The John Deere STX38 Yellow Deck is a dependable and versatile lawn tractor designed for residential lawn care needs. Produced from 1989 to 1993 in Horicon, Wisconsin, USA, this model gained popularity for its affordability and reliability. Powered by a Kohler CV12.5-1215 gasoline engine, it delivers 12.5 horsepower and features a simple yet effective transmission system. With options like a 38-inch mid-mount mower deck and a front-mounted snowblower, it can handle various lawn maintenance tasks year-round. The comfortable foam-padded seat and an open operator station enhance user experience. While the STX38 Yellow Deck is known for its value, it’s worth noting that later black-deck versions offered additional features and improvements.
Production
Manufacturer
John Deere
Type
Lawn tractor
Model year
1989-1993
Original price
$2,350 in 1993
Engine Detail
Engine
Kohler CV12.5-1215
Fuel
Gasoline
Configuration
1-cylinder
Cooling
Air-cooled vertical-shaft
Displacement
398 cc (24.3 cubic inches)
Bore/Stroke
3.425×2.638 inches (87 x 67 mm)
Power
12.5 horsepower (9.3 kW)
Air cleaner
Paper and foam
Compression Ratio
8.9:1
Idle RPM
1350-3350
Starter volts
12
Sparkplug
Champion RC12YC
Sparkplug gap
0.040 inches (1.016 mm)
Transmission
Transmission
Peerless 920
Type
Belt-driven gear
Gears
5 forward and 1 reverse
Oil change
Sealed unit, owner service is not recommended
Mechanical
Drive
Two-wheel drive
Steering
Manual sector-and-pinion
Brakes
Integral mechanical disc brakes
Operator Station
Open with foam-padded seat
Power Take-off (PTO)
Rear PTO
Electric
Tires
Lawn/Turf Front Tires
13×6.5-6
Lawn/Turf Rear Tires
18×8.5-8
Dimensions
Wheelbase
44.69 inches (113 cm)
Length
60 inches (152 cm)
Width
52 inches (132 cm)
Height
38.6 inches (98 cm)
Weight
433 lbs (196 kg)
Electrical
Ground
Negative
Charging system
Flywheel alternator
Charging amps
15
Battery CCA
200
Battery volts
12
Attachment Options
Option
38″ Mid-Mount Mower Deck
Type
Mid-mount John Deere
Blades
2-blade with manual lift
Cutting width
38 inches (96 cm)
Cut height
1 to 4 inches (2 to 10 cm)
Cut positions
7
Option
38″ Snow Blower (John Deere 2461M)
Width
38 inches (96 cm
Type
Single-stage
Clear height
17 inches (43 cm)
Mounting
Front-mount with manual lift
Weight
210 lbs (95 kg)
Optional Accessories
Twin-bag 6.5-bushel rear grass bagger (BM16868), rear-tire chains, and a rear suitcase-style weight bracket for use with the snowblower.
The John Deere STX38 Yellow Deck stands out as a popular lawn tractor due to its unique blend of affordability, simplicity, and reliability. Its distinctive features and characteristics set it apart from other tractors in its category.
John Deere STX38 Advantages:
Affordability: The STX38 Yellow Deck was known for its relatively low purchase price, making it an attractive choice for homeowners on a budget.
Simplicity: This model is straightforward and easy to operate, making it suitable for users with minimal experience in lawn care equipment.
Compact Size: With its compact design, it’s maneuverable in tight spaces, making it ideal for residential lawns with obstacles like trees and flower beds.
Versatility: The availability of attachments like a 38-inch mid-mount mower deck and a snowblower enhances its versatility, allowing users to tackle various lawn maintenance tasks.
Kohler Engine: The Kohler CV12.5-1215 engine delivers reliable power for cutting grass or clearing snow, and it’s known for its durability.
John Deere STX38 Disadvantages:
Limited Features: Compared to more modern lawn tractors, the STX38 Yellow Deck lacks some advanced features, such as hydrostatic transmissions or power steering.
Maintenance: Some owners might find maintenance requirements, such as oil changes and belt adjustments, to be more frequent compared to newer models with improved engineering.
Limited Availability: Since it was produced only from 1989 to 1993, finding replacement parts or locating a well-maintained used unit might be challenging.
John Deere STX38 Historical Value:
The John Deere STX38 Yellow Deck holds historical value as a representation of the simplicity and reliability that John Deere has long been associated with. While newer models have surpassed it in terms of features and capabilities, collectors and enthusiasts appreciate it for its nostalgic charm and place in the brand’s history. Its limited production years also contribute to its historical significance among John Deere enthusiasts.
