Introduction
John Deere 116H Lawn Tractor
The John Deere 116H is a lawn tractor produced between 1983 and 1985 in Horicon, Wisconsin. Designed for residential lawn care and garden maintenance, this two-wheel-drive machine belongs to the 116 series and was positioned as a reliable solution for property owners requiring maneuverability and ease of use.
Engine Performance
The tractor is powered by a 2-cylinder, air-cooled, vertical-shaft engine with a displacement of 655 cc (40 ci). It generates 16 hp (11.9 kW) and utilizes a 12-volt electric starter. The engine relies on an Autolite 308 or AC R046 spark plug with a gap of 0.030 inches. Maintenance requirements include an oil capacity of 1.5 quarts (1.4 L).
Transmission and Drivetrain
The 116H features an Eaton belt-driven hydrostatic transmission. This single-range system is operated via a right-hand control lever, allowing for infinite forward and reverse speeds. The drivetrain includes a Peerless differential which utilizes 75W-90 gear oil. The transmission system is designed for smooth speed modulation without the need for manual gear shifting.
Controls and Operator Station
The operator station is of the open type, providing clear visibility and accessibility. Steering is controlled manually, and the tractor is equipped with disc brakes for deceleration. An independent front power take-off (PTO) is engaged via an electric clutch, allowing for the operation of compatible attachments such as the 38-inch or 46-inch mower decks.
Dimensions and Chassis
With a wheelbase of 44.7 inches (113 cm), a total length of 63.5 inches (161 cm), and a height of 40.2 inches (102 cm), the unit is compact and agile. The tractor weighs approximately 510 lbs (231 kg). It is fitted with lawn and turf tires, utilizing 15x6.00-6 dimensions at the front and 18x8.50-8 at the rear.
Conclusion
The John Deere 116H is a specialized lawn tractor suited for homeowners and small-property maintenance. Its combination of a hydrostatic transmission and a 16 hp engine provides the necessary performance for mowing tasks, while its compact dimensions ensure efficiency in confined spaces.
Production Information of John Deere, 116H
- Original price was $3,239 in 1983 with 38-inch deck
- Lawn tractor
- Built in Horicon, Wisconsin, USA
| Manufacturer | John Deere |
|---|
Dimension and Tires Information of John Deere, 116H
| Wheelbase | 44.7 inches [113 cm] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 510 lbs [231 kg] |
| Length | 63.5 inches [161 cm] |
| Height | 40.2 inches [102 cm] |
| Lawn/turf front | 15x6.00-6 |
|---|---|
| Lawn/turf rear | 18x8.50-8 |
| Lawn/turf rear(optional) | 20x10.00-8 |
Engine Specifications of John Deere, 116H
- Air-cooled vertical-shaft
- 2-cylinder
| Displacement | 655 cc [40 ci] |
|---|---|
| Oil capacity | 1.5 qts [1.4 L] |
| Starter | Electric |
| Bore/Stroke | 3.44x2.16 inches [87 x 55 mm] |
| Sparkplug gap | 0.030 inches [0.762 mm] |
| Sparkplug gap(optional) | Autolite 308 |
| Sparkplug | AC R046 |
| Starter volts | 12 |
| Power | 16 hp [11.9 kW] |
Transmission Information of John Deere, 116H
Transmission variants 1
- Single-range hydrostatic transmission operated with right-hand control lever. Eaton hydrostatic with a Peerless differential. The differential uses 75W-90 gear oil and is servicable with drain plugs.
| Manufacturer | Eaton |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer(optional) | 1.25 qts [1.2 L] |
| Oil capacity | 1 qts [0.9 L] |
| Type | Belt-driven hydrostatic |
| Oil type | Hy-Gard Low Vis |
| Gears | Infinite forward and reverse |
Differential
Hydrostatic
Mechanical Specs of John Deere, 116H
- Two-wheel drive
- Open operator station.
- Manual steering
- Disc brakes
Power Information of John Deere, 116H
| Front PTO | Independent |
|---|---|
| Clutch | Electric |
Electrical System of John Deere, 116H
| Ground | Negative |
|---|---|
| Charging amps | 5 |
| Battery volts | 12 |
Where it sits
Its power puts it in the 78th percentile of 1980s models in our database (977 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the John Deere 116H have?
The John Deere 116H delivers 16 HP.
What years was the John Deere 116H produced?
The John Deere 116H was produced in 1983-1985.
What engine does the John Deere 116H have?
The John Deere 116H is powered by a 2-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the John Deere 116H use?
The John Deere 116H uses a Belt-driven hydrostatic transmission.
How much does the John Deere 116H weigh?
The John Deere 116H weighs 510 lbs [231 kg].
Is the John Deere 116H 4WD?
The John Deere 116H is available in 2WD.