john deer LA135 - User Manual

Questions and Answers

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Antonio RogersAug 21, 2025
Why is my John Deer Tractor engine hard to start?
- D
  Donna SmithAug 21, 2025
  Your John Deer Tractor engine might be hard to start due to several reasons. The carburetor may need adjustment or cleaning, the choke cable might not be properly adjusted, or the fuel filter could be clogged. Other potential causes include a faulty spark plug, stale or improper fuel, loose or corroded electrical connections, or using the incorrect engine oil viscosity. Consider adjusting or cleaning the carburetor, adjusting the choke cable, cleaning or replacing the fuel filter, replacing the spark plug, using fresh, proper fuel, inspecting and securing electrical connections, and using the correct engine oil viscosity.
M
Michael RamosSep 4, 2025
Why John Deer Tractor battery will not charge?
- J
  josbornSep 4, 2025
  If your John Deer Tractor battery won't charge, it could be due to a dead cell in the battery, in which case you should replace the battery. Dirty battery cables and terminals can also prevent charging, so clean them. Low engine speed or excessive idling can also affect battery charging, so increase the engine speed.
B
barkercrystalSep 2, 2025
Why does my john deer LA135 Tractor engine run unevenly?
- R
  Richard PerkinsSep 2, 2025
  An uneven running engine in your John Deer Tractor can be caused by several factors. The cooling fins could be plugged, electrical connections might be loose, or the choke or throttle cable could be sticking. Additionally, the fuel line or fuel filter might be plugged, the fuel could be stale or dirty, or the improper fuel type could be in use. A plugged air cleaner element can also cause this issue. Try cleaning the cooling fins, tightening electrical connections, inspecting and freeing sticking cables, clearing the plugged fuel line or filter, replacing with fresh fuel, using the proper fuel type, and cleaning or replacing the air cleaner element.
J
Julie FaulknerSep 1, 2025
Why john deer LA135 vibrates too much?
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  James McbrideSep 1, 2025
  Excessive vibration or rattling in your John Deer Tractor can be attributed to several factors. The attachment drive belts may be worn or damaged, or the traction drive belt could be damaged or worn. Dirt on the drive sheaves or blades that are bent or out of balance can also cause these issues. Consider replacing the worn or damaged attachment drive belts, replacing the damaged or worn traction drive belt, cleaning the drive sheaves, and repairing or balancing the blades.
S
Shelby ShortAug 30, 2025
What causes poor engine performance in john deer LA135?
- B
  Brian SmithAug 30, 2025
  Poor engine performance in your John Deer Tractor can be caused by dirt in the fuel system or old fuel. Replace the fuel with fresh stabilized fuel. It is also recommended to obtain fuel from another supplier before suspecting machine problems. Suppliers blend fuels differently, and changing suppliers will generally solve any performance problems. Fuel blended with alcohol or ether may contribute to performance problems by causing gum and varnish deposits, especially if fuel is stored for several weeks or more. Obtain fresh fuel.
G
gnelsonAug 29, 2025
Why does my john deer LA135 engine backfires?
- T
  tylersmithAug 29, 2025
  Your John Deer Tractor engine might backfire due to a faulty spark plug, so replace it. Also, ensure the operator is seated, as raising off the seat can cause backfiring.
T
Teresa HenryAug 27, 2025
Why john deer LA135 Tractor starter does not work?
- R
  Ronald HancockAug 27, 2025
  If the starter on your John Deer Tractor isn't working or turning the engine, the brake pedal may not be depressed, or the mower might be engaged. Ensure the brake pedal is depressed and the mower is disengaged. Corroded battery terminals or a discharged battery could also be the cause, so clean the battery terminals and charge the battery. A blown fuse can also prevent the starter from working, so replace the blown fuse. If the fusible link in the starting circuit is blown, consult your authorized dealer.
K
Kristine MillerAug 26, 2025
What to do if John Deer Tractor engine overheats?
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  Mary WardAug 27, 2025
  If your John Deer Tractor engine is overheating, check the engine air intake screen and clean it if it's plugged. Also, clean the cooling fins. Ensure the engine oil level is correct, adjusting if it's too low or too high. Avoid operating the engine for extended periods at a slow idle speed.
M
Marie WilsonAug 25, 2025
Why does my john deer LA135 Tractor engine lose power?
- A
  Amanda SellersAug 25, 2025
  Your John Deer Tractor engine may be losing power due to several reasons: the engine might be overheating, there could be too much oil in the engine, the air cleaner might be dirty, or the spark plug could be faulty. Also, the travel speed might be too fast for the conditions, or you might be using the improper fuel. In order to solve this problem you should check the engine cooling system, check and adjust oil level, clean or replace air cleaner, replace the faulty spark plug, reduce travel speed, and use proper fuel type.
D
Douglas EdwardsAug 23, 2025
What to do if john deer LA135 engine will not start?
- M
  Michael NguyenAug 23, 2025
  If your John Deer Tractor engine won't start, make sure the brake pedal is depressed and the mower is disengaged. Check that the spark plug wire is securely connected and that you're using the correct fuel type. Also, inspect the fuel filter and clean or replace it if it's plugged. Finally, check the safety switch and replace it if it's defective. If these steps don't resolve the issue, refer to the Electrical Troubleshooting Section.

Summary

Product Identification

Record Identification Numbers

Record machine and engine identification numbers for service and warranty.

Safety Labels

Understanding The Machine Safety Labels

Explains the meaning of DANGER, WARNING, and CAUTION safety alert symbols.

DANGER and WARNING Labels

Details of DANGER and WARNING labels related to rotating blades, thrown objects, and general safety.

CAUTION Labels and Battery Safety

Details of CAUTION labels and safety precautions for battery handling.

Safety

Operating Safely

Instructions for safe operation, including handling controls, clearing areas, and avoiding hazards.

Checking Mowing Area

Parking Safely

Steps for safely parking the machine.

Avoid Tipping

Precautions to prevent machine tipping, especially on slopes.

Keep Riders Off

Warning against allowing riders on the machine.

Towing Loads Safely

Driving Safely on Public Roads

Practice Safe Maintenance

Guidelines for performing maintenance safely.

Avoid High Pressure Fluids

Hazards and precautions related to high-pressure hydraulic fluids.

Prevent Fires

Measures to prevent fires during operation and storage.

Assembly

Handling Fuel Safely

Precautions for safe handling of fuel.

Tire Safety

Charge and Connect Battery

Instructions for safely charging and connecting the battery.

Operating Controls

Operator Station Controls (LA105)

Identification and function of controls on the LA105 operator station.

Operator Station Controls (LA115, LA125, LA135)

Identification and function of controls on LA115, LA125, LA135 operator stations.

Operator Station Controls (LA145, LA155, LA165, LA175)

Identification and function of controls on LA145, LA155, LA165, LA175 operator stations.

Operating

Daily Operating Checklist

Daily checks to ensure safe and proper operation of the machine.

Adjusting Cutting Height

Adjusting Mower Deck Level

Method One (Mower Deck Leveling)

Method Two (Mower Deck Leveling)

Adjusting Mower Deck Wheels

Testing Safety Systems

Procedures to test essential safety systems before operation.

Testing Park Brake Switch

Test procedure for the park brake switch interlock.

Testing Park Brake

Test to ensure the park brake functions correctly.

Testing Attachment Engagement Switch or Lever

Test for proper function of the attachment engagement control.

Testing Seat Switch

Test procedure for the seat switch safety interlock.

Testing Reverse Implement Option (RIO)

Test for the Reverse Implement Option safety feature.

Using the Park Brake

Starting the Engine

Step-by-step guide for starting the engine safely.

Stopping the Engine

Using Travel Controls on Gear Transmission

Using Travel Controls on Automatic Transmission

Using The Reverse Implement Option (RIO)

Engaging and Disengaging Mower

Moving Machine by Hand

Transporting Machine on Trailer

Service Intervals

Choosing Mower Blades

Mowing Tips

Servicing Your Machine

Intervals

Service Lubrication

Lubricating Front Axle

Lubricating Pivot Points

Grease

Service Engine

Avoid Fumes

Warning about engine exhaust fumes and safe operating areas.

Engine Oil

Checking Engine Oil Level

Changing Engine Oil and Filter

Step-by-step guide for changing engine oil and filter.

Cleaning Air Intake Screen and Engine Fins

Checking and Cleaning Air Cleaner Elements (LA105 and LA115)

Checking and Cleaning Air Cleaner Elements (LA135 and LA145)

Checking and Cleaning Air Cleaner Elements (LA125)

Checking and Cleaning Air Cleaner Elements (LA155, LA165 and LA175)

Checking and Cleaning Emission Filter (If Equipped)

Checking Spark Plug

Service Transmission

Service Mower

Removing or Installing Mower Drive Belt at Engine Drive Sheave (122 cm (48 in.) and 137 cm (54 in.) Mower Deck)

Removing Mower Deck

Step-by-step guide for removing the mower deck.

Installing Mower Deck

Step-by-step guide for installing the mower deck.

Replacing Mower Drive Belt (122 cm (48 in.) and 137 cm (54 in.) Mower Decks)

Replacing Mower Drive Belt (107 cm (42 in.) Mower Deck)

Adjusting Mower Belt Tension (107 cm (42 in.) Mower Deck)

Adjusting Spindle Brakes (107 cm (42 in.) Mower Deck)

Checking for Bent Mower Blades

How to check mower blades for bending or damage.

Service Electrical

Servicing Mower Blades

General procedures for servicing mower blades.

Removing Mower Blades

Steps for safely removing mower blades.

Installing Mower Blades

Steps for safely installing mower blades.

Sharpening Blades

How to sharpen mower blades.

Balancing Blades

How to balance mower blades after sharpening or replacement.

Service the Battery Safely

Safety precautions for servicing the battery.

Cleaning Battery and Terminals

Removing and Installing the Battery

Using Booster Battery

How to safely use a booster battery to start the machine.

Service Miscellaneous

Using Proper Fuel

Filling Fuel Tank

Removing and Installing Hood

Removing and Installing Front Wheel Assembly

Removing and Installing Rear Wheel Assembly

Troubleshooting

Using Troubleshooting Chart

How to use the troubleshooting chart for problem diagnosis.

Engine Troubleshooting

Common engine problems and their potential causes and checks.

Electrical Troubleshooting

Common electrical issues and their potential causes and checks.

Tractor Troubleshooting

Common tractor issues and their potential causes and checks.

Mower Troubleshooting

Common mower issues and their potential causes and checks.

Storage

Storing Safety

Safety precautions for storing the machine, especially regarding fuel.

Preparing Machine for Storage

Preparing Fuel and Engine For Storage

Procedures for preparing the fuel system and engine for storage.

Specifications

Removing Machine From Storage

Gear Model LA105 Specifications

Automatic Model LA115 Specifications

Automatic Model LA125 Specifications

Automatic Models LA135 and LA145 Specifications

Automatic Model LA155 Specifications

Automatic Models LA165 and LA175 Specifications

Mower Deck - 107 cm (42 in.) Specifications

Mower Deck - 122 cm (48 in.) Specifications

Mower Deck - 137 cm (54 in.) Specifications

john deer LA135 Specifications

General

Horsepower	22 hp
Cylinders	2
Engine Type	Gasoline
Transmission	Hydrostatic
Drive	2WD
Cutting Width	42 inches
Blades	2
Turning Radius	18 inches
Engine	Briggs & Stratton
Fuel Capacity	2.4 gallons