OutbackL130
Silver Member
I have a 1980's john deere 420 like in this pic that I've been restoring. I'm just now starting to ride and use it more and am noticing the exhaust smell is very strong. The engine runs great and does not smoke at all. I've never had a riding mower that smelled this bad. The exhaust on the 318's and 420's blows out of the right fender in relatively close proximity to your face. I just wanted to check with other 318 or 420 owners and see if this strong smell is normal? to be honest I'm concerned about the carbon monoxide levels while riding it. When the wind blows from your right all the exhaust comes back on you. I tested with a carbon monoxide meter and it averages 50 pmm and spikes to over 100 ppm at head level. Is this safe??
