How to Install John Deere 42" Lawn Sweeper

Shop Part No.: LPSTS42JD

Installing the 42-inch John Deere Lawn Sweeper on your mower is a great way to make yard cleanup easier and more efficient. With this sweeper, you can quickly pick up leaves, grass clippings, and other debris, saving you time and effort. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the entire assembly and installation process to get this handy attachment ready for action.

In this kit:

Frame pieces
Hinges
Tubular structure
Catcher assembly
Hardware pack (bolts, nuts, plastic clips)
Hitch clevis
Hopper

Tools needed:

1/2 inch socket
9/16 inch socket
1/2 inch wrench
9/16 inch wrench
Ratchet wrench
Flathead screwdriver

Installation Instructions
Step 1: Install the Front Bracket

The first step in assembling your 42-inch John Deere Lawn Sweeper is installing the front bracket, which acts as the lifting mount for the sweeper. Begin by locating the hardware in the top panel of the hardware pack. Using your 1/2 inch socket and wrench, align the front bracket with the holes in the sweeper’s frame. Insert the bolts through the inside of the frame and secure the nuts on the outside. It’s best to start both sides by hand before tightening them fully with your tools, ensuring everything is securely in place.

Step 2: Attach the Height Adjustment Handle

Next, we’ll attach the height adjustment handle. This handle allows you to adjust the sweeper height to match your lawn’s conditions, making the sweeper more efficient depending on what you’re picking up. Slide the handle into the height selector mechanism, and use the long bolt from panel B to attach it through the height selector and spring. Be sure to place a flat washer on each side, securing it with the nut provided. Adjust the tension on the handle so it moves freely but can still hold its position when in use. You want to be careful not to overtighten, as this can make it difficult to operate.

Step 3: Assemble and Install the Draw Bar

With the handle installed, the next step is to assemble and install the draw bar—the part that connects the sweeper to your lawn mower. Grab the hardware from panel C and slide the draw bar pieces into the existing tubular frame. Secure them with bolts and nuts on both sides, making sure they’re tightened down. Then, attach the clevis (hitch) to the draw bar. You’ll notice the clevis has pre-drilled holes, which allow you to adjust the height based on your mower’s size. Once you’ve selected the proper position, bolt it in place and ensure it’s securely fastened. Don’t forget to insert the hitch pin into the clevis and secure it with a cotter pin.

Step 4: Assemble the Hopper

Now that the frame is ready, let’s move on to assembling the hopper, which is the large bag that collects the debris as you sweep. Start by attaching the long tubular frame to the top of the hopper material, sliding it through the designated slots and ensuring it’s properly aligned. Then, insert the side frames into the hopper’s side slots, securing them with push clips from the hardware pack. Once the frame is securely in place, slide it into the bottom section of the hopper and connect it to the main structure using the cross rod. With everything connected, tighten all the hardware provided to ensure the frame is sturdy and the hopper is held firmly in place.

Step 5: Mount the Hopper to the Sweeper

Once the hopper is assembled, it’s time to mount it to the sweeper. Line up the hopper’s frame with the sweeper’s frame, ensuring everything is properly aligned. Secure the hopper using the pins and cotter pins provided in the hardware packet, locking it firmly into place. Once mounted, peel off the protective covering to reveal the John Deere logo on the hopper, giving it that polished final touch.

Step 6: Final Adjustments and Optional Attachments

To complete the assembly, consider a couple of final adjustments and optional attachments. The net cover, for example, is a helpful addition if you want to prevent debris from blowing out while sweeping. It attaches easily to the hopper frame and helps contain smaller materials, ensuring a cleaner sweep. Additionally, the rope and handle feature allows you to lift the hopper while seated on your mower, making it easier to dump the collected debris without needing to leave your seat. Simply attach the rope to the designated spot and run it up to the front of your mower, making for a more convenient operation.

Now that your John Deere Lawn Sweeper is fully assembled and attached to your mower, it’s ready for use. Be sure to adjust the sweeper height using the handle, making sure it’s set to the right level for the debris you’re picking up. With your mower and sweeper properly connected, you’ll be able to efficiently collect leaves, grass clippings, and other debris with ease.