John Deere – X354 Lawn Tractor with 42-in. Deck

18.5-hp (13.8-kW) V-twin engine

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:

• 18.5 hp (13.8 kW)
• Large 603-cc displacement
• V-twin air-cooled design that provides smooth, quiet power
• Quality features include:
  • Cast-iron cylinder liners
  • Overhead valves
  • Full-pressure lubrication
  • Replaceable oil filter
  • Dual-stage air cleaner
• V-twin design:
  • Excellent power and performance
  • Easy starts
  • Smooth operation

Flywheel alternator

A flywheel alternator provides plenty of capacity to quickly recharge the battery and power electrical equipment, such as lights or a sprayer:

• 15-amp capacity
• Regulated to keep the battery at full charge without risk of overcharging

Fuel tank has large, 3.3-U.S. gal. (12.5-L) capacity

Fuel tank

Electronic fuel gauge

Large fuel tank and convenient fuel gauge minimize the number of stops for fuel and chance of running out of fuel:

• Fuel tank has a large, 3.3-U.S. gal. (12.5-L) capacity for more hours of operation between refills.
• Large, 3-in. (7.6-cm) diameter fuel tank filler opening makes adding fuel easy.
  • Located on the left fender
  • Helps eliminate spillage
• Electronic fuel gauge on the dash display allows the operator to easily monitor the amount of fuel in the tank.

X370 with Accel Deep 42A Mower

Accel Deep 42A Mower

The 42-in. (107-cm) Accel Deep Mower Deck provides the performance advantages of a two-spindle mower in a wide 42-in. (107-cm) size:

• Resilient four-point mounting system suspends mower from tractor for a smooth and level cut
• Wide mower wheels easily adjusted just above ground level to help prevent scalping
• 0.25-in. (6.4-mm) cut-height increments allow mower to be set at the desired cut height
• Onboard deck-leveling system makes keeping mower properly adjusted easy
• Compatible with optional MulchControl™ mulching system
• Compatible with efficient 7-bu (247-L) two-bag cut-and-throw material collection system
• For use on X330, X350, X354, and X370 Tractors

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:

• 4.97-in. (12.6-cm) depth throughout the entire deck shell for optimum mowing, mulching, and bagging performance
  • Optional lever-action or electric one-touch MulchControl attachment for superior mulching performance and versatility
• Stamped-steel design eliminates sharp edges and corners where material can build up and diminish mowing performance
• Mower deck suspended from the vehicle for a smooth and level cut
  • Adjustable mower wheels, positioned just above ground level, for reduced scalping

Excellent cut quality

42A Mower

42A Mower

Deep mower-deck stamping gives excellent cut quality. It allows the cut and suspended material room to exit the deck without getting recut:

• Reducing the amount of re-cutting enables more power to be used to cut incoming grass, which greatly improves mower capacity.
  • Helps maintain excellent cut quality at faster mowing speeds
• Clean flow of material out of discharge area prevents cut material from interfering with cutting the incoming grass, making it possible for the blades to cut incoming material cleanly.
• Even in mulching mode, cut evenness is improved compared to other designs because the additional depth allows for continuous circulation, optimal re-cutting, and an even distribution of clippings.

Mower wash port

Mower wash port with hose connector

A wash port is provided to make cleaning the underside of the mower deck easy.

• Hose connector is included with the mower deck.

Lever action MulchControl handle

Electric one-touch MulchControl switch

• With the lever-action MulchControl attachment, the MulchControl handle on top of the mower deck is used to engage or disengage mulch mode.
  • The operator is required to get off of the tractor in order to engage or disengage mulch mode with the lever-action system.
• With an electric one-touch MulchControl attachment, an electric switch on the tractor dash is used to engage or disengage mulch mode.
• Changing from mulching to side discharging or vice versa takes only a few seconds.

MulchControl is well-suited to the following mowing situations:

• Usually mulch, but side discharge when grass gets too long
• Usually side-discharge, but would like to be able to close the chute to control clippings
• Always mulch a main lawn, but often side discharge secondary lawns
• Bag clippings, but want to go farther before emptying bags

Productivity - gets the job done fast

Side-discharge chute on Accel Deep 42A Mower Deck

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 re-cutting so more power is available to process incoming grass:

• Greatly improves mowers capacity to maintain excellent mowing performance in difficult mowing conditions and at higher speeds

Large discharge opening is both high and wide to handle more material:

• Gives a smooth, even discharge of clippings at all mowing speeds
• Reduces the chance of plugging, especially important when operating in wet, thick, or dense grass and when bagging
• Cut-and-throw chute has a large, optimized inlet which aids in collecting material by using airflow from the large deck opening

Cleanliness - for the mower and the operator

Accel Deep 42A Mower Deck

Accel Deep 42A Mower Deck

The flat-top shape of the deck stamping is optimal for keeping itself and the operator clean:

• There are few places to catch and hold material on top and underneath the deck.
  • Top of deck stays cleaner, reducing time and effort needed for cleaning and service
  • Underside of deck is self-cleaning to maintain optimum performance without buildup of material to interfere with the flow of air and clippings
  • Less need to clean and remove buildup of material from underside deck
• The depth of the Accel Deep mower deck minimizes the amount of material that escapes from the front of the deck
  • Limited amount of material to drift onto the operator and mower deck
  • Even flow of material discharged out the chute, less re-cutting results in larger pieces that are less likely to end up on the operator
  • Mulching prevents the discharge of material completely and a MulchControl attachment makes mulching a practical solution for most mowing situations.

Cleaning a mower deck, both top and bottom, is one of the most frequent maintenance activities:

• The flat-top design reduces places for material to build up and makes material that does collect easy to remove.

Superior durability is designed in

Hinged spindle pocket cover on the 42A Mower

Mower wheels are double-captured for durability

The 42A mower deck has strong spindle pockets, to keep the blades aligned, even after years of tough service:

• Ribs in the deck shell add strength where it is needed.
• The 42A has a 16 percent heavier overall weight than the Edge™ Xtra 42-in. (107-cm) mower deck.

Mower wheels are double-captured:

• Provides greater strength and durability for longer, trouble-free life.
• Single-bolt adjustment makes setting wheels to the correct height for the cutting height quick and easy.

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.

Versatility - easy to change between side discharge, mulch, and bagging modes

Rear MulchControl baffle (A) that must be removed for bagging

Rear MulchControl baffle removed to allow for chute installation

The 42A Mower Deck is designed for excellent versatility:

• The mower's cut-and-throw design allows bagging with just the addition of the bagger chute, once the special bagging blades have been installed.
  • The 42A cut-and-throw chute is easy to install and securely held in place at the front and rear to provide a tight seal between the mower deck and the chute.
    • The rear latch is adjustable to allow for the optimum setting for easy use and a tight seal.
  • The bagging blades can be used for side discharging also.
• With an optional lever action or electric one-touch MulchControl attachment installed (along with the special mulching blades), changing from side-discharging to mulching or vice versa is done with the simple flip of a lever or touch of a switch.
• The rear bagger can be used with the MulchControl blades installed.
• The front baffle, either the one included with the rear bagger chute or the one included with MulchControl (B), can remain in place for side discharging.
  • For ultimate side-discharge performance this baffle can be removed.
• An optional MulchControl attachment includes a rear MulchControl baffle (A), held in place by two carriage bolts, at the rear edge of the discharge opening. This baffle:
  • Must be removed for installation of the rear bagger chute, a 13-mm (0.51-in.) wrench is required (the bagger chute cannot be installed without removing this baffle)
  • Can remain removed for side discharging material
  • Must be re-installed for mulching

MulchControl lever action or electric one-touch options

A MulchControl attachment for the 42A Mower Deck 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 the lawn material. Advantages of mulching grass clippings include:

• A beautiful looking lawn
• Grass clippings not blown onto the operator, driveways, or flower beds
• Less fertilizer use
• Elimination of the effort needed to dispose of clippings

How MulchControl works

MulchControl baffle open

MulchControl baffle closed

MulchControl is an innovative, simple design that is easy to use and maintain:

• The MulchControl attachment includes baffles to control the flow of material under the deck.
  • When the MulchControl baffle is open, most of the material passes through the discharge opening.
  • When the MulchControl baffle is closed, the material stays within the deck and gets chopped into mulch and deposited in the turf.

MulchControl limitations

While in the side-discharge mode, MulchControl will still mulch 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 cutting strong southern grasses, such as Zoysia and Bermuda
• When cutting in wet, high-growth conditions, such as those found in the Pacific Northwest United States
• When optimum bagging and lawn clean-up is desired
• 42A Mower Deck requires a MulchControl baffle be removed to install the bagger chute; see explanation in the Versatility section for more information

7-bu (247-L) rear bagger

Optional rear bagger

Lower chute installed

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:

• 7-bu (247-L) capacity
• Easy-to-attach lower chute (ordered separately)
• Air exhaust duct
• Convenient spring-latch
• Airflow fill indicator
• Quik-Tatch mounting
• Sealed hopper top
• Loose-knit bags available

Mower blades

Mower blades shipped with the rear bagger chute

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:

• High-lift bagging blades also work well when side discharging material.

Mulching blades are included with the MulchControl attachment. They can be used for mulching, side discharging, and bagging in most conditions.
Mower blade use chart

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.

• The warranty is hassle free, with one company handling all of the paperwork.
• Premium features of X300 Series Tractors allow for this longer warranty period, with more coverage than comparable 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.

Four-wheel steering versus two-wheel steering

Four-wheel steer maneuverability

NOTE: In the schematic above, the solid line refers to a four-wheel steer tractor, and the hashed line refers to a two-wheel steer tractor.Four-wheel steering provides very significant maneuverability and trimming advantages over that of two-wheel-steering-equipped tractors.For example, with the X384 Select Series™ Tractor equipped with a 48-in. (122-cm) Accel Deep™ Mower (the following numbers correspond to the schematic above):

Also, trimming inside curves around flower beds or other landscaping can be done more completely with a four-wheel steer tractor.

Designed for tight turns

The four-wheel steering system is designed for tight turns, leading to greater mowing efficiency:

• Caster, camber, and kingpin angles are optimized to reduce effort, especially when going from straight ahead into a turn.

• Steering geometry has been designed with the use of 3-D modeling, so all four tires are working together.

• Sealed ball bearings are used on the torque shaft and the rear spindles to reduce friction.

• Small scrub radius, less than 1 in. (2.5 cm) in the rear, reduces scuffing and bump-steer.

Designed for easy steering

Four-wheel steer illustration from rear

Four-wheel steer illustration from front

Sealed ball bearings are used at critical all-wheel-steer joints for reduced friction, longer life, and less maintenance.

Easy steering is important for an enjoyable mowing experience:

• Larger, 14-in. (35.6-cm) diameter steering wheel gives improved leverage for easier turns.

• Larger sector gear gives improved (higher) steering ratio.

  • A higher ratio equals lower steering effort.

• Dual drag links help equalize steering loads and greatly reduce steering error.

• Ball-joints on both ends of the steering tie rods reduce wear to maintain accurate steering.

• Long steering arms improve the mechanical advantage of the steering system through the full range of motion.

• The steering shaft rotates on a sealed ball bearing at its lower end, near the pinion gear, to reduce steering effort and provide a smooth feel for the life of the tractor.

• The sector gear pivots on a shaft rather than a bushing to ensure proper gear mesh and eliminate binding.

• Pivoting of the upper and lower ends of the sector gear shaft on sealed ball bearings reduces steering effort and provides a smooth feel for the life of the tractor.

• Greaseable front steering spindles reduce friction and improve wear over time.

Lever-action MulchControl lever

Electric one-touch MulchControl switch

Lever-action or electric one-touch MulchControl attachment is available for Accel Deep™ 42-in. (107-cm) (42A), 48-in. (122-cm) (48A), and 54-in. (137-cm) (54A) Mower Decks used on ZTrak™ Mowers, S240 Tractors, and X300 and X500 Select Series™ Tractors.

MulchControl advantages and benefits

MulchControl enhances versatility and productivity. A mower deck equipped with MulchControl not only does an excellent job of mowing and mulching, but it can also be quickly converted from side discharging to mulching or vice versa:

• In mulch mode, it controls clippings dispersion in unwanted areas (driveways, landscape beds, near buildings, windows, parking lots, etc.).
• Reduces cleanup time needed to dispose of clippings.
• Reduces the amount of material entering a material collection system because, even in the side discharge mode, MulchControl will mulch about one third of the material due to the additional baffles under the mower deck and the unique design of the mulching blades.

Electric one-touch MulchControl has the additional advantage of being controlled from the tractor seat by a switch on the dash to operate an electric actuator that moves the baffle to close off the discharge area of the mower deck.

Electric one-touch MulchControl switch

Electric one-touch MulchControl actuator

• Operators can convert between modes without interrupting the mowing process, making it practical to change between modes as conditions require.
• When approaching clean areas like driveways or flowerbeds where clippings would be undesirable
• When a breeze might blow clippings back onto the operator
• For side discharge mowing only the areas of the property where grass is too thick for mulching
• With 48A and 54A Mower Decks, for collecting only the areas of the property where grass is too tall or thick for mulching
• With 48A and 54A Mower Decks, the MulchControl baffle can be opened or closed with the Power Flow™ blower installed. The Power Flow blower will run without material when the baffle is closed.
• Models equipped with a 42A Mower Deck require a MulchControl baffle be removed to install the bagger chute; see 42A Mower Deck versatility explanation for more information.
• Changing from one mode to the other takes only a few seconds.

How MulchControl works

A mower equipped with a MulchControl attachment delivers unprecedented levels of productivity and versatility. The operator has the ability to quickly change between side discharging and mulching. A heavy-duty baffle opens and closes to convert the mower from side discharge mode to mulch mode or vice versa.

MulchControl baffle open (similar mower deck shown)

MulchControl baffle closed (similar mower deck shown)

MulchControl is an innovative, simple design that is easy to use and maintain:

• The MulchControl attachment includes baffles to control the flow of material under the deck.
• When the MulchControl baffle is open, most of the material flows freely out the discharge deflector or into a material collection system.
• When the MulchControl baffle is closed, material stays within the deck and gets chopped into mulch and deposited in the turf.

MulchControl is well-suited to the following mowing situations:

• For operators who usually mulch, but side discharge when grass gets too long
• For operators who usually side discharge, but would like to be able to close the chute to control clippings in some areas
• For operators who always mulch a main lawn, but often side discharge secondary lawns
• For operators who collect clippings, but want to go farther before emptying the material collection system

MulchControl puts the operator in control of the clippings. The operator can have all the benefits of mulching with the ability to easily change to side discharging when desired.Advantages of MulchControl include:

• Performance is improved.
  • Mulching is beneficial because it returns the clippings to the ground as fertilizer, which promotes lawn growth.
  • Clippings are much smaller, which allows them to fall into the grass and be removed from view.
  • Unsightly grass clippings are not blown onto driveways or into flower beds.
  • Fertilizer use is reduced and provides associated environmental benefits.
• Uptime is increased.
  • Operators can convert quickly between modes, making it possible to change between mulching and side discharging as conditions require.
  • Mulching heavy, thick material can significantly reduce mower productivity. The ability to switch from mulch to side discharge mode ensures productivity, especially in grass too tall or thick to mulch effectively.
• Cost of operation is reduced.
  • Controlling clipping dispersion reduces cleanup time.

MulchControl limitations

While in the side discharge mode, MulchControl will still mulch 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 cutting strong southern grasses, such as Zoysia and Bermuda
• When cutting in wet, high growth conditions, such as those found in the Pacific Northwest United States
• When optimum bagging and lawn clean­up is desired
• 42A Mower Deck requires a MulchControl baffle be removed to install the bagger chute

Lever-action MulchControl attachments

Electric one-touch MulchControl attachments

*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.

MulchControl compatibility

Each MulchControl attachment includes everything needed: baffles and mulch blades for all attachments, and the actuator, wiring, and switches for the electric one-touch attachments.

44-in. (112-cm) Front Blade

Snow blower, weather enclosure, and chains on an X300 Series Tractor

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:

• 44-in. (112-cm) Snow Blower
• 44-in. (112-cm) Front Blade
• 48-in. (122-cm) Front Blade (X394 Tractor only)
• Tire chains or TerraGrip traction belts
• Weather enclosure (available for all X300 Series, except the X350R)
• Weights

Kanzaki® K46 transaxle (X330, X350, X354) Kansaki K57 transaxle (X370)

Kanzaki K58 transaxle (X380, X384, X390, X394)

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:

• Use of the latest valve designs has significantly reduced the sound level.
• Large pump and motor rotating groups ensure long life and efficient operation.

Freewheeling valve

Freewheeling valve

A freewheeling valve control is conveniently located near the tractor rear hitch plate for good visibility and easy operation.Kanzaki and Tuff Torq are trademarks of Kanzaki Kokyukoki Manufacturing Company.

X394 Tractor mowing

Steering wheel and controls (switch turned on to show display)

Controls

The contoured dash has clean, attractive styling and ergonomic controls for easy use:

• Controls are color coded and labeled with English words for easy identification by the operator.
• Controls are logically placed and easy to reach.
• The power take-off (PTO) switch allows the operator to get fingers underneath it, like a T-handle, to pull up for easy activation.
• The reverse implement option (RIO) switch is a yellow button.
• The latch control on foot-lift models and hydraulic-lift control on power-lift models and the park brake latch are pivot levers for low effort.
• Cruise control activation is handled by an automotive-style button.
• Separate engine speed and choke controls make starting and warming up the engine easier in cold weather.
  • The choke lever is spring loaded to eliminate the chance the tractor will be unintentionally operated with the choke partially closed.
• Functional design of the throttle and choke controls provides good appearance and a comfortable feel.

Display panel

Display panel

Display panel illustration with descriptions

Instrument display has the look and feel of a modern automobile. A power-up sequence cycles lights and gauges to indicate they are working:

• Display features dark-cockpit design to minimize operator distractions.
• Display is back lit for night visibility.
  • Night visibility is especially useful with snow blower use.
• Hour meter makes it easy to tell when oil changes and other maintenance should be performed.
• Electronic fuel gauge provides real-time fuel level information.
  • The X350R has a low fuel light, rather than a fuel gauge, to provide the operator with a noticeable warning when low on fuel.
• A tachometer graphically displays engine speed.
  • Target-zone graphics inform the operator of the engine speed range to use for best cut quality.
• An indicator tells the operator when the PTO is operating.
• Bright caution and stop lights capture the operator's attention when important information is on the instrument cluster.
  • Damage can be prevented and repair costs reduced by addressing problems early.
• Operators are advised of what the problem is if they attempt to operate the mower with unsatisfied PTO, seat, or park brake interlocks.
  • The indicators are also useful to identify the reasons the PTO or engine may have shut off when an interlock is unsatisfied.
• Operators are advised if battery voltage is low, normal, or excessive.
• The service indicator light illuminates to indicate a diagnostic error code is stored.
  • Onboard diagnostics provides trouble codes for use by trained technicians.
    • For example, a technician will be able to test switch functionality and circuit continuity without tools.

Storage tray under tractor seat

Exact Adjust tool is used to level mower deck

Storage for the onboard deck-leveling gauge and the Exact Adjust tool is provided in the storage tray under the tractor’s seat:

• Exact Adjust ports on the fender deck allow for easy and accurate leveling of the mower deck for optimum mowing performance.

Twin Touch™ foot control

Twin Touch foot control

Cruise control

Twin Touch foot pedals control the speed and direction of travel:

• Automotive-type accelerator control ensures easy operation.
• Operator can change direction without lifting foot off the platform.
• Large pedal surface gives superior operator comfort.

Cruise control

Cruise control is standard equipment:

• To engage, push the cruise-control button and hold until the foot is removed from the forward pedal.
• For emergency stop, the cruise control can be released by pushing on the brake pedal or the forward pedal.

Mower deck height adjustment

Conveniently-located deck height adjustment knob

Cut height adjusting knob

A rotary dial knob makes adjusting the mower cut height quick and easy:

• Provides mower cut heights in 0.25-in. (0.64-cm) increments from 1 in. (2.5 cm) to 4 in. (10.2 cm)
• Returns the mower deck to the same preset height each time it is lowered

Deck-leveling gauge placed under deck

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.

Foot-pedal lift system

Foot-pedal lift system

Pushing with the foot to raise the mower or implement is less strenuous for many operators than using a hand-lift lever:

• The easy-to-use raised position lock operates similarly to the park brake lock.
• The foot pedal is out of the way and not likely to catch on bushes and tree limbs when mowing.
• The mower deck returns to the same preset height each time it is lowered.

Adjustable lift-assist spring

Lift-assist spring decals and adjusting bolt

Close-up of lift-assist spring decal

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.

• Lift-assist spring is provided on tractors shipped from the factory with a 48-in. (122-cm) or 54-in. (137-cm) side-discharge mower deck, except models with hydraulic lift, and a recommended option for tractors equipped with a 42-in. (107-cm) mulch mower to minimize lift effort.

  • A spring-assist kit is available for other models for use with front equipment.

• Lift effort can be easily adjusted by turning a bolt, located on the tractor front bumper, for optimum performance, depending on the equipment used (mower, front blade, snow blower, etc.).

• The mower will not be inadvertently locked in the raised position when mowing through ditches.

• When installing or removing a mower or front equipment raised by the foot-lift system, spring tension may be removed from the connection points by pulling rearward on the lift pedal and raising the lift latch to hold the pedal in the rearward position.

Parking brake control

Parking brake

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.

Using RIO

CAUTION: Children or bystanders may be injured by rotating blades. Before traveling forward or rearward:

• Carefully check the area around the machine.
• Disengage the mower before backing up.

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.

Reverse implement option (RIO)

Reverse implement switch

Mower engagement power take-off (PTO) switch

Electric power take-off (PTO) clutch is easy and convenient to use

Electric PTO switch

The heavy-duty electric PTO clutch is operated with a convenient dash-mounted switch.

Heavy-duty PTO clutch

PTO clutch

The PTO clutch is designed to operate through many on/off cycles.

Welded, heavy-duty frame

The frame is made of heavy formed and welded steel, reinforced in critical areas for even greater strength:

• The frame is formed from 12-gauge, 0.105-in. (2.66-mm) thick material for long life.
• Standard front bumper and hitch plate are formed from 9-gauge, 0.15-in. (3.8-mm) steel and complete the frame assembly.
• Rear hitch plate can support two 42-lb (19-kg) Quik-Tatch weights.
  • Weight bracket is built into the frame of two-wheel-steer models.
  • Four-wheel-steer models require the optional weight bracket.

Front axle and wheel spindles are heavy-duty

Cast-iron front axle

Front axle is made of nodular cast iron:

• Cast-iron front axle is strong and shock-resistant.
• Cast iron will not yield under heavy loads or impact.

A replaceable bushing is used at axle mounting:

• The bushing provides excellent wear resistance.
• Grease fittings at each spindle are easy to service.

Front steering spindles

Steering spindle

Front steering spindle diameter is 0.75 in. (19 mm) for strength and long life:

• Have strength to handle heavy implements
• Provide long life at bearing surfaces
• Use sealed precision bearings in front wheels

Rear equipment-mounting system is heavy-duty and easy to use

Rear equipment mounting system

A heavy-duty equipment mounting system is used:

• Includes strong frame mounts with a combination of mounting holes in the tractor hitch plate that accept pins or shoulder bolts to support heavy rear-mounted equipment.
• Easily attach optional equipment to the tractor
• Can bear the load of heavy rear-mounted equipment, such as material collection systems

Attractive styling

Hood air-intake louvers

Smooth, rounded contours present a modern, styled appearance:

• Hood styling incorporates efficient full-length air-intake louvers on each side, rather than on the top.
  • Cooler engine operation
  • Lower operator station sound levels
• Hot air is vented out the front grille, away from the operator.
• The fully enclosed hood is made of molded-in-color material.
  • Reduces sound
  • Will not rust or dent
• Distinctive grille and large, one-piece fender deck complete the styling package.

Two high-quality headlights give excellent visibility

Optimum lighting pattern

Headlights are standard equipment on all models:

• Two 27-W bulbs provide excellent lighting for good visibility during evening operation.
• A headlight position on the ignition switch makes it easy to operate the headlights.
• The headlights are designed to provide an optimum lighting pattern for mowing and snow removal.

Operator station

Operator station

The operator station is designed for operator comfort and ease of using controls:

• A large, 14-in. (36-cm) diameter steering wheel is comfortable to use and minimizes steering effort.
• Full-length foot mats provide comfort for the operator and protect the footrest area.

Comfortable seat

Comfortable open-back seat

An open-back 15-in. (38-cm) high-back seat provides a comfortable, smooth ride and good support for the operator:

• Seat travel of 7 in. (18 cm) with 15 positions allows the operator to be seated comfortably and easily operate the controls.
• Seat can be easily adjusted fore and aft by the operator while sitting on the seat.
• Open-back design allows air circulation to keep the operator's back cool and dry for a more comfortable ride.
• Grasp at the top of the seat is conveniently located for use when tilting the seat up to protect it from the weather.

Seat suspension

Seat suspension

The seat suspension is adjustable, without tools, for the weight of the operator:

• Springs are adjustable fore and aft to any of three positions.
  • No tools require
  • Allows fine-tuning of the suspension for the operator's weight
  • Back position for more support for heavier operators
• Tool tray is designed into the seat base.
  • Can be used to store gloves, small tools, etc.
  • Provides storage location for Exact Adjust tool and deck-leveling gauge (tool and depth-leveling gauge not shown in photo)

Cup holder

Cup holder and tool tray on fender

A cup holder and tool tray are located on the fender for operator convenience:

• The cup holder holds a variety of container sizes.
• Tool tray provides convenient storage.
• Cup holder and tool tray are constructed of durable acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) plastic.

Removable plug for optional 12-V outlet

Location for optional 12-V outlet

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.

• Convenient for plugging in cell phone charger and other electric devices
  • Can be used to operate electric rear equipment, such as a sprayer or spreader

12-V fast connector

Illustration of fast connector location

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 four-cavity connector includes battery, ground, and key switch terminals and is turned on and off with the ignition switch.

One-piece hood is easy to open

Service interval decal located under hood

The one-piece hood opens easily to permit checking and servicing the engine:

• Important service points are located within easy reach.
• A service-interval decal is provided inside the tractor hood for convenience when servicing the tractor.
  • The high-quality engine used in the X300 Series does not require an 8-hour oil and filter change because improvements in the manufacturing process and quality of parts, components, and oils have eliminated the need for the short interval oil change requirement.

Easy-to-service engine fuel and oil filters

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.

Exact Adjust ports and onboard deck-leveling tools make precise deck adjustments easy

Deck-leveling gauge and hex adjusting tool stored under tractor seat

Exact Adjust access holes

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:

• There is no need to reach under the fender deck while making the mower-level adjustment.
• Onboard deck-leveling gauge, Exact Adjust ports, and the hex tool work together.
  • Level the mower deck side to side
  • Set the correct amount of rake (front-to-back deck orientation)
  • Calibrate the cutting height to the cut-height adjusting knob setting
• Exact Adjust simplifies leveling the mower deck if equipped with a Power Flow™ blower.
  • To give the best cut, mower level should be adjusted if alternately mowing with and without blower installed. The Exact Adjust feature makes this easy.

Deck-leveling tool placed under deck

Using included ball-hex tool to level mower deck

Consult the operator's manual for the correct adjusting procedures for each tractor model. Basic adjusting steps to properly level the mower deck include:

• Park the tractor on a level surface.
• Inflate tires to the correct pressure.
• Consult the label for the cutting-height knob that is located on the console of the machine. This label shows deck-leveling position and location of deck-leveling adjustment points.

Cut height adjusting knob

• Set mower cutting-height knob to the correct deck-leveling position.
  • For X300 models, use position 2.75
  • For all other models, use position 2.5
• Adjust mower wheels as necessary so they do not contact the ground surface.
• Remove the onboard deck-leveling gauge that is located under the seat.
• Using the Exact Adjust ports and tool, adjust mower deck side-to-side level so the deck-leveling gauge just slips under the left and right lower deck rim at the designated adjustment points. The location of adjustment points will vary slightly between decks.
  • Left- and right-rear adjustment points are under the deck rim near the rear mower wheels, if equipped.
• Adjust mower deck front-to-back level, if necessary.
  • Loosen rear nuts equally on each side of front lift rod.
  • Turn front nut equally on each side clockwise to raise front of mower or counterclockwise to lower it until gauge just slips under the front adjustment point.
  • Tighten rear nuts after adjustment is complete.
• Return the gauge to its storage position.

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.

MowerPlus app screen

MowerPlus app maintenance screen

Keep a John Deere riding lawn mower running its best and know how it mows with the John Deere MowerPlus app. Simply scan the lawn tractor’s barcode to get custom information. The app helps determine the best time to mow, communicates expert pre-mow tips, offers maintenance reminders, and provides walk-through guides.Look for the MowerPlus app on the mobile device’s app store.The app supports residential lawn equipment such as 100 Series, S240, X300, X500, X700, Z200 through Z600, and many similarly-sized older products. It does not presently support tractor models numbered 1000 and larger, such as 1025R.NOTE: Some product image variation may exist.Also available is the John Deere MowerPlus smart connector (sold separately).

Smart connector

The John Deere MowerPlus smart connector wirelessly links a Select Series™ X300 or X500 Tractor to the MowerPlus app on a mobile device. The smart connector transmits engine usage to the app, making it easy to track maintenance intervals. It also transmits the fuel level to the app—when thinking ahead about Saturday morning mowing, the operator can make sure the tractor is fueled and ready to go.