
E120 Lawn Tractor
- John Deere
- E100 Lawn Tractors
Find a location to get your local store information and inventory.
Find Location
Key Features & Specs
- 20 HP* V-Twin smooth running engine
- Deep deck design helps lift grass for a superior cut
- Improved deck lift lever raises and lowers deck easily
- Operator station is wide and comfortable
- Easy Change™ 30-Second Oil Change System for fast and simple service
- Engine 20 hp*
- Deck 42-in Edge™ Cutting System
- Transmission Two Pedal Hydrostatic
- Drive System 2-wheel drive
- Warranty 2 year/120 hours

- + Expand All
- - Close All
-
Cast-iron front axle will not bend
Front axle and wheel spindle
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.
-
Powerful V-twin engine features full-pressure lubrication for dependability and long life
20-hp (14.9-kW) engine
A 20-hp (14.9-kW) V-twin engine has plenty of power and torque to handle tough mowing, mulching, and bagging conditions:
- V-twin cylinder design for greater torque, lower vibration, and improved sound quality
- Spring-return feature to ensure the operator will not mistakenly leave the throttle lever in the choke position
- Electronic ignition for fast starts
- 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
- John Deere Easy Change™ 30-second oil change system makes changing the engine oil easy, quick, and clean.
John Deere Easy Change 30-second oil change system
John Deere Easy Change 30-second oil change system
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. Oil does not need to be drained from the engine. The removed filter contains the captured contaminants and a portion of the engine oil. Easy Change is standard equipment on the E120, E130, E150, E160, E170, and E180.
-
Two-year or 120-hour bumper-to-bumper warranty is standard
An exclusive 2-year or 120-hour (whichever comes first), single-source, bumper-to-bumper warranty* is standard for all John Deere 100 Series Tractors.
- The warranty is hassle free, with one company handling all of the paperwork.
- Premium features of 100 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.
-
Frame made of full-length welded steel for reliability
Solid one-piece frame
Solid one-piece frame
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.
-
The Edge™ cutting system gives superior performance
Mowing with 42-in. (107-cm) mower deck
42-in. (107-cm) mower deck
The Edge cutting system has been trademarked to emphasize the advantages of the John Deere mower deck designs. They give the mower superior convenience, performance, and reliability.
The 42-in. (107-cm) two-spindle, three-in-one mower is constructed of 13-gauge, 0.090-in. (2.3-mm) steel for long life:- The mower deck has a rolled lip to provide greater strength and protection.
- The deep-deck mower design lifts grass for a clean, even cut.
- The smooth underside of the mower prevents grass buildup and evenly disperses 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.
- No tools are required to go from mulching to side discharge to rear bagging.
- The blade-to-spindle design provides a unique mounting system for the mower blade that provides extra safety and convenience.
- A mulch cover is an optional attachment that can be installed without tools to allow mulching with the standard mower blades.
- A high-performance mulch plug is an optional attachment that includes a mulch plug and special mulching blades for excellent performance.
- A cut-and-throw, 6.5-bu (229-L) rear bagger is sold separately.
Mower wash port
Mower wash port
Mower wash port with hose connector
A wash port is provided to make cleaning the underside of the mower deck easy:
- A hose connector is included with mower deck.
StarLock™ blade design
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.Mower deck height adjustment
Mower deck height adjustment lever
A spring-assisted, low-effort, ergonomically-designed lift lever simplifies setting and adjusting the mower cut height:
- Increments of 0.25 in. (0.64 cm) allow the operator to fine-tune the cut height from 1 in. (2.5 cm) to 4 in. (10.2 cm).
- The lift handle is shaped and located for easy use, and is out of the way of entering or exiting operators.
-
Instruments and controls are easy to find and convenient to use
E120 Tractor mowing
Steering wheel and controls
Instruments and controls
The contoured dash has clean, attractive styling:
- Controls are color-coded and labeled for easy identification by the operator.
- Controls are logically placed and easy to reach.
- The hourmeter makes it easy to tell when oil changes and other maintenance should be performed.
- The service reminder feature will indicate that a general lubrication or mower/engine service interval has been reached.
- When service is required, arrows will periodically flash for two hours.
- Functional design of the controls provides good appearance and a comfortable feel.
Side-by-side transmission control pedals
Hydro/automatic two-pedal speed/direction controls
Side-by-side foot pedals and cruise control lever
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 (E120, E130, E150, E160, E170, and E180)
Cruise control lever
Cruise control is available on the E120, E130, E150, E160, E170, and E180:
- To engage, lift up on the cruise lever 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
Mower deck height-adjustment lever
A spring-assisted, low-effort lift lever simplifies setting and adjusting the mower cut height:
- Increments of 0.25 in. (0.64 cm) allow for fine-tuning the cut height.
- Cut height is adjustable from 1 in. (2.5 cm) to 4 in. (10.2 cm).
Parking brake control
Parking brake lever
Brake/parking pedal
The parking brake control is conveniently located for easy access. It holds the brake pedal securely in the locked position.
Manual power take-off (PTO)
PTO engagement lever
The mower deck is engaged with an easy-to-see and easy-to-use yellow lever on the dashboard. Its placement on the right side leaves a lot of room on the left, the entry side of the tractor, for the operator to get on and off the tractor.
-
Operator station designed for comfortable operation
Comfortable operator station, right side
Comfortable operator station, left side
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 tilted back at the optimum angle to provide the most comfortable operator position.
Steering wheel and dash
Wide footrest with debris-removal channels
Controls are easy to see and use:
- Large, three-spoke steering wheel for greater operator comfort and control
- Ignition switch is on the dash for starting ease
Wide footrest areas with non-slip, anti-vibration floor mats are provided for operator comfort:
- Debris removing channels help keep the footrest area clean and dry
- The wide footrest makes it easier to step over the mower deck while entering or exiting the seat.
Comfortable seat
Easily-adjusted seat
The operator seat has a 15-in. (38.1-cm) back height for good support. It is especially helpful when operating the tractor for extended periods of time. It can be easily adjusted forward or rearward while in the seat, with seat travel of 5.5 in. (14 cm) and 10 different positions.
Seat springs give a smoother ride
Seat tilted forward (shown on E180 Tractor)
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.Storage compartment with cover
Beverage holder
A storage compartment and beverage holder, located on the right-side fender, are conveniently located and easy to use.
NOTE: A storage compartment cover is standard on E120, E130, E150, E160, E170 and E180 Tractors and optional on the E110 and E140. -
Serviceability is convenient with easy-open hood
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.
John Deere Easy Change™ 30-second oil change system
Seat tilted up for easy access to fuel-fill opening
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. Oil does not need to be drained from the engine. The removed filter contains the captured contaminants and a portion of the engine oil.
The seat tilts up and out of the way to make adding fuel easy.
The 100 Series Tractors are covered by a 2-year/120-hour bumper-to-bumper warranty*:- Premium features of 100 Series Tractors allow for this long warranty period.
*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.
-
Hydrostatic transmission gives an infinite choice of ground speeds
Two-pedal speed/direction controls
Forward speed control pedal in use
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.
Hydrostatic transmission
Appropriate transmissions are used in each model, depending on rear tire size and tractor performance requirements, to ensure excellent performance and reliability:
- Tuff Torq TLT200A - E110, E120, E130
- Tuff Torq TLT200B - E140, E150, E160
- Tuff Torq K46AC - E170, E180
Standard cruise control (E120, E130, E150, E160, E170, and E180)
Cruise control lever
An easy-to-use cruise control option maintains the tractor's speed for mowing larger areas:
- To engage, lift up on the cruise lever and hold it until the foot is removed from the forward pedal.
- To disengage, lightly press and then release the forward pedal.
- For emergency stops, cruise can be released by pushing on the brake pedal or pushing down on the cruise control lever.
NOTE: Cruise control is available on all models except the E100, E110, and E140.
Kanzaki and Tuff Torq are trademarks of Kanzaki Kokyukoki Manufacturing Company.
-
John Deere Easy Change™ 30-second oil change system
John Deere Easy Change 30-second oil change system
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 the engine oil.
Compared to the 100 Series traditional oil filter, the Easy Change oil system uses a synthetic filter media material, has more filtering capacity, and has more oil flow capacity, — and the engine system has 40 percent more oil volume.
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 John Deere Easy Change, even owners who previously would not consider changing the oil themselves can easily do it now. The Easy Change 30-second oil 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.
Buyer's notes
Notes | JD Loy hood resists fading, won't rust or dent Durable primer and powder paint finish Full-length welded steel frame |
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.) |
Chassis
Frame | Full-length welded steel |
Primer/paint | E-coat/powder |
Weight bracket | Optional rear |
Receiver hitch | No |
Front axle | Cast-iron front axle, powdered-metal front wheel bushings |
Spindle bushings | No |
Front tires | 15x6-6 |
Rear tires | 20x8-8 |
Hood material | JD Loy, UV resistant |
Fender deck material | Stamped steel |
Floor mats | Yes, with debris removing channels |
Storage | Storage tray with cover |
Service interval decal | Yes |
Fender handles/grips | No |
Cup holder | Yes |
Equipment mounting | CargO Mount™ system |
Dimensions
Height | 44.5 in. 113 cm |
Overall length | 68.8 in. 174.8 cm |
Wheelbase | 48.9 in. 124.2 cm |
Width with mower | 54.9 in. 139 cm |
Width with mower (deflector raised for storage) | 44.8 in. 114 cm |
Weight | Mower, no fuel, 420 lb 191 kg |
Electrical system
Battery | 12 V 300 CCA |
Charging system | Regulated, 9 amp |
Engine starter | Bendix type |
Hourmeter | Yes, with service reminder |
Headlights | Two standard, incandescent |
Taillights or reflector | No |
Backup lights | No |
Rear work lights | No |
12-V outlet | No |
Engine
Power | 20 hp 14.9 kW |
Displacement | 40 cu in. 656 cm |
Manufacturer/model | 40N877 (M40) |
Type | Overhead valve, full-pressure lube, oil filter |
Cylinders | V-twin |
Governor | Mechanical |
Choke/speed control | One lever, ReadyStart® |
Cooling method | Air |
Air cleaner | Cartridge |
Oil drain | No tools |
Fuel system
Type | Gasoline |
Fuel delivery | Pulse pump and carburetor |
Fuel gauge | Mechanical, viewable from seat |
Fuel tank location | Rear |
Fuel fill opening | Center, 1.75 in. 4.45 cm |
Fuel tank capacity | 2.4 U.S. gal. 9.1 L |
Lift system
Type | Lever on fender deck |
Hydraulic outlets | No |
Mower cut height | 13 positions, 1-4 in. 2.5-10.2 cm |
Cut height increments | 0.25 in. 0.64 cm |
Preset cut height | No |
Mower attachability
Type | Slide under tractor |
Front draft arms | One spring clip |
Rear draft arms | Two spring clips |
Mower wheels rotate | No |
Drive system | Single belt |
Mower deck
Type | Side discharge |
Cutting width | 42 in. 107 cm |
Construction | Stamped steel deck shell |
Mower deck material | Steel, 13 gauge 0.09 in. 2.3 mm |
Mower wash port | Yes |
Mower drive system | Manual power take-off (PTO) |
Mower wheels | Two |
Mower wheel adjustment | One bolt |
Mower level adjustment | Easy-level deck |
Optional equipment
Mowers | Standard, 42 in. 107 cm |
Rear bagger | 2-bag, 6.5 bu 229 L |
Mulching system | Mulch cover or high-performance plug |
Front blade | 46 in. 116.8 cm |
Snow blower | Two-stage, 44 in. 111.8 cm |
Sprayer | Tow-behind, 15 U.S. gal. 56.8 L Mounted, 15 U.S. gal. Tow-behind only, 25 U.S. gal. 94.6 L |
Spreader | Tow-behind only, 125-175 lb 57.7-80 kg |
Front bumper | Two-bar styled front bumper |
Weather protection | Snow cab |
Sun canopy | Yes |
Bucket holder | Yes, single bucket |
Grass striping | Lawn striping kit |
Tow-behind tools | 16 |
Safety
Meets ANSI standard | Yes |
Meets OPEI standard | Yes |
Backup protection | Reverse Implement Option (RIO) |
Safety video | Yes |
Seat
Type | One piece |
Seat back height | 15 in. 38.1 cm |
Armrests | No |
Fore-aft adjustment | While seated, 5.5 in. 14 cm |
Seat suspension | Tilt, two coil springs |
Steering
Type | Sector and pinion with single drag link and tie rod |
All-wheel steer | Not available on this model |
Steering wheel | Standard, diameter - 12 in. 30.5 cm |
Tilt steering wheel | No |
Turning radius | 18 in. 45.7 cm |
Uncut circle radius | 25 in. 63.5 cm |
Transaxle
Type | Hydrostatic, 2-wheel drive |
Control | Two-pedal foot-controlled hydrostatic |
Cruise control | Standard |
Oil cooler | Fins and fan on transaxle |
Oil filter | Yes, not serviceable |
Differential lock | No |
Forward speed | 0-5.5 mph 0-8.9 km/h |
Reverse speed | 0-3.2 mph 0-5.1 km/h |
Brakes | Internal wet disk |
3.67
New E120
I just had one deliverer from the Home Depot, fill it with fuel and it started. Great.. until i lowered the rpms and it started a very bad ROUGH IDLE. Called the Dealer rep and he asked if I purchased the Extended Warranty. I told him it was just delivered and Brand New. The Rep told me to Take it Back to the place I purchased it from...(Now this is the group that put the E120 together and first service it..) Well I let it run for a while and when I turned it off it Back-Fired, That's not Good. I emailed John Deere and hopefully for there part they reply quickly, or it's going Back and not for a JD replacement..
Wingz
- From: Hampton, VA, USA
- Usage Frequency: Monthly
- Level of Experience: Beginner
