Choosing the right battery for your John Deere equipment is crucial for reliable performance, longevity, and full utilization of your machine’s capabilities. Whether you own a compact utility tractor, a riding lawn mower, a golf cart, or a full-size agricultural tractor, understanding the details of battery types, sizes, and specifications will ensure that your equipment operates flawlessly season after season.
This article provides an in-depth guide to John Deere battery sizes, group charts, application advice, and professional buying tips for every owner, dealer, and enthusiast.
Why Battery Size Matters for John Deere Equipment
Every piece of powered equipment relies on a battery tailored to its engine’s requirements. The wrong battery size or group can lead to poor starting, shortened lifespan, electrical malfunctions, or even damage to sensitive electronics. John Deere machines are engineered with demanding specifications—especially to withstand vibration, extreme weather, and heavy-duty use—so their batteries must meet or exceed those standards.
Key considerations:
- Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): The ability to start in cold weather.
- Reserve Capacity (RC): How long the battery can run critical systems if the alternator fails.
- Group Size: Physical size, terminal layout, and compatibility with battery tray/hold-downs.
John Deere Battery Categories
John Deere sources, tests, and distributes batteries for a wide range of applications. The most common are:
- Lawn & Garden: For mowers, garden tractors, and utility vehicles.
- Compact Utility Tractors: For sub-compact and mid-size equipment.
- Agricultural & Commercial Tractors: High-capacity units for large machinery.
- Golf Carts and Utility Vehicles: Deep-cycle batteries for reliable power delivery.
- Automotive/Marine: For John Deere Gators, trucks, and other support vehicles.
John Deere Original Equipment (StrongBox™)
- Premium build quality designed for maximum durability and vibration resistance.
- Radial plate design for faster starts and efficient power flow.
- Maintenance-free sealed batteries1.
Standard-Duty Batteries
- Economical alternatives for lighter-duty or older equipment.
- Typically offer lower CCA or RC ratings but meet industry group standards.
Decoding the John Deere Battery Size Chart
John Deere uses the Battery Council International (BCI) group size system, which defines the physical dimensions and configuration of batteries. Here’s how to read the key elements:
| Column | Description |
|---|---|
| BCI Group Size | Standardized code for battery size and terminal configuration |
| CCA (Cold Cranking Amps) | The amperage delivered at 0°F for 30 seconds without dropping below 7.2 volts |
| RC (Reserve Capacity) | Minutes battery can supply 25A before dropping below 10.5 volts (vehicle at rest) |
| Ah (Amp Hour) | Battery’s capacity to deliver a steady amperage for a set time |
| Terminals | Configuration (SAE, Threaded, U1 Lug, Side, Dual) |
| Dimensions (L × W × H) | Size in inches or millimeters |
| Warranty | Typically from 6 to 30 months, depending on the battery level and model |
John Deere Battery Size Group Chart (Selected Models)
Below is a reference table listing some of the most common John Deere battery group sizes and their applications based on official guides and product listings:
| BCI Group | Model Examples | Voltage | CCA | RC | Ah | Terminal Type | Length (in) | Width (in) | Height (in) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| U1 | Lawn/Garden Tractors (100, S240, etc.) | 12 | 300–350 | 34–38 | 25–30 | U1 Lug(X) | 7.75 | 5.2 | 7.32 |
| 22F | Compact Tractors, ZTrak Mowers | 12 | 425 | 65 | 35 | SAE(A) | 9.375 | 6.75 | 8.25 |
| 22NF | Compact Tractors, ZTrak Mowers | 12 | 360–500 | 58–75 | 35–45 | SAE(A) | 9.5 | 6.88 | 9.5 |
| 24F | Large Lawn/Utility Tractors, Gators | 12 | 700 | 120 | 70 | SAE(A) | 10.75 | 6.75 | 9 |
| 27F | Larger Tractors/Older Mowers | 12 | 710 | 120 | 65 | SAE(A) | 12.375 | 6.75 | 9 |
| 31T | Full-Size Agricultural Tractors | 12 | 925 | 170 | 90 | Threaded(T) | 13 | 6.75 | 9.5 |
| 48/H6 | Utility Vehicles, Gators | 12 | 730 | 115 | 70 | SAE(A) | 11 | 6.88 | 7.5 |
| 65 | Tractors, Diesel Engines | 12 | 850 | 150 | 80 | SAE(A) | 12 | 7.38 | 7.63 |
| 5D | Large Farm Equipment | 6 | 880 | 250 | 130 | SAE(A) | 13.5 | 7.13 | 9.38 |
| 8D | Construction, Agricultural | 12 | 1400 | 440 | 195 | SAE(A) | 20.75 | 11 | 10 |
Example: John Deere Model-Specific Battery Sizing
To select a replacement battery, always refer to your machine’s owner’s manual, but here are some examples for popular models:
- John Deere 100 Series Lawn Tractors: Group U1, 12V, 300–350CCA, 30Ah, dimensions approx. 7.76″×5.2″×7.32″.
- John Deere 5310-55HP Tractor: BCI size varies; common replacement is a 12V, 60–130Ah, with sizes ranging from 364–410mm length, 176mm width, and 234mm height.
- John Deere 4030 Tractor: Group 29H, 12V, 660CCA, 160RC, 18-month warranty.
- John Deere 3010 Tractor: Group 3EH, 12V, 850CCA, 280RC, 6-month warranty.
- John Deere Compact Utility 755: Group 22F, 12V, 450CCA.
Battery Specifications by Group
U1 Group (Lawn and Garden)
- Voltage: 12V
- Typical CCA: 300–350
- Amp Hour: 25–30
- Physical Size: 7.75″ L × 5.2″ W × 7.3″ H
- Terminals: U1 Lug Post (X)
Group 22F and 22NF (Compact/Utility Tractors)
- Voltage: 12V
- CCA: 360–500
- RC: 58–75
- Size: 9.5″ L × 6.88″ W × 9.5″ H (22NF)
Group 24F (Mid-Large Tractors, Gators)
- Voltage: 12V
- CCA: 700+
- RC: 120+
- Terminals: SAE Automotive (A)
- Size: 10.75″ L × 6.75″ W × 9″ H
Group 31T (Heavy-Duty Ag/Commercial)
- Voltage: 12V
- CCA: 925
- RC: 170
- Size: 13″ L × 6.75″ W × 9.5″ H
- Terminals: Threaded Post (T)
Beyond the Size Chart: Battery Features
Terminal Types
- A: SAE Automotive (standard post)
- T: Threaded post (commercial/heavy-duty)
- X: U1 Lug Post (common on small tractors/riders)
- S: Side terminal
- U: Dual terminal
Maintenance-Free vs. Conventional
- StrongBox™ and OEM batteries are nearly all maintenance-free, using sealed lead-acid technology to prevent the need for periodic topping-off135.
- Conventional batteries may allow for fluid checks, suited for older models or extreme climates.
Vibration and Weather Resistance
- John Deere batteries are designed to pass stringent vibration and temperature tests, such as operating at 167°F and withstanding high-frequency vibrations that would quickly shorten the life of a generic battery.
Buying and Replacement Tips
- Always cross-reference your equipment’s original manual: Battery tray size, hold-down method, and cable connector position are essential.
- Don’t mix group sizes: Even small physical differences can cause installation problems or short-circuit risk.
- Prioritize CCA for cold climates: Diesel tractors especially need higher CCA in winter.
- Reserve capacity is critical for electronics: Modern tractors with GPS, controllers, and lighting load benefit from higher RC.
- Replace both batteries in dual-battery systems at the same time to avoid early failure of a new unit.
- Recycle responsibly: Lead-acid batteries are 99% recyclable. John Deere dealers provide recycling credits for used batteries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the warranty on John Deere batteries?
A: Most John Deere StrongBox™ Original Equipment batteries offer 12–30 months free replacement warranty depending on the type and model1.
Q: Can I use a non-John Deere brand battery?
A: Yes, if it matches the BCI group size, CCA, RC, and terminal configuration specified for your model. However, John Deere-brand batteries are tested for proprietary durability and vibration standards.
Q: What should I do if my machine is out of warranty or has a unique configuration?
A: Take your old battery to a John Deere dealer or quality battery retailer. They can match your battery’s group size and performance needs.
Sample John Deere Battery Replacement Table
| Equipment / Model | Recommended BCI Group | CCA (min.) | Voltage | OE Part Number | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 100 Series Lawn | U1 | 300 | 12 | TY25221B | StrongBox™ OEM |
| S240 | U1 | 350 | 12 | TY25221B | |
| Compact 755 Utility | 22F | 450 | 12 | – | Interstate 22F available |
| 5103 (40Hp Tractor) | 31T/22NF | 800+ | 12 | – | Confirm tray size |
| 5310 (55Hp Tractor) | 31T/8D | 800+ | 12 | – | Larger frame models |
| Gator XUV | 24F | 700 | 12 | – | |
| 4030 | 29H | 660 | 12 | – | Interstate/StrongBox |
Sources for Battery Data
The details above are compiled from official John Deere battery charts, dealer catalogues, and reputable product documentation. If you need a model-specific recommendation, consult your John Deere dealer with the model and serial number, or reference the original operator’s manual for your equipment.
Final Thoughts
John Deere batteries are engineered to meet the exacting standards required by heavy-duty, agricultural, and consumer machinery. Whether working in the field, on a construction site, or mowing your backyard, the correct battery size ensures you get the best reliability, performance, and service life.
Before purchase or installation:
- Confirm physical fit (length, width, height, hold-down).
- Match or exceed recommended CCA for reliable cold starts.
- Ensure correct terminal type for secure, corrosion-free connections.
- Consider John Deere StrongBox™ for premium durability, especially for rigorous or commercial-duty application.
With this knowledge and the size charts above, you can confidently select, install, and maintain the right battery for every John Deere machine you own1234810.
For up-to-date charts, battery guides, or warranty questions, always check with your nearest John Deere dealer or visit the official John Deere Parts website.
- https://www.deere.com/assets/pdfs/common/parts-and-service/Battery%20Guide_2021.pdf
- https://www.deere.com/en/parts-and-service/parts/maintenance/batteries/
- https://batteryclerk.com/products/john-deere-100-12v-35ah-lawn-and-garden-battery
I’m David man behind Lawn Mowerly; I’ve been dealing with lawnmowers and Tractors with my father since I was a kid. I know every make and model and what each one is capable of and love helping people find the perfect equipment for their needs.