John Deere Lx178 Specs & Review

John Deere LX178 Technical Specifications
Model John Deere LX178
Manufacturing Period 1991 to 1998
Engine Kawasaki FD440V 4-Stroke OHV V-Twin cylinder air-cooled gasoline engine
Transmission Tuff Torq K61 belt-driven hydrostatic transmission with infinite forward and reverse gears
Engine Capacity 26.7 cubic inches (437 cc)
Cylinder Bore 2.64″ (67 mm)
Piston Stroke 2.44″ (62 mm)
Rated Power 15 hp (11.2 kW)
Maximum Travel Speed (Forward/Reverse) 5.5 mph (8.8 km/h) / 2.5 mph (4 km/h)
Steering System Manual
Brakes Mechanical band brakes
Front Tires 15×6.00-6
Rear Tires 20×10.00-8
Wheelbase 46.7″ (1180 mm)
Attachments 38″ mid-mount 2-blade right-discharge mower deck, 44″ mid-mount 3-blade rear-discharge mower deck, 38″, 42″ front-mount single-stage snowblower, 42″ front-mount blade

FAQs for John Deere LX178 Lawn Tractor

Why is my engine hard to start or won’t start at all?

There could be several reasons for this issue:
– No gasoline in the tank.
– Using the wrong fuel grade.
– Air in the fuel lines.
– Damaged spark plug wiring connection.
– Defective spark plug.
– Plugged fuel filter.
– Defective safety contact for the brake pedal.
– Clogged carburetor.
– Engine has bad compression.
– Damaged or incorrectly adjusted choke cable.

Why is my engine running unstably?

Unstable engine running can be caused by:
– Blocked air intake screen.
– Malfunctioning ignition system.
– Defective or stuck choke cable.
– Clogged air filter.
– Dirty or faulty fuel pump.

Why does my engine start but then stall suddenly?

Possible reasons include:
– Defective spark plug.
– Clogged or faulty carburetor.
– Damaged ignition coil.
– Broken or bad valve springs.
– Sticking valves.

What could be the cause of engine overheating?

Engine overheating can be due to:
– Low engine oil level.
– Overloaded engine.
– Blocked air intake screen.
– Too lean carburetor mixture.
– Improper ignition timing.
– Incorrect valve setting.

Why is there a knocking sound or abnormal noise from the engine?

This could be caused by:
– Using low octane gasoline.
– Overloaded engine.
– Insufficient engine oil.
– Incorrectly adjusted low idle speed.
– Dirty or faulty fuel pump.
– Failure of crankshaft or main bearings.
– Incorrect valve clearance.
– Damaged cylinder bore or piston rings.

Why is my hydrostatic transmission making noise?

Possible reasons are:
– Defective or unadjusted speed control linkage.
– Excessive load on the transmission.
– Dirty transmission fluid or insufficient fluid level.
– Damaged or worn transmission components.

Why is my mower deck vibrating excessively?

Excessive vibration can be due to:
– Dirty or worn drive sheave of the mower deck.
– Damaged or loose drive belt.
– Unbalanced or warped mower blades.
– Loose blade bolts.

Why is the discharge chute regularly getting plugged?

This can happen if:
– Mowing speed is too high.
– Grass is too long.
– Engine rpm is reduced.
– Cutting level is set too low.
– Drive belt is installed improperly.

Why is my battery not charging?

Reasons for this issue include:
– Corroded or loose electrical cable connections.
– Faulty battery terminal connectors.
– Bad cell in the battery.

Why does the starter motor turn slowly?

This could be due to:
– Low battery capacity.
– Discharged or defective battery.
– Corroded battery terminals or disconnected wires.

Why doesn’t the starter crank?

Possible causes are:
– Discharged or defective battery.
– Improperly connected or disconnected wiring.
– Low battery capacity.
– Faulty or incorrectly gapped spark plug.
– Damaged starter motor or solenoid.

The John Deere LX178 is a model from the LX100 series of lawn tractors. Manufactured between 1991 and 1998, this tractor is a testament to John Deere’s commitment to quality and performance in the realm of lawn care and maintenance.

Key Specifications:

At the heart of the LX178 is a Kawasaki FD440V 4-Stroke OHV V-Twin cylinder air-cooled gasoline engine, paired with a Tuff Torq K61 belt-driven hydrostatic transmission. This combination allows for infinite forward and reverse gears. The engine boasts a capacity of 26.7 cubic inches (437 cc) and delivers a power of 15 hp (11.2 kW). The tractor can achieve a maximum travel speed of 5.5 mph (8.8 km/h) forward and 2.5 mph (4 km/h) in reverse.

Performance:

The LX178 offers smooth handling and reliable performance, thanks to its manual steering system and mechanical band brakes. Whether you’re mowing your lawn or navigating through uneven terrains, this tractor ensures a consistent and efficient operation.

Features:

One of the standout features of the LX178 is its compatibility with various attachments. From a 38″ mid-mount 2-blade right-discharge mower deck to a 42″ front-mount blade, this tractor is versatile and adaptable to different lawn care needs. The cutting height adjustments and manual lift systems further enhance its functionality.

Reliability:

While the LX178 is a robust and durable model, like all machines, it can encounter issues. Common problems include engine starting difficulties, unstable engine running, and transmission noises. However, with regular maintenance and timely troubleshooting, these issues can be addressed effectively.

Value for Money:

Considering its specifications, features, and the brand reputation of John Deere, the LX178 offers good value for money. When compared to similar models in the market, it stands out for its performance and adaptability.

Pros and Cons:

  • Pros: Versatile attachment compatibility, reliable performance, and durable construction.
  • Cons: Potential for common engine and transmission issues, manual steering might not be to everyone’s preference.

Best Suited For:

The John Deere LX178 is best suited for homeowners with medium to large lawns. Its adaptability to different attachments makes it ideal for varied lawn care tasks, from mowing to snow blowing, especially in regions with diverse weather conditions.

In conclusion, the John Deere LX178 lawn tractor is a reliable and versatile machine that offers a blend of performance and adaptability. With regular maintenance and care, it can be a valuable asset for any homeowner looking for a dependable lawn care solution.