Introduction
John Deere 285 Garden Tractor
The John Deere 285 is a garden tractor produced between 1987 and 1992 in Horicon, Wisconsin, USA. It holds historical significance as the first John Deere lawn and garden tractor to be equipped with an electronic fuel-injected (EFI) engine, introduced as an option for the 1989 model year.
Engine and Performance
The tractor is powered by a liquid-cooled, vertical-shaft engine generating 18 horsepower (13.4 kW). It features a displacement of 585 cc (35.7 ci) with a compression ratio of 8.7:1. While standard models utilized a carburetor, the optional EFI system enhanced fuel efficiency. The engine operates at a rated speed of 3400 RPM, with an idle range between 1400 and 3350 RPM. Maintenance requirements include oil changes every 50 hours, utilizing a 2.6-quart capacity system.
Transmission and Drivetrain
The 285 utilizes a Sundstrand BDU-21 belt-driven hydrostatic transmission. This system provides infinite forward and reverse gears, allowing for smooth speed control without manual shifting. The transmission requires low-viscosity Hy-Gard oil, with a capacity of 2.6 quarts, and has a recommended service interval of 250 hours. The tractor is configured with two-wheel drive.
Chassis and Operator Station
The chassis features a 47.9-inch wheelbase and weighs approximately 625 lbs (283 kg). Steering is managed through a manual enclosed recirculating ball system, and braking is handled by expanding mechanical shoe brakes. The operator station is an open design, with an optional vinyl weather enclosure available for varying environmental conditions.
Power Take-Off and Hydraulics
The unit is equipped with an independent mid-mounted Power Take-Off (PTO) system. Engagement is facilitated by an electric clutch, which allows for precise control of implements, such as the compatible 46-inch or 50-inch mower decks. A sleeve hitch was also available as an optional feature for additional utility.
Conclusion
The John Deere 285 is a versatile garden tractor designed for residential landscaping and property maintenance. Its combination of a liquid-cooled engine, hydrostatic transmission, and advanced (for its era) fuel injection makes it a capable machine for mowing and light utility tasks.
Production Information of John Deere, 285
- The 285 was John Deere's first lawn and garden tractor with an electronic fuel injected (EFI) engine. The 285 EFI was manufactured for the 1989 model year.
- Garden tractor
- Built in Horicon, Wisconsin, USA
| Manufacturer | John Deere |
|---|
Dimension and Tires Information of John Deere, 285
| Wheelbase | 47.9 inches [121 cm] |
|---|---|
| Shipping weight | 625 lbs [283 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, 285
- Liquid-cooled vertical-shaft
- The engine was available in a fuel-injected version for the 1989 model year.
| Coolant capacity | 3.3 qts [3.1 L] |
|---|---|
| Starter volts | 12 |
| Power (gross) | 18 hp [13.4 kW] |
| Oil change | 50 h |
| Air cleaner | Foam precleaner with paper filter |
| Air cleaner(optional) | Electronic-fuel injected |
| Oil capacity | 2.6 qts [2.5 L] |
| Bore/Stroke | 2.91x2.68 inches [74 x 68 mm] |
| Fuel system | Carburetor |
| Displacement | 585 cc [35.7 ci] |
| Idle RPM | 1400-3350 |
| Rated RPM | 3400 |
| Compression | 8.7:1 |
Transmission Information of John Deere, 285
Transmission variants 1
| Oil change | 250 h |
|---|---|
| Transmission | Sundstrand BDU-21 |
| Oil type | Low-Viscosity Hy-Gard |
| Oil capacity | 2.6 qts [2.5 L] |
| Type | Belt-driven hydrostatic |
| Type(optional) | Low-Viscosity Hy-Gard |
| Gears | Infinite forward and reverse |
Mechanical Specs of John Deere, 285
- Two-wheel drive
- Open operator station. Vinyl weather enclosure optional.
- Expanding mechanical shoe brakes
| Steering | Manual enclosed recirculating ball |
|---|
Power Information of John Deere, 285
| Mid PTO | Independent |
|---|---|
| Clutch | Electric |
Three-Point Hitch of John Deere, 285
| Type(optional) | Sleeve hitch |
|---|
Electrical System of John Deere, 285
| Ground | Negative |
|---|---|
| Battery volts | 12 |
| Battery CCA | 341 |
| Charging system | Alternator |
| Battery Group | 22F |
| Charging amps | 17 |
Where it sits
With 18 HP, the John Deere 285 sits just above 265 (17 HP) in John Deere's range. Its power puts it in the 93th percentile of 1980s models in our database (977 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the John Deere 285 have?
The John Deere 285 delivers 18 HP.
What years was the John Deere 285 produced?
The John Deere 285 was produced in 1987-1992.
What transmission does the John Deere 285 use?
The John Deere 285 uses a Sundstrand BDU-21 transmission.
How much does the John Deere 285 weigh?
The John Deere 285 weighs 625 lbs [283 kg].
Is the John Deere 285 4WD?
The John Deere 285 is available in 2WD.