John Deere STX30 lawn tractor

John Deere STX30

Power

9 hp

Production

1989-1993

Transmission

Peerless 920

Weight

417 lbs [189 kg]

Drive

2WD

From the same series:

STX38

Introduction

John Deere STX30 Lawn Tractor

The John Deere STX30 is a compact lawn tractor produced between 1989 and 1993 at the Horicon, Wisconsin facility in the United States. Positioned as the entry-level model within the STX series during its production run, it was specifically engineered for residential lawn maintenance.

Engine and Powertrain

The tractor is powered by an air-cooled, vertical-shaft engine with a displacement of 398 cc (24.3 ci). It produces 9 horsepower (6.7 kW) and utilizes a paper and foam air filtration system. The engine operates with a compression ratio of 8.9:1 and features a Champion RC12YC spark plug with a gap setting of 0.040 inches. Idle speed is adjustable between 1350 and 3350 RPM.

Transmission and Chassis

Power is delivered through a Peerless 920 belt-driven gear transmission, offering 5 forward speeds and 1 reverse gear. The machine is a two-wheel-drive configuration controlled by manual sector-and-pinion steering. Braking is managed by integral mechanical disc brakes. The unit features an open operator station equipped with a foam-padded seat.

Mower Deck and Hydraulics

The STX30 is equipped with a 30-inch mower deck. It utilizes an independent mid-mounted Power Take-Off (PTO) system, which is engaged via an electric clutch, allowing for convenient implement operation.

Electrical and Dimensions

The electrical system operates on 12 volts with a negative ground. It utilizes a flywheel alternator to provide 15 charging amps to the 200 CCA battery. In terms of physical dimensions, the tractor has a wheelbase of 44.69 inches, a total length of 60 inches, and a width of 43.5 inches. The machine weighs 417 lbs (189 kg) and is fitted with 13x5-6 front tires and 18x6.5-8 rear tires designed for lawn and turf applications.

Conclusion

The John Deere STX30 is a lightweight, maneuverable lawn tractor designed for basic residential mowing tasks. Its simple gear-driven transmission and compact design make it suitable for smaller properties where ease of storage and operation are prioritized.

Production Information of John Deere, STX30

  • The STX30 was the smallest lawn tractor in the John Deere line during its production. Front headlights lights were available as a kit (AM107293).
  • Lawn tractor
  • Built in Horicon, Wisconsin, USA
ManufacturerJohn Deere

Dimension and Tires Information of John Deere, STX30

Wheelbase44.69 inches [113 cm]
Weight417 lbs [189 kg]
Height (steering wheel)38.6 inches [98 cm]
Length60 inches [152 cm]
Width43.5 inches [110 cm]
Lawn/turf front13x5-6
Lawn/turf rear18x6.5-8

Engine Specifications of John Deere, STX30

  • Air-cooled vertical-shaft
  • Image courtesy of Matthew Marchand
Starter volts12
Displacement398 cc [24.3 ci]
Air cleanerPaper and foam
Bore/Stroke3.425x2.638 inches [87 x 67 mm]
Oil change50 h
Sparkplug gap0.040 inches [1.016 mm]
SparkplugChampion RC12YC
Idle RPM1350-3350
Compression8.9:1
Power9 hp [6.7 kW]

Transmission Information of John Deere, STX30

Transmission variants 1

TransmissionPeerless 920
Oil changeSealed unit, owner service is not recommended
TypeBelt-driven gear
Gears5 forward and 1 reverse

Mechanical Specs of John Deere, STX30

  • Two-wheel drive
  • Open operator station with foam-padded seat.
  • Integral mechanical disc brakes
SteeringManual sector-and-pinion

Power Information of John Deere, STX30

Mid PTOIndependent
ClutchElectric

Electrical System of John Deere, STX30

GroundNegative
Battery volts12
Battery CCA200
Charging systemFlywheel alternator
Charging amps15

Where it sits

With 9 HP, the John Deere STX30 sits just below STX38 (12 HP) in John Deere's range. Its power puts it in the 19th percentile of 1980s models in our database (977 machines).

Frequently asked questions

How much horsepower does the John Deere STX30 have?

The John Deere STX30 delivers 9 HP.

What years was the John Deere STX30 produced?

The John Deere STX30 was produced in 1989-1993.

What transmission does the John Deere STX30 use?

The John Deere STX30 uses a Peerless 920 transmission.

How much does the John Deere STX30 weigh?

The John Deere STX30 weighs 417 lbs [189 kg].

Is the John Deere STX30 4WD?

The John Deere STX30 is available in 2WD.

Compare the John Deere STX30 with another model