John Deere S180 Review
The S180 is the widest and most powerful 100 Series tractor, with a 54-in. deck and 24 hp ELS V-twin. It suits open lawns of two acres or more.
- Deck size
- 54 in
- Horsepower
- 24 HP
- Drive
- 2WD, hydrostatic
- Fuel type
- Gasoline
Rating breakdown
Key specifications
| Power type | Gasoline |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 24 HP |
| Engine | V-twin OHV, air-cooled, ELS (Deere M44) |
| Displacement | 44.2 cu in (724 cc), 2 cylinders |
| Fuel type | Gasoline |
| Transmission | Tuff Torq K46 heavy-duty hydrostatic, foot pedals |
| Drive | 2WD, hydrostatic |
| Deck size | 54 in |
| Deck construction | Edge, 11-gauge steel, stamped shell, side discharge |
| Cutting height | 1 to 4 in (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 | 16x6.5-8 |
| Rear tires | 22x9.5-12 |
| Weight | 526 lb (no fuel) |
| Dimensions | 54-in. deck; wheelbase 48.9 in |
| Fuel capacity | 2.4 US gal (9.1 L) |
| Recommended property size | About 2 acres or more of open lawn |
| Battery | 12V, 14 A charging |
| Seat back height | 15 in, lumbar adjustment |
| Front bumper | Standard |
| Cruise control | Standard |
Pros and cons
What we like
- Widest 100 Series deck at 54 in.
- 24 hp ELS V-twin engine
- Heavy-duty K46 transmission
- Thick 11-gauge deck shell
- Easy Change oil and cruise control
What could be better
- Highest price in the S-series covered here
- Very wide for tight gates and beds
- Only 2.4 gal fuel tank
- No receiver hitch listed
- Heavier at 526 lb
S180 review
Our take on the John Deere S180
The John Deere S180 is the biggest tractor in the 100 Series. It has a 54-inch Edge deck. That is the widest deck in the family. It shares the 24 hp V-twin ELS engine and K46 transmission with the S170. Easy Change oil and cruise control are standard.
Engine and drive
The engine is a 24 hp V-twin from the Extended Life Series. It is air-cooled and has overhead valves. The Tuff Torq K46 heavy-duty hydrostatic transaxle handles the drive. Speed is 0 to 5.5 mph forward and 0 to 3.2 mph in reverse.
Tires are 16×6.5-8 in front and 22×9.5-12 in back. The tractor weighs 526 lb without fuel. That is about 23 lb more than the S170.
The 54-inch deck
The deck is built from thicker 11-gauge steel. That is heavier than the 12-gauge deck on the S170. It is a stamped shell with an easy-level design. The blade-engage switch is electric.
Deere lists a 54-inch bagger and a 54-inch mulch kit for this tractor. A wider deck cuts the number of passes on open lawns. The trade-off is that it is harder to trim around tight beds.
Comfort and features
You get a 15-inch seat with a lumbar knob. A front bumper, easy-read fuel gauge and premium steering wheel are included. Fender flares and handgrips add comfort on slopes. The S180 also works with the MowerPlus app when you add the optional smart connector.
Limits to know about
The fuel tank is only 2.4 gallons. Deere does not list a receiver hitch or a differential lock. It costs the most of the 100 Series tractors covered here. Check gate width before you buy, because a 54-inch deck is wide.
Who should buy it
Buy the S180 if you mow two acres or more of open lawn and want the fewest passes. Choose the S170 if you want a narrower 48-inch deck and a lower price.
Buying information
Ownership
Frequently asked questions
What size deck does the John Deere S180 have?
A 54-inch Edge deck made from 11-gauge steel.
How much horsepower does the S180 have?
24 hp from a V-twin Extended Life Series (ELS) engine.
Does the S180 have cruise control?
Yes. Cruise control is standard.
How much does the S180 weigh?
526 lb without fuel.
Is the S180 better than the S170?
It has a wider deck and a thicker deck shell. It costs more, so it makes sense mainly for large, open lawns.
Owner reviews
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