What was recalled
In May of 2018, a significant safety recall was initiated involving specific pieces of agricultural and landscaping equipment manufactured by John Deere. This action, reported by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), focused on the John Deere model 120R compact utility loaders. These loaders are designed to attach directly to John Deere’s 2025R tractor models, creating a combined machine used for moving earth, gravel, snow, and other materials. The recall specifically targets the loader component itself, which is an essential attachment for the tractor rather than the tractor unit alone.
The affected products are visually distinct, making them relatively easy to identify if you are standing in front of one. The recalled loaders are predominantly green with yellow accents, consistent with John Deere’s traditional branding colors. To confirm whether a specific piece of equipment is part of this recall, owners need to look for specific identification markings. The model number "120R" is stamped on both sides of the loader frame. Additionally, each unit has a unique serial number located on the inside of the left boom arm. Because the safety issue relates to the interaction between the loader and the tractor’s weight distribution, it is critical that owners verify both the model type and the specific serial number against the official list provided by John Deere.
While the recall facts do not specify the exact total number of units sold or the precise geographic regions where they were distributed, this was a widespread issue affecting all purchasers of these specific loader attachments during their production run. The recall was officially announced on May 24, 2018. At that time, John Deere began reaching out to all known purchasers directly, acknowledging that the lack of proper information in the documentation could lead to dangerous operating conditions. If you own a John Deere 2025R tractor equipped with a 120R loader, it is highly likely that your equipment was included in this specific safety alert, regardless of when exactly you purchased it, as long as it falls within the identified serial number range.
The core of the recall is not a mechanical failure of the metal parts themselves, but rather a critical gap in the educational materials provided to the user. The manufacturer determined that the operator’s manual for these loaders failed to include vital information about the proper ballast requirements when the loader is attached to the 2025R tractor. Ballast refers to the weight added to the tractor to ensure stability, and without clear instructions on how much weight is needed, operators might run their equipment in an unsafe configuration. This distinction is important: the physical loader is being recalled not because it is broken, but because the guidance necessary to use it safely with the compatible tractor was missing from the package.
For those seeking to verify if their specific unit is part of this recall, John Deere provided a dedicated resource. Owners were directed to visit www.JohnDeere.com/120R-Loader-OM-Recall to view the complete list of serial numbers included in this action. This online tool was established to help owners quickly determine if their equipment requires attention. The remedy offered was straightforward: consumers were instructed to immediately stop using the recalled loaders and contact an authorized John Deere dealer. The company agreed to provide a free correction of the operator's manual, ensuring that the necessary safety information regarding ballast was finally included in the documentation. This approach highlights that the recall is primarily about education and prevention rather than replacing hardware.
The hazard, explained
At the heart of this recall is a subtle but critical gap in information: the operator’s manual for these compact utility loaders does not specify the correct amount of ballast needed when the loader is attached to a John Deere 2025R tractor. To understand why this matters, it helps to look at the basic physics of how these machines operate. A compact utility loader is designed to lift heavy loads, which shifts the center of gravity forward. To counterbalance this weight and keep the rear wheels on the ground for stability, operators are supposed to add ballast—typically weights or water—to the tractor’s rear tires or frame.
When the manual fails to tell you exactly how much ballast is required for a specific load or attachment, you are left guessing. This is where the danger lies. Without the proper guidance, it is very easy to under-ballast the tractor. If there isn’t enough weight at the back, the front of the tractor can become too heavy relative to the rear. In practical terms, this means the rear tires may lose traction or, in worse cases, lift off the ground entirely. This creates a condition known as a "front-heavy" imbalance.
When a tractor is improperly ballasted and becomes unstable, it poses a direct physical risk of tipping over. If the machine tips forward or to the side while an operator is seated on it, they can be crushed between the seat and the ground or trapped by the roll-over protective structure (ROPS). Even if the tractor does not fully overturn, sudden shifts in balance can cause the vehicle to slide or jerk unexpectedly, potentially throwing the operator off the seat or causing them to lose control of the controls.
The risk extends beyond just the person driving. An unstable tractor can also endanger bystanders standing nearby. If the machine tips or if a load is dropped due to loss of control, it can strike anyone in the vicinity. This is particularly concerning because compact loaders are often used in residential or tight workspaces where family members, neighbors, or pets might be present. The lack of clear instructions means that well-meaning owners who don’t realize they need extra weight could inadvertently put themselves and others in harm’s way every time they use the equipment.
While John Deere has reported no incidents for this specific recall yet, the potential for injury is real because the mechanism of failure—instability due to incorrect ballasting—is a well-documented cause of accidents in agricultural and landscaping machinery. The hazard isn’t that the loader itself is defective; it’s that without the right information, you can’t operate it safely. That is why correcting the manual is not just a paperwork issue—it is a vital step in ensuring the machine behaves as intended on the ground.
Who is most at risk
The individuals most immediately vulnerable to this specific recall are the owners and operators of John Deere model 2025R tractors equipped with the recalled model 120R loaders. These are typically homeowners, small-scale farmers, landscapers, or agricultural workers who rely on the loader attachment for moving dirt, mulch, gravel, or other heavy materials. The risk is not abstract; it is physical and mechanical. Because the operator’s manual failed to provide the correct ballast specifications, users may have been operating their tractors without adequate counterweight in the rear. This oversight creates a critical imbalance where the front-heavy loader can cause the rear wheels of the tractor to lift off the ground or become dangerously light on the pavement. Consequently, the primary group at risk is anyone standing near or operating this specific combination of equipment during normal use.
The nature of the hazard—instability leading to a potential tip-over or loss of control—means that the physical consequences can be severe. While the CPSC has not reported any incidents or injuries at this time, the potential for harm is significant. The operator is at the highest level of risk because they are seated directly on the unstable platform. If the tractor were to tip forward or slide unpredictably due to improper ballasting, the operator could be crushed between the seat and the steering wheel, pinned under the roll-over protection structure, or ejected from the vehicle. Furthermore, bystanders in the immediate vicinity are also at substantial risk. In agricultural or residential settings, it is common for family members, neighbors, or other workers to be nearby while loading operations are underway. A sudden shift in the tractor’s center of gravity could cause the loader arm to swing wildly or the entire machine to overturn, striking anyone standing within the operational radius.
It is important to note that vulnerability in this scenario is not necessarily tied to age, such as children or the elderly, but rather to proximity and role. Anyone who allows a John Deere 2025R with a model 120R loader to be operated without the corrected manual is potentially enabling a dangerous situation. This includes casual users who may not realize that ballast is a safety-critical component rather than just a performance enhancer. The lack of proper information in the manual means that even experienced operators might unknowingly proceed with unsafe practices because they were never given the specific data required to stabilize the machine correctly. Therefore, the risk is distributed among all users who have not yet received the free correction from John Deere, regardless of their skill level.
If you fall into this category—owning or operating a 2025R tractor with a model 120R loader—you are part of the affected group. The good news is that the remedy is straightforward: stopping use immediately and contacting an authorized dealer for the corrected manual eliminates the risk entirely. By taking this step, you protect not only yourself but also anyone who might be working alongside you on your property or job site.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
Knowing exactly what you own is the most critical first step in protecting yourself and your family from this recall. Because John Deere equipment is widely used in both residential landscaping and professional agricultural settings, it is easy to assume a piece of machinery is safe simply because it has been working well for years. However, this specific recall targets a very narrow set of components based on precise physical identifiers. You do not need to be an engineer to identify these parts; you only need to look at the right places and compare what you see against the official list.
First, confirm that you own a John Deere model 120R loader. These units are designed to attach specifically to the John Deere model 2025R tractor. If your tractor is a different model, or if your loader has a different designation, this particular recall does not apply to your setup. Visually, these loaders are distinctive and easy to spot: they feature the classic John Deere green body with bright yellow accents. This color scheme is standard for the brand, but it helps confirm you are looking at genuine equipment rather than a generic attachment.
The most reliable way to verify if your unit is included in this recall is by checking the identification numbers stamped directly onto the metal of the loader. You must locate two specific pieces of information. First, find the model number "120R." This marking will be located on both sides of the loader frame. If you do not see this specific model number, your unit is not part of this recall.
Second, and more importantly for determining eligibility, you must find the serial number. This number is not placed randomly; it is stamped on the inside of the left boom arm of the loader. This location can sometimes be harder to see depending on how the loader is positioned or if debris has accumulated there, so take a moment to clean off any dirt or grass clippings to ensure you are reading the numbers clearly. Write this serial number down.
Once you have the model number and the serial number, do not rely on memory or assumptions. The recall applies only to specific units within the 120R production run. You must verify your serial number against the official list of recalled units. This list is maintained by John Deere and can be accessed online at www.JohnDeere.com/120R-Loader-OM-Recall. If your serial number appears on that list, your loader is definitely included in this safety alert. If it does not appear, or if you cannot find the identification numbers, contact John Deere directly for assistance before using the equipment further.
What to do — step by step
If you own a John Deere model 120R loader that attaches to your 2025R tractor, the most critical thing you can do right now is to simply stop using the equipment. This is not a suggestion; it is the primary safety directive from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and John Deere themselves. The reason for this immediate cessation of use lies in the nature of the defect: the operator’s manual currently provided with your loader lacks the correct information regarding proper ballast weights. Without this crucial data, you are essentially operating heavy machinery in the dark. Improper ballasting is a serious issue because it directly affects the center of gravity and stability of the tractor-loader combination. If the equipment is not properly weighted, it can become unstable, potentially leading to tipping or loss of control, which creates a significant risk of injury to both the operator inside the cab and any bystanders nearby. Therefore, your first and most important step is to park the tractor, engage all safety locks, and remove the key until you have taken action. Once you have secured the equipment, your next step is to verify exactly what you have. You need to confirm that your loader is indeed part of this specific recall. Look for the model number "120R," which should be clearly visible on both sides of the loader body. Additionally, locate the serial number, which is found on the inside of the left boom arm. While John Deere is proactively contacting all known purchasers directly, it is wise to check the official recall list available at www.JohnDeere.com/120R-Loader-OM-Recall to ensure your specific serial number is included. This step ensures you are not confusing this issue with other potential maintenance needs and confirms that your unit is covered under this specific safety alert. After confirming your unit is part of the recall, contact an authorized John Deere dealer. You have two main options for making this contact. First, you can call Deere & Company directly at 800-537-8233. Their customer service team is available from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, and on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. ET. Alternatively, you can visit www.deere.com and navigate to the “Product Recall Information” link located in the drop-down menu under “Services & Support.” When you reach out, explain that you have a model 120R loader for your 2025R tractor and that you are aware of the operator’s manual recall. The remedy provided is straightforward and entirely free: the dealer will provide you with a corrected operator’s manual that includes the proper ballast information. Do not attempt to guess the weight requirements or modify the equipment yourself without this official documentation. By following these steps, you ensure that your machinery is safe to operate again, protecting yourself and others from the instability hazard identified in this recall.Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you own one of the recalled John Deere model 120R compact utility loaders, you do not need to worry about purchasing a new part or paying for service to correct this issue. The remedy established by this recall is straightforward and fully covered by the manufacturer. Specifically, John Deere has committed to providing a free correction of the operator’s manual for all affected units. This means that while you are not receiving a replacement loader or a cash refund, you are receiving the critical information necessary to operate your equipment safely at no cost to you. The company is taking the initiative to reach out to all known purchasers directly to facilitate this process, which removes the burden of discovery from you in many cases.
The core of the remedy lies in correcting a significant gap in safety documentation. Because the original operator’s manual failed to include information about the proper ballast required when the loader is attached to a 2025R tractor, your machine may have been operated in an unstable condition. By obtaining the corrected manual, you gain access to the specific weight and placement guidelines needed to stabilize the tractor. Without this correction, the risk of the tractor becoming unstable remains high, potentially leading to injury for you or bystanders. Therefore, obtaining this manual is not just a bureaucratic formality; it is the essential step that transforms your equipment from a potential hazard into a safe tool.
To ensure you receive these materials and to verify the status of your recall, you should contact Deere & Company through the official channels provided by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. You can call their dedicated recall line at 800-537-8233. It is important to note the specific hours of operation when planning your call: they are available from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Eastern Time Monday through Friday, and on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Eastern Time. If you prefer digital communication, you can visit www.deere.com and navigate to the “Product Recall Information” link located in the drop-down menu under “Services & Support.” This online portal is another verified way to get more information about the recall process.
When you contact John Deere, be prepared to provide specific identification details for your loader to ensure the correct manual is sent to you. You will need to locate the model number 120R, which is stamped on both sides of the loader, and the serial number, which is found on the inside of the left boom arm. A comprehensive list of the serial numbers included in this specific recall is also available online at www.JohnDeere.com/120R-Loader-OM-Recall. By cross-referencing your serial number with this list or providing it to the representative, you can confirm that your unit is indeed part of this recall and that your free manual correction will be processed correctly.
What can happen if you ignore it
When a recall involves the fundamental stability of heavy machinery, ignoring the alert is not merely an administrative oversight; it is a direct gamble with physical safety. The core issue with these John Deere model 120R loaders is that the operator’s manual lacks critical information regarding proper ballast weight. Ballast is not just a technical detail for agricultural enthusiasts—it is the primary factor determining whether a tractor remains upright or tips over when its loader is raised and extended. Without this specific guidance, you are essentially operating a piece of equipment in a state of educated guesswork. While John Deere has reported no incidents to date, the absence of reported injuries does not mean the risk is low; it simply means that, so far, luck has been on the side of operators who may have intuitively added weight or operated within safe limits by chance.
If you continue to use the loader without the corrected manual, you expose yourself and anyone nearby to a significant risk of rollover. A compact utility loader is designed to lift heavy loads, which shifts the center of gravity forward. To counteract this, the rear of the tractor must be weighted down appropriately. If the manual does not tell you how much weight is required for the specific conditions of your work—whether you are lifting a full bucket of wet soil or moving lighter materials on flat ground—the tractor may become dangerously unstable. This instability can lead to catastrophic tipping events, particularly when turning with a raised load or operating on uneven terrain.
The consequences of such an event are severe and immediate. For the operator, a rollover can result in crushing injuries, fractures, or even fatalities if the protective structure is compromised or if the operator is ejected. For bystanders, including family members, neighbors, or workers nearby, a tipping tractor becomes a massive, uncontrolled projectile. The force generated by a tipped tractor is immense, capable of causing serious injury to anyone in the vicinity. Furthermore, ignoring the recall means you are missing out on a free correction that John Deere has prepared specifically to mitigate this known risk. By waiting, you are choosing to maintain an equipment configuration that the manufacturer has identified as potentially unsafe for your specific model combination.
It is important to understand that mechanical failures or human error often compound these stability issues. A momentary lapse in attention, a slick surface, or a sudden shift in load weight can trigger a tip if the ballast is incorrect. The recalled manual does not just contain words; it contains the mathematical and practical safety parameters necessary to keep the machine balanced. Without them, you are operating without the full set of tools needed to ensure your own safety. The remedy is simple: contact an authorized dealer for the corrected manual. Choosing not to do so leaves you vulnerable to a hazard that is entirely preventable, turning a manageable task into a potential tragedy based on incomplete information.
Staying safe: broader tips
When you are operating heavy machinery like compact utility loaders or tractors, the equipment is only as stable as your preparation. One of the most critical, yet often overlooked, aspects of safe operation is understanding weight distribution and ballast. In general, adding proper counterweights to the rear of a tractor is not just a suggestion; it is a fundamental engineering requirement for stability. Without adequate ballast, the center of gravity shifts dangerously forward when you lift a load, making the front end heavy and the rear light. This can lead to a catastrophic tip-over, where the tractor flips backward onto the operator. Always consult your specific equipment’s manual for the exact weight requirements. Never guess or improvise with weights, as even a few pounds can change the safety profile of the machine significantly.
Beyond physical setup, maintaining clear communication and situational awareness is vital when working around heavy equipment. If you are operating a loader or any similar machinery, establish a strict "no bystanders" zone while the engine is running. Even if you believe you have full control, mechanical failures or sudden ground shifts can occur without warning. Ensure that anyone nearby, especially children or pets, is far away from the machine’s reach and swing radius. It is also wise to perform a pre-operation inspection every single time. Check for loose bolts, hydraulic leaks, or worn tires before you even start the engine. Catching a minor issue early can prevent a major accident later.
Finally, proactive maintenance of your records and awareness of safety alerts is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself and your family. Manufacturers regularly update manuals and issue recalls when they discover design flaws or missing information that could compromise safety. Make it a habit to register your new equipment with the manufacturer immediately after purchase. This ensures you receive critical safety bulletins directly. Periodically check the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) website or the manufacturer’s official recall page for any updates on your specific models. Keeping your operator’s manual in a dry, accessible place and reading it thoroughly before each season can provide knowledge that saves lives. Remember, safety is not a one-time event but a continuous practice of care and attention to detail.