With a long line of history in producing riding mowers, John Deere has introduced hundreds of models that have played a significant role in the evolution of our lawn and garden equipment today. When looking at a John Deere riding mower, many questions arise like – What year was it produced? How did the technology evolve? Is there a larger model available? Which one is right for me?
It would be difficult to address these questions for every riding mower model. However, we wanted to create this series to help you better understand the history behind John Deere riding mowers.
In this post, we’ll look at the evolution of the John Deere riding mower from the 1960s to the present time. Enjoy!
The 1960s John Deere Riding Lawn Mowers
The 1960s was an exciting decade for John Deere as it laid the groundwork for years of success to come. From the creation of the original model 110 to the introduction of the model 140, there is no denying that the foundation for the history of John Deere riding mowers was a strong one.
1963: When the First John Deere Lawn Tractor Came to Market
In 1963, John Deere first broke into the lawn tractor market by introducing the model 110. The John Deere 110 had a 4-stroke petrol-fueled engine with 7 horsepower.
At the time, lawn mowing became a much more popular leisure activity. This prompted John Deere to enter the marketplace by offering similar features and implements that the bigger farming tractors incorporated. The 110 was a big hit, likely because of its impressive design and futuristic features.
1966: The Introduction of John Deere Model 60
After proving success with the model 110 mower, John Deere introduced the model 60 shortly after. This was designed for more urban customers—those with less land and didn’t necessarily need the larger model 110.
The John Deere 60 was useful for customers who needed to conquer their lawn work with a versatile machine, as this model offered a variety of attachments, including:
- Snow blade
- Snow thrower
- Model 80 dump cart
- Pull behind sprayer
1968: Taking Things a Step Further with John Deere Model 112
Continuing the success of the 110, Deere decided to launch a larger model with a similar style, only with a bigger motor and wider deck. For customers who needed a machine for larger jobs than the 110 and 60 were capable of, the 112 was perfect.
Shortly after, Deere introduced a small machine with much power—the model 140. With 14 horsepower (compared to the 110, which offered 7 horsepower), the 140 was far ahead of its time.
For a complete list of riding mowers by model, year, and serial number, check out the chart below.
The1970s John Deere Riding Lawn Mowers
Despite having produced lawn tractors for nearly a decade by the time the 1970s rolled around, John Deere did not take this time to sit and rest. Instead, the 1970s were a time of advancement, resulting in 3 new riding lawn mowers designed to surpass expectations.
Improvements to Riding Mowers in the 1970s
Although a few existing models introduced in the 1960s were upgraded in the early 1970s, Deere made major advancements in 1975 when the 200, 300, and 400 Series riding mowers hit the market. These machines provided customers with new and exciting features, which we’ll discuss below.
200 Series Lawn Tractors
This series included similar features to the John Deere 110 and 112, like the V-belt Variator Drive and mechanical clutch PTO. However, the new design gave customers engine options between 8 and 16 horsepower, a rubber Iso-mounted, a fully shrouded engine with a low-tone muffler system, and a new-style hood and grill. The design of the 200 Series mowers took on the styling of full-sized Deere agriculture tractors with a back-sloped brow.
300 Series Lawn Tractors
The 300 Series was a hydrostatic model that was upgraded to a 16-horsepower Kohler K-Series engine. Most upgrades to this machine were made to the body, as it took on more of a square hood design with integral headlights, engine side panels, and a black instrument panel. One of the biggest changes included the engine being moved from under the hood to under the rear fender pan.
400 Series Lawn Tractors
Following the trend of design improvements similar to the 300 Series, Deere continued making more visible advancements with the 400 Series. This included the wheelbase on the 400 series becoming 6 inches longer than the 140, a track that was 7 inches wider, and the weight of the machine being 250 lbs more. Along with the size and style of this machine being updated, Deere also added power steering, which was a complete game changer at the time.
Check out the chart below for a complete list of riding lawn mowers by model, year, and serial number.
The 1980s John Deere Riding Lawn Mowers
At John Deere, the 1980s were a time for evolution and reaching milestones. In addition to introducing new designs, such as the R and S Series, John Deere also manufactured its millionth lawn and garden tractor during this decade!
John Deere Goes Diesel
In 1984, Deere’s first tractor to combine a diesel engine with hydrostatic drive and power steering made quite an impression in the tractor industry. This impressive machine was the John Deere 430, which was similar to the 420 model but powered with a Yanmar 3-cylinder water-cooled diesel engine instead. The 430 weighed 1,170 lbs, making it the heaviest and strongest John Deere of its time.
Evolution of the 300 Series
The redesign of the 300 Series led to the introduction of the 318. What was great for customers was that many attachments of the 140 and 300 Series could still be used on the new model 318; however, many exciting features were added:
- Rear-frame redesign from “closed” to “open” configuration
- Annunciator lights implemented into the dash panel
- Square-shaped fender deck
- Reserve fuel tank for increased productivity
The best part? During this time, John Deere hit the big 1 million milestone – manufacturing its millionth lawn and garden tractor, with the 318 models outselling any other models.
The R and S Series Riding Mowers
As we know, Deere always looked to accommodate customers managing both big and small operations, which is why the R Series and S Series riding mowers were introduced.
The R Series (R70, R72, and R92) was a good fit for customers needing a solution for smaller pieces of land. Key features included a 5-speed gear-drive transmission, an in-line gearshift, a full-length welded steel frame, and a tight turning radius of 27 inches. This gave operators more dependability, long equipment life, and on-the-go shifting.
John Deere produced the S Series riding mower for those with a lawn slightly bigger than the R Series could handle (S80 and S82). These machines had a 30-inch cutting width, electric start, and 8-horsepower engines.
For a complete list of riding mowers by model, year, and serial number, check out the charts below.
The 1990s John Deere Riding Lawn Mowers
Not to be undermined by the previous decade, the 1990s carried on the growth trend for John Deere lawn and garden tractors. After introducing several new models, including the LT, LX, GT, and GX series, John Deere hit 2 more exciting milestones before the millennium’s close.
Exponential Growth
The 1990s were known for many things, but for Deere specifically, this was a time for exponential growth in numbers and technology. In the 1990s, John Deere hit the 2 million and 3 million milestones, manufacturing its 2 millionth lawn tractor with the LX188 lawn tractor model and its 3 millionth tractor with the LT133 lawn tractor in 1998.
This is certainly a sentiment to how the company increased sales during this time; however, it’s not the only thing Deere was working on during this time. Let’s look through a few landmark models that were critical to the history of the John Deere riding mower.
LT Series
In the late 1990s, the LT Series (133, 155, and 166) became one of the most popular John Deere mowers ever. With this series, operators could experience high-quality wide cuts and a greater amount of fuel compared to competitive models in its class. An emphasis was put on comfort with the adjustable operator seat for those who spent long hours on their equipment. The new Xenoy material instead of the steel hood also kept this machine in better condition.
LX Series
The LX Series was first introduced in the 1990s and remained for 16 years. Customers remember this series for its versatility, as each model was compatible with several sizes of mower decks to meet operators’ needs. The LX Series was also great for various other projects around the yard. For example, owners could latch a snow blower attachment to the machine to help fight off winter storms.
GT and GX Series
The GT and GX Series were very similar in style and use. For customers with plots of land around 4 acres in size, both machines can hook up to other implements like snow blowers, baggers, carts, front blades, and various rear attachments like aerators and utility carts. These machines were best for owners who needed a little more power and size for their weekend activities.
Check out the charts below for a complete list of riding mowers by model, year, and serial number.
The 2000s John Deere Riding Lawn Mowers
Last but certainly not least, Deere made a few noteworthy updates to existing models in the 2000s. The focus here has largely been on offering customers more power thanks to LA and X Series models.
LA Series
This model combines power and versatility to fit medium-large lawn owners perfectly. Key features include the full-length steel welded frame, full-pressed lubrication, cast iron front axles, headlights, translucent fuel tank including a sight gauge, comfortable operator station, Edge Cutting system, and option for Reverse Implement. Backed with plenty of power, this series also incorporates John Deere’s trademarked CargO Mount system, allowing for a large bagger or other heavy rear-mounted equipment to be easily attached. Other attachments like lawn sweepers, front blades, tractor shovels, mid-mount blades, carts, snow blowers, sprayers, and aerators can be easily added to the LA.
X Series
What’s unique about this series of John Deere riding mowers? The technology sets this machine apart. It transfers power to the wheels through the hydrostatic transmission to save time during operations and eliminate unnecessary gear-changing to speed up or slow down. The X Series also incorporates the Edge Cutting System and tight turning radius, which all help improve convenience, performance, and reliability.
The charts below provide a full list of these riding mowers by model, year, and serial number.
The 2020s John Deere Riding Lawn Mowers
As we enter the new decade, John Deere has introduced a new line of riding lawn mowers designed to provide even more efficiency, power, and convenience for users. Let’s take a look!
John Deere S100 Series Lawn Tractors
With a range of models to choose from, John Deere S100 lawn tractors include the S100, S110, S102, S130, S140, S160, S170, and S180. These tractors are known for their durability, reliability, and cutting-edge technology, making them an excellent investment for anyone looking to keep their lawn pristine.
John Deere S200 Series Lawn Tractors
The S200 Series lawn tractors, including the S220, S240 42-in., and S240 48-in. models, are known for their durability, reliability, and performance. These tractors are designed for homeowners with larger yards and need a powerful machine to help maintain their lawns. Features include easy maneuverability, comfortable seating, and powerful engines.
John Deere X300 Select Series Lawn Tractors
The John Deere X300 lawn tractors have models like the X330 to the X394, all made to make caring for your lawn easier. These tractors are tough, perform well, and can handle various tasks. People love them for their durability and versatility. They have strong engines, comfy seats, and user-friendly controls to help you do the job.
John Deere X500 Select Series Lawn Tractors
The John Deere X500 lawn tractors have some great options for homeowners who want to keep their lawns looking good. From the X570 to the X590, these tractors are durable, perform well, and can do many different tasks. With strong engines, sturdy builds, and lots of attachments to choose from, these lawn tractors make taking care of your lawn easy.
John Deere X700 Signature Series Lawn Tractors
The John Deere X700 lawn tractors are top-of-the-line machines for pros and homeowners with big yards. Models like the X730, X734, and X738 offer various features to choose from. They have powerful engines, advanced cutting systems, comfy seats, and easy controls. These tractors are made for high performance, durability, and user-friendliness.
History of John Deere Riding Lawn Mowers FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about the history of John Deere riding mowers.
When Did John Deere Produce Their First Lawn Tractor?
In 1963, John Deere entered the lawn tractor market by introducing the Model 110. The John Deere 110 had a 4-stroke petrol-fueled engine with 7 horsepower.
When Was the First John Deere Diesel Lawn Mower Created?
In 1984, Deere created their first tractor to combine a diesel engine with hydrostatic drive and power steering.
What Riding Mower Series Were Released in the 1970s?
3 new series of mowers were designed in the 1970s, including the 200 Series, 300 Series, and the 400 Series.
What Decade Did John Deere Produce Their Millionth Lawn and Garden Tractor?
John Deere manufactured its millionth lawn and garden tractor in the 1980’s.
What About the X Series of John Deere Riding Mowers is Unique?
The technology of the X series sets this machine apart. It transfers power to the wheels through the hydrostatic transmission to save time during operations and eliminate unnecessary gear-changing to speed up or slow down.
Where Can I Buy Old and New John Deere Riding Lawn Tractors?
We hope this historical breakdown helped you better understand how riding mowers got to where they are today. Still interested in learning more about the history of John Deere riding mowers? Be sure to check out some of the related articles listed below.
If you have any questions about John Deere lawn care equipment, you can contact your local John Deere dealer.
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