The John Deere S120 and S130 are two mowing tractors in the 100 series. Both models are powered by a 19-horsepower engine and offer comfortable seating, plenty of storage space, and easy-to-use controls for a convenient mowing experience. The S120 is an entry-level model that is perfect for smaller yards or for those wanting to get their feet wet with a lower-end machine. It features a 42” mowing deck, manual power take off (PTO) and forward and reverse gear options. The S130 is an upgraded model from the S120, offering a 48” mowing deck and greater maneuverability with its hydrostatic two-pedal transmission. This model is perfect for larger yards and for those who want a smoother, more efficient mowing experience. Both models are capable of mowing up to 4 acres without needing to recharge. Additionally, both mowers are compatible with a variety of John Deere accessories and attachments such as a grass bagger, mulch kit, and snowblower attachment, allowing you to use the mower in a variety of weather and terrain.
John Deere S120 Vs S130 Specs
John Deere S120 Specs:
– 18.5 horsepower – V-Twin, engine
– 42-inch cutting deck
– 8 cutting height positions
– 7-speed transmission
– 5.5 mph forward mowing speed
– 4-year/300-hour limited warranty
– Cruise control
John Deere S130 Specs:
– 22.0 horsepower – V-Twin, engine
– 42-inch or 48-inch cutting deck
– 9 cutting height positions
– Foot-pedal controlled hydrostatic transmission
– Up to 5 mph forward mowing speed
– 4-year/300-hour limited warranty
– Cruise control
Conclusion:
The John Deere S120 and S130 share many similarities, such as having a V-Twin engine and 4-year/300-hour limited warranty. However, the S130 has increased power with a 22-horsepower engine, has a faster mowing speed, and has one extra cutting height position compared to the S120. The S130 also has the option of a 48-inch cutting deck, while the S120 is limited to a 42-inch deck. Both mowers are also equipped with cruise control.
John Deere S120 Vs S130 Features
John Deere S120:
– 19 horsepower
– 42″ cutting deck with Edge Xtra mowing system
– 10 hour perfect cut system
– 18-position adjustable cutting height up to 4 inches
– Manual power take-off
– Headlights
– Smooth-running V-twin engine
– Cast-iron front axle
John Deere S130:
– 22 horsepower
– 42″ cutting deck with Edge Xtra mowing system
– 10 hour perfect cut system
– 18-position adjustable cutting height up to 4 inches
– Manual power take-off
– Headlights
– Smooth-running V-twin engine
– Cast-iron front axle
– Hydrostatic transmission
Conclusion:
The John Deere S120 and S130 models come with a variety of similar features, including a 42” cutting deck with Edge Xtra mowing system, 10 hour perfect cut system, 18-position adjustable cutting height, manual power take-off, headlights and a smooth-running V-twin engine. The main difference between the two is the S130’s hydrostatic transmission. This feature makes the S130 particularly well-suited for more challenging terrain, as it allows you to precisely control the speed and direction of the mower. The S120 is more suitable for flat, even lawns.
John Deere S120 Vs S130 Maintenance
The John Deere S120 and S130 are both lawn tractors that provide superior performance and reliability. Both models require regular maintenance and upkeep in order to maintain their longevity and dependability. For the S120, maintenance actions include keeping blades sharp, checking the engine oil and coolant levels, checking the air filter, greasing the mower deck, and checking/replacing any parts as necessary. The S130 requires many of the same maintenance tasks as the S120, but with an added step of checking and changing the flight-path modulation, a feature designed to make the tractor easier to operate, before each use. Generally, the S130 requires more frequent inspection and maintenance actions than the S120. In conclusion, both the John Deere S120 and S130 require regular maintenance to ensure they operate at their highest quality. The maintenance routines required for each model vary slightly, with the S130 needing slightly more frequent inspection/maintenance due to its flight-path modulation feature.
John Deere S120 Vs S130 Performance
John Deere S120:
-21.5 horsepower engine
-48-inch Edge Xtra deck cutting width
-Manual starting system
-Cup holder
-Steel front axle
-2.4-gallon fuel tank
John Deere S130:
-24.9 horsepower engine
-42-inch Edge Xtra deck cutting width
-Ideal Traction drive system
-Cushioned suspension seat
-14-inch front wheels
-3.3-gallon fuel tank
Conclusion:
The John Deere S120 and S130 lawn tractors are the perfect choice for homeowners looking for an efficient mowing machine. The S120 features a 21.5 horsepower engine, a 48-inch Edge Xtra deck cutting width, a manual starting system, a cup holder, and a steel front axle with a 2.4-gallon fuel tank capacity. On the other hand, the S130 is equipped with a 24.9 horsepower engine, a 42-inch Edge Xtra deck cutting width, an Ideal Traction drive system, a cushioned suspension seat, 14-inch front wheels, and a 3.3-gallon fuel tank capacity. While both lawn tractors provide ample mowing power, the S130 offers some additional features, such as a larger fuel tank and a traction drive system, that may provide better performance for certain tasks.
What are They Best For
The John Deere S120 is a great lawn tractor for smaller lawns or yards that do not have larger, challenging terrain. It features a powerful engine and can handle tasks like mowing and pulling light carts. It is best for working on level terrain or small hills.
The John Deere S130 is a larger lawn tractor that is ideal for larger yards with uneven terrain. It has increased power and is equipped with heavy-duty components, such as larger lawn blades and heavier carts. This makes it great for more intense tasks like bagging leaves and grass clippings and hauling heavier loads.
The John Deere S120 and S130 are both residential riding lawn mowers equipped with features that make mowing easier than ever before. The S120 is slightly more budget-friendly and has a 38-inch cutting deck, whereas the S130 offers a 42-inch deck for a higher price. The S130 is slightly more power efficient and offers larger tires for better maneuverability, but the S120 is still a great option if you’re working with a tighter budget. Overall, the decision of which to choose will depend on your own personal needs and preferences.