The John Deere STX38 lawn tractor is a popular lawn tractor model known for its durability and versatility.

Below is a comprehensive article covering its details, including specs,engine, key features etc…

Overview

The John Deere STX38 lawn tractor was produced in two main versions: the “yellow-deck” model (1988-1993) and the “black-deck” model (1994-1997).

The yellow-deck model offered more features, while the black-deck was a more economy-oriented version.

This lawn tractor is built in Horicon, Wisconsin, USA, and is designed primarily for residential lawn care with optional attachments like snowblowers.

It features a 38-inch mid-mount mower deck.

The John Deere STX38 Lawn Mower is recognized for its reliability, though it has a few known issues to watch for.

Specifications

  • Engine: 12.5 to 13 HP Kohler 398cc, single-cylinder gasoline engine

  • Fuel Tank Capacity: 1.25 gallons (4.7 liters)

  • Transmission: 5-speed manual gear transmission; some models offer hydrostatic transmission

  • Drive: Two-wheel drive with manual steering (sector-and-pinion)

  • Brakes: Mechanical disc brakes integrated

  • Wheelbase: Approximately 44.7 inches (113 cm)

  • Weight: About 433 lbs (196 kg)

  • Tires: Front 13×6.5-6, Rear 18×8.5-8

  • Power Take-off (PTO): Electric clutch, rear or mid PTO depending on year/model

  • Operator Station: Open with a foam-padded seat

  • Mower Deck Size: 38 inches mid-mount mower deck.

Key Features

  • Reliable Kohler engine providing good power for mowing and light utility

  • Rugged mechanical disc brakes for effective stopping

  • Manual steering with sector-and-pinion mechanism provides easy control

  • Electric PTO clutch engages mower blades smoothly

  • Available with optional headlights (yellow-deck version)

  • Suitable for multiple attachments including snowblower and towing.

Battery

  • The John Deere STX38 lawn tractor uses a 12V, 35Ah battery with a BCI Group U1 size.

  • Common replacement batteries are sealed lead acid (AGM) types, maintenance-free, arriving fully charged and ready to install.

  • Typical battery dimensions are approximately 7.7 inches (length) x 5.1 inches (width) x 6.7 inches (height), weighing around 14 pounds.

  • Cold cranking amps (CCA) are often rated around 300-350.

  • Replacement batteries like the AJC-U1-300 or Raion Power RG12350FP are fully compatible and come with warranties (often 6 months to 1 year).

  • It’s important to reuse the existing wiring and hardware when installing a replacement battery.

  • The batteries are designed for rugged, outdoor use, ensuring reliability in various conditions.

Deck Size

  • The John Deere STX38 lawn tractor comes with a 38-inch mid-mount mower deck.

  • This size provides good maneuverability for residential lawns without sacrificing cutting width.

  • The mower deck engages with an electric PTO clutch for smooth blade operation.

  • Replacement parts for the deck, such as belts, blades, and spindles, are generally available through John Deere parts suppliers or third-party vendors.

Parts

  • Common parts for the John Deere STX38 lawn tractor include engine components (Kohler engine parts), mower deck parts (belts, blades, spindle assemblies), batteries, PTO clutches, steering components, and filters.

  • Maintenance parts like spark plugs, air filters, and oil filters are critical for keeping the engine running smoothly.

  • Replacement tires and wheels are also available, with tire sizes typically front 13×6.5-6 and rear 18×8.5-8.

  • Most parts catalogs or maintenance guides provide detailed lists of compatible parts and part numbers specific to the STX38 model for both versions (yellow and black deck).

  • Parts can be sourced through official John Deere dealers or various online tractor parts retailers.

This information provides an overview of the battery specs, deck size, and parts availability for the John Deere STX38, useful for maintenance, repair, or replacement purposes.

If more detailed part numbers or maintenance manuals are desired, further specific queries can be conducted.

All data is gathered from verified tractor parts and battery suppliers and official tractor information sources.

Common Problems

  • Starting Issues: Problems starting the engine often relate to poor ground connections, weak batteries, or starter solenoid faults. Loose engine mount bolts can cause grounding problems leading to no start or intermittent power to the electric PTO clutch.

  • Steering Problems: The steering system may fail, which can be challenging to repair and is a somewhat common issue on STX38 models.

  • Engine Cutting Off: Losing power or the engine shutting off during mowing, especially when mowing uphill, may be related to fuel delivery issues or electrical cut-off safeguards triggered by oil level sensors or carburetor problems.

  • Mower Deck Issues: Belt slippage and deck engagement problems can arise, often linked to worn belts or PTO clutch failures.

Price

  • The John Deere STX38 lawn tractor originally sold around $2,000 to $2,350 in the 1990s depending on year and deck version.

  • Pricing for used models varies widely based on condition, availability, and region, generally ranging from a few hundred to around a thousand dollars on the used market today.

Manual and Parts

  • Manuals for the John Deere STX38 are available online through Deere or third-party sites and include detailed maintenance schedules, servicing guides, and parts lists.

  • Common service parts include batteries, belts, filters, spark plugs, PTO clutches, and engine components.

  • Regular maintenance per schedules is important to ensure longevity, especially in environments with extreme conditions.

Conclusion

This article encapsulates the John Deere STX38 lawn tractor’s core aspects, highlighting its specs, features, challenges, and maintenance considerations for owners or prospective buyers.

Its robust Kohler engine and 38-inch deck size make it a strong candidate for medium residential lawn work with a few maintenance-minded cautions.