S160 Lawn Tractor
- 24 hp (17.9 kW)* V-Twin Extended Life Series (ELS) Engine
- 48-in. Edge™ Mower Deck
- Electric PTO, Hydrostatic Transmission w/side-by-side pedals
- Easy Change™ 30-Second Oil Change System
- Adjustable lumbar seat and standard front bumper
- Easy to read fuel gauge with low light visibility
- 2 year/120 hour bumper-to-bumper warranty
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A 24-hp (17.9-kW) V-twin extended-life series (ELS) engine provides plenty of power and torque to handle tough mowing, mulching, and bagging:
- Includes ELS engine features for enhanced performance and longer life
- V-twin cylinder design for greater torque, lower vibration, and improved sound quality
- Electronic ignition for fast starts
- Spring-return feature to ensure the operator will not mistakenly leave the throttle lever in the choke position
- Cast-iron cylinder liners for longer engine life
- Overhead valves for excellent power and fuel economy
- Full-pressure lubrication and oil filter for cleaner oil, prolonging engine life and extending the time between oil changes
- More effective when operating the tractor on an incline
Fuel tank
- The capacity is 2.4 U.S. gal. (9.1 L).
- The fuel filler opening is conveniently located under the seat.
- Filling the tank without spilling is easy.
- A tethered fuel tank cap is more convenient.
- The sealed fuel cap helps keep vapors inside the tank.
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The John Deere Easy Change 30-second oil change system makes changing the engine oil easy, quick, and clean. Changing the oil is as easy as twisting on a new oil-filled filter. Oil does not need to be drained from the engine.
The John Deere Easy Change filter is an additional engine oil reservoir. Changing the filter removes the captured contaminants and replaces about 0.8 qt (0.76 L) of engine oil.
The functionality does not stop with ease of use. The Easy Change oil system has several meaningful benefits over the traditional oil filter system of the 100 Series:- A synthetic filter material is used for more predictable filtering and longer life.
- Filtering capacity is greater than with a standard oil filter.
- More filter surface area
- More oil flow capacity
- The system has 40 percent more oil volume.
- The oil and engine run cooler.
- The oil filter valve closes whenever the engine stops, so filtered particles are captured and cannot drain back into the engine.
- The risk of spilling during oil service is greatly reduced.
- Waste oil (and new oil production) is reduced by over 1,000,000 lb (453,592.4 kg) per tractor production year.
- This system is not a compromise to just make oil changes easier—these engines pass the same John Deere expectations and rigorous testing as always.
Partly due to these improvements, it is not necessary to remove and dispose of all the oil in the engine during service.
Everyone who uses the John Deere Easy Change system saves time and avoids the mess of a traditional oil change. In the past, many 100 Series Lawn Tractor owners rarely or never got around to changing their engine oil. With the 30-second oil change, even people who previously would not consider changing the oil themselves can easily do it. The Easy Change system is a no-mess, no-fuss solution the competition cannot match.
Installation instructions are in the Operator’s Manual and in the John Deere Easy Change service part box.
Please recycle. Many local government recycling programs, authorized retailers, auto-service centers, and auto-parts stores will puncture and recycle used oil filters and oil. -
This full-featured engine is engineered to deliver world-class endurance and power. A step above the competition, it is designed to be more dependable and longer lasting, saving time and money over the long run.
Built to exceed demanding needs by incorporating premium features and innovative designs:- Overhead valve (OHV) design for cooler operation and longer valve life
- Contains an advanced debris management system that directs cooling air through the rotating screen to the air cleaner compartment, where large debris is pre-filtered through ejector slots
- Keeps unfiltered air out of the engine through a large, dual-sealed, premium oval-shaped cartridge-style filter
- Ensures maximum protection for extended engine life with the premium air cleaner, a pleated paper filter with a foam precleaner
- Captures fine particles for maximum protection and extended maintenance
- Provides maximum protection with full-pressure lubrication system
- Pumps oil by a mechanical gerotor-style pump to all critical engine components
- A premium bearing package for improved durability; includes a super-finished crank pin bearing with a 50 percent smoother surface to increase load capacity by 35 percent
- Uses a premium DU Teflon®-coated bearing
- Helps resist wear and increases durability through self-lubricating bronze bearing
- Wear-resistant, chrome-plated valve stems for long-life valves
- 44 percent smoother for longer life
- Cast-iron cylinder liners for longer life
- Dependable float-feed type carburetor with integral fuel pump
- High-capacity fuel filter for dependable operation
- John Deere Easy Change™ 30-second oil change system makes changing the engine oil easy, quick, and clean
- Maintenance-free electronic ignition for quick, dependable starts
- Platinum spark plugs for extended life
Teflon is a trademark of The Chemours Company FC, LLC.
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The solid one-piece frame is constructed of 12-gauge, 0.105-in. (2.66-mm) steel:
- Full-length, robotically welded frame design has high-strength steel rails for added strength and long life.
- One-piece, steel fender deck is bolted to the frame.
Cast-iron front axle will not bend
The front axle is constructed of solid cast iron that will not bend:
- Automotive-like steering system with sector and pinion steering gears and single drag link with a tie rod provides a very strong, low-effort, and tight-turning system.
- Three grease fittings, on both steering spindles and center pivot, allow for regular lubrication to help maintain easy steering and minimize wear.
- Large, 0.75-in. (1.9-cm) diameter wheel spindles provide excellent durability.
Front bumper protects the tractor
The front bumper is included on the S130, S140, S160, S170, and S180. It is available as an optional attachment for the S100, S110, and S120.
- Additional front-end protection
- Attractive, bold style
CargO Mount™ system makes installation of rear bagger and other attachments easy
The CargO Mount system is a combination of front- and rear-mounting points providing convenient and easy installation of the sun canopy, rear bagger, and other attachments.
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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
- 46-in. (117-cm) Front Blade
- Tire chains or TerraGrip traction belts
- Weather enclosure
- Weights
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A Kanzaki® Tuff Torq® hydrostatic transmission gives an infinite choice of speeds and makes changing the direction of travel easy. Side-by-side foot pedals control the speed and direction of travel:
- Automotive-type accelerator controls ensure easy operation.
- Operator can change direction without lifting foot off the platform.
- Large pedal surface gives superior operator comfort.
Appropriate transmissions are used in each model, depending on rear tire size and tractor performance requirements, to ensure excellent performance and reliability:
- Tuff Torq TLT200 – S100, S110, S120, S130, S140, and S160
- Tuff Torq K46 - S170 and S180
Kanzaki and Tuff Torq are trademarks of Kanzaki Kokyukoki Mfg. Co., Ltd.
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The operator station is designed for operator comfort and easy operation:
- Controls are positioned where they are easy to reach and use to control the tractor.
- The steering wheel is positioned and angled to give the operator plenty of room and steering comfort.
- The seat is positioned to provide the most comfortable operator position.
Controls are easy to see and use:
- A deluxe, 14-in. (35.6-cm) steering wheel provides greater operator comfort and control.
- Ignition switch is on the dash for starting ease.
Wide footrest areas with non-slip, anti-vibration rubber floor mats are provided for operator comfort:
- The wide footrest makes it easy to step over the mower deck while entering or exiting the seat.
- Debris removing channels help keep the footrest area clean and dry.
Operator comfort is enhanced with a 15-in. (38-cm) high-back, two-piece seat with an open back:
- Especially helpful when operating the tractor for extended periods of time
- Easily adjusted forward or rearward while in the seat
- Seat travel of 5.5 in. (14 cm) and 10 different positions to adjust for operator height
Two long seat springs give plenty of seat travel to smooth out the ride, keeping the operator comfortable while operating the tractor.
The seat can be tilted forward for protection from the elements and to provide easy access to the fuel tank.A beverage holder and storage compartment, located on the right fender, are conveniently located and easy to use.
Fender flares cover the tires more completely and add style to the tractor. Handgrips give extra comfort for the operator, especially when operating on hillsides. Reflectors make the tractor more visible.
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Instruments and controls
The contoured dash has clean, attractive styling:
- Controls are color-coded and labeled for easy identification.
- Controls are logically placed and easy to reach.
- The hour meter makes it easy to tell when oil changes and other maintenance should be performed.
- Functional design of the controls provides good appearance and a comfortable feel.
Easy-read fuel gauge shows fuel level on the dashboard
The easy-read fuel gauge shows how much fuel is in the tank and can be seen on the dashboard:
- Easy to check fuel level
- Convenient location
- Visible in cloudy or dusk conditions (is not backlit)
- Does not slosh from bumps
- The MowerPlus™ smartphone app can read and remember the fuel level (optional MowerPlus deluxe smart connector required)
- The hour meter is also visible on the fuel gauge display
Side-by-side transmission control pedals
Side-by-side foot pedals control the speed and direction of travel:
- Automotive-type accelerator controls ensure easy operation.
- Operator can change direction without lifting foot off the platform.
- Large pedal surface gives superior operator comfort.
Cruise control (S120, S130, S160, S170, and S180)
Cruise control is available on the S120, S130, S160, S170, and the S180:
- To engage, lift the cruise lever and hold until the foot is removed from the forward pedal.
- The cruise control can be released by pushing on the brake pedal or the forward pedal.
Mower deck height adjustment
A spring-assisted, ergonomically designed lift lever simplifies adjusting the mower cut height:
- Increments of 1/4 in. (0.64 cm) allow fine-tuning the cut height.
- Cut height is adjustable from 1 to 4 in. (2.5 to 10.2 cm).
- The lift handle is shaped for easy use and is out of the way of entering or exiting operators.
Parking brake control
The parking brake control is conveniently located on the tractor pedestal for easy access. It holds the brake pedal securely in the locked position.
Electric power take-off (PTO) clutch is easy and convenient
The heavy-duty electric PTO clutch is operated with a convenient dash-mounted switch.
Reverse implement option (RIO)
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: Backing up while the mower is engaged 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.
- Stop forward travel.
- Look behind the machine to be sure there are no bystanders.
- Push and hold in the RIO switch while depressing the reverse pedal slightly.
NOTE: If the engine and mower or other attachment stops while repositioning the machine, return the attachment engagement lever/switch to the off position. Start the engine and engage mower or other attachment. Begin again with step 2.
- Release the RIO switch and reposition the machine as the machine begins to move rearward.
- Resume forward travel. The mower or other attachment should continue operating.
- Repeat procedure to position the machine again.
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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 John Deere Easy Change 30-second oil change system makes changing the engine oil easy, quick, and clean. Changing the oil is as easy as removing the old oil-filled filter and twisting on a new oil-filled filter.
The seat tilts up and out of the way to make adding fuel easy.Quick response (QR) codes link to owner information web pages
John Deere riding lawn mowers are supported by owner information web pages that include links to:
- Safety and how-to videos
- Operator’s manuals
- Parts catalog
- Maintenance reminder sheets
- Attachments
- Warranty registration
To speed access to owner information web pages, a QR code is printed onto a PIN label located near the fuel fill. 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 enables warranty registration without the need to manually enter the vehicle’s PIN.
Hood will not rust or dent and includes quality headlights
- Molded-in color material reduces sound and will not rust or dent.
- Same quality hood material as on larger John Deere tractors provides good resilience and UV resistance for an extended time.
- Openings on the side let in plenty of cooling air while keeping the sound level low.
- Two headlights provide good lighting for nighttime operation.
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Overview
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.
Benefits
- Engine hours, fuel level, and battery health (as compatible)
- Mowing history with time, distance, area, and speed
- Current day and five-day weather forecast based on location
- Walk-through setup guides
- Expert mowing tips
- Useful attachments for future purchase
- Periodic maintenance reminders
- Safety instructions
To download the free MowerPlus app, visit the Apple® App Store® or Google Play™ store.
Additional details
MowerPlus connectors (sold separately)
Three MowerPlus connectors are available to transmit vehicle information to the MowerPlus app.
BUC10929 MowerPlus Deluxe Smart Connector is for use with:
- All S120, S130, S160, S170, and S180 Tractors
- Model year 2021 and newer S240 Tractors (serial number 880,001-)
- Model year 2021 and newer Z515E, Z530M, Z530R, and Z545R (serial number 010,001-)
BUC10537 MowerPlus Smart Connector is for use with:
- Model year 2016 and newer Select Series X300 and X500 Tractors
All the MowerPlus connectors transmit engine hour information to the app, making it easy to track maintenance intervals. The MowerPlus Smart Connector and MowerPlus Deluxe Smart Connector also transmit the fuel level.
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.
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The Edge cutting system has been trademarked to emphasize the advantages of the John Deere mower deck designs. They give superior mowing performance, convenience, and reliability:
- The deep deck design lifts grass for a clean, even cut.
- The smooth underside has no nooks and crannies, preventing grass buildup and evenly dispersing grass clippings.
- The rolled outer edge of the deck provides extra strength and protection.
- Dual-stage E-coat and powder paint coatings provide extra protection from rust.
- Flexible discharge chute minimizes property and mower deck damage.
The 48-in. (122-cm) Edge Mower Deck is a three-spindle design with heavy-duty characteristics:
- The 12-gauge, 0.105-in. (2.7-mm) steel deck provides years of dependable mowing.
- Included three-in-one blades work well for side-discharge, mulching, or bagging.
- The blade-to-spindle design provides a unique mounting system for the mower blade that gives extra safety and convenience.
- Four mower deck wheels are standard equipment for a smooth mowing job in rolling terrain.
- No tools are required to switch from mulching to side discharge to rear bagging.
- A mulching cover is an optional attachment that can be installed without the use of tools.
- High-performance mulching blades are available to enhance mulching performance.
Mower wash port
A wash port is provided to make cleaning the underside of the mower deck easy:
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A hose connector is included with mower deck.
StarLock™ blade design
The StarLock blade design keeps the blade bolt at the correct torque for easy removal.
Optional blades for difficult mulching or bagging conditions are available.Optional bagger
A cut-and-throw, 6.5-bu (229-L) bagger is sold separately and comes with bagging blades. Special bagging blades are not required but they can enhance performance.
The bagger kit provides an efficient means of collecting grass clippings and leaves. It can be set up without tools in minutes and has easy-to-empty bags. -
An exclusive 2-year or 120-hour single-source, bumper-to-bumper warranty* is included for all John Deere 100 Series Tractors.
The warranty is hassle free, with John Deere handling the service and paperwork.
*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.
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Engine power
24 hp
17.9 kWOil change
John Deere Easy Change™ 30-second oil change systemEngine manufacturer/model
44U877 (M44)Transaxle type
TLT200 hydrostatic, two-wheel driveTransaxle control
Side-by-side pedalsRear tires
20x10-8Lift system type
Spring-assisted hand-grip leverCutting width
Edge™ mower deck, 48 in.
122 cmU.S. warranty
2 year/120 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
24 hp
17.9 kWDisplacement
44.2 cu in.
724 ccManufacturer/model
44U877 (M44)Type
Overhead valve, full-pressure lube, oil filterCylinders
V-twin - extended life series (ELS)Governor
MechanicalChoke/speed control
Single lever with spring-return on chokeCooling method
AirAir cleaner
Cartridge with prefilterOil change
John Deere Easy Change 30-second oil change system -
Type
GasolineFuel delivery
Pulse pump and carburetorFuel gauge
Easy-read on dashFuel tank location
RearFuel fill opening
Center, 1.75 in.
4.45 cmFuel tank capacity
2.4 U.S. gal.
9.1 L -
Battery
12 V
300 CCACharging system
Regulated, 14 ampEngine starter
Bendix typeHour meter
YesHeadlights
Two standard, incandescentTaillights or reflector
ReflectorsBackup lights
NoRear work lights
No12-V outlet
No -
Type
Hydrostatic, 2-wheel driveControl
Side-by-side pedalsCruise control
StandardOil cooler
Fins and fan on transaxleOil filter
Yes, not serviceableDifferential lock
NoForward speed
0-5.5 mph
0-8.9 km/hReverse speed
0-3.2 mph
0-5.2 km/hBrakes
Internal wet disk -
Frame
Full-length welded steelPrimer/paint
E-coat/powderWeight bracket
Optional rearReceiver hitch
NoFront axle
Cast-iron front axle, powdered-metal front wheel bushingsSpindle bushings
NoFront tires
15x6-6Rear tires
20x10-8Hood material
Molded-in color material reduces sound, will not rust or dentFender deck material
Stamped steelFloor mats
Yes, with debris removing channelsStorage
Storage tray with coverService interval decal
YesFender handles/grips
HandgripsCup holder
YesEquipment mounting
CargO Mount™ systemMaximum towing capacity
500 lb
227 kg -
Type
Sector and pinion with single drag link and tie rodFour-wheel steer
Not available on this modelSteering wheel
Deluxe, diameter - 14 in.
35.6 cmTilt steering wheel
NoTurning radius
18 in.
45.7 cmUncut circle radius
20 in.
50.8 cm -
Type
One piece with lumbar adjustmentSeat back height
15 in.
38 cmArmrests
NoFore-aft adjustment
While seated, 5.5 in.
14 cmSeat suspension
Tilt, two coil springs -
Type
Spring-assisted hand-grip leverHydraulic outlets
NoMower cut height
13 positions, 1-4 in.
2.5-10.2 cmCut height increments
0.25 in.
0.64 cmPreset cut height
No -
Type
Side dischargeCutting width
Edge™ mower deck, 48 in.
122 cmConstruction
Stamped steel deck shellMower deck material
Steel, 12 gauge
0.105 in.
2.7 mmMower wash port
YesMower drive system
Electric power take-off (PTO) clutchMower wheels
FourMower wheel adjustment
One boltMower level adjustment
Easy-level deck -
Type
Slide under tractorFront draft arms
One spring clipRear draft arms
Two spring clipsMower wheels rotate
NoDrive system
Single belt -
Meets ANSI standard
YesMeets OPEI standard
YesBackup protection
Reverse Implement Option (RIO)Safety video
Yes -
Notes
Molded-in color material reduces sound, will not rust or dent
Durable primer and powder paint finish
Large, 14-in. (36-cm) steering wheel for more comfortable operation
John Deere Easy Change 30-second oil change systemWarranty
2 year/120 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
Rear bagger
2-bag, 6.5 bu
229 LPowered material collection
Mulching system
Mulch coverFront thatcher
Front blade
46 in.
116.8 cmMid-mount blade
Snow blower
Two-stage, 44 in.
111.8 cmRotary broom
Rotary tiller
Sleeve hitch
3-point hitch
Rear power take-off (PTO)
Plow, moldboard
Box scraper
Cultivator
Rear blade
Disk harrow
Landscape rake
Sprayer
Tow-behind, 15 U.S. gal.
56.8 L
Mounted, 15 U.S. gal.
Tow-behind only, 25 U.S. gal.
94.6 LSpreader
Tow-behind only, 125-175 lb
57.7-80 kgFront bumper
IncludedBrush guard
Weather protection
Weather enclosureSun canopy
Sun canopyRear receiver hitch
Bucket holder
Yes, single bucketGrass striping
Lawn striping kitTractor shovel
Front loader
Other equipment
Tow-behind tools
16 -
Height
45.3 in.
1151 mmOverall length
74.9 in.
1903 mmWheelbase
48.9 in.
1242 mmWidth with mower
60.8 in.
1544 mmWidth with mower (deflector raised for storage)
51.7 in.
1313 mmWidth without mower
40 in.
1015 mmWeight
Mower, no fuel, 481 lb
218 kg -
Manufacturing location
Greeneville, Tennessee, USADate collected
1-Dec-21