.

2. Clean external debris from the cooling package.

3. Inspect coolant level and look for obvious hose or clamp leaks.

4. Check the belt condition and tension.

5. Do not continue working the tractor until the source is found.

John Deere 990 transmission and drive problems

The John Deere 990 uses a mechanical transmission layout, so hard shifting, clutch drag, loss of drive, or grinding often points to linkage adjustment, clutch wear, or internal transmission issues rather than electronic faults. Driving it while gears grind can multiply repair cost fast.

Common causes:

• Clutch adjustment or clutch wear.

• Shift linkage issues.

• Low or incorrect transmission or hydraulic fluid where shared systems apply.

• Internal gear or bearing wear.

Basic checks:

1. Confirm pedal free play and linkage movement feel normal.

2. Check fluid condition and level per the operator information.

3. Note whether the issue affects one gear range or all movement.

4. Stop operation if grinding is persistent.

5. Reserve clutch splitting or internal transmission work for experienced technicians.

Electrical problems

Electrical faults on the John Deere 990 usually show up as no-crank complaints, weak charging, dead lights, intermittent gauges, or unreliable safety-circuit behavior. Because diesel tractors depend heavily on sound cranking speed, even minor cable corrosion can feel like a bigger problem.

Common causes:

• Weak battery or dirty connections.

• Charging system issue, including alternator or regulator fault.

• Failed switch or damaged wiring.

• Blown fuse or poor ground.

Basic checks:

1. Clean and tighten the battery connections.

2. Check battery condition after charging.

3. Verify charging output after startup.

4. Inspect visible wiring for rub-through or heat damage.

5. Move to wiring-diagram diagnosis for recurring faults.

DIY or dealer for John Deere 990 repairs

The normal line on a John Deere 990 is simple: routine service, inspection, and light bolt-on repairs are realistic DIY jobs, but fuel injection, clutch splitting, transmission internals, hydraulic diagnostics under pressure, and engine internal repairs are usually better left to a dealer or a very experienced tractor mechanic. This model is mechanically straightforward, but it is still heavy equipment with diesel, hydraulic, and driveline hazards.

Good DIY jobs

• Engine oil and filter changes.

• Air and fuel filter replacement.

• Battery replacement and terminal cleaning.

• Cooling system cleaning and hose inspection.

• Belt inspection and basic replacement where access is straightforward.

• Light switch, seat switch, or fuse-level electrical work.

Advanced DIY or dealer jobs

• Fuel system bleeding after contamination or major service.

• Clutch adjustment diagnosis and driveline troubleshooting.

• Hydraulic leak tracing under load.

• PTO engagement problems and internal transmission faults.

• Injector, compression, or internal engine work.

• Tractor splitting for clutch or transmission repair.

John Deere 990 skill level guide

• Beginner: Filters, battery, fluids, visual inspections, cooling cleanout.

• Intermediate: Belt work, minor electrical diagnosis, hose replacement, linkage checks.

• Advanced: Hydraulic diagnosis, clutch-related work, fuel-system troubleshooting beyond basic filter service, transmission repair.

John Deere 990 parts, OEM numbers, and ordering information

Before ordering John Deere 990 parts, gather the full model designation, the tractor Product Identification Number, the engine model and serial information, and the exact attachment model if the issue involves a mower, loader, or other implement. That matters because many Deere parts catalogs and service references split parts by serial break, engine version, or attachment configuration.

The confirmed OEM part number that appears consistently in Deere’s catalog results for this model family is fuel filter MIU803127. For other common service items such as oil filters, air filters, belts, batteries, switches, and implement wear parts, owners should verify the exact number against the tractor PIN and any fitted attachment before placing an order because the tractor-only number may not cover every configuration.

OEM parts are usually the safer choice for belts, switches, fuel-system pieces, and any fit-sensitive or safety-related part because correct dimensions and material spec matter. Aftermarket parts can be fine for some filters, batteries, and general maintenance items, but only when the cross-reference is exact and the supplier is clear about model and serial compatibility.

John Deere 990 diagrams and manuals

The best places to find John Deere 990 diagrams and manuals are Deere’s official operator manual pages, the Technical Information Store, Deere’s parts catalog system, and a Deere-focused parts retailer that indexes components by model. Using all four together usually gives the clearest picture because one source explains operation, another lists parts, and another supports detailed repair planning.

Useful sources:

• John Deere operator manual page for operating, service access, controls, and maintenance guidance.

• John Deere Technical Information Store for official operator’s manuals, parts catalogs, and technical manuals.

• John Deere Parts Catalog for exploded diagrams and verified OEM part references.

• TractorData John Deere 990 page for a quick public overview of major specs and production context before digging into Deere documentation.

A practical workflow is to identify the symptom first, check the operator information for normal inspection and maintenance points, then use the parts catalog to confirm the exact assembly diagram and OEM number before ordering. Save technical manual research for adjustment, testing, or repair procedures that go beyond standard owner maintenance.

How to identify a John Deere 990 correctly

Correct identification matters because a compact tractor’s parts can change by serial range, engine variant, and fitted equipment. Owners who skip the identification step are much more likely to order the wrong filter, switch, belt, hose, or manual.

1. Locate the tractor Product Identification Number plate on the tractor chassis as described in the operator information.

2. Record the full John Deere 990 model designation exactly as shown.

3. Find the engine model and serial number on the engine tag before ordering engine service parts.

4. Record the model and serial from any mower, loader, or other attachment involved in the repair.

5. Use those numbers when searching Deere’s manuals and parts catalog rather than relying only on the hood decal.

Buying John Deere 990 parts online and in store

The smartest buying strategy for John Deere 990 parts is to verify the OEM number first and then decide whether price, speed, or in-person confirmation matters most. That reduces costly returns, especially for serial-sensitive parts and anything tied to the diesel engine or electrical system.

• Online: Best for price comparison and diagram lookup, but only after matching the part to the correct PIN and engine information. Good starting points are John Deere Parts Catalog, John Deere Technical Information Store, and Deere-focused parts sellers that cross-reference OEM numbers.

• Dealer counter: Usually best for complex, serial-specific, hydraulic, or electrical parts where staff can confirm supersessions and fit.

• Retail stores: Fine for batteries, fluids, and some filters if the packaging clearly lists the correct Deere cross-reference and engine application.

John Deere 990 fitting guide for common parts

These are the most realistic high-impact service jobs many owners handle themselves on a John Deere 990. Always park on level ground, lower attachments, shut the engine off, remove the key, and allow hot parts to cool before starting work.

Replacing the fuel filter on a John Deere 990

A restricted fuel filter can cause hard starting, weak power, surging, and smoke under load.

1. Shut the tractor down safely and clean the area around the filter first.

2. Remove the old filter carefully so dirt does not enter the fuel system.

3. Install the correct replacement filter, such as MIU803127 when confirmed for the tractor’s exact application.

4. Reopen fuel supply or follow the normal fuel-system priming method in the operator information.

5. Start the tractor and check closely for leaks or air-entry symptoms.

John Deere 990 air filter service

Air filter restriction is a common cause of low power and excess smoke on diesel compact tractors.

1. Open the air cleaner housing and remove the dirty element carefully.

2. Wipe out loose dust without forcing debris deeper into the intake.

3. Install the correct replacement element for the exact engine setup.

4. Check the housing seal surfaces before reassembly.

5. Refit the cover securely and confirm there are no air leaks past the seal.

Engine oil and filter change

Regular oil service protects the Yanmar diesel from accelerated wear and starting problems related to poor lubrication condition.

1. Warm the engine briefly so the oil drains more completely.

2. Shut down safely and drain the old oil into a suitable container.

3. Remove and replace the oil filter with the correct part verified by PIN or engine serial.

4. Refill with the correct oil grade specified in the official literature.

5. Run the engine, recheck the level, and inspect for leaks.

Battery replacement and cable cleanup

Weak cranking speed on a diesel tractor often starts with battery condition or cable corrosion rather than the starter itself.

1. Disconnect the negative cable first, then the positive cable.

2. Remove the old battery and clean the tray and cable ends.

3. Install the replacement battery with matching fit and terminal layout.

4. Connect the positive cable first, then the negative cable.

5. Test cranking speed and charging voltage after startup.

Maintenance for the John Deere 990

Regular maintenance is what keeps a John Deere 990 dependable, especially when it spends long hours mowing, running PTO equipment, or working in dusty conditions. Most repeat failures on this model start with ignored filters, contaminated fuel, dirty cooling passages, weak electrical connections, or deferred fluid checks.

Focus areas:

• Starting reliability: Keep the battery, cables, fuel filter, and fuel quality in good condition.

• Engine performance: Service air and fuel filters before restriction turns into smoke or power loss.

• Fire and overheating prevention: Clean debris from the cooling area and inspect for fuel or oil leaks.

• Drive performance: Watch clutch feel, linkage behavior, and fluid condition.

• Electrical reliability: Inspect grounds, charging output, and switch operation before intermittent faults become no-start issues.

John Deere 990 maintenance schedule and checklist

The exact service chart should always be taken from the official operator information for the tractor’s serial range, but the owner-level pattern is consistent: perform pre-use checks, keep filters and fluids on schedule, and inspect cooling, electrical, and driveline systems regularly. Compact utility tractors last best when maintenance is tied to hours rather than waiting for a failure.

Daily or before each use

• Check engine oil level.

• Check coolant level and look for obvious leaks.

• Check fuel level and watch for contamination signs.

• Inspect tires, steering feel, and brakes.

• Clean debris from the radiator screen and cooling area.

Every 25 hours

• Inspect the air intake system and air cleaner condition.

• Check battery terminals and visible wiring condition.

• Inspect belt condition and visible hose condition.

• Lubricate points specified in the official chart.

Every 50 hours or yearly

• Change engine oil and filter if operating conditions or official interval call for it.

• Replace the fuel filter on schedule or sooner if contamination is suspected.

• Inspect clutch and linkage operation.

• Check fasteners, shields, and PTO driveline condition.

Every 200 hours or similar scheduled service

• Perform the larger fluid and filter service shown in the official maintenance chart for the tractor’s exact configuration.

• Inspect hydraulic and transmission system condition closely.

• Review cooling hoses, belt wear, and charging-system performance.

• Replace service items due by hours even if the tractor still seems to run well.

Seasonal checklist

• Spring or heavy-use start: Change overdue fluids and filters, charge the battery, and clean cooling surfaces.

• Mid-season: Recheck belt wear, cable corrosion, and any fresh leaks after long work sessions.

• Fall or storage prep: Clean the tractor thoroughly, stabilize fuel strategy as appropriate for diesel storage practice, and correct leaks before parking long-term.

Repair, upgrade, or replace a John Deere 990?

For a John Deere 990, repair usually makes sense when the tractor is structurally sound, the engine starts and carries load properly, and the problem is isolated to maintenance items, electrical faults, hoses, belts, or straightforward driveline issues. Upgrade or replace becomes more logical when the tractor no longer matches the workload, repeated major failures are stacking up, or the machine needs clutch, transmission, hydraulic, and engine work all at once.

Repair if…

• The issue is a filter, battery, switch, hose, belt, leak, or service-related running problem.

• The tractor still has strong compression, usable hydraulics, and acceptable transmission behavior.

• The repair cost is small compared with the value of a working compact utility tractor.

Upgrade if…

• You need more hydraulic capacity, loader performance, PTO power, or convenience features than the 990 offers.

• The tractor is reliable but undersized for your current property or attachment needs.

• You want hydrostatic convenience or newer operator comfort features that this model does not provide.

Replace if…

• The tractor needs multiple major systems repaired at the same time.

• Corrosion, neglect, or parts history makes long-term reliability doubtful.

• You cannot justify major split-tractor or engine work on the machine’s current value.

John Deere 990 troubleshooting FAQ

1. Why will my John Deere 990 not start?

The most common starting causes are a weak battery, dirty cable connections, safety-circuit faults, fuel restriction, or air in the diesel fuel system. Start with battery condition and connection cleanliness, then verify fuel delivery and filter condition before assuming a major engine problem.

2. Why does my John Deere 990 crank but not fire?

If the engine cranks normally but will not fire, look closely at fuel supply, filter blockage, contaminated diesel, and air trapped in the system. Diesel tractors also need adequate cranking speed, so a battery that sounds almost good can still be part of the problem.

3. Why is my John Deere 990 hard to start when cold?

Cold diesel starting gets harder when battery output drops, fuel flow is restricted, or the engine is not spinning fast enough. Begin with the battery, cables, and fuel filter, then move toward dealer diagnosis if the problem persists in proper winter operating conditions.

4. Why does my John Deere 990 lose power under load?

Low power under load usually points to fuel restriction, dirty air filtration, poor fuel quality, or an implement demanding more than the tractor can comfortably deliver. Filter service and a clean intake are the first owner checks worth doing.

5. Why is my John Deere 990 blowing black smoke?

Black smoke usually means too much fuel for the available air, which often comes from an intake restriction, overload, or fuel-system problem. Check the air cleaner and reduce implement load before moving into more advanced diagnosis.

6. Why is my John Deere 990 overheating?

A dirty cooling package, low coolant, belt slip, or a leak in the cooling system are common causes. Stop work immediately and clean, inspect, and correct the cause before using the tractor again.

7. Why is my John Deere 990 leaking oil?

Oil leaks often come from hoses, fittings, seals, filter sealing surfaces, or areas disturbed during previous service. Clean the area first so you can identify the true source instead of following oil that has spread across the engine or frame.

8. Why is diesel leaking on my John Deere 990?

Fuel leaks can come from cracked lines, loose fittings, damaged filter seals, or contamination-related service errors. Because diesel leaks create fire risk and air-entry problems, repair them before further operation.

9. Why does my John Deere 990 battery keep going dead?

The battery may be worn out, the connections may be dirty, or the charging system may not be replenishing it correctly. Test both battery condition and charging output rather than replacing parts one at a time.

10. Why is my John Deere 990 not charging?

A charging complaint usually involves the alternator, regulator function, wiring, or poor battery connections. Confirm the battery terminals are clean before moving deeper into the circuit.

11. Why does my John Deere 990 click but not crank?

A click with no cranking usually means low battery power, poor cable contact, a weak starter circuit, or a starter problem. High-resistance cable ends are especially common on machines that sit between uses.

12. Why does my John Deere 990 stall after it starts?

Stalling soon after startup often points to fuel starvation, contaminated fuel, or air moving through the system. Replacing the fuel filter and checking fuel quality are sensible first steps.

13. Why does my John Deere 990 run rough?

Rough running can come from restricted fuel flow, intake issues, or engine-related faults that need further diagnosis. Start with the easy service items before considering injection or compression issues.

14. Why is my John Deere 990 using more fuel than usual?

Higher fuel use can happen when the air filter is restricted, the tractor is overloaded, or the engine is not running efficiently. A change in smoke level or power at the same time usually points toward a maintenance issue rather than normal variation.

15. Why does my John Deere 990 have low hydraulic power?

Low hydraulic performance may come from fluid condition issues, leaks, restrictions, or internal hydraulic wear. Because hydraulic diagnosis can become technical quickly, owner checks should focus on fluid level, leaks, and visible hose condition first.

16. Why will my John Deere 990 three-point hitch not lift properly?

If the three-point hitch is slow or weak, look for hydraulic fluid issues, leakage, or hydraulic system wear. Rule out an overloaded implement before assuming a tractor fault.

17. Why is the PTO on my John Deere 990 not working correctly?

PTO problems may come from linkage issues, clutch-related faults, driveline problems, or internal wear. Check engagement feel and visible linkage first, then move to dealer help for internal diagnosis.

18. Why is my John Deere 990 hard to shift?

Hard shifting often points to clutch adjustment issues, clutch drag, or internal transmission wear. Do not force shifts repeatedly because gear damage can get expensive fast.

19. Why does my John Deere 990 grind going into gear?

Grinding usually means the clutch is not fully disengaging or the driveline is still loaded during the shift. That is a warning sign to stop and inspect adjustment and clutch behavior rather than continuing to operate it.

20. Why will my John Deere 990 not move?

A no-move condition can be caused by clutch failure, linkage issues, transmission problems, or related driveline faults. Note whether PTO and hydraulics still function because that helps narrow the fault before teardown.

21. Why does my John Deere 990 make a whining noise?

A whining sound may come from belts, rotating accessories, hydraulics, or driveline components depending on when it appears. The key is to note whether the sound changes with engine rpm, movement, or PTO engagement.

22. Why is my John Deere 990 vibrating more than usual?

Extra vibration can come from loose hardware, worn rotating parts, driveline issues, or an attached implement problem. Separate tractor-only vibration from implement-related vibration before ordering parts.

23. Why does my John Deere 990 smoke white or gray?

Lighter smoke can indicate incomplete combustion, cold operation effects, or deeper engine or fuel-system issues. If it continues after warmup, the tractor needs more than routine visual inspection.

24. Why is my John Deere 990 steering getting heavy?

Heavy steering can point to hydraulic weakness, steering system wear, or front-end load conditions beyond normal use. Check tire condition and loader or implement loading before assuming a steering component has failed.

25. Why are the brakes on my John Deere 990 weak?

Weak brakes are a safety issue and can come from adjustment needs, wear, contamination, or component problems. Do not keep using the tractor on slopes or with heavy loads until braking is restored.

26. What is the most important maintenance item on a John Deere 990?

There is not just one, but clean fuel, clean air, proper oil service, and cooling-system cleanliness are the big four on a diesel compact tractor. Neglecting any one of them can create bigger and more expensive problems later.

27. How often should I change the fuel filter on a John Deere 990?

Use the official maintenance chart for the tractor’s serial range, but change it sooner whenever fuel contamination or restriction symptoms appear. Waiting for a complete no-start is rarely worth it on diesel equipment.

28. How often should I service the air filter on a John Deere 990?

Inspect it regularly and replace it based on the official schedule, restriction level, and working conditions. Dusty mowing, loader, and field work will shorten service life compared with lighter use.

29. Can I use aftermarket filters on a John Deere 990?

Yes, but only if the cross-reference is exact and the supplier clearly matches the part to the tractor and engine configuration. OEM remains the safer route when there is any doubt about fit or filtration quality.

30. Where can I get a John Deere 990 parts diagram?

The best source is Deere’s online parts catalog because it provides exploded views and OEM references. That should be your first stop before buying anything beyond generic consumables.

31. Where can I get a John Deere 990 service manual?

Deere’s Technical Information Store is the official source for operator, parts, and technical manuals for supported equipment. Use the technical manual when a repair goes beyond normal owner maintenance and adjustment.

32. Is the John Deere 990 a good DIY tractor?

It is more DIY-friendly than many newer electronically managed machines because the design is mechanically straightforward. Even so, it is still a serious compact utility tractor, so clutch, hydraulic, and internal engine work should be approached carefully.

33. Should I repair or replace my John Deere 990?

Repair makes sense when the tractor has one or two contained faults and the rest of the machine is sound. Replace or upgrade when the tractor no longer fits the workload or several major systems need expensive work together.

34. What numbers do I need before ordering John Deere 990 parts?

At minimum, record the tractor model, Product Identification Number, and engine information, plus any attachment model involved. Those details are what keep you out of the wrong section of the parts catalog.

35. What should I check before calling the dealer about a John Deere 990 problem?

Have the model and serial details ready, note the exact symptom, and record whether the issue changes with temperature, engine speed, PTO use, or load. That short prep step usually speeds up both parts lookup and diagnostic advice.