John Deere 42-inch Complete Replacement Green Deck

1. Introduction

This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your John Deere Original Equipment 42-inch Complete Replacement Green Deck, Model BUC11055. This deck is designed as a direct replacement for various John Deere L100 Series and D-Series lawn tractors, including models L100, L108, L110, L111, L118, 102, 115, 125, 135, LA100, LA105, LA110, LA115, LA120, LA125, LA135, D100, D110, D120, and D130. It comes complete with new gauge wheels, spindles, blades, belt, and a discharge chute, and features a pre-installed wash port for convenient cleaning.

Figure 1.1: Overview of the John Deere 42-inch Replacement Deck. This image displays the complete deck assembly from a top-down perspective, highlighting the belt routing, pulleys, and the integrated discharge chute.

2. Safety Information

Always prioritize safety when working with lawn and garden equipment. Read and understand all safety decals on the product and in this manual before installation or operation. Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death.

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear appropriate PPE, including safety glasses, gloves, and sturdy footwear, when handling or installing the deck.
• Engine Off: Ensure the tractor engine is completely off, the parking brake is engaged, and the key is removed before performing any installation, maintenance, or inspection.
• Blade Hazard: Mower blades are sharp and can cause severe injury. Handle blades with extreme care. Never attempt to clear the discharge chute or work near the blades while the engine is running.
• Thrown Objects: Keep bystanders, especially children and pets, away from the work area. The mower deck can throw objects during operation.
• Lifting and Handling: The mower deck is heavy (approximately 93 pounds). Use proper lifting techniques or seek assistance to prevent back injury.
• Secure Installation: Ensure all bolts, nuts, and pins are securely fastened according to the instructions to prevent the deck from detaching during operation.

Figure 2.1: Included Installation Instructions and Safety Decals. This image shows the multi-lingual installation manual and various hardware components, including replacement safety decals that should be applied as instructed.

3. Components and Parts List

Your John Deere 42-inch Complete Replacement Green Deck (BUC11055) includes the following components:

• Complete 42-inch Mower Deck Assembly (Green)
• Pre-installed Mower Blades (2)
• Pre-installed Spindles (2)
• Pre-installed Drive Belt
• Pre-installed Gauge Wheels (4)
• Pre-installed Discharge Chute
• Pre-installed Wash Port
• Installation Hardware (bolts, nuts, cotter pins)
• Mower Lift Shaft / Hangers (may require reuse of existing components)
• Multi-lingual Installation Instructions Manual
• Replacement Safety Decals

Note: While the deck is largely complete, some components such as the black hanging stabilizer bars or specific lift arms from your original mower may need to be reused. Refer to the included installation manual for precise details on which parts to retain from your old deck.

4. Setup and Installation

This section outlines the general steps for replacing your mower deck. Always consult the detailed, multi-lingual installation instructions provided with your new deck (refer to Figure 2.1) for model-specific procedures and torque specifications.

1. Preparation:
   • Park the tractor on a flat, level surface.
   • Turn off the engine, engage the parking brake, and remove the ignition key.
   • Allow the engine and deck components to cool if recently operated.
   • Gather necessary tools (e.g., wrenches, sockets, pliers, jack or ramps).
   • Place cardboard or a tarp under the tractor to protect the new deck during sliding.
2. Removing the Old Deck:
   • Disconnect the PTO (Power Take-Off) belt from the engine pulley.
   • Remove any pins, bolts, or clips securing the old deck to the tractor's lift arms and frame.
   • Carefully slide the old deck out from under the tractor.
   • Inspect the old deck for any components (e.g., hanging brackets, specific bolts, or springs) that need to be transferred to the new deck.
3. Installing the New Deck:
   • Carefully slide the new deck under the tractor, aligning it with the mounting points.
   • Attach the deck to the tractor's lift arms and frame using the provided hardware and any necessary components transferred from the old deck. Ensure all connections are secure.
   • Connect the PTO belt to the engine pulley. Ensure the belt is correctly routed around all pulleys on the deck.
   • Verify that the blade engagement spring is properly seated and functions correctly. Some models may require careful attention to this connection point.
   • Install the gauge wheels and adjust them to the desired cutting height.
   • Apply any new safety decals as indicated in the manual.
4. Final Checks:
   • Double-check all connections for tightness.
   • Ensure the deck moves freely up and down with the lift lever.
   • Confirm the PTO belt is properly tensioned and aligned.
   • Lower the deck to its lowest position and check for adequate clearance.

Figure 4.1: Underside of the Mower Deck. This view illustrates the pre-installed mower blades and spindle assemblies, which are critical for cutting performance.

5. Operating Instructions

Once the new deck is securely installed, follow these general operating guidelines. Always refer to your tractor's owner's manual for specific operating procedures.

• Cutting Height Adjustment: Adjust the gauge wheels and deck lift system to achieve the desired cutting height. For optimal lawn health, avoid removing more than one-third of the grass blade length at a time.
• Engaging Blades: With the engine running at a moderate RPM, slowly engage the PTO lever to activate the mower blades. Ensure the area is clear of people and objects before engaging.
• Mowing Technique: Mow at a consistent speed appropriate for the grass conditions. Overlapping passes slightly will ensure an even cut. Avoid sudden turns or rapid changes in speed while mowing.
• Discharge Chute: Ensure the discharge chute is clear of debris before and during operation. Never operate the mower without the discharge chute or an approved collection system in place.
• Wash Port Usage: After mowing, connect a garden hose to the wash port on the deck. With the engine running and blades engaged (on a low setting, if recommended by your tractor manual), water will clean the underside of the deck, preventing grass buildup. Always follow safety precautions when using the wash port.

6. Maintenance

Regular maintenance extends the life of your mower deck and ensures optimal performance.

• Cleaning: Clean the top and underside of the deck after each use. The integrated wash port facilitates cleaning the underside. Remove any caked-on grass or debris manually if necessary.
• Blade Inspection: Regularly inspect blades for sharpness, balance, and damage. Sharpen or replace blades as needed. Always replace damaged or bent blades.
• Belt Inspection: Check the drive belt for wear, cracks, or fraying. Replace the belt if it shows signs of damage or excessive wear.
• Spindle Maintenance: Inspect spindle housings for any looseness or unusual noise. Lubricate grease fittings on spindles if present and recommended by your tractor's manual.
• Hardware Check: Periodically check all bolts, nuts, and fasteners on the deck for tightness. Tighten any loose hardware.
• Storage: When storing the tractor for extended periods, ensure the deck is clean and dry. Consider applying a light coat of oil to exposed metal surfaces to prevent rust.

7. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your mower deck.

8. Specifications

• Product Name: John Deere Original Equipment 42 inch Complete Replacement Green Deck
• Model Number: BUC11055
• Brand: John Deere
• Deck Size: 42 inches
• Compatibility: John Deere L100 Series (L100, L108, L110, L111, L118, 102, 115, 125, 135, LA100, LA105, LA110, LA115, LA120, LA125, LA135) and D-Series (D100, D110, D120, D130) Garden Tractors.
• Replaces Part Numbers: AUC13429, BG20936, BG20696, BG20373, BG20261, BG20471
• Item Weight: Approximately 93 pounds
• Product Dimensions: Approximately 56.5 x 33.5 x 12.2 inches (L x W x H)
• Components Included: Deck, blades, belt, spindles, gauge wheels, discharge chute, wash port.

9. Warranty and Support

This John Deere Original Equipment part is manufactured to high standards. For specific warranty information, please refer to the documentation included with your purchase or contact an authorized John Deere dealer. For customer support regarding installation or product inquiries, please reach out to the seller or an authorized John Deere service center.

Additional protection plans may be available for purchase separately to extend coverage beyond the standard manufacturer's warranty. Please check with your retailer for details on available protection plans.