John Deere GT242 lawn tractor

John Deere GT242

Power

14 hp

Production

1993-1998

Engine

Gasoline, 1-cylinder

Transmission

Tuff Torq E0905

Weight

445 lbs*Weight of tractor only. [201 kg]

Drive

2WD

From the same series:

GT262

Introduction

John Deere GT242 Garden Tractor

The John Deere GT242 is a garden tractor manufactured in Horicon, Wisconsin, USA, between 1993 and 1998. Positioned within the John Deere garden tractor lineup, this model was designed for residential lawn care and grounds maintenance tasks.

Engine and Performance

The tractor is powered by a Kawasaki FC420V engine, a single-cylinder, air-cooled gasoline unit with a displacement of 422 cc (25.8 ci). It delivers a power output of 14 horsepower (10.4 kW). The engine features a carburetor fuel system and a compression ratio of 8.3:1, requiring a 12-volt starting system.

Transmission and Drivetrain

The GT242 utilizes a Tuff Torq E0905 transmission, configured as a belt-driven gear system. It provides the operator with six forward gears and one reverse gear. The tractor is a two-wheel-drive machine equipped with internal wet disc brakes for stopping control and manual steering for directional guidance.

PTO and Attachments

For implement operation, the tractor is equipped with an independent mid-mounted PTO. This system is engaged via an electric clutch, allowing for efficient power transfer to compatible attachments, including mower decks available in 38, 44, and 48-inch widths.

Dimensions and Chassis

The tractor features a wheelbase of 47.75 inches (121 cm) and an overall width of 39 inches (99 cm). It is equipped with lawn and turf tires, with 16x6.50-8 tires at the front and 23x10.50-12 tires at the rear. The machine has a base weight of 445 lbs (201 kg) and utilizes an open operator station.

Conclusion

The John Deere GT242 is a standard garden tractor suited for homeowners requiring a durable machine for mowing and light ground-engaging tasks. Its mechanical simplicity and proven Kawasaki engine make it a reliable choice for long-term property maintenance.

Production Information of John Deere, GT242

  • Original price was $3,999 in 1995
  • Garden tractor
  • Built in Horicon, Wisconsin, USA
ManufacturerJohn Deere

Dimension and Tires Information of John Deere, GT242

Rear tread28.5/30.75 inches [72/78 cm]
Wheelbase47.75 inches [121 cm]
Weight445 lbs [201 kg]
Height43 inches [109 cm]
Length69 inches [175 cm]
Front tread29 inches [73 cm]
Width39 inches [99 cm]

Weight of tractor only.

Lawn/turf front16x6.50-8
Lawn/turf rear23x10.50-12

Engine Specifications of John Deere, GT242

  • Kawasaki FC420V
  • Air-cooled vertical-shaft
  • Gasoline
  • 1-cylinder
Idle RPM1400-3350
Displacement422 cc [25.8 ci]
Fuel systemCarburetor
Bore/Stroke3.50x2.68 inches [89 x 68 mm]
Oil capacity1.5 qts [1.4 L]
Starter volts12
Compression8.3:1
Air cleanerPaper and foam
Power14 hp [10.4 kW]

Transmission Information of John Deere, GT242

Transmission variants 1

TransmissionTuff Torq E0905
Oil capacity3.4 qts [3.2 L]
TypeBelt-driven gear
Gears6 forward and 1 reverse

Mechanical Specs of John Deere, GT242

  • Two-wheel drive
  • Open operator station.
  • Manual steering
  • Internal wet disc brakes

Power Information of John Deere, GT242

Mid PTOIndependent
ClutchElectric

Electrical System of John Deere, GT242

GroundNegative
Battery volts12
Battery CCA295
Charging systemFlywheel alternator
Battery GroupU1
Charging amps13

Where it sits

With 14 HP, the John Deere GT242 sits just below GT225 (15 HP) in John Deere's range. Its power puts it in the 44th percentile of 1990s models in our database (1093 machines).

Frequently asked questions

How much horsepower does the John Deere GT242 have?

The John Deere GT242 delivers 14 HP.

What years was the John Deere GT242 produced?

The John Deere GT242 was produced in 1993-1998.

What engine does the John Deere GT242 have?

The John Deere GT242 is powered by a Gasoline, 1-cylinder engine.

What transmission does the John Deere GT242 use?

The John Deere GT242 uses a Tuff Torq E0905 transmission.

How much does the John Deere GT242 weigh?

The John Deere GT242 weighs 445 lbs*Weight of tractor only. [201 kg].

Is the John Deere GT242 4WD?

The John Deere GT242 is available in 2WD.

Compare the John Deere GT242 with another model