John Deere S130 Review
The S130 pairs a 22 hp V-twin and Easy Change oil with a bumper, cruise control and wide rear tires. It suits yards up to about 2 acres.
- Deck size
- 42 in
- Horsepower
- 22 HP
- Drive
- 2WD, hydrostatic
- Fuel type
- Gasoline
Rating breakdown
Key specifications
| Power type | Gasoline |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 22 HP |
| Engine | V-twin OHV, air-cooled (Deere M44) |
| Displacement | 44.2 cu in (724 cc), 2 cylinders |
| Fuel type | Gasoline |
| Transmission | Tuff Torq TLT200 hydrostatic, foot pedals |
| Drive | 2WD, hydrostatic |
| Deck size | 42 in |
| Deck construction | Edge, 13-gauge steel (0.090 in), two-spindle, side discharge |
| Cutting height | 1 to 4 in, 13 positions (0.25 in steps) |
| Blades | 3-in-1 blades |
| Discharge | Side discharge; mulching and bagging with optional kits |
| Top speed | 5.5 mph forward, 3.2 mph reverse |
| Turning radius | 18 in |
| Front tires | 15x6-6 |
| Rear tires | 20x10-8 |
| Weight | 462 lb (no fuel) |
| Dimensions | 74.2 in L x 55.2 in W; wheelbase 48.9 in |
| Fuel capacity | 2.4 US gal (9.1 L) |
| Recommended property size | Up to about 2 acres |
| Towing capacity | 500 lb |
| Battery | 12V, 300 CCA, 8 A charging |
| Headlights | LED |
| Uncut circle radius | 25 in |
| Seat back height | 15 in |
Pros and cons
What we like
- 22 hp V-twin with Easy Change oil
- Cruise control is standard
- Front bumper and fender flares
- Wide 20x10-8 rear tires
- Tight 18-in. turning radius
What could be better
- Same engine and deck as the cheaper S120
- Only a 2.4 gal fuel tank
- No receiver hitch or 12V outlet
- No backup lights
- No differential lock
S130 review
Our take on the John Deere S130
The John Deere S130 is the 100 Series tractor with the most trim for a 42-inch deck. It has a 22 hp V-twin, the Easy Change oil system and cruise control. It also adds a front bumper, fender flares and wider rear tires. Most people searching for a John Deere S130 review are deciding between this tractor and the S120. The engine and deck are the same. The extras are what you pay for.
Engine and drive
The engine is a 44.2 cubic inch (724 cc) overhead-valve V-twin. It is air-cooled and uses full-pressure lubrication. A V-twin runs smoother than a single and holds speed better in thick grass.
Drive is a Tuff Torq TLT200 hydrostatic transmission with side-by-side pedals. Speed is 0 to 5.5 mph forward and 0 to 3.2 mph in reverse. Cruise control is standard. Brakes are internal wet discs. There is no differential lock.
What the S130 adds
Three upgrades set it apart. The front bumper protects the nose. Fender flares cover the tires and add handgrips, which help on hillsides. The rear tires are 20×10-8, wider than the 20×8-8 tires on the S140.
The seat is a two-piece open-back with a 15-inch back. It slides 5.5 inches while you sit. A fuel gauge on the dash makes it easy to check the tank.
Deck and attachments
The deck is a 42-inch Edge design in 13-gauge steel. Cutting height runs from 1 to 4 inches in 13 steps. It discharges to the side. A mulch cover and a 6.5-bushel bagger are sold separately. A wash port helps with cleanup.
Deere also offers a 44-inch snow blower, a 46-inch front blade, chains and a weather enclosure. Towing is rated at 500 lb.
Limits to know about
The fuel tank holds 2.4 gallons. There is no receiver hitch and no 12-volt outlet. The tractor has reflectors, but no backup lights.
Who should buy it
Buy the S130 if you mow up to about two acres and want a bumper, cruise control and tough tires. Choose the S140 if you want a wider 48-inch deck instead. The 2-year or 120-hour warranty transfers if you sell.
Buying information
Ownership
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the John Deere S130 have?
22 hp from a 724 cc V-twin engine.
Does the S130 have cruise control?
Yes. Cruise control is standard on the S130.
Does the S130 have Easy Change oil?
Yes. The Easy Change system lets you swap oil and filter in about 30 seconds without tools.
What is the difference between the S130 and S120?
The S130 adds a front bumper, fender flares with handgrips and wider 20x10-8 rear tires. The engine and deck are the same.
How big a yard suits the S130?
Up to about 2 acres of mostly flat to gently rolling ground.
Owner reviews
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