John Deere JS45 Self-propelled mower

It's junk

By Allen  Jul 28, 2009

Pros: Good power, fuel efficient, easy to start (when it's working)

Cons: Cheap plastic parts break, crankshaft is EASILY bent and NOT covered by warranty!!

First summer, plastic t-nuts tend to vibrate loose, broke while tightening. I liked the power and especially the zero turn radius front wheels.

Second summer operator presence cable broke and I took it in for repair. Due to back ordered parts, and discovering that the crankshaft was bent, more backordered parts, then discovering that the piston had broken inside the cylinder.....I've been without a working lawnmower for about a month and a half. I can tell you ladies and gentlemen, YOU as a homeowner are NOT at the top of the John Deere farm equipment dealer's list.

I will keep this mower until the warranty runs out and the first expensive repair is required (I predict that will be within a week of the warranty expiring next March). Then I will purchase a Murray mower which I have used for many years on this lawn WITHOUT bending a crankshaft. Or I may go with a higher end brand such as Snapper. I borrowed my neighbor's and liked it.