John Deere LX279 Reviews

Overall Review
Model Year: 1999

Very good tractor LX279, the tuff torq K62A is the weak link of the tractor. This transmission is flawed because when the transmission gets hot, it by-passes the oil and slips very badly and loses traction. John Deere should have recalled this product but they didn't. I know several people that have this transmission in their machine and all have that same problem. My transmission started slipping while machine was under warranty. John Deere couldn't find anything wrong with it (of course not). But anyway just running the tractor at 3/4 speed now for the least 10 years and still mowing like a dream, just takes longer. The only way to fix this is to overhaul trans and change to 5w20 full sythetic oil. Someone makes and overhaul and upgrade kit and I've heard it is fantastic. This kit IS NOT from John Deere or tufftorq. Finally make sure you change the bolt that holds the PTO to the crankshaft---IT WILL BREAK---count on it. This mower has never failed, mowed great. The only complaints are the two above.

Pros: Dependable.
Cons: The 2 listed above.

JD LX297 Review
Model Year: 2000

The LX297 has been a very reliable machine. I've it new and owned it for over 13yrs. Currently I'm having a problem with the drivetrain. After mowing for an hour or so, it starts to make this deep grinding noise and it loose power to keep moving.

Pros: Dependable.
Cons: Instruction to replace transmission fluid is not listed in the user manual. Currently the manual calls out the wrong oil type.

Lemon
Model Year: 1999

I should of stayed with Honda. Smoked from the time it was new, and broke the bolt off holding the PTO at 300 hrs. Hood cracked down the center. Nothing but plastic. One big money pit!

Pros: It taugh me to appreciate Honda's.
Cons: I still own it.