1987 John Deere 130 Manual

The 1987 John Deere 130 is a compact lawn and garden tractor featuring a 12.5 HP single-cylinder gasoline engine, 5-speed manual transmission, electric start, 38-inch mower deck, hydrostatic power steering, and rear PTO. This manual covers operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and safety procedures for the 1987 model year. Below are key sections for specifications, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation & Setup 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Operation 6. Attachments & Implements 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Safety Features 9. Storage & Care 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 12.5 HP gasoline engine, 5-speed transmission, 38-inch mower deck, electric start, hydrostatic steering, rear PTO.

Feature	Description
Engine	12.5 HP single-cylinder gasoline engine
Transmission	5-speed manual gearbox
Mower Deck	38-inch cutting width
Starting System	Electric start with key ignition
Steering	Hydrostatic power steering
PTO	Rear power take-off
Fuel Tank	3-gallon capacity
Brakes	Mechanical disc brakes
Seat	Adjustable operator seat
Tires	Front: 15x6.00-6, Rear: 20x10.00-8

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Prepare for initial use.

Check oil level: Ensure engine oil is at proper level before starting.
Fuel system: Fill with fresh unleaded gasoline.
Battery: Connect battery terminals; ensure secure connection.
Attach mower deck: Follow deck installation procedure in manual.
Check tire pressure: Inflate to recommended PSI (front: 12 PSI, rear: 8 PSI).

WARNING! Tractor is heavy; use proper lifting equipment. Ensure all connections are secure before operation.

First-Time Operation

Follow proper starting and operation procedures.

Pre-start check: Verify oil, fuel, and tire pressure.
Starting: Turn key to start position; allow engine to warm up.
Transmission: Engage clutch slowly; select appropriate gear.
Mower operation: Engage PTO for mower deck operation.
Steering: Use hydrostatic steering for smooth turns.

CAUTION! Always operate on stable ground; avoid slopes greater than 15 degrees.

Specifications

Engine: 12.5 HP single-cylinder gasoline
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Cutting Width: 38 inches
Fuel Capacity: 3 gallons
PTO Speed: 540 RPM
Weight: 580 lbs
Dimensions: 68" L x 42" W x 42" H
Tire Size: Front 15x6.00-6, Rear 20x10.00-8
Turning Radius: 36 inches

Controls and Operation

Main controls: Ignition key, gear shift, clutch pedal, brake pedal, PTO engagement, throttle control.

Dashboard: Ignition switch, hour meter, indicator lights.

Operation: Start engine with key, depress clutch to shift gears, engage PTO for attachments, use hydrostatic steering for maneuverability. Throttle control for engine speed adjustment. Brake pedal for stopping.

Attachments & Implements

Compatible with various John Deere attachments: 38-inch mower deck, front blade, snow thrower, cart.

Turn off engine and remove key before attaching implements.
Follow specific attachment installation procedures.
Ensure proper PTO connection for powered attachments.
Check attachment clearances before operation.

Tip: Always disengage PTO before attaching or removing implements.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Daily: Check engine oil level, tire pressure, and fuel level.
Every 25 hours: Change engine oil and filter.
Every 50 hours: Grease fittings, check blade sharpness.
Every 100 hours: Change air filter, spark plug.
Seasonal: Winterize fuel system, store properly.

WARNING! Always disconnect spark plug wire before performing maintenance.

Safety Features

Operator Presence System: Engine stops if operator leaves seat with PTO engaged. Blade Brake Clutch: Stops blades within seconds of disengagement. Rollover Protection: Follow safe operation procedures.

Storage & Care

Clean tractor after each use. Store in dry, covered area. For long-term storage, drain fuel or add stabilizer.

CAUTION! Do not store with fuel in tank for extended periods without stabilizer. Keep away from open flames.

Regulatory Information

EPA certified engine meets emission standards. Manufactured to ANSI/OPEI safety standards. Copyright © 1987 Deere & Company; John Deere is a registered trademark. For support, contact authorized John Deere dealer or visit www.JohnDeere.com.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Fuel/battery/spark	Check fuel level; test battery; inspect spark plug.
Poor cutting performance	Dull blades/deck level	Sharpen blades; adjust deck leveling.
Transmission slipping	Low fluid/worn clutch	Check transmission fluid; inspect clutch adjustment.
Excessive vibration	Unbalanced blades	Balance or replace blades; check spindle bearings.
Hydrostatic steering issues	Low fluid/air in system	Check fluid level; bleed steering system.

Reset: Disconnect battery for 30 seconds to reset electrical system.

Service: Contact authorized John Deere dealer for technical support.