{"heroContent":"The John Deere STX46 with the black deck was a popular riding mower known for its reliability and ease of use. Primarily manufactured in the late 1990s, this model typically featured a single-cylinder engine around 12.5-14 horsepower and a 46-inch mowing deck. Its straightforward design and dependable performance made it a favorite for homeowners with medium-sized lawns.","heroImage":null,"expandedContent":"The John Deere STX46, particularly the version with the black deck, was a prominent riding mower in John Deere's STX series. Introduced as an affordable and reliable option for homeowners, it filled a niche between basic lawn tractors and more feature-rich models. The engine was typically a single-cylinder Briggs & Stratton or Kawasaki engine, producing between 12.5 and 14 horsepower. Engine displacement ranged around 344cc to 460cc depending on the exact specification. It featured a gear-drive transmission, providing simple and dependable operation. The STX46 was equipped with a 46-inch side-discharge mowing deck. This model's key features included easy-to-use controls, a comfortable seat, and a durable frame. It was primarily intended for residential use on lawns up to a couple of acres. What set the STX46 apart was its combination of John Deere quality and an accessible price point, making it a popular choice for homeowners who needed a reliable mower without all the bells and whistles of more expensive models.","specifications":"

Engine	Briggs & Stratton/Kawasaki 12.5-14 HP 344-460cc Single-Cylinder
Transmission	Gear Drive
Deck Size	46 inches
Ground Speed	Varies by year mph
Fuel Capacity	1.7 gallons
Weight	400 lbs
Years Produced	Late 1990s

","history":"The John Deere STX46 was introduced as part of the STX series, aiming to provide a value-oriented riding mower for homeowners. It was a popular model during its production run, offering a balance of performance and affordability. The black deck version is a recognizable variant within the STX46 lineup.","maintenanceTips":"

Regularly inspect and replace the deck belt: Check the belt for wear and tear (cracks, fraying) every 25 hours of use. Replace every 100-200 hours or when damage is evident.
Sharpen mower blades frequently: Sharpen the blades every 25 hours of use or at least once a season for a clean cut and to prevent lawn damage.
Change engine oil and filter annually: Follow the engine manufacturer's recommendations for oil changes (typically every 50 hours or annually). Replace the oil filter at the same time.
Prepare for seasonal storage: Before storing for winter, stabilize the fuel, disconnect the battery, and clean the mower deck to prevent corrosion.

","faqItems":[{"question":"What size deck does the John Deere STX46 BLACK DECK have?","answer":"The John Deere STX46 BLACK DECK features a 46-inch mowing deck."},{"question":"What engine is in the John Deere STX46 BLACK DECK?","answer":"The John Deere STX46 BLACK DECK typically features a Briggs & Stratton or Kawasaki single-cylinder engine, ranging from 12.5 to 14 horsepower."},{"question":"What belt do I need for my John Deere STX46 BLACK DECK?","answer":"The John Deere STX46 BLACK DECK uses both a deck belt and a drive belt. Refer to your owner's manual or a parts diagram for the specific part numbers. Generally, the deck belt is around 95 inches long, but confirm the correct length before ordering."},{"question":"What blades fit the John Deere STX46 BLACK DECK?","answer":"The John Deere STX46 BLACK DECK requires two 23-1/4 inch blades. These are typically a standard lift blade for side discharge mowing."}]}

STX46 (Black Deck)

A96K - Aramid Blue V-Belt (1/2" X 98")