Keeping a lawn healthy with a quality cut is priority number one. Doing the job in comfort and with ease is just plain sensible. That's why John Deere developed the latest MulchControl Kit with One Touch Technology. Turn on MulchControl with a push of the button located on your dash.
Twin Touch automatic transmission lets you easily change from forward to reverse with two-pedal foot control for effortless speed and direction changes.
The tractor is powered by a John Deere iTorque power system, a combination of engine features and an exclusive hood design that provides superior lugging ability, even cooling, and durability.
Key engine features include:
A flywheel alternator provides plenty of capacity to quickly recharge the battery and power electrical equipment, such as lights or a sprayer:
Large fuel tank and convenient fuel gauge minimize the number of stops for fuel and chance of running out of fuel:
The 42-in. (107-cm) Accel Deep Mower Deck is a stamped-steel, deep, flat-top design that delivers excellent cut quality, productivity, cleanliness, durability, and versatility. Optimal performance and dispersion of clippings is provided, even at faster mowing speeds or in tall grass:
Deep mower-deck stamping gives excellent cut quality. It allows the cut and suspended material room to exit the deck without getting recut:
Deep mower-deck stamping gives high productivity, which gets the job done fast. It allows the cut and suspended material room to exit the deck quickly, reducing the amount of recutting so more power is available to process incoming grass:
Large discharge opening is both high and wide to handle more material:
The flat-top shape of the deck stamping is optimal for keeping itself and the operator clean:
Cleaning a mower deck, both top and bottom, is one of the most frequent maintenance activities:
A wash port is provided to make cleaning the underside of the mower deck easy.
The 42A Mower Deck has strong spindle pockets to keep the blades aligned, even after years of tough service:
Mower wheels are double captured:
Low-tension belt-drive design reduces the side load on the engines lower bearing and mower deck bearings for longer life.
Rolled outer edge of the deck provides extra strength and protection.
Dual-stage E-coat and powder-paint coatings provide extra protection from rust.
The 42A Mower Deck is designed for maximum versatility, providing the greatest ease in changing from one mower discharge mode to another:
An optional 7-bu (247-L) cut-and-throw rear bagger material collection system (MCS) is available for use with the 42-in. (107-cm) Accel Deep Mower. It provides an efficient means of collecting grass clippings and leaves.
The hopper design provides modern styling, great bagging performance, cleaner operation, and easy-to-empty bags:
High-lift bagging blades are included with the bagger chute. They provide optimum performance when bagging in difficult conditions, such as when the grass is moist, dense, or long:
Mulching blades are included with the optional MulchControl system. They can be used for mulching, side discharging, and bagging in most conditions.
Mower blade use chart
Mode(s) of operation | Mower blade |
Side discharging mode only | Side-discharge blade (shipped with mower) |
Bagging mode only | Bagging blade (shipped with rear bagger chute) |
Mulching mode only | Mulching blade (shipped with MulchControl) |
Side discharge and mulching | Mulching blade (shipped with MulchControl) |
Side discharge and bagging | Bagging blade (shipped with rear bagger chute) |
Side discharge, mulching, and bagging | Mulching blade (shipped with MulchControl) |
An exclusive 4-year or 300-hour (whichever comes first), single-source, bumper-to-bumper warranty* is standard for all John Deere X300 Series Tractors.
*Term limited to years or hours used, whichever comes first, and varies by model. See the LIMITED WARRANTY FOR NEW JOHN DEERE TURF AND UTILITY EQUIPMENT at JohnDeere.com or JohnDeere.ca/TUWarranty for details.
The optional MulchControl system makes mulching more practical for many mowing situations because it not only does an excellent job of mulching, but it also allows the mower to be easily converted for times when it is more desirable to side discharge or collect the lawn material. Advantages of mulching grass clippings include:
MulchControl is an innovative, simple design that is easy to use and maintain:
MulchControl is well-suited to the following mowing situations:
MulchControl puts the operator in control of the clippings.
Electric one-touch MulchControl systems shift the MulchControl baffle using an electric actuator that is operated by a dash-mounted switch.
Operators can convert between modes without interrupting the mowing process, making it possible to change between modes:
While in the side discharge mode, MulchControl still mulches about one third of the material. Therefore, the side discharge mode is essentially a partial mulch mode. This can be an advantage when side discharging or bagging, as it helps to reduce the amount of material being discharged. Other times this could work as a disadvantage:
When bagging with MulchControl on a 48A or 54A mower deck, the MulchControl baffle can be opened or closed with the Power Flow™ blower installed. The Power Flow blower runs without material when the baffle is closed.
When bagging with MulchControl on a 42A mower deck, the cut-and-throw rear bagger can be used with the MulchControl blades. However, the rear MulchControl baffle (A) needs to be removed to install the bagger chute. The baffle is held in place with two carriage bolts. To return to mulching, the chute needs to be removed and the baffle replaced.
Each MulchControl system is an optional field-installed attachment and includes everything needed: baffles, mulch blades, a handle (lever action attachments) or an actuator, wiring, and switches (electric one-touch attachments).
Attachment | Description | Applications |
BUC10704 | 42-in. (107-cm) Accel Deep MulchControl (lever action) | Model year 2016 and newer X300 Series Tractors, Z300 Series ZTrak™ Mowers |
BUC10705 | 48-in. (122-cm) Accel Deep MulchControl (lever action) | S240 Lawn Tractor, model year 2016 and newer X300 and X500 Series Tractors, Z300 and Z500 Series ZTrak Mowers |
BUC10706 | 54-in. (137-cm) Accel Deep MulchControl (lever action) | Model year 2016 and newer X300 and X500 Series Tractors, Z300 and Z500 Series ZTrak Mowers |
Attachment | Description | Applications |
BUC11632 | 42-in. (107-cm) Accel Deep electric one-touch MulchControl | Model year 2016 and newer X300 Series Tractors* |
BUC11633 | 48-in. (122-cm) Accel Deep electric one-touch MulchControl | Model year 2016 and newer X300 and X500 Series Tractors* |
BUC11634 | 54-in. (137-cm) Accel Deep electric one-touch MulchControl | Model year 2016 and newer X300 and X500 Series Tractors* |
*NOTE: Model year 2016-2017 X300 and X500 Series Tractors (X300 serial number 10,001-50,000 and X500 serial number 110,001-130,000) require replacing the tractor wiring harness and dash panel to use an electric MulchControl attachment.
An advantage of lawn tractors is their ability to use equipment for snow removal. Lawn tractor owners can add a John Deere snow blower or front blade to make quick work of moving snow whenever the need arises. Weather enclosure and tire-chain attachments add comfort and performance.
Equipment available for snow removal includes:
A heavy-duty sector and pinion steering system with quality bearings provides easy and precise control for the life of the tractor:
Easy steering is important for an enjoyable mowing experience:
The Tuff Torq® hydrostatic transaxle encloses the hydrostatic pump and motor rotator groups in the same housing with the differential and axle housings. This design is very efficient and reduces the number of sealing surfaces to minimize the potential for leakage.
Combined with the foot controls, the hydrostatic transmission functions similarly to that of an automatic transmission in an automobile, so the term automatic is often used to describe it:
When it's inconvenient to start the tractor, a freewheeling valve releases the transmission so the tractor can be pushed a short distance. The freewheeling valve control is conveniently located on the tractor’s rear hitch plate.
Kanzaki and Tuff Torq are trademarks of Kanzaki Kokyukoki Mfg. Co., Ltd.
The contoured dash has clean, attractive styling and ergonomic controls for easy use:
Instrument display has the look and feel of a modern automobile. A power-up sequence cycles lights and gauges to indicate they are working:
Twin Touch foot pedals control the speed and direction of travel:
Cruise control is standard equipment:
A rotary dial knob makes adjusting the mower cut height quick and easy:
Storage for the onboard deck-leveling gauge and the Exact Adjust tool is provided in the storage tray under the tractor’s seat:
Deck-leveling gauge is placed at the appropriate location under the left rear, right rear, and front of the mower deck as the cut height is adjusted using the Exact Adjust tool and front draft arm adjusting nuts.
Pushing with the foot to raise the mower or implement is less strenuous for many operators than using a hand-lift lever:
NOTE: The adjustable lift-assist spring is standard equipment on tractors with manual foot-lift system that are shipped with the 48-in. (122-cm) and 54-in. (137-cm) side-discharge mowers, and an option for tractors shipped with 42-in. (107-cm) mowers. It is a recommended option for foot-lift tractors sold with the 42-in. (107-cm) mulch mower.
Depressing the brake pedal applies internal wet-disk brakes, which provide better reliability and longer life than external brakes, for safe stopping.
The parking brake control is conveniently located for easy access. It holds the brake pedal securely in the locked position.
The heavy-duty electric PTO clutch is operated with a convenient dash-mounted switch.
The PTO clutch is designed to operate through many on/off cycles.
CAUTION: Children or bystanders may be injured by rotating blades. Before traveling forward or rearward:
NOTE: Operating the mower while backing up is strongly discouraged. RIO should be used only when operating another attachment or when the operator deems it necessary to reposition the machine with the mower engaged.
The frame is made of heavy formed and welded steel, reinforced in critical areas for even greater strength:
Optional Quik-Tatch weights can be added to increase traction and ballast equipment.
Front axle is made of nodular cast iron:
Replaceable bushings are used at the center axle pivot and steering spindles of models with power steering (X370, X390, X394):
Front steering spindle diameter is 0.75 in. (19 mm) for strength and long life:
A heavy-duty equipment mounting system is used:
Smooth, rounded contours present a modern, styled appearance:
Headlights are standard equipment on all models:
The operator station is designed for operator comfort and ease of using controls:
An open-back 15-in. (38-cm) high-back seat provides a comfortable, smooth ride and good support for the operator:
The seat suspension is adjustable, without tools, for the weight of the operator:
A cup holder and covered toolbox are located on the fender for operator convenience:
A removable plug on the console, in front of the operator, provides a convenient location for the optional 12-V outlet and makes installation easy.
A mid-vehicle, 12-V fast connector, located under the tractor’s fuse box, is included as standard equipment to reduce initial installation time for some attachments that operate on 12-V power from the tractor:
The one-piece hood opens easily to permit checking and servicing the engine:
The engine fuel and oil filters, the oil check/fill tube, and the oil drain tube are exposed for serviceability when the hood is opened.
John Deere riding lawn mowers are supported by owner information web pages that include links to:
To speed access to owner information web pages, a QR code is printed onto a PIN label located under the hood on trim side of the steering pedestal. Since each vehicle model has its own web page, the links are specific to the owner’s model. The QR code also includes the vehicle’s unique PIN which allows for additional customization of the owner information web page in the future.
A mower deck must be level side-to-side and properly adjusted front-to-rear to give the best cutting performance. A removable onboard deck-leveling gauge and a hex-key tool are provided to make adjustment easy. They are securely stored under the tractor seat.
Exact Adjust leveling ports are provided on each side of the operator platform above the mower-level adjusting bolts. With the hex-shaped tool, they provide convenient access to allow quick and easy adjustment of the mower for the best-cut quality of cut.
The Exact Adjust feature is standard on all Select Series™ X300 and X500 Tractors:
Consult the operator's manual for the correct adjusting procedures for each tractor model. Basic adjusting steps to properly level the mower deck include:
NOTE: The adjusting tool supplied with the tractor is an 8-mm ball-hex key, part number M162737. The rounded end allows for some misalignment with the bolt as the deck is adjusted.
Keep a mower running its best and know how it mows with the John Deere MowerPlus app. Simply scan the mower’s barcode to get custom information about the mower.
To download the free MowerPlus app, visit the Apple® App Store® or Google Play™ store.
MowerPlus connectors (sold separately)
MowerPlus connectors are available to transmit vehicle information to the MowerPlus app.
BUC10929 MowerPlus Deluxe Smart Connector is for use with:
BUC10537 MowerPlus Smart Connector is for use with:
MowerPlus connectors transmit the fuel level and engine hour information to the app, making it easy to keep track of fuel level and maintenance intervals.
MowerPlus connectors require the MowerPlus app on a mobile device to use. The John Deere MowerPlus app and operating system requirements can be found in the mobile device’s app store. The MowerPlus app is only available in the English language, and it is not available in all countries.
Apple and App Store are trademarks of Apple, Inc. Google Play and Android are trademarks of Google LLC. iOS is a trademark of Cisco Technology, Inc. used under license by Apple Inc.
Engine power | 21.5 hp 16.0 kW |
Oil change | No-tools oil drain with replaceable filter |
Engine manufacturer/model | FR651V |
Transaxle type | K46 hydrostatic integrated with transaxle |
Transaxle control | Twin Touch™ pedals |
Rear tires | 20x10-8 |
Lift system type | Foot pedal with optional adjustable spring assist kit |
Cutting width | Accel Deep™ mower deck, 42 in. 107 cm |
U.S. warranty | 4 year/300 hour bumper-to-bumper* (*Term limited to years or hours used, whichever comes first, and varies by model. See the LIMITED WARRANTY FOR NEW JOHN DEERE TURF AND UTILITY EQUIPMENT at JohnDeere.com or JohnDeere.ca/TUWarranty for details.) |
Power | 21.5 hp 16.0 kW |
Displacement | 44.3 cu in. 726 cc |
Manufacturer/model | FR651V |
Type | Overhead valve, full-pressure lube, oil filter |
Cylinders | V-twin, cast-iron liners |
Governor | Mechanical |
Choke/speed control | Separate levers, automatic choke return |
Cooling method | Air |
Air cleaner | Dry, replaceable |
Oil change | No-tools oil drain with replaceable filter |
Type | Gasoline |
Fuel delivery | Pulse pump, carburetor |
Fuel gauge | Gauge on dash |
Fuel tank location | Rear |
Fuel fill opening | On left fender, 3 in. 7.6 cm |
Fuel tank capacity | 3.3 U.S. gal. 12.5 L |
Battery | 12 V 340 CCA |
Charging system | Flywheel alternator, regulated, 12 amp |
Engine starter | Bendix |
Hour meter | Yes |
Headlights | Two standard, incandescent, 27 W |
Taillights or reflector | No |
Backup lights | No |
Rear work lights | No |
12-V outlet | Optional |
Type | K46 hydrostatic integrated with transaxle |
Control | Twin Touch™ pedals |
Cruise control | Yes, button on dash |
Oil cooler | Fins and fan on transaxle |
Oil filter | Internal, not replaceable |
Differential lock | No |
Forward speed | 0-5.5 mph 0-8.9 km/h |
Reverse speed | 0-4 mph 0-6.4 km/h |
Brakes | Internal wet disc |
Frame | Welded heavy-duty |
Primer/paint | E-coat/powder |
Weight bracket | Standard rear, optional front |
Receiver hitch | No |
Front axle | Cast iron front axle, front wheel ball bearings |
Spindle bushings | No |
Front tires | 15x6-6 |
Rear tires | 20x10-8 |
Hood material | Fully enclosed, molded-in color material reduces sound, will not rust or dent |
Fender deck material | Stamped steel |
Floor mats | Sure-grip rubber |
Storage | Yes, under seat and covered toolbox |
Service interval decal | Yes |
Fender handles/grips | No |
Cup holder | Yes |
Equipment mounting | Yes, heavy duty |
Maximum towing capacity | 600 lb 272 kg |
Type | Manual, sector and pinion |
Four-wheel steer | Not available on this model |
Steering wheel | Large, 14 in. 35.6 cm |
Tilt steering wheel | No |
Turning radius | 16 in. 40.6 cm |
Uncut circle radius | 26 in. 66 cm |
Type | Open-back design with grasp |
Seat back height | 15 in. 38 cm |
Armrests | No |
Fore-aft adjustment | While seated, ball bearing slide rail, 15-position, 6.6 in. 17 cm |
Seat suspension | Tilt, two coil springs, three-position no-tools adjustment for operator weight |
Type | Foot pedal with optional adjustable spring assist kit |
Hydraulic outlets | No |
Mower cut height | 13 positions, 1-4 in. 2.5-10.2 cm |
Cut height increments | 0.25 in. 0.64 cm |
Preset cut height | Yes |
Type | Side discharge |
Cutting width | Accel Deep™ mower deck, 42 in. 107 cm |
Construction | Stamped steel deck shell |
Mower deck material | 12 gauge 0.105 in. 2.7 mm |
Mower wash port | Yes |
Mower drive system | Electric power take-off (PTO) clutch, in-line belt |
Mower wheels | Two |
Mower wheel adjustment | Four-position, tool required |
Mower level adjustment | Exact Adjust ports and onboard deck-leveling gauge |
Type | Slide under tractor |
Front draft arms | Attached with spring pins at two points |
Rear draft arms | Two pins and spring clips |
Mower wheels rotate | No |
Drive system | Single belt |
Meets ANSI standard | Yes |
Meets OPEI standard | Yes |
Backup protection | Reverse Implement Option (RIO) |
Safety video | Yes |
Notes | Fully enclosed, molded-in color material reduces sound, will not rust or dent Durable E-coat primer and powder-paint finish |
Warranty | 4 year/300 hour bumper-to-bumper* (*Term limited to years or hours used, whichever comes first, and varies by model. See the LIMITED WARRANTY FOR NEW JOHN DEERE TURF AND UTILITY EQUIPMENT at JohnDeere.com or JohnDeere.ca/TUWarranty for details.) |
Mowers | 42A (standard) |
Rear bagger | 2-bag, 7 bu 247 L |
Mulching system | Yes, MulchControl™ |
Front thatcher | 38, 46, 54 in. 96.5, 116.8, 137.2 cm |
Front blade | 44 in. 111.8 cm |
Snow blower | Two-stage, 44 in. 111.8 cm |
Sprayer | Tow-behind, 15 U.S. gal. 56.8 L Tow-behind, 25 U.S. gal. 94.6 L Mounted, 25 U.S. gal. |
Spreader | Tow-behind, 125 lb 57.7 kg Tow-behind, 175 lb 79.4 kg Mounted, 125 lb |
Front bumper | Styled bumper option |
Brush guard | Yes |
Weather protection | Weather enclosure |
Sun canopy | Yes |
Bucket holder | Yes, double bucket |
Grass striping | Lawn striping kit |
Tractor shovel | 40 in. 101.6 cm |
Tow-behind tools | 16 |
Height | 46.1 in. 1171 mm |
Overall length | 71.5 in. 1817 mm |
Wheelbase | 49.4 in. 1255 mm |
Width with mower | 50.5 in. 1283 mm |
Width with mower (deflector raised for storage) | 51.2 in. 1300 mm |
Width without mower | 38 in. 964 mm |
Weight | Mower, no fuel: 543 lb 246 kg |
Manufacturing location | Horicon, Wisconsin, USA |
Date collected | 3-Oct-22 |
1Offer valid on qualifying purchases made 26 October 2024 through 03 February 2025. Subject to approved credit on a Revolving Plan account, a service of John Deere Financial, f.s.b. For consumer use only. No down payment required. 1.5% APR is for 36 months only, regular Revolving Plan rates will apply after that. The regular Revolving Plan rate, which varies over time, will be 23.0% APR (as of 01 November 2024). Available at participating U.S. dealers. Prices and models may vary by dealer. Offer available on new equipment and in the U.S. only. Prices and savings in U.S. dollars.
2Offer valid on qualifying purchases made 26 October 2024 through 03 February 2025. Subject to approved credit on a Revolving Plan account, a service of John Deere Financial, f.s.b. For consumer use only. No down payment required. 4.9% APR is for 60 months only, regular Revolving Plan rates will apply after that. The regular Revolving Plan rate, which varies over time, will be 23.0% APR (as of 01 November 2024). Available at participating U.S. dealers. Prices and models may vary by dealer. Offer available on new equipment and in the U.S. only. Prices and savings in U.S. dollars.
3Offer valid on qualifying purchases made 26 October 2024 through 03 February 2025. Subject to approved credit on a Revolving Plan account, a service of John Deere Financial, f.s.b. For consumer use only. No down payment required. Interest will be charged to your account from the purchase date at 17.90% APR if the purchase balance is not paid in full within 9 months or if your account is otherwise in default. Available at participating U.S. dealers. Prices and models may vary by dealer. Offer available on new equipment and in the U.S. only. Prices and savings in U.S. dollars.
Prices and availability may vary by dealer. Taxes not included. Images for illustration purposes only. Financing subject to approved credit by John Deere Financial. Down payment may be required to receive financing. Restrictions may apply outside of Hutson’s area of responsibility. See dealer for details.