John Deere L120 Review: The Truth About This Model

Looking for a lawn tractor that can handle tough mowing tasks with ease? Look no further than the John Deere L120! With its powerful engine, spacious cutting deck, and user-friendly design, the L120 is a popular choice for homeowners who want to keep their lawns tidy.

But how does this mower really stack up? In this comprehensive John Deere L120 review, we’ll take a closer look at all of its features, performance, user reviews, and more to help you determine if this mower fits your needs.

Features of John Deere L120

In this section, we will cover the features of the John Deere L120 in detail.

Engine Power and Capacity

The John Deere L120 is powered by a Briggs & Stratton 20-horsepower V-twin engine, which provides plenty of power for cutting through thick grass and tackling challenging terrain.

The engine has a displacement of 656cc and is equipped with an oil filter and air cleaner to keep it running smoothly. The fuel tank has a capacity of 2.5 gallons, which provides enough fuel for several hours of mowing.

Cutting Deck Size and Design

The John Deere L120 comes with a 48-inch cutting deck that is made of 13-gauge steel for durability. The deck has three blades to provide a smooth and even cut.

The cutting height can be easily adjusted between 1.5 and 4 inches, allowing you to customize the height of your grass to your preference.

Transmission and Speed

The John Deere L120 has a hydrostatic transmission, which means it is easy to operate and provides a smooth ride.

The transmission allows for infinite speed control, which means that you can mow at the speed that is most comfortable for you. The top speed is 5.5 mph forward and 3.2 mph in reverse.

Comfort and Convenience Features

According to our John Deere L120 review, this tractor is designed with comfort and convenience in mind. It has a high-back seat that is adjustable and provides a comfortable ride.

The steering wheel is also adjustable, allowing you to customize it to your preferred position. The machine also features a cup holder, allowing you to stay hydrated while you work.

Safety Features

Safety is always a top priority when operating any machinery, and the John Deere L120 is no exception. The machine has several safety features, including a seat switch that prevents the engine from starting unless the operator is in the seat.

The machine also has a parking brake that must be engaged before the operator can start the engine. Its headlights provide visibility in low light conditions, making it safer to operate during dusk or dawn.

Performance

The John Deere L120 is a lawn tractor that offers a high level of performance for residential use. In this section, we will cover the performance features of the John Deere L120 in detail.

Cutting Performance and Efficiency

The John Deere L120 is equipped with a 48-inch cutting deck that is designed to provide excellent cutting performance and efficiency.

The cutting deck is made of 13-gauge steel, which makes it durable and resistant to damage. The three-blade cutting system provides a smooth and even cut, allowing you to achieve a professional-looking lawn.

The cutting height can be easily adjusted between 1.5 and 4 inches, allowing you to customize the height of your grass to your preference. The machine’s hydrostatic transmission allows you to mow at a comfortable speed, further enhancing the cutting performance and efficiency.

Maneuverability and Ease of Use

The John Deere L120 is designed with maneuverability and ease of use in mind. The machine’s hydrostatic transmission allows for smooth and easy operation, and the infinite speed control allows you to mow at the most comfortable speed.

The machine’s small turning radius makes it easy to maneuver around obstacles, such as trees and bushes, and its tight turning circle allows you to mow easily in small spaces.

The adjustable steering wheel and high-back seat provide a comfortable ride, further enhancing the machine’s ease of use.

Durability and Reliability

The John Deere L120 is a durable and reliable machine that is designed to last. The cutting deck is made of 13-gauge steel, which makes it resistant to damage and corrosion.

The machine’s V-twin engine is made by Briggs & Stratton, a well-known and respected brand in the industry, and is designed to provide reliable and efficient performance.

The machine’s hydrostatic transmission is also designed for durability and reliability, with minimal maintenance required.

Fuel Efficiency

The John Deere L120 is designed to be fuel-efficient, with a 2.5-gallon fuel tank that provides enough fuel for several hours of mowing. The machine’s V-twin engine is designed to provide efficient performance, using less fuel than other engines with similar power output.

Additionally, the machine’s hydrostatic transmission allows for smooth and efficient operation, further enhancing fuel efficiency.

Comparison With Similar Models 

This John Deere L120 review compares this tractor to similar class models. When comparing the John Deere L120 to similar models from other brands, one model that stands out is the Craftsman T225.

Like the L120, the T225 features a 20-horsepower engine and a 46-inch cutting deck. However, the T225 features a slightly smaller fuel tank, which may require more frequent refueling.

Another comparable model is the Husqvarna YTH18542. Like the L120, the YTH18542 features a 42-inch cutting deck and a hydrostatic transmission. However, the YTH18542 has a slightly smaller engine, with a 18.5-horsepower Briggs & Stratton engine. It also features a smaller fuel tank and a less comfortable operator station.

Value for Money Compared to Other Models

Overall, the John Deere L120 offers good value for money compared to other models in its class. While it may be slightly more expensive than some comparable models, it offers a range of features and capabilities that make it well worth the investment.

The durable cutting deck, reliable engine, and comfortable operator station all contribute to the overall value of the tractor. Additionally, the John Deere brand is known for its quality and reliability, which adds to the value proposition of the L120.

John Deere L120 Pros & Cons

Pros of John Deere L120:

  • A durable and long-lasting 48-inch cutting deck made of 13-gauge steel
  • Powerful and reliable Briggs & Stratton engine with a full-pressure lubrication system and a spin-on oil filter
  • Hydrostatic transmission for easy and smooth shifting between forward and reverse
  • Comfortable operator station with adjustable seat, easy-to-grip steering wheel, and easy-to-reach controls
  • Five different height settings for the cutting deck, allowing you to cut grass to your desired length
  • John Deere brand is known for its quality and reliability

Cons of John Deere L120:

  • It may be slightly more expensive than some comparable models
  • Some users have reported issues with the transmission, such as difficulty shifting or loss of power
  • The 20-horsepower engine may not be powerful enough for heavy-duty tasks, such as hauling heavy loads or mowing overgrown fields
  • The fuel tank is not particularly large, which may require more frequent refueling

Verdict

With a durable cutting deck, powerful engine, and comfortable operator station, the JD L120 offers good value for money compared to other models in its class.

While it may have some drawbacks, such as a potentially higher price point and occasional transmission issues, the John Deere L120 is a quality product that lives up to the John Deere brand’s reputation.

This John Deere L120 review demonstrates its strengths and weaknesses to help potential buyers make an informed decision.