John Deere LX280 4.90 star(s) (8)

Excellent Mower
Model Year: 2004

I have had this mower new since 2004. The only problem I ever had was the mower belt to the power take-off snapped in 2014. I replaced the snow thrower belt this year (2019). So, 2 belts in 15 years isn't bad. I cut grass in the summer and do the snow in the winter.

Pros: Very reliable lawn tractor
Cons: None that I can think of

Brakes Won't Release Unit Won't Move
Model Year: 0

All was okay when the season ended fall 2015 and I parked it for the winter in the garage. I started it up last week 3/22/2016, ad the brakes are off but the unit will not move forward. When I try to back up it gives off a screeching noise and will not move. Why are the brakes not releasing? This mower has an electric circuit board under the hood, could that be the problem?

Pros: Runs great
Cons: After sitting for the winter it runs but won't go forward or backwards

Nice Mower Couple Issues
Model Year: 2006

Had a vibration, found the stamped steel pulley on electric clutch had split. Deere's replacement is cast iron (hmmm). Intermittent ticking when engine hot. Went to adjust valve lash and noticed broken valve seal. Upon seal removal, valve guide feel out of head.(found reason for ticking) Other than that been **** on maintenance and its been a great machine.

Pros: Power, comfort.
Cons: Couple issues.

Great Mower Tractor
Model Year: 2005

Using this as my second lawn tractor. Mow 2 acres and it works just fine. Have lots of trees and the all wheel steer (AWS) works great for getting close. Also use for pulling tree limbs close to burn pile for easy cutting. Tractor can handle a pull of 12"x15' limb easily. I use it for just about everything. Change the oil annually or after 100 hours, whichever comes first and the thing has lasted me 8 years now with just one repair, the transmission fan blades (plastic) let go and I repaired myself for 30 bucks.

Pros: Great power and great for lawn cutting around trees, pulling limbs, and all around tractor.
Cons: Hitch needs to be engineered so it is further back as turning sharp cause backwheels to pinch the tongue of what you are pulling.

Bought Used on Craigslist JD LX280
Model Year: 2005

Main factors: price, condition, hours, service history. Bought for $1800.00 with P10 Utility Cart with low hours (37.6) and from original owner. Shed kept and tested nicely on start up and drive checking fluids, filters, leaks and tranny. Original owner moving to smaller property and original asking price of $2000.00 OBO. Cosmetically it has some scuffs on the fender deck and a plug in rear tire side wall in addition to broken front bumper. Utility Cart was kept outdoor. Faded and packed with dirt it needed some TLC. Degrease, repaint, axle grease added and bed liner on top. Plans - repaint or powder coat fender deck/new front bumper and guard, bar tires in rear.

Pros: K62 hydro, Kawasaki 18HP, cruise control, cup holder.
Cons: 42" deck.

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Best Tractor On The Market
Model Year: 2005

I have owned this tractor for six years and it hasn't given me any problems until this year when the tractor would shake violently when I engaged the mower deck. I replaced the blades, spindles and the belts with out a change so I ran it until it failed and found that there was a crack on the PTO pulley that cause the problem because the pulley broke in half. I replaced the PTO and it has been running great ever since. The only other concern I have is with the choke because it is either on or off because of the design witch can be a concern if it is used in cold weather. I have owned 3 other tractors that needed major repairs that only lasted 4 years so I have to say that even with this problem I had it is still running strong and starts and runs great. I would recommend this tractor to a friend.

Pros: Strong engine.
Cons: PTO should have lasted longer.

This is the Best Machine I Have Ever Owned
Model Year: 2005

Up until this week, I have never had a problem, but after 260 hours, problems are starting.

Pros: Engine.
Cons: Deck is hard to remove.

LX 280
Model Year: 2007

I use this to mow 1 acre of level to moderate hilly lawn. It does an OK job, it is not working hard. The ride is very comfortable, feels solid and safe. Maintenance is easy everything is accessible. Removal of the mower is easy. It is the same as on my JD4410. It fits my expectations for a lawn mower, it is not a Garden tractor.

Pros: JD engeneering
Cons: Price