Introduction
John Deere 260 Garden Tractor
The John Deere 260 is a garden tractor model produced between 1988 and 1991 at the manufacturer's facility in Horicon, Wisconsin, USA. It is part of a series that includes the 245 and 265 models, and serves as a predecessor to the GT262 series.
Engine and Powertrain
The tractor is powered by an air-cooled, vertical-shaft engine producing 17 hp (12.7 kW). It features a displacement of 534 cc (32.6 ci) with a bore and stroke of 89 x 86 mm and a compression ratio of 8.3:1. The engine is designed for a rated speed of 3350 RPM. Power is transmitted through a belt-driven gear transmission, specifically the Tuff Torq E0905 model, which provides 6 forward gears and 1 reverse gear.
Mechanical and Steering
The 260 is a two-wheel-drive machine utilizing a manual, enclosed recirculating ball steering system for maneuverability. Braking is managed by expanding mechanical shoe brakes. The operator station is of the open type, with a vinyl weather enclosure offered as an optional configuration.
Hydraulics and PTO
The tractor is equipped with an independent mid-PTO, which is engaged via an electric clutch. This setup facilitates the operation of the 46-inch mower deck. An optional sleeve hitch is available to expand the tractor's utility for various garden implements.
Electrical System
The electrical system operates on 12 volts, powered by a battery with 342 CCA (Cold Cranking Amps) in a U1 group size. The charging system utilizes an alternator providing 15 charging amps, with a negative ground configuration.
Dimensions and Tires
The machine has a wheelbase of 47.9 inches (121 cm) and an overall length of 71.5 inches (181 cm). It measures 41.5 inches (105 cm) in width and 43.6 inches (110 cm) in height. The shipping weight is 274 kg (605 lbs). Tire configurations include 16x6.50-8 front lawn/turf tires and 23x10.50-12 rear tires, available in both agricultural and lawn/turf tread patterns.
Conclusion
The John Deere 260 is a versatile garden tractor designed for residential landscaping and property maintenance. Its combination of a 17 hp engine, gear-driven transmission, and independent mid-PTO makes it well-suited for mowing and light utility tasks.
Production Information of John Deere, 260
- Garden tractor
- Built in Horicon, Wisconsin, USA
| Manufacturer | John Deere |
|---|
Dimension and Tires Information of John Deere, 260
| Wheelbase | 47.9 inches [121 cm] |
|---|---|
| Shipping weight | 605 lbs [274 kg] |
| Height | 43.6 inches [110 cm] |
| Length | 71.5 inches [181 cm] |
| Width | 41.5 inches [105 cm] |
| Ag rear | 23x10.50-12 |
|---|---|
| Lawn/turf front | 16x6.50-8 |
| Lawn/turf rear | 23x10.50-12 |
Engine Specifications of John Deere, 260
- Air-cooled vertical-shaft
| Power (gross) | 17 hp [12.7 kW] |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 534 cc [32.6 ci] |
| Oil capacity | 1.7 qts [1.6 L] |
| Compression | 8.3:1 |
| Bore/Stroke | 3.5x3.38 inches [89 x 86 mm] |
| Oil change | 50 h |
| Starter volts | 12 |
| Rated RPM | 3350 |
Transmission Information of John Deere, 260
Transmission variants 1
| Transmission | Tuff Torq E0905 |
|---|---|
| Oil type | 90W gear lube |
| Oil capacity | 3.4 qts [3.2 L] |
| Type | Belt-driven gear |
| Type(optional) | 90W gear lube |
| Gears | 6 forward and 1 reverse |
Mechanical Specs of John Deere, 260
- Two-wheel drive
- Open operator station. Vinyl weather enclosure optional.
- Expanding mechanical shoe brakes
| Steering | Manual enclosed recirculating ball |
|---|
Power Information of John Deere, 260
| Mid PTO | Independent |
|---|---|
| Clutch | Electric |
Three-Point Hitch of John Deere, 260
| Type(optional) | Sleeve hitch |
|---|
Electrical System of John Deere, 260
| Ground | Negative |
|---|---|
| Battery volts | 12 |
| Battery CCA | 342 |
| Charging system | Alternator |
| Battery Group | U1 |
| Charging amps | 15 |
Where it sits
With 17 HP, the John Deere 260 sits just above 245 (14 HP) in John Deere's range. 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 260 have?
The John Deere 260 delivers 17 HP.
What years was the John Deere 260 produced?
The John Deere 260 was produced in 1988-1991.
What transmission does the John Deere 260 use?
The John Deere 260 uses a Tuff Torq E0905 transmission.
How much does the John Deere 260 weigh?
The John Deere 260 weighs 605 lbs [274 kg].
Is the John Deere 260 4WD?
The John Deere 260 is available in 2WD.