
S240 Lawn Tractor with 42-in. Deck
- John Deere
- S240 Lawn Tractor
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- Two side-by-side forward and reverse pedals
- Wide, welcoming operator station
- Cool and comfortable 15-in (38 cm) open, high-back seat
- Powerful V-Twin Engine
- Tested and proven 42-in. (106.7-cm) Edge Cutting System

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CargO Mount™ system makes installation of rear bagger and other attachments easy
Rear CargO Mount points
Front CargO Mount points
Rear bagger is mounted with the rear CargO Mount points
The CargO Mount system is a combination of front and rear mounting points that provide convenient and easy installation of the rear bagger and other attachments.
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Hydro/automatic drive gives an infinite choice of ground speeds
Two-pedal foot control and cruise lever
Hydro/automatic foot control in use
A Kanzaki® Tuff Torq® hydro/automatic 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:- The automotive-type accelerator controls ensure easy operation.
- The operator can change direction without lifting foot off the platform.
- A large pedal surface gives superior operator comfort.
Hydro/automatic-transmission
Appropriate transmissions are used in each model, depending on rear tire size and tractor performance requirements to ensure excellent performance and reliability:
- The S240 Tractor has a Tuff Torq K46DP transaxle with an internal wet-disk brake for reliability and long life:
- Rated for 30 percent more torque than the transaxle used in many lawn tractors
- Uses Hy-Gard™ fluid like Select Series™ X300 Tractors
Standard cruise control
Cruise control lever
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 your 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.
Kanzaki and Tuff Torq are trademarks of Kanzaki Kokyukoki Manufacturing Company.
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The Edge™ cutting system gives superior performance
42-in. (107-cm) Edge cutting system
42-in. (107-cm) Edge cutting system blades
The Edge cutting system has been trademarked to emphasize the advantages of the John Deere mower deck designs. They give superior convenience, performance, and reliability:
- The deep-deck mower design lifts grass for a clean, even cut.
- The smooth underside of 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.
S240 Tractor's mower deck features a number of durability upgrades compared to comparable John Deere 100 Series and competitive mower decks:
- Premium spindles (same as used on comparable Select Series™ decks)
- Larger anti-scalp wheels
- Upgraded fixed idler sheave bearing (increases life in dirty conditions)
- Upgraded spindle sheaves (same as used on 100 Series 54-in [137-cm] decks)
- Upgraded power take-off (PTO) drive sheave (improves belt life at lower heights of cut)
The 42-in. (107-cm) mower deck is a two-spindle design with heavy-duty characteristics:
- Two adjustable mower wheels are standard equipment for a smooth mowing job, even in rolling terrain.
- The flexible discharge chute minimizes property and mower deck damage.
- No tools are required to go from mulching (with mulch cover) to side discharge to rear bagging.
- A mulch cover is an optional attachment.
- A high-performance mulching blade is available to enhance mulching performance.
The mower deck has a rolled lip to provide greater strength and protection. The rugged 13 gauge, 0.09-in. (2.3-mm) steel-deck mower will provide years of dependable mowing.
The strength of the deck is enhanced by the top-discharge design:- A section of material below the discharge opening ties the front and rear of the deck together.
- When using the rear bagger, material flows upward through the deck to provide highly effective bagging and a reduced chance of plugging.
- For this reason, no Power Flow™ collection system is available for the 42-in. (107-cm) mower.
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
The spring-assisted, low-effort lift lever simplifies setting and adjusting the mower cut height:
- Increments of 1/4 in. (6.4 mm) allow the operator to fine-tune the cut height.
Optional mulching attachment or mulch cover
Mulching attachment
The mulching attachment for the 42-in. (107-cm) mower provides excellent performance:
- Controls clippings from both blades effectively
- Improves mulching
- More even distribution of mulched clippings
- No rusting due to use of plastic molded parts
- Can be installed and removed without tools
- Includes special mulching blades
- Can also be used for side discharging, though the overall cut quality may decline slightly
42-in. (107-cm) mulch cover
The mulch cover is available as an option for mulching grass or leaves. It is more convenient, but it provides a lower performance level than the mulching attachment.
Optional rear grass bagger
6.5-bu (229-L) rear bagger
6.5-bu (229-L) rear bagger
The hopper design provides efficient bagging performance, clean operation, and easy-to-empty bags:
- Two durable bags with a generous, 6.5-bu (229-L) capacity lift out for emptying and are easy to reinstall.
- An efficient lower chute provides smooth flow of material to reduce chance of plugging.
- Standard mower blades can be used for bagging, and high-lift blades are available for very difficult bagging conditions.
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Hood will not dent or rust and includes quality headlights for good visibility
Ultraviolet (UV) resistant JD Loy hood
Quality headlights for good visibility
The hood is made of injection-molded, UV-resistant JD Loy polymer:
- JD Loy material is tough and durable.
- Will not dent or rust
- The color is molded in for long-lasting good looks.
- UV-resistant JD Loy material resists fading.
- Openings on the side of the hood let in plenty of cooling air while keeping the sound level low.
- Two headlights provide good lighting for nighttime operation.
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Full-length, welded-steel frame and cast-iron front axle for reliability
S240 Tractor
Solid, one-piece frame and cast-iron front axle
Enhanced styling for the S240 Tractor includes a unique hood top:
- Close-out panels at the lower back of the hood are included for better looks and reduced engine sound level.
- Top louvers improve engine cooling.
The solid one-piece frame is constructed of 12-gauge, 0.105-in. (2.7-mm) steel:
- Full-length robotically welded frame design has high-strength steel rails for added strength and long life.
- One-piece fender deck is bolted to the frame.
- Two-bar front bumper is included as standard equipment to add style and protection.
S240 Tractor
Turf Trac tire tread
The S240 comes with premium Turf Trac tires for superior traction and appearance:
- A more rounded profile reduces lawn scuffing and steering effort.
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 and tie rod provides a very strong, low-effort, and tight-turning system.
- Grease fittings allow regular lubrication to help maintain easy steering and minimize wear.
- Large, 0.75-in. (19-mm) diameter wheel spindles provide excellent durability.
- Front wheels turn on ball bearings for increased reliability and life over other lawn tractors that have bushing for the front wheels.
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Fuel tank has gauge to show fuel level from the operator's seat
Fuel tank gauge
Convenient fuel-filler opening
The fuel tank gauge shows how much fuel is in the tank, and can be seen without leaving the operator's seat:
- Easy to check the fuel level
- Convenient location
Fuel tank:
- Capacity is 2.4 U.S. gal. (9.08 L).
- Fuel-filler opening is conveniently located under the seat.
- Filling the tank without spilling is easy.
- The tethered fuel tank cap is more convenient.
- The sealed fuel cap helps keep vapors inside the tank.
- The tractor has a California Air Resources Board (CARB) certified engine for reduced air pollution.
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Reverse implement option (RIO)
RIO switch
Power take-off (PTO) switch
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 mower or other attachment stops while repositioning the machine, return the attachment engagement switch to the off position. Start engine and engage mower. 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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Engine is powerful and smooth-running premium V-twin design
18.5-hp (13.8-kW) engine
Engine oil and fuel filters
The S240 Tractor comes with a premium engine, the same as used in some Select Series™ X300 models:
- Premium engine oil and air filtering systems and cooling design provide increased reliability and engine life.
The 18.5-hp (13.8-kW) V-twin engine provides plenty of power and torque to handle tough mulching, mowing, and bagging conditions:
- V-twin cylinder design for greater torque, lower vibration, and improved sound quality
- 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
- Also more effective when operating the tractor on an incline
- In-line fuel filter for reliable operation
Engine speed lever and spring-loaded choke lever
Engine hood in open position
The engine speed lever and choke control lever are separate controls:
- The engine speed lever easier to use - there is no need to worry about pushing too far and engaging choke as on single throttle/choke lever systems.
- The choke lever is spring loaded so the operator cannot accidentally operate the tractor with the choke on.
Engine hood opens wide for easy access to service points:
- It is easy to inspect and clean the engine area.
- Important service points are exposed.
- Cleanout ports designed into the engine shroud make cleaning the engine cooling fins easy.
- The high-quality engine used in the S240 does not require an 8-hour oil and filter change because improvements in the manufacturing process and quality of parts, components, and oils have eliminated the need for the short interval oil change requirement.
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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.
- The high-quality engine used in the S240 does not require an 8-hour oil and filter change because improvements in the manufacturing process and quality of parts, components, and oils have eliminated the need for the short interval oil change requirement.
Easy-to-service engine fuel and oil filters
Easy access to fuel-fill opening
The engine fuel and oil filters, the oil check/fill tube, and the oil drain tube are exposed for serviceability when the hood is opened.
The seat tilts up and out of the way to make adding fuel easy.
The S240 Tractor is covered by a 3-year/200-hour bumper-to-bumper warranty*:- Premium features of the S240 allow for this longer warranty period, with more coverage than other tractors of comparable size.
*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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Operator station designed for comfortable operation
Comfortable operator station, right side
Comfortable operator station, left side
Three-spoke steering wheel for greater operator comfort and control:
- Large, 14-in. (35.6-cm) diameter steering wheel gives greater comfort and control compared to smaller diameter steering wheels used on many lawn tractors.
The ignition switch is on the dash for starting ease.
Wide footrest areas with non-slip, anti-vibration rubber footpads are provided for operator comfort and safety.
Controls and instruments
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.
- Functional design of the controls provides good appearance and a comfortable feel.
Engine speed lever and spring-loaded choke lever
Power take-off (PTO) switch
The engine speed lever and choke control lever are separate controls:
- The engine speed lever is easy to use - there is no need to worry about pushing too far and engaging the choke as on single throttle/choke lever systems.
- The choke lever is spring loaded so the operator cannot accidentally operate the tractor with the choke on.
Mower drive is actuated with an easy-to-use electric PTO switch:
- The electric switch requires only a short movement compared to long throw required with manual PTO engagement lever.
- With an electric PTO clutch, the mower drive belt stays under tension at all times for improved reliability compared to manual PTO engagement systems.
Cruise control
Cruise control lever
Cruise control lever and two-pedal foot control
Cruise control is standard equipment:
- 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.
Parking brake control
Parking brake control
Brake pedal and parking brake control
The parking brake control is conveniently located for easy access. It holds the brake pedal securely in the locked position.
Mower deck height adjustment and handgrip
Mower deck height adjustment lever
Fender flare with handgrip
The 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.
Full-size fender flares include handgrips and reflectors for added safety.
Comfortable seat
Open-back seat
Easy-to-adjust seat
The operator seat can be easily adjusted forward or rearward while in the seat, with seat travel of 5.5 in. (140 mm) and 10 different positions:
- The open-back seat design keeps the operators back cooler.
- The green plastic seat adjustment lever is easy to locate and use.
- Slide pads on the bottom of the seat allow the seat to slide more easily for convenient adjustment.
Rubber isolators under the seat give a smoother ride
The seat can be tilted forward for protection from the elements and to provide easy access to the fuel tank:
- Rubber isolators under the seat smooth out the ride for greater operator comfort.
Convenient storage and service-interval decal
Storage compartment with cover
Convenient service-interval decal
The beverage holder and storage compartment, located on the right fender, add value and operator convenience.
A decal located inside the hood gives quick access to basic service information.
Buyer's notes
Notes | JD Loy hood resists fading, won't rust or dent Durable primer and powder paint finish Large, 14-in. (36-cm) steering wheel for more comfortable operation |
Warranty | 3-year/200-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, front wheel ball bearings |
Spindle bushings | No |
Front tires | 15x6-6 |
Rear tires | 20x10-8 |
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 | Handgrips |
Cup holder | Yes |
Equipment mounting | CargO Mount™ system |
Dimensions
Height | 44.6 in. 113.2 cm |
Overall length | 75.1 in. 191 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 | 458 lb 208 kg |
Electrical system
Battery | 12 V 195 CCA |
Charging system | Flywheel alternator, regulated, 15 amp |
Engine starter | Bendix type |
Hourmeter | Yes, with service reminder |
Headlights | Two standard, incandescent |
Taillights or reflector | Reflectors |
Backup lights | No |
Rear work lights | No |
12-V outlet | Optional |
Engine
Power | 18.5 hp 13.8 kW |
Displacement | 36.8 cu in. 603 cc |
Manufacturer/model | FS600V |
Type | Overhead valve, full-pressure lube, oil filter |
Cylinders | V-twin, cast-iron liners |
Governor | Mechanical |
Choke/speed control | Separate levers, automatic choke return |
Cooling method | Air |
Air cleaner | Dry, replaceable with foam precleaner |
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 | Electric power take-off (PTO) clutch |
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 only, 15 U.S. gal. 56.8 L Tow-behind only, 25 U.S. gal. 94.6 L |
Spreader | Tow-behind only, 125 lb 57.7 kg Tow-behind only, 175 lb 79.4 kg |
Front bumper | Standard two-bar styled front bumper |
Weather protection | Snow cab |
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 | Open-back design with grasp |
Seat back height | 15 in. 38.1 cm |
Armrests | No |
Fore-aft adjustment | While seated, 5.5 in. 14 cm |
Seat suspension | Tilt, two rubber isolators |
Steering
Type | Sector and pinion with single drag link and tie rod |
All-wheel steer | Not available on this model |
Steering wheel | Deluxe, diameter - 14 in. 35.6 cm |
Tilt steering wheel | No |
Turning radius | 18 in. 45.7 cm |
Uncut circle radius | 25 in. 63.5 cm |
Transaxle
Type | K46 hydrostatic integrated with transaxle |
Control | Two-pedal foot-controlled hydrostatic |
Cruise control | Standard |
Oil cooler | Fins and fan on transaxle |
Oil filter | Yes, internal, not replaceable |
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 |
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