Introduction
John Deere 185 Lawn Tractor
The John Deere 185 is a lawn tractor belonging to the 180 series, manufactured in Horicon, Wisconsin, USA, between 1986 and 1990. Designed for residential property maintenance, this two-wheel-drive unit was offered with either 38-inch or 46-inch mower decks.
Engine and Performance
The tractor is powered by a 17 hp (12.7 kW) single-cylinder, air-cooled engine with a displacement of 534 cc (32.64 ci). It operates at a rated speed of 3350 RPM. The engine cooling system relies on an air-cooled vertical-shaft design, and it utilizes a dry air cleaner with a foam precleaner for engine protection.
Transmission and Drivetrain
The 185 features a belt-driven hydrostatic transmission providing infinite forward and reverse speeds. Early models produced through 1987 utilized an Eaton transmission with a Peerless differential, while units from 1988 onwards transitioned to a Sundstrand transmission paired with a Kanzaki differential.
Hydraulics and PTO
This model is equipped with an independent mid-mounted PTO (Power Take-Off). Engagement of the PTO is managed via an electric clutch, allowing the operator to control mower deck operation efficiently.
Dimensions and Handling
With a wheelbase of 44.7 inches (113 cm), the tractor features manual steering and an open operator station. Braking is provided by integral mechanical transmission disc brakes. The machine weighs approximately 625 lbs (283 kg) with a 38-inch deck, or 645 lbs (292 kg) when equipped with a 42-inch configuration.
Conclusion
The John Deere 185 is a robust, period-specific lawn tractor designed for medium to large residential properties. Its hydrostatic transmission and independent PTO offer operational flexibility, while optional accessories—such as a 6.5-bushel rear bagger and a single-stage snowblower—allow for year-round utility.
Production Information of John Deere, 185
- Lawn tractor
- The John Deere 185 was available with either 38 or 46-inch rear deck. A 6.5-bushel rear bagger (BM16790) was optional. When the bagger was used on hills, front wheel weights were recommended. Dual 40-pound rear weight plates plus rear tire chains were available for use with the optional 38-inch single-stage snowblower.
- Built in Horicon, Wisconsin, USA
| Manufacturer | John Deere |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer(optional) | $4,100 (1990 42-inch ) |
| Original price | $3,900 (1990 38-inch ) |
Dimension and Tires Information of John Deere, 185
| Wheelbase | 44.7 inches [113 cm] |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase(optional) | 645 lbs (42-inch deck) [292 kg] |
| Shipping weight | 625 lbs (38-inch deck) [283 kg] |
| Length | 66 inches [167 cm] |
| Height | 39.8 inches [101 cm] |
| Lawn/turf front | 15x6.00-6 |
|---|---|
| Lawn/turf rear | 18x8.50-8 (38-inch deck) |
| Lawn/turf rear(optional) | 20x10.00-8 (46-inch deck) |
Engine Specifications of John Deere, 185
- Air-cooled vertical-shaft
- Image courtesy of Scott
- 1-cylinder
| Oil capacity | 1.7 qts [1.6 L] |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 534 cc [32.64 ci] |
| Air cleaner | Dry with foam precleaner |
| Bore/Stroke | 3.50x3.38 inches [89 x 86 mm] |
| Starter volts | 12 |
| Rated RPM | 3350 |
| Power (gross) | 17 hp [12.7 kW] |
Transmission Information of John Deere, 185
Transmission variants 1
- Eaton transmission with Peerless differential through 1987. Sundstrand transmission with Kanzaki differential beginning with the 1988 model year.
| Transmission | Sundstrand |
|---|---|
| Oil capacity | 0.75 qts [0.7 L] |
| Type | Belt-driven hydrostatic |
| Gears | Infinite forward and reverse |
Transmission variants 2
| 4 | Parking brake |
|---|---|
| 3 | Brake |
| 1 | Forward/Reverse |
| 2 | Throttle |
Mechanical Specs of John Deere, 185
- Two-wheel drive
- Open operator station.
- Manual steering
- Integral mechanical transmission disc brakes
Power Information of John Deere, 185
| Mid PTO | Independent |
|---|---|
| Clutch | Electric |
Electrical System of John Deere, 185
| Ground | Negative |
|---|---|
| Battery volts | 12 |
| Battery CCA | 255 |
| Charging system | Flywheel alternator |
| Charging amps | 15 |
Where it sits
Its power puts it in the 82th percentile of 1980s models in our database (977 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the John Deere 185 have?
The John Deere 185 delivers 17 HP.
What years was the John Deere 185 produced?
The John Deere 185 was produced in 1986-1990.
What engine does the John Deere 185 have?
The John Deere 185 is powered by a 1-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the John Deere 185 use?
The John Deere 185 uses a Sundstrand transmission.
How much does the John Deere 185 weigh?
The John Deere 185 weighs 625 lbs (38-inch deck) [283 kg].
Is the John Deere 185 4WD?
The John Deere 185 is available in 2WD.