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When is a Deere a real Deere?

Posted by jackdeere NY (My Page) on
Mon, May 26, 08 at 10:22

Just bought a JD LA 135LE based on the dealers recommendation.
Now I am having second thoughts. Is this really a good tractor? I need something that will last 10 years.
I have heard from some people that the 100 series of tractors is just plain junk.
The dealer said the LA 135 will not only mow my 1/2 acre lawn, it will actually snowblow my driveway.
Other people have told me "no way".
So, I have 25 days left while I can still return it for full value, either cash back or exchange.
It cost me $1900.00. I wouldn't mind spending more money for something better, something that will last a number of years.
I have mostly a flat lot with some trees. One small hill.
I need this primarilly to mow the lawn, but to be able to snowblow the driveway is an added plus (if it really can do this).
So, is this a true John Deere "tough enough" machine, or should I shop for a more rugged one?
Thanks for your input.
Jack


Follow-Up Postings:

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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

A LA135 is a great entry-level tractor that will mow your yard fine and will also handle a blower well. If you take care if it and don't put tons of hours on it, it will last you for 10yrs no problem. There are many people on these boards that have the original L-Series that are going on 5+ years now with no problems.

Now, as with anything, you get what you pay for. If you do have more than $1900 to put into a machine, then by all means moving up to an X300-series will get you a heavier built machine that will last longer. How much longer is hard to say.


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

honestly, for that price, I'd rather have a used LX178, LX188 or somethong in that range


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

I have an l110 that needs a total engine overhaul after 85 hours. At 50 hours it had to have an idler pulley, trans fan, and trans pulley. Under warranty both deck spindles were replaced. It mows good when its running but I hate spending $250-$350 a year to cut grass(after the initial investment). The dealer wont do all he can because the machine was purchased at HD. I would take it back and upgrade.


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

Buy the best machine you can afford . If you're having doubts about what you bought an upgrade to a X300 won't cost all that much more . And I'd get a walk behind snowthrower , which would probably cost less than a snowthrower attachment and put less wear and tear on that machine . Besides from what people say here it really doesn't add any resale value if and when you decide to sell it . Many years down the road of course !


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

For $1900, I would buy a nice used tractor or buy a new Simplicity Regent.


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

Keep it it is perfect for you size lawn.Put the money you would spend to go bigger and better toward a Self propelled walk behind snow blower top of the line and you will still be money ahead.Unless you go up to a X320 or larger your not getting a heavier transaxel then you have now anyway.Ignore the buy bigger or buy someone elses trouble used.A real Deere starts after the Power Wheels Gator the kids ride in.


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

jackdeere,
The dealer is going to honor the warranty on that LA 135,
who is going to provide a warrenty on the used stuff. I believe that LA 135 will last over 10 yrs with minimum care, just follow the preventive maintenance schedule in the manual.
Real deeres are backed by John Deere and painted Green and Yellow. Paint and service donot provide toughness or ruggeness, design does. Dealers are trained to properly size the equipment. If you don't follow the dealers recommendations, why use them, save your money go to a box store.


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

relying on the dealer to give you the proper recommendation as to the size of tractor you need may be presumptuous. most probably put minimal effort into deciding what you need. unless you find one that comes out to your lot, they just choose what seems to be the best off the top of their head, minimal calculation or thought. nothing you couldn't do yourself or even the automated program on the website.

buying from the dealer comes in handy if you need repairs. you hope they would favor you more and give you better service if you bought from them. i can speak from experience that this is not always true though.

if you buy used, you should be minimally handy with tools. you never know what happened to the used tractor you are buying. (eg. was it run without oil?)

think about it and make use of the jd promise if you decide to upgrade.


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

If you're looking for a 10 year tractor, then the LA series is probably what you want.

I would buy from a dealer though because you are probably going to need his help over the next 10 years.

If you want a "real Deere", upgrade to the X300.

Remember that John Deere builds the LA series to box store specs.

To me, it's not how long is it going to last, but how much trouble is it going to give me over it's life.


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

Well, I did buy from a "dealer", I would not consider a big box store for this kind of purchase.
And the dealer that sold me was the actual owner, not a floor salesman. He was a 76 year old gentleman.
I was more than willing to spend a higher dollar amount and I told him so. He just kept smiling and reassuring me that the LA 135 was the perfect machine for me.
And I don't really intend to snowblow with the 135, it's just nice to know it's capable if necessary. I own a snowblower.
After reading the responses on here and sorting them out, I think I will keep the machine. It sure does a nice job on the lawn. And it is so smooth and comfortable to operate. A total different experience compared to my Poulan 17 hp Weed Eater.
Thanks to everyone for their input.
Jack


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

Jack,

Whatever you do, make sure the preventative maintenance gets done!


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

Jack...you have a half-acre lawn that's mostly flat. One can still find people mowed that size with a push mower. There is no reason on Earth why a 2000-dollar John Deere won't handle your patch with ease for ten years or more.

Take a look under that mowere of yours. You'll find a sturdy U-channel on each side. The engine is full-pressure lube, so no worries there.

Someone put the bug in your ear that the 100-series is not a "real" Deere. That's plain snobbery. Even the lowley LA-100 is a step above many competing tractors. Everything from the shift lever to the oil drain is well designed. As you already know, the cut is great. Ergonomics are second to none.

My Craftsman was half the price of your LA-135. It works a full acre with a 5 to 20-degree slope in the back. The one-lung Briggs is splash lube. The frame is not as beefy as the entry-level 1500-dollar Deere. Yet it can haul 800 pound of rocks or cut through 3-foot tall grass and shrubs. Three years in, I've had no troubles other than a mouse chewing through the spark plug wire.

If my LT-3000 can handle this abuse, your LA-135 will have no trouble at all with your half acre. Whoever says otherwise has rocks in his head.

Peace.

Marco


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RE: When is a Deer a real Deer?

BTW...kudos to the dealer for not trying to oversell. IMHO, he sold you the right tractor for your needs.


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

The "Fake Deere" vs. "Real Deere" argument is pointless. Deere builds the 100 series and puts their name on them. Therefore......they are Deeres.

Is the 100 series going to hold up and be less of a pain than the X300 series? Probably not. But most people know this before they decide to buy one.


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

Jack... I bought the LA120 (sim to LA135LE) last year and it does a good job. I got it to mow my yard with... not tear up the earth. I could have had a big heavy duty GT...but why ?. Some people knock the 100 series because they have GTs and maybe their needs require one, but my needs don't just to mow my yard with.


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

jdtom,
$250 to $350 per year at the JD Dealer is minimum problems, I spend at least $400/year on my GT275. I guess I will ask the dealer if its a real deere the next time it goes in for service or trouble. (just a chuckle)
Total overall after 85 hours - well I would be changing colors. That l110 also should have a deere dealership decal on it somewhere, if not I would ask the HD store who thier servicing JD dealer is. After that I would be notifing JD the dealership is lacking - Deere is presently sorting out these dealerships. BTW who is that dealership?


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

Once again, thanks to everyone. I am so happy I found this Forum.
Photobucket


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

Here's the list of attachments. Since you already have a snowblower, you might want to look into getting the 46" blade for the tractor. Blades work well for wet, heavy snow or slush where blowers don't do so well.

Any machine will last 10 years mowing a flat, half-acre, if you take care of it. Just change the oil once a year, check it before each cut, and don't mow wet grass if you can help it.

Make sure you get your free hat.

Here is a link that might be useful: attachments


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

Free hat?
What free hat is that?
How and/or where do I get it?
Thanks,
Jack


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

Congrats on your new machine, may you and it have a long and trouble relationship! I think you got the right machine for your needs. Preventive maintance and a little TLC goes a long way to extend the life of any machine. You did exactly right in going to the dealer, they'll meet or beat a box store price and now you're their customer not the box stores which means they're a lot more receptive to your warranty needs than they are some box store customer.


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

jackdeere.. you shoud be getting something in mail from JD... for the owners edition hat


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

I have been looking for some time as well. Personally, the 100 series, although it may be decent, really is not a real JD. Look for yourself at the web site, how much space do they dedicate to the 100 series? Its buried in a corner. JD makes probably the BEST agricultural machinery. The Real Deer's seem to start with the X series. The 100 series seems to exist merely to provide competition to the Toro's, the Cub Cadets, etc.. In the sub $3000 range, persoanlly I like the cub cadets's they seem to be better made for the same money or a tad more. Please don't take my word for it. Look for yourself at the JD product line and you tell me how the 100 series fits in. You tell me where JD got its reputation from. It was not from the 100 series. Having said all that, if you took delivery of the 100 series, it may not pay to return it. The only thing the 100 series has in common with the larger JD units is the color. The fact you are even asking this question seems to indicate you may feel the same way.


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

I'm sure that the 135 will breeze thru your 1/2 acre mowing but I just can't imagine using one for snowblowing. They just don't make em' like they used to. The price is still high on any make of green paint, but to really compare a new model to say an ole' 318, you have to jump to a 500/700 series for the same features. The 318's came with hydraulics on the front and rear for doing chores such as snowblowing, push blades, tillers, 3 point hitch for plowing etc. Those things were built like tanks. Although, I would think that a 500/700 series would be WAY overkill on a 1/2 acre, not to mention the price tag would be 4 times what you paid on the 135. The good part about it is you get the new JD hat whether you bought the 135 or the 500x. Good luck and remember service and maintenance = everything!


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

When is a Ford a real Ford?
When is a Chevy a real Chevy?
We could go on forever. If it is engineered by JD, manufactured by JD, painted by JD, serviced by JD, sold by JD, and warrantied by JD, then I believe it is probably a JD. If you are wondering about the Scott's tractors or their ilk, then there might be a gray area (not much of one though).


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

I've said this before, but the 100 series is engineered to be sold cheap in box stores. Deere saw the sales they were missing in the cheap tractor market and then decided they wanted a piece of that pie.

The 100 series are JDs because JD makes them, but they are not of the same quality as the X300 and up series.

I hate statements like a tractor should last XX amount of years. Any tractor can last 10 years as long as parts are available and the consumer has the money to pay for them.

The real question is how many times are you willing to have your tractor fixed in that 10 year span.

There is a difference between a tractor lasting 10 years and rarely seeing the shop and a tractor lasting 10 years and frequently seeing the shop.


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

Is a Chevy Colorado a Chevy? It isn't built as heavilly as a Silverado, has less towing capacity and is cheaper (I guess they wanted a part of the cheap pickup market).

I see no problem with John Deere building tractors for their customers that don't need all the bells and whistles and don't need a garden tractor. Their customers asked for them and John Deere listened by extending their line. I really haven't heard many actual owners of the L or LA series JD's complaining here (no more than about any other brand). If they are used for their intended purpose and are maintained, they seem to hold up very well.


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

I would be interested in viewing data showing the average number of trips to the shop for the 100 Series (failure rates), compared to "real" John Deere tractors...over say the last 2-3 years.

Is this valuable information in the public domain, or simply speculation?

...Mike


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

  • Posted by larso1 So. CO Zone 5 (My Page) on
    Thu, May 29, 08 at 17:00

When is a Chevy not a real Chevy? When it's a Chevy Luv, a re-badged Isuzu pickup. And when is a Ford not a real Ford? When it's a re-badged Mazda. Of course there are many others.

Just have the DNA tested. That'll tell ya:o)


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

just use the tractor.


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

^ ^ ^ ^
: : : : THIS

Use it, enjoy it, wear it out. The time spent worrying about it could be spent in the seat, cutting grass. I know what I'd rather do.


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

To us non-Deere owners ,this post is great.
I knew it would be just a matter of time before Deere owners started turning on themselves.
You don't see us bottom feeders bashing are own brand.


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

I have a Dodge Ram with a Hemi, Ram's are fake w/o a Hemi. And further more stay the hell out of the cab if you can't afford the gas. Ram with 5.7 hemi, in front of a 545RFE transmission, twisting 3.92 LSD both ends, sitting tall on 20" wheels. It ain't cheap, but its real.
Now I think X300 series lawn mowers are not real deere's either - People that have lil'deeres must think that they ae special. ROFL


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

post a pic of the Hemi Ram.


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

Jan. 23rd 2008
"In a stunning statement of the obvious, Chrysler Co-president Jim Press told Automotive News that 'The Hemi is not the power-train of the future.' "

Guess there won't be any "real" Dodge Rams in the near future, shucks ; )


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

I'm not the one saying the 100 series aren't real Deeres.

Stop bringing automobiles and trucks into this discussion. It isn't the same thing. The 100 series aren't X300s with less options. They are completely different.

Why are some people getting so bent out of shape about this?

Anyone who says they haven't read about 100 series problems must not be looking too hard. This isn't the only lawn forum out there. There are countless 100 series owners out there that are extremely pissed off about broken wheel spindles, broken deck spindles, belt failures, frame failures, pulley failures, etc.

If you own a 100 series that hasn't had any problems, then good for you. But there are many out there who have had problems.

A good friend of mine works at a former Deere dealer (they switched to Simplicity 6 months ago). I asked him about these "100 series" tractors from John Deere. He said they were complete garbage. They get them in all the time for belt, pulley, and spindle failures.

Maybe my expectations are too great.


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

  • Posted by larso1 So. CO Zone 5 (My Page) on
    Fri, May 30, 08 at 11:06

Lately there are quite a few "former Deere dealers" due to the fact that these poor performers are being weeded out by Deere. Locally in my town Deere has pressured the owners to sell out to a dealer 100 miles south of here (who also happens to be my BIL), who has also taken over two other low performing dealerships in nearby towns and is in the process of turning them around. It's all about good customer relations through after sales maintenance/repair/parts support. People remember bad treatment and Deere does hear about it.


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

Deere came into our area last year and removed 19 dealerships.......in other words......all of them.

I guess all 19 were poor performers.

Take a close look at what is going on with Deere.


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

xsd6...You need to stop comparing the L's to X's, as you say yourself they are different lines designed for different environments and uses with different price ranges. If you want to compare the L's to something compare them to other Big Box tractors that they are engineered and manufactured to compete with. Are you saying that there are more problems with the L's then the equivalently priced Husqy and MTD lines.


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RE: RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

Let me simplify. I'm not here to argue.

The original question was "is this a really good tractor" (JD LA 135LE).

It is my opinion that it is not. Ask a dealer who won't lie to you. Ask a mechanic that works on them. Ask a homeowner that has been burned by them.

I have nothing against JD. Many people I know have them. I have used them. Green is OK in my book.

I understand that the 100 series and X300 series are built for different environments. I'm really just saying that sometimes paying a little more up front can save you from paying on the backside. Two or three trips to the dealership for the 100 series may have made the X300 worth it.

I'm trying to give sound fiscal advice and prevent some grief.

I've stated absolutely nothing about MTD or Husqy. I don't want to get into that comparison.


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

If a company makes a name for themselves building a specific type of product... then they build something completely contrary to that product... yes, fans have a right to kvetch.

I don't see that being a problem here. Deere is known for building quality machines. Even if the fail rate on L series tractors is higher than Deere's GTs, it's still lower than the fail rate for other brands. Consumer Reports puts it one notch above Kubota and several higher than the rest of the pack.

You simply need to adjust your expectations for the type of tractor being sold. A budget tractor is not going to be built with the same quality as a GT no matter which brand you buy. Corners must be cut to make the product fit a price point. If they don't build it that way, they cannot afford to offer that kind of tractor. Even with that in mind, the LAs still end up being better than the rest... which is consistent with the Deere brand image.


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

  • Posted by larso1 So. CO Zone 5 (My Page) on
    Fri, May 30, 08 at 15:38

"Deere came into our area last year and removed 19 dealerships.......in other words......all of them.
I guess all 19 were poor performers."

maybe they were.

"Take a close look at what is going on with Deere."

Not sure what you mean by that but take a close look at the latest sales figures below. With commodity prices high and countries like China beginning to import their grain, most of the agricultural producers and equipment suppliers are positioned well.

Here is a link that might be useful: Deere & Company sales/profits


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

I worked across the street from the JD plant when I lived in Waterloo ,Ia (in the 70s) and would see a steady stream of (big) tractors leaving all day long by rail & trucks...had a lot of friends that worked there.


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

It's not all about reliability. Just upgrading from a 100 series to a select series doesn't mean you'll just get a more reliable tractor. It's about utility, comfort and enjoyment as well. My GT series is an absolute pleasure to operate. My neighbor's LA series is (after test driving it) not even in the same league. I drive a GMC Yukon XL. Following suit, the same neighbor drives a Chevy Equinox. They're both REAL GMs, and in the end, the reliability/longevity won't justify the difference in price. A cute-ute like that might be fine for the 10 minute drive to work, but I'm thinking it wouldn't cut it on our bi-monthly family (of four soon to be five) road trips from NC to PA. Whether at the wheel of my GMC or JD, I'm comfortable, and enjoying myself; that's what I paid for. Some people live their lives by compromise. I'm not one of them. That doesn't mean I mow my 2/3 acre lawn with a brand new X700 with a 54" deck, I just won't settle for less than I need; I'd rather do without until I find/afford the right tool for the job.

Jackdeere, I suspect you knew the answer to your question before you asked it, but regardless of what any of us thinks of the 100 series, if it cuts your grass and you enjoy using it, it's suited for you. As far as reliability, you can pay now or pay later. Concerning the "fun factor," well that just depends on how much you've spoiled yourself thus far.


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'Real Trucks'

Bumper sticker I saw the other day on a Ram 3500 (gave me a chuckle): "Real trucks don't need spark plugs!"

I don't think anyone should pooh-pooh ANY manufacturer for bowing to what the public demands. There are fools-a-plenty who will buy $900 P.o.S tractors and then complain loudly when they perform poorly. There is money to be made there. On the other hand, overbuying seems to often be a serious problem as well, at least among frequent posters here... ;)


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

"There are fools-a-plenty who will buy $900 P.o.S tractors and then complain loudly when they perform poorly."

Amen. Pay now or pay later.


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

Marineguy, I like the way that you put that.......perhaps we think alike. I mow my 2-3/4 acres with a GX335 partly because I need the locking differential for my hillside, but also because I love the way it runs, drives and cuts. I spend lots of hours on that machine every year and every time I do I am thankful that I got it. Could I get by with something less? Probably. Would it be as enjoyable? Heck no! I have to say I'm the same way with just about everything I own. We're on this earth for such a short time that it would be a shame to NOT enjoy the equipment we buy to do the things we need to do. It makes life so much more pleasant!


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

When it feels like one to you. My LTR180 feels just fine, and its a good hat too.


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

I like that..."when it feels like one to you".
I have mowed my lawn 4 times now since I bought the LA135 and I am just impressed. It rides like a dream and cuts like a surgeon in the operating room.
Lots of great comments and opinions here. Some are ludicrious, some make good sense.
What in the world goes owning a HEMI Dodge have to do with mowing a lawn?
Heck, what does comparing any car have to do with mowing a lawn?
I just want to mow a lawn, I don't need nor do I want, a GT (garden tractor). I am not a farmer, I don't own a Mc Mansion with 5 acres.
I just want a machine that will mow grass for 10 years or so, without falling apart. I think I found it.
I went back to the dealer with my concerns about quality last week.
Once again, I suggested I might need an upgrade, to at least the 300 series. His exact words to me were, well Jack, it IS your money. And if you insist, I will sell you a 300. However, you won't find any difference in your application. He said I will gain zero benefit from a slightly upgraded transmission. The 300 is also 3 inches longer, a tad harder to manuver. He also said he has been in business for 40 years and can say that the rework on the "tougher" machines is much greater, as people tend to over work those machines, using them for more than they were intended. The re-work on the LA models is very low at his business. He took me into his shop and showed me. There were no LA's on his floor. There were 4 300's in for repair.
AND, he even offered to come to my house to evaluate my situation personally. Come to find out he only lives 3 miles down the road.
And he passes my property on the way to his shop. He is a farmer also.
I really think he is steering me in the right direction.
I am going to stick with his opinion and keep the LA.
So, to all you guys who own and recommend a Monster Hemi Dual Exhaust Tractor...WOO HOO to you.
To those others who kept this in perspective, thanks.
Cheers,
Jack


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

larso 1-That ad is from Iowa where they make farm equipment.Mowers are made in Wisconsin and I believe Tennessee?JD Lawn&Garden sales are not that good anymore.I know,I am 10 miles from their factory and have many friends working there.I work 6 miles from the JD factory in Mayville where the Scag mower is made.Our sales are down also.


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

5 years ago, I bought a new JD L110 with a 17.5 hp Kohler engine and a 42" mulching deck for about $1750 from a JD Dealer to cut my 1.5 acre up hill bumpy lawn with a septic field up top. I got it because Consumer Reports had said that it was the best all-around for the dollar. It worked great with a beautiful cut until the septic field and a contractor’s fertilizing made the grass so tough, the engine bogged down as if it was gonna stall, especially over the septic field, and really bad if I missed a week due to rain. By the way I threw away the $200 double bag grass catcher because I got tired of getting off the tractor and dumping them every 7.5 minutes. I went to a Kubota dealer to find out what a real tractor was and how I couldn’t afford one, but some farmer had traded in his JD G110 w/ a 25 hp Kohler engine and a 54" mowing deck… I bought it used, with no warranty for $2000, and at first was happier the way it had no problems with the thickness of the lawn. It also cut much faster in that it turned my 1 hour and fifteen minute weekly task into about 50 minutes. The blue smoke the used G110 was blowing when I test drove it was to mean later that I had to put about 3 to 4 hundred dollars into it for repair, and apparently, I was lucky, because it could have been much worse! It seemed the farmer, believe it or not, didn't change the oil much. But the main problem was that with the 54" deck it had did not cut the grass as nice as the smaller 42" deck with the rounded mulching platform. It made "Wind Rows" that did not seem to go away even after going back over it again, because my grass grew so fast or something. A salesman told me I may have to cut it twice a week (NO WAY). So, bottom line, it was taking longer to get the grass cut with a 54" deck than with the earlier 42" deck; almost twice as long and it STILL didn’t look as nice as before! I added a mulching kit to it, installed by the dealer, even after their warning that I may get clumping. I did get clumping, and my wife never lets me hear the end of it…..The tension spring on the belt/pulley system broke 2 weeks ago and I went to the dealer’s parts dept. and bought another one for $6 because their Spring back-log for repairs was over 2 weeks wait. I spent about 3 hours getting it on the deck. This new spring worked for two mowings and broke. Now, with rain, I have monster grass and no way to mow it. My wife almost bought a $2000 Cub Cadet at a box store out of desperation yesterday just to get the grass cut. So now, 5 years into this monster lawn, and two JD’s later, we are looking at our 3rd one, an X300 or X304, to solve my weekly woes on this lumpy lawn. Oh yeah, by the way, when it was graded, the man did not do a very smooth job and my back and I wish my tractor had shock absorbers, but we can not afford the Kubota, or a real John Deere. I will probably trade in the G110 for a X304 next weekend, and peeve that I am trading down from a 25 hp Kohler w/ 54" deck to a 22 hp Kohler w/ a 48" deck, albeit in the new "stronger" X Series, but my wife won’t mind, because there will be no more "Wind Rows" and clumping (HOPEFULLY!). She doesn’t have to do it….she naps on the couch while I mow! I guess she’ll nap a little longer, because I will be out there a little longer now. I hope the clumping and rows go away then, and I really hope to have less annoying repairs. I imagine, though, that they all use the same spring. Wish me luck if you have no good advice I can use.


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

doe_a_deere: Your story is painful to read. Will your Deere dealer bring a mower to your property for a test drive on your conditions? Before I bought mine, my dealer brought the two mowers I was considering to my property for a test drive in my yard and conditions. I kept the GX335, have had zero problems or issues with it, and I have been pleased with that decision going into my 4th season now. If your dealer won't bring one out, don't forget about the JD 30-day promise. Keep track of those 30 days and if you aren't happy with, by all means take it back. I hope you find something that fits for you. Good luck to you.


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

Maybe we can end this type of post here. A Deere is a real Deere when the corn squasher quishes the corn starcher. You guys have got to get lives! I've never heard such stupidity.

Guess why my posts, and others who have made this forum what it is, have gone from frequent to the basement? Let's do something that will help someone, not elicit grunts of approval.

Cheers

JDFANATIC


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

jdfanatic...who in the (*&^) do you think you are?
IF you don't like this forum, don't read it.
Your nasty attitude and cheap opinions are rude.
I and 50 others here happen to enjoy this subject.
IQ: = 58 = "when the corn squasher quishes the corn starcher".
Please stay in the basement!


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

deerejohnny,

Your IQ shows through just fine. If you did your research and looked at service dates here, you would see who founded this forum and what the intent of those founders was. Go and crawl into your basement. I also note you don't even have the balls to post personal info, such as where you are located. Why? We all know.

Cheers

JDFANATIC


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

"I also note you don't even have the balls to post personal info, such as where you are located. Why?"

Why do you care where I am from?
I am from Lancaster, PA.
1865 Lincoln Hwy E Lancaster, PA to be exact.
Want to stop on over and meet me personally?
Just name a time and date.


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

JDFANATIC....What do you think......youve been here 4 years and are getting bashed by someone who just registered today.....BIG BALLS


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

This forum used to be here to help others. But if you look at the kind of posts that get traction now, they are posts that disolve into brand bashing, personal attacks etc. If you look at the group of posters that really made a difference here, you would be hard pressed to find more than a post every few months now. Why is that? Because they've found other forums where this kind of tripe would be pulled by the moderators. If you want this forum to continue to spiral downwards, go for it. Then when someone new posts a legitimate question their loss is the forums loss when a good deal of the collective knowledge is really found elsewhere.

Your choice.

Cheers

JDFANATIC


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

Lancaster-Thought everyone around Dem parts drove horse powered equipment?


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

Are you guys gonna FIGHT? If so, please post pictures.

Jdfanatic,
I've enjoyed reading your posts over the years, but I'm not really sure who you intended to "help out" with that last one.

Sounds like you've got "a life."

But I'm curious, if they made a movie about it, would anyone go to see it?


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

Those of you who have been around, think about this 6:43 pm 6/2/08 EST post.

Here is what the front page here has:

Need belt info for Craftsman ZT7000
no posts.

Pull behind sprayers
no posts

When is a Deere a real Deere?
59 posts

Snapper rear engine rider
5 posts

Craftsman No Brakes
1 post

5 acre farm, can I get away with a z-trak?
8 posts

Deere dealer frt/set up costs
14 posts

10% Ethanol safe for our current fuel systems?
1 post

Fastest cut lawn tractor?
1 post

Old Wheel Horse
11 posts

Lightly used JD2305 or BX1850?
1 post

I'll let rest my conclusion. There are a bunch of people looking for answers; not is their Deere a real Deere; the question is, are we going to answer them, or care who an old fart such as JDFANATIC is? I really don't care, as long as this forum continues to support those in search of answers.

What is it going to be?

JDFANATIC


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

You answeed your own question...59 (61 actually now) posts outnumbers all the rest by a wide margin. Seems to me there was/is an interest in "is their Deere a real Deere".
I did mention your IQ in a previous post, see what I mean now?
LOL


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

This is sad, and perhaps because of the intelligence level of the idiot poster, my last post here. Sorry. Abject disfunctionalities have clawed their way to the surface. While anyone with a half a brain will already have serious doubts as to deerejohnny's tractor knowledge, it's patently clear he's a hot head.

Before throwing in the towel with someone we know diddleysquat about, we should ask the instigator to offer something constructive. Why don't we start with a search? Tractor topics are good. What has thumballina contributed to this forum?

Zilch.

Those searching for straws. Good luck! Thumballina's mouth tries desperately not be closed, but it is a trap into itself.

Let's all have a laugh.

Now back to the originally posted topic; a Deere is a Deere when it is a Deere. The same goes for a Simplicity, a Cub Cadet, a Craftsman, a Kubota, a Massey, a FIAT, a cripple-creeker, and all the brands I might have missed.

What a brain-stimulator. Whish . . . whish . ..

Now you will begin to understand why I'm such a skeptic of this stupid, diversive tripe.

Cheers

JDFANATIC


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

A "real deere" must be a 5000 series because JD designed and builds the engines in those tractors.

My "fake" JD L110 has been nothing but perfect only requiring oil changes and a new battery in the 6 years I've owned it. So much for "fake" Deeres huh?


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

Wow ... I hope I have caught this thread while it is still active. I am looking at the LA series tractors VS. the X300 series tractors. I often read and hear that there are big differences between the 'real' vs. the box store units. Other than the engines (which I realize is a big thing) what are the differences? Can anybody give me a list of differences?

thanks


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

crazycanuk,

There is a lot of good information on this forum, you just need to look and weed through some B.S. As far as I am concerned, the differences between box store models and the "real" ones is this: like anything you buy at the box stores, service is an issue.
JD dealers will sell the LA100 series. They do have to service these even if they were purchased at Lowes, etc. Why not go to your nearest dealer to begin with? The price is very similar. I know I pay a little more for things at times, but I buy most of my power tools, etc. from stores that have service. When I don't, it is a pain to get the necessary help if I need something fixed or serviced.

Start a new thread on: LA110 vs anything else. You will get responses.

Good luck


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

I bought my Deere (LX176) from a John Deere dealer in 1995, and have been mowing 3 1/2 ac. every years since. 38 in deck, 14 hp Kawasaki engine. And I got my hat from the dealer when he gave me the keys.

Nothing runs like a Deere, for sure!


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

I sure do miss your subaverage intellectual ability equivalent to or less than an IQ of 70 that is accompanied by significant deficits in abilities (as in communication). Being slow and limited in intellectual and emotional development as you seem to be, I guess I can understand, jdfanatic.
Where in the world are you lurking?
Right here, I'd bet money.
Why don't you come on out and play some more?



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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

Is this guy for real?
I wonder who typed his first paragraph ?


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

dynamike59: There seems to be at least one person like this on every forum. As in other forums I frequent, the former owners of this forum used to block them from posting but the new owners don't seem to care. I think that's why many of the people who used to post here have gone elsewhere.

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
What is a troll?

An Internet troll, or simply troll in Internet slang, is someone who posts controversial and usually irrelevant or off-topic messages in an online community, such as an online discussion forum or chat room, with the intention of baiting other users into an emotional response[1] or to generally disrupt normal on-topic discussion.[2]


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

To the OP -

I had the same dilemna when I was looking to buy a JD tractor. I was going to get the L series at Home Depot until I found this internet forums. They provided lots of info and I realized I was not getting a 'real' Deere. I needed WAAAY more power than a pithy L-series. I needed the REAL DEAL BABY. My lawn doesn't stand a chance now.

Here is a pic of me accepting delivery - see link.

Kidding aside, I actually did buy an X300 over the L series. It's been a fine tractor.

Here is a link that might be useful: Me and my new JD lawn tractor!


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

  • Posted by larso1 So. CO Zone 5 (My Page) on
    Tue, Jun 16, 09 at 13:57

And when is a Craftsman a real Craftsman? I did kind of the same as you Chris, just different brand. Went for their top-of-the-line GT. Now I can sleep well at night knowing the hydro won't go out on me when I pull a loaded lawn cart up a hill.....

Image and video hosting by TinyPic


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

the one on the left is a real John Deere. The one on the right is a real Jane Doe.


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

I think the LA series are very well built and if they aren't abused and are maintained will provide many years of service. They are not like the deeres of old but what is made like the days of old these days? not too many things. I took a LA165 home and used the 30 day promise to trade up to a x320 and am glad I did only due to having 3.5 acres of hills and inclines and I didn't think the LA series was enough tractor. I pull a 850lb yard roller and it's effortless and I weigh 240lbs with 90lbs of ballast in the tires. I think the john deere quality shows in all of their series but you can't compare them to the deeres of the past it's not a fair comparison. I spoke to several of the techs from several dealerships that said they have not seen a x320 in for tranny service in forever if that helps.


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

I forgot to mention that on the john deere 30 day promise you only get to trade one time so you can't keep taking a new one home and trading up or down it's a one time deal. The other thing to consider is that if the machine is damaged or scratched up you may be held responsible but john deere gives the dealerships $250 to cover new blades or repair other damages done to the mower/tractor while it's being used so don't go over $250 in damage or you will have to pay anything over the $250 which is more than fair IMO.


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

freddyfast9
Tell me something. Why are you bothering to drag a TWO YEAR OLD thread out of the archives? Are you under the impression that the OP didn't get the answers he was looking for TWO YEARS AGO?

Have you not got better things to do with your time?


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

  • Posted by larso1 So. CO Zone 5 (My Page) on
    Thu, May 20, 10 at 0:11

Geez kompressor, what's happened to you? Give the guy a break. He registered two days ago and doesn't necessarily know the normal workings of forum like this. I've seen you recently attack another newbie which was pretty brutal....EVEN FOR YOU!!! Lighten up Dude!


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

larso1
Just because freddyfast is a newbie on this forum, doesn't automatically make him a newbie to forums per se'.

This particular thread was already more than 70 replies long. The dates of those replies are all shown quite clearly to anyone reviewing the thread. All I see here is just another example of grandstanding. I have to wonder just how many pages back this thread was in the archives prior to it being revived for no good reason.

Shades of LB59.


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

Hats off to you Kompressor.
LB 59......that brings back memories.


 o
Give kompressor a break...

He's under a lot of pressure.


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Just call me 'digger'

Crap...I didn't see the date of the last post.

Sorry all :-(


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RE: When is a Deere a real Deere?

When's a Navistar a Diesel ? When it's in a F-250..Roflmbo..Talk about Tales From The Crypt lol !


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