You Get What You Pay For
Model Year: 2004
For those planning on buying the lower priced John Deere "D" series models. You get what you pay for. I purchased the L130 model from Home Depot in 2004. At $2,499 it was the highest price point of the "low-end" L-series. The PTO clutch self-destructed at 200 hours-fortunately under warranty. The hydro-static transmissions used in these entry-level tractors are the cheapest models. My 1-1/4 acre property has some fairly severe (40-degree) slopes. After 6-years and 450-hours of use the K-46 transmission burned out. Rather than buy another low end model (good for 5-6 years), I decided to buy a transmission upgrade kit for $1,200. The transmission is a K66 which was the transmission used in John Deere tractors in the $9-12,000 price range. This transmission has performed flawlessly. If you are buying a low end John Deere, at about 400 hours be prepared to spend $200-300 annually on replacement parts. Belts (normal), pulleys, blade spindles, front axle beam, drag links, PTO clutch, bearings, springs and tires. At 625 hours, I just rebuilt the mower deck and steering linkage---hoping to make it through the mowing season. Next year looks like something new and better built. I'll consider a higher end Deere, but only after a lot of research. Those "Big Box" low end models are only good for small, flat yards. Maximum 400 hours use without major mechanical issues.
Pros: Better than the "Off Brands".
Cons: Don't expect more than 400 hours use without major mechanical issues.