The John Deere GT235 is a reliable and versatile garden tractor produced from 1999 to 2005, designed for residential and light commercial landscaping.

It features an 18-horsepower Kawasaki V-twin engine, hydrostatic transmission with infinite forward and reverse speeds, and a manual steering system.

The tractor weighs about 570 lbs, has a two-wheel drive, wet disc brakes, and an open operator station.

A key variant is the GT235E, which includes an onboard generator providing 1000 watts of continuous 120-volt power.

John Deere GT235 Specifications

  • Production years: 1999–2005

  • Engine: Kawasaki FH580V, 18 hp, 4-stroke OHV, V-twin, air-cooled

  • Transmission: Hydrostatic with Tuff Torq K71 transaxle

  • Drive: Two-wheel drive

  • Steering: Manual

  • Brakes: Wet disc brakes

  • Weight: Approx. 570 lbs

  • Fuel capacity: 2.75 gallons

  • Operator station: Open

  • Tire size: Front 16×6.5-8, Rear 23×10.5-12

  • Attachments: 42″, 44″, 48″, and 54″ mower decks, snowblower, front blade

  • Battery: 12 volts, Group 51, 500 CCA

  • Charging system: 15 amp flywheel alternator

John Deere Gt235 Engine Specification

The John Deere GT235 is powered by a Kawasaki FH580V engine with the following details:

  • Engine type: 4-stroke, overhead valve (OHV), V-twin 90° configuration

  • Displacement: 570 cc (34.8 cubic inches)

  • Horsepower: 18 hp (13.4 kW)

  • Torque: 36.6 ft·lb (49.6 Nm) at 2,000 rpm

  • Cylinders: Two

  • Cooling: Air-cooled

  • Fuel: Unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 86 or higher

  • Ignition system: Electronic spark ignition

  • Starting system: Recoil or electric starter

  • Lubrication: Full pressure with a spin-on oil filter

  • Air cleaner: Paper element with foam precleaner

  • Spark plug gap: 0.040 inches (1 mm)

  • Oil capacity: Approximately 1.9 quarts (1.8 liters)

  • Charging system: 12 volts, 15 amp flywheel alternator

  • Battery: 12 volts, Group 51, 500 CCA (cold cranking amps)

This engine provides reliable power and durability optimized for lawn tractor duties. It features full-flow filtration and electronic ignition for consistent operation and ease of maintenance.

John Deere GT235 Key Features

  • Hydrostatic transmission allowing smooth speed and direction control.

  • Electric PTO clutch for tool engagement.

  • Versatile attachment compatibility (mower decks, blades, snowblower).

  • Onboard generator in the GT235E model for auxiliary power.

  • Durable Kawasaki engine with full-pressure lubrication.

  • Wet disc brakes offer reliable stopping power.

  • Manual deck height adjustment and control pedals for forward, reverse, and braking.

  • Cruise control feature for maintaining constant speed.

Common Problems

  • Typical issues may include wear of the drive belts, especially the mower deck belts.

  • Hydraulic fluid maintenance is important; users often add fluid rather than full changes.

  • Some may face electrical issues with PTO engagement or battery charging, requiring checks of the alternator and battery condition.

  • Steering is manual, which may feel heavy in tight turns.

Parts and Maintenance

  • Key parts include belts, spindles for mower deck, engine oil and filters, hydraulic fluids, and battery.

  • The tractor uses a 12V battery, Group 51 size with about 500 cold cranking amps.

  • Replacement parts for the Kawasaki FH580V engine and Tuff Torq K71 transaxle are available through John Deere dealers and third parties.

  • Maintenance includes regular oil and filter changes, belt inspections, lubrication of moving parts, and periodic hydraulic fluid checks.

Price and Manual

  • The original price circa 2002 was approximately $5,149.

  • Manuals for the GT235, including service, parts, and operator manuals, are available for purchase or download from official John Deere websites and other manual retailers.

  • A concise technical manual covers safety, specifications, diagnostics, and repairs.

What is a John Deere GT235 worth?

The value of a used John Deere GT235 lawn tractor in 2025 generally ranges from about $900 to $1,650 USD, depending on factors like the year, condition, and hours of use.

Some specific listings show 2002 models priced around $900 to $1,200 and a 2001 model going for approximately $1,650.

Lower prices can be expected for units with higher hours or in need of maintenance, while well-maintained models with fewer hours command closer to the higher end of the range.

This price range reflects the tractor’s reputation for durability and versatility in the garden tractor market.

Overview

The John Deere GT235 is considered a quality dealership-only garden tractor, heavier and more durable than big-box store models.

It has a strong Kawasaki V-twin engine offering reliable power and performance, suitable for both yard work and light commercial landscaping.

Its hydrostatic drive and easy-to-use controls make it user-friendly, while the broad selection of attachments enhances versatility.

Proper maintenance extends its lifespan well beyond two decades, making it a valued investment for homeowners and professionals alike.