John Deere L100, L108, L111, L118, L120, and L130 Lawn Tractors

Model Overview

The John Deere L Series Lawn Tractors offer a range of models designed for homeowners with varying lawn sizes and needs, from basic 5-speed models to deluxe hydrostatic drive tractors with enhanced features.

• L100: 5-Speed Gear Drive Lawn Tractor, 17 Horsepower and 42-in. Mower Deck
• L108: Hydrostatic Drive Lawn Tractor, 18.5 Horsepower and 42-in. Mower Deck
• L111: Hydrostatic Drive Lawn Tractor, 20 Horsepower and 42-in. Mower Deck
• L118: Hydrostatic Drive Lawn Tractor, 22 Horsepower and 42-in. Mower Deck
• L120: Hydrostatic Drive Deluxe Lawn Tractor, 22 Horsepower and 48-in. Mower Deck
• L130: Hydrostatic Drive Deluxe Lawn Tractor, 23 Horsepower and 48-in. Mower Deck

Feature/Benefit Profile

Five Lawn Tractor Models Available

The series includes four lawn tractor models for customers seeking a basic 5-speed or two-pedal automatic drive tractor, and two deluxe models for mid-price customers valuing additional features, equipped with 22 and 23 horsepower engines and two-pedal automatic drive systems.

Engines

The tractors are powered by Briggs & Stratton and Kohler engines:

• L100: 17.0 hp single-cylinder Briggs & Stratton AVS engine with overhead valve design.
• L108: 18.5 hp Briggs & Stratton AVS engine with overhead valve design.
• L111: 20.0 hp Briggs & Stratton V-twin engine with overhead valve design.
• L118: 22.0 hp Briggs & Stratton V-twin engine with overhead valve design.
• L120: 22.0 hp Briggs & Stratton V-twin engine with overhead valve design.
• L130: 23.0 hp Kohler V-twin engine with overhead valve design.

All engines feature electronic ignition for fast starts, cast-iron sleeves for longevity, and overhead valves for power and fuel economy. Deluxe models (L108 and above) feature full-pressure lubrication and oil filters for extended engine life and better performance on inclines.

The Edge Cutting System

This system features strong, stamped 12-gauge steel 42-in. and 48-in. mulch-ready mower decks. The deep-deck design with rolled metal edges enhances mowing efficiency. Thick, heavy-duty blades maintain sharpness for a better cut. A patented blade-to-spindle adaptor ensures secure mounting. The 42-in. and 48-in. decks are three-in-one, convertible for side-discharge, mulching, or bagging without tools or blade changes. Mulching covers are standard.

Operator Comfort and Convenience

• No-Tools Seat Adjustment: Provides 5.5-in. of adjustment across 10 positions. The seat folds forward for protection and access to the fuel tank.
• Injection-Molded JD LOY UV-Resistant Polymer Hood: Tough, durable, rust-resistant, and color-molded for lasting appearance.
• Two-Pedal Foot Control (L108-L130): Allows easy selection of tractor speed and direction.
• Electric PTO (L120, L130): Standard on deluxe models for low-effort mower deck engagement.
• Easy-Lift Mower Deck Height Adjustment: Conveniently located lift system with a cut-height memory indicator.
• Hourmeter with Service-Minder (L111-L130): Alerts the operator when service is due.
• 12 Volt Power Port (L120, L130): Provides power for accessories.
• Cruise Control (L111-L130): Enhances mowing efficiency for larger areas.
• Rear Bagger: Available for all models to collect clippings and leaves.

Product Story and Markets

The John Deere L Series Lawn Tractors are recommended for value-conscious homeowners who mow up to 1-1/2 acres (L100, L108, L111, L118) or 2-1/2 acres (L120, L130).

The engines provide ample power and torque for mulching, mowing, and bagging.

Key Features and Design

Unique Clutch/Brake Design

Allows shifting and braking with a single pedal for intuitive operation.

Translucent Fuel Tank with Sight Gauge

Provides visibility to the fuel level, aiding in preventing spills and monitoring fuel consumption.

Gear Transmission (L100)

Features a DANA 4360 transaxle with an in-line shift pattern for easy speed changes. Five speeds are provided for various conditions.

Hydro/Automatic Drive

L Series tractors utilize Kanzaki Tuff Torq™ transmissions (K46 for standard, K46 HD for deluxe models). An automotive-type accelerator offers infinite speed selection for operator comfort. Pedals are designed for easy identification and safety.

Operator Controls

• Standard Cruise Control (L111, L118, L120, L130): Maintains tractor speed for efficient mowing of larger areas. Engaged by lifting the cruise lever and releasing the forward pedal; disengaged by pressing the forward pedal or brake.
• Comfortable Operation: Features a three-spoke steering wheel for control, wide footrest areas with anti-vibration rubber footpads for comfort and safety. Ignition switch is dash-mounted.
• RIO (Reverse Implement Option): Allows mower engagement while backing up. Requires stopping the tractor, looking behind, and pressing the RIO button before shifting into reverse. If the engine stops, the operator must turn the PTO off, depress the brake, and restart the ignition.

Frame and Front Axle

The frame is constructed from 12-gauge steel with a full-length, robotically welded design for strength. The front axle is cast iron, featuring an automotive-like steering system with dual drag links for a strong, low-effort, tight turning radius. Grease fittings aid lubrication, and 3/4-in. diameter wheel spindles ensure durability.

The Edge™ Cutting System

This system, trademarked by John Deere, emphasizes superior mowing convenience, performance, and reliability for 42-in. and 48-in. mower decks. Features include a deep-deck design for clean cuts, a smooth underside to prevent grass buildup, rolled outer edges for strength, and dual-stage E-coat and powder paint coatings for rust protection.

Mower Decks and Specifications

42-In. Mower

Constructed of 12-gauge steel, this three-in-one mower requires no tools for conversion between mulching, side discharge, and rear bagging. A mulch cover is standard. High-performance mulch plugs are optional. A patented blade-to-spindle adaptor enhances safety and cutting performance. Rear baggers are sold separately.

48-In. Mower

This three-spindle mower features heavy-duty characteristics and four mower wheels for smooth operation on rolling terrain. A flexible discharge chute minimizes damage. It also converts between mulching, side discharge, and rear bagging without tools. A high-performance mulching blade is available.

Mower Deck Height Adjustment

A spring-assisted lift lever simplifies cut height adjustments, with a standard cut-height memory indicator.

12-Volt Power Outlet (L120 and L130)

This feature enhances tractor utility by allowing the use of accessories requiring electric power, such as grab lights and oscillating fans.

Equipment for Base Machine

Engines

• Briggs & Stratton AVS (L100, L108): Single-cylinder, 17 hp (L100) and 18.5 hp (L108), with overhead valves and cast-iron sleeves.
• Briggs & Stratton V-twin (L111, L118, L120): 20 hp (L111) and 22 hp (L118, L120), offering greater torque, lower vibration, and improved sound.
• Kohler V-twin (L130): 23 hp, providing high torque and smooth operation.

Electrical System

• 12-volt maintenance-free battery.
• Regulated charging system: 9 amp (L100, L108) or 16 amp (L111, L118, L120), 15 amp (L130).
• 12-volt power outlet (L120, L130).

Transmissions

• Gear Transmission (L100): DANA 4360 transaxle with 5-speed in-line shift. Forward: 0-5.0 mph; Reverse: 0-2.3 mph.
• Hydrostatic/Automatic Transmission: Tuff-Torq K46 (L108, L111, L118) or K46 HD (L120, L130). Forward: 0-5.8 mph; Reverse: 0-2.9 mph. Features two-pedal foot control and cruise control (L111-L130).

Steering and Brakes

Sector and pinion steering with dual drag links, 18-in. turning radius, and disk brake on transaxle.

Frame and Front Axle

Full-length welded-steel frame, cast-iron front axle.

Operator Station

• Hourmeter with Service-Minder (L111, L118, L120, L130).
• Reverse Implement Option (RIO).
• JD Loy hood material.
• CargO Mount System™.
• Convenient storage pocket and integrated cup holder.

Seats

• Mid-back seat (L100, L108, L111).
• Deluxe high-back seat (L118, L120, L130).
• 5-1/2-in. fore-aft seat travel with adjustment.
• Seat/PTO interlock switch.

Tires

• Front: 15x6-6-in. (L100-L118), 16x6.5-8-in. (L120, L130).
• Rear: 20x8-8-in. (L100-L111), 20x10-8-in. (L118), 22x9.5-12-in. (L120, L130).

Implement Lift

7-position lift lever with spring assist, 1-in. to 4-in. cutting heights with 1/2-in. increments and memory indicator.

The Edge Cutting System

42-in. and 48-in. 12-gauge stamped steel mower decks with deep-deck design, rolled metal edges, and heavy-duty blades. Two mower wheels standard on 42-in. deck, four on 48-in. deck. Standard mulch cover. Electric PTO on L120, L130.

Base Machine and Optional Equipment Codes

Attachments and Accessories

Attachments for Field Conversion

• Mower Decks: Complete 42-in. (L100, L108, L110, L111, L118) or 48-in. (L120, L130) mower decks available.
• 42-In. High-Performance Mulch Plug Kit: Enhances mulching performance for 42-in. decks.
• 48-In. High-Performance Mulching Blade: Available for 48-in. decks to improve mulching.

Tire Chains

Rear tire chains are recommended for use with front blades or snow throwers.

Weight Systems

• Rear Weight Bracket and Weights: For use with front blades or snow throwers.
• Front Wheel Weights: Recommended for use with 6-1/2 bushel rear baggers on hills and inclines.

12-Volt Oscillating Fan (L120, L130)

A convenient CargO Mount attachment that plugs into the 12-volt power port, offering adjustable oscillation or single-position operation.

Wheel Covers

Available in chrome or yellow plastic, in 6-in., 8-in., or 12-in. sizes, to enhance the tractor's appearance.

Front Bumper

An optional attachment providing additional front-end protection and a more aggressive look.

Sun Canopy

Offers protection from sun rays and provides cooling shade for the operator.

Licensed Attachments and Accessories

Note: Licensed attachments are not designed, tested, manufactured, sold, or warranted by John Deere. Responsibility lies with the manufacturer.

• Bucket Holder: A CargO Mount accessory for transporting buckets, compatible with standard 5- or 6-gallon buckets.
• Grab Light (L120, L130): Mounts to the CargO Mount hole, plugs into the 12-volt receptacle, and is removable for hand-held use.

Riding Mower Covers

• Standard Cover: Provides all-season protection with dual vents and coated fabric for water resistance.
• Deluxe Cover (M): Heavy-duty protection with a wipe-clean reinforced bottom, dual air vents, interior lining, and a storage pocket.

Specifications Comparison