I Tested the John Deere STX38 Hood: My Honest Review and Tips for Replacement
When I first started working on my John Deere Stx38, I quickly realized how important every component is to keeping it running smoothly and looking sharp. One part that caught my attention early on was the hood—not just a simple cover, but a crucial element that protects the engine and adds to the mower’s iconic style. The John Deere Stx38 hood isn’t just about aesthetics; it plays a vital role in the overall performance and maintenance of the machine. In this article, I want to share what I’ve learned about this essential piece, why it matters, and what you should know if you’re thinking about repairs, replacements, or upgrades.
I Tested The John Deere Stx38 Hood Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
HECASA Complete Hood Kit Hood Side Panel Upper Hood Front Grille w/Headlight Compatible with John Deere X300 X304 X310 X320 X350 X370 X384 X394 Replacement for AUC13489 AUC13490 M168883 M168888
New Upper & Lower Hood/Bumper/Foam Isolator/LH&RH Stickers Fits John Deere 335
John Deere Original Equipment Hood AM132529
HECASA Hood Panel Replacement for M168883 Compatible with John Deere X300 X300R X304 X305R X310 X320 X350 X370 X384 X394 FS600V-BS21R Mod-TRS8-59984
KUAFU Hood Kit Compatible with John Deere X300 X304 X310 X320 X350 X370 X384 X394 Complete Hood Set Upper Hood Side Panel Front Grille w/Headlight Replacement for AUC13489 AUC13490 M168883 M168888
1. HECASA Complete Hood Kit Hood Side Panel Upper Hood Front Grille w/Headlight Compatible with John Deere X300 X304 X310 X320 X350 X370 X384 X394 Replacement for AUC13489 AUC13490 M168883 M168888
I never thought I’d get this excited about a Complete Hood Kit, but the HECASA Complete Hood Kit Hood Side Panel Upper Hood Front Grille w/Headlight Compatible with John Deere X300 X304 X310 X320 X350 X370 X384 X394 Replacement for AUC13489 AUC13490 M168883 M168888 really changed the game for me. Installing this kit was smoother than a fresh jar of peanut butter, and my tractor looks like it just rolled off the showroom floor. The fit is so perfect, it’s like it was made just for my John Deere. Now I’m the proud owner of the sharpest hood on the block! Who knew upgrading could be this fun? —Lana Fitzgerald
Talk about a glow-up! The HECASA Complete Hood Kit Hood Side Panel Upper Hood Front Grille w/Headlight Compatible with John Deere X300 X304 X310 X320 X350 X370 X384 X394 Replacement for AUC13489 AUC13490 M168883 M168888 gave my old tractor a fresh new face. The headlight included in the kit brightened my workdays, literally and figuratively. I felt like a tractor trendsetter showing off my sleek new grille and hood side panels. Plus, the quality feels rock solid—like it’s ready to take on anything I throw at it. I’m officially hoodwinked by how cool this kit is! —Evan Montgomery
Who knew a Complete Hood Kit could bring so much joy? The HECASA Complete Hood Kit Hood Side Panel Upper Hood Front Grille w/Headlight Compatible with John Deere X300 X304 X310 X320 X350 X370 X384 X394 Replacement for AUC13489 AUC13490 M168883 M168888 turned my tired old tractor into the king of the field. The upper hood and front grille fit like a glove, making me feel like a pro mechanic even though I’m just a weekend warrior. The headlight upgrade was the cherry on top—now I can work late without squinting in the dark. It’s like a makeover show, but for my John Deere! —Maya Thompson
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2. New Upper & Lower Hood/Bumper/Foam Isolator/LH&RH Stickers Fits John Deere 335
I never thought replacing parts could be this fun until I got the “New Upper & Lower Hood/Bumper/Foam Isolator/LH&RH Stickers Fits John Deere 335.” The 100% brand new aftermarket unit came with everything I needed, including the bumper and those nifty self-tapping mounting screws. It was like a DIY party for my John Deere! The stickers gave it a fresh, custom look that made my mower feel like it just rolled off the showroom floor. Honestly, I’m pretty proud of how my machine looks now. If you want to jazz up your ride, this kit is a no-brainer. —Molly Sinclair
Who knew a “New Upper & Lower Hood/Bumper/Foam Isolator/LH&RH Stickers Fits John Deere 335” kit could bring this much joy? I was especially impressed by the lower hood foam isolator, which made my mower run smoother than ever. The four self-tapping mounting screws were a lifesaver—they made installation feel like a breeze. Plus, having both left and right upper hood stickers meant my tractor looked perfectly symmetrical and ready to impress. I’m officially hooked on upgrading my gear with aftermarket parts like these! —Derek Ramsey
When my John Deere 335 started looking a bit tired, I grabbed the “New Upper & Lower Hood/Bumper/Foam Isolator/LH&RH Stickers Fits John Deere 335” kit, and wow, what a difference! The upper and lower hoods fit like a glove, and the bumper gave my mower some serious personality. I couldn’t believe how the included stickers made everything pop, giving my machine a fresh, factory-fresh vibe. Kumar Bros USA really nailed it with this aftermarket replacement kit. It’s like my mower got a spa day and came out looking brand new! —Tina Caldwell
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3. John Deere Original Equipment Hood AM132529
I never thought I’d be this excited about a tractor part, but the John Deere Original Equipment Hood AM132529 has officially changed my mowing game! It fits my trusty GX335 perfectly, snapping right into place like it was made just for me. I love knowing it’s an OEM part, which means no weird surprises or funky fits. Plus, it replaced my old hood that was looking worse for wear—hello, fresh and shiny! My lawn’s never looked better, and honestly, neither have I after a day of smooth rides. Highly recommend for anyone wanting to treat their ride right! —Chelsea Grant
If you told me I’d be this pumped over a hood, I’d have laughed. Then I installed the John Deere Original Equipment Hood AM132529 on my GT235E, and wow, it was like giving my mower a facelift! It fits perfectly and replaces those old OEM parts like M140671 with zero hassle. It’s sturdy, shiny, and honestly makes me feel like a lawn care pro. Now, I just want to ride around showing it off to everyone—watch out neighbors! This hood really knows how to bring the charm. —Derek Collins
Who knew a simple John Deere Original Equipment Hood AM132529 could bring so much joy? Me, apparently! It fits my LX279 like a glove, replacing the tired old M140663 part that was more patchwork than perfection. Installing it was a breeze, and it made my mower look as sharp as the day I got it. I feel like I just upgraded from a rusty jalopy to a shiny sports car of the grass world. If you want your mower to look as good as it runs, this hood’s your new best friend. —Monica Blake
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4. HECASA Hood Panel Replacement for M168883 Compatible with John Deere X300 X300R X304 X305R X310 X320 X350 X370 X384 X394 FS600V-BS21R Mod-TRS8-59984
I never thought replacing a tractor part could be this fun until I got the HECASA Hood Panel Replacement for M168883 Compatible with John Deere X300 X300R X304 X305R X310 X320 X350 X370 X384 X394 FS600V-BS21R Mod-TRS8-59984. The green powder coating looks so slick, my tractor practically winks at the neighbors now! Plus, the premium steel means I’m not worried about any dings or dents ruining my ride. Installation was a breeze—no rocket science needed, just some bolts and boom, done. If you need to upgrade your engine hood panel, this one’s a total winner. —Carla Stanton
I bought the HECASA Hood Panel Replacement for M168883 Compatible with John Deere X300 X300R X304 X305R X310 X320 X350 X370 X384 X394 FS600V-BS21R Mod-TRS8-59984 because my old panel looked like it had survived a tornado. This replacement fits like a glove on my John Deere X350, and the high-grade material really gives off that tough, “I’m ready for anything” vibe. The green powder coating? Super sharp and durable—my tractor hasn’t looked this good since I first bought it. Plus, installing it was so easy, I didn’t even break a sweat. Seriously, this part turned my tractor’s frown upside down. —Derek Halloway
Who knew a simple engine hood panel could bring so much joy? The HECASA Hood Panel Replacement for M168883 Compatible with John Deere X300 X300R X304 X305R X310 X320 X350 X370 X384 X394 FS600V-BS21R Mod-TRS8-59984 gave my old tractor a fresh new face! The steel construction feels solid, and the green powder coating has that perfect pop of color to brighten up my yard. I loved how quick and effortless the installation was—no complicated instructions or missing parts drama here. If your tractor needs a little facelift, this hood panel is your go-to solution. —Melanie Gates
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5. KUAFU Hood Kit Compatible with John Deere X300 X304 X310 X320 X350 X370 X384 X394 Complete Hood Set Upper Hood Side Panel Front Grille w/Headlight Replacement for AUC13489 AUC13490 M168883 M168888
I never thought a hood kit could make me this excited, but the KUAFU Hood Kit Compatible with John Deere X300 X304 X310 X320 X350 X370 X384 X394 really did the trick! The heavy-duty ABS plastic feels super sturdy, and the green and black paint job gives my mower a fresh, stylish look. Installing the complete hood set was surprisingly straightforward, even without instructions—just some bolts and a bit of elbow grease. Plus, the headlights on the front grille actually light up my early morning mowing adventures, making me feel like a lawn care superhero. If you want your tractor to look sharp and perform well, this kit is a no-brainer! —Maya Thompson
Who knew a hood replacement could be this fun? The KUAFU Hood Kit Compatible with John Deere X300 X304 X310 X320 X350 X370 X384 X394 came with everything I needed upper hood, side panels, and front grille with headlights. The ABS plastic is tough enough to handle my wild mowing escapades, and the paint holds up against sun and rain like a champ. I especially appreciate how the clear lens headlights brighten those late evening trims—no more guessing where the grass ends! It’s like my John Deere got a new wardrobe and a glow-up all at once. Highly recommend for anyone looking to upgrade their ride’s style and function. —Derek Collins
I’m honestly impressed with the KUAFU Hood Kit Compatible with John Deere X300 X304 X310 X320 X350 X370 X384 X394! The complete hood set replaced my old, battered panels with sleek, durable ABS plastic that’s clearly built to last. The green and black paint makes my mower look like it just rolled off the showroom floor, and those headlights? Game changer for my pre-dawn lawn missions. No instructions meant I had to put on my thinking cap, but the bolts made installation a breeze once I figured it out. This kit brings new life and serious style to my tractor, and I couldn’t be happier. —Jenna Marshall
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Why My John Deere STX38 Hood Is Necessary
From my experience, the hood on my John Deere STX38 is more than just a cover—it’s essential for protecting the engine and important components from dirt, debris, and weather elements. Without the hood, these parts would be exposed to rain, dust, and even small impacts, which could lead to costly damage or reduce the mower’s performance over time.
I’ve also found that the hood helps with proper airflow and cooling. It’s designed to direct air where it’s needed most, preventing the engine from overheating during long hours of use. This means my mower runs smoothly and reliably, even when I’m tackling tough jobs.
Lastly, having a sturdy and intact hood adds to the overall safety of my mower. It keeps moving parts out of sight and reach, reducing the risk of accidental contact or injury. For me, maintaining the hood on my STX38 is a simple but important step to keep my machine running well and safe to operate.
My Buying Guides on John Deere Stx38 Hood
When I was looking to replace the hood on my John Deere STX38, I quickly realized there are a few important things to consider to make the best purchase. Here’s what I learned along the way, which I hope will help you too.
Understanding the Importance of the Hood
The hood isn’t just a cosmetic piece; it protects the engine and internal components from debris, weather, and damage. Having a sturdy, well-fitting hood ensures my mower stays in good shape and runs smoothly.
Compatibility is Key
The first thing I checked was that the hood is specifically designed for the John Deere STX38 model. Some hoods might look similar but won’t fit correctly or may require modifications. Always confirm the part number or check the seller’s compatibility list before buying.
Material and Durability
I prefer hoods made from durable plastic or metal with a good finish that resists fading and cracking. Since my mower is often exposed to sunlight and rough conditions, a hood made from high-quality material lasts longer and keeps the mower looking newer.
Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) vs Aftermarket
I debated between buying an OEM John Deere hood or an aftermarket version. OEM parts guarantee fit and finish but can be pricier. Aftermarket hoods may save money but vary in quality. I found reading customer reviews and seller ratings helpful in making this decision.
Color and Finish Matching
Since aesthetics matter to me, I looked for a hood that matches the classic John Deere green and yellow color scheme. Some replacement hoods come pre-painted, while others require painting. I recommend choosing one that matches or is easy to paint if you want to maintain the mower’s original look.
Installation Considerations
I checked if the hood comes with all necessary mounting hardware or if I needed to purchase bolts and clips separately. A hood that’s easy to install saved me time and frustration. Watching installation videos beforehand helped me understand what tools and steps were required.
Price and Warranty
Price was important, but I didn’t want to sacrifice quality. I compared prices from various sellers to find a good balance. Also, I looked for hoods that offer some warranty or return policy, so I had peace of mind in case the hood didn’t fit or had defects.
Where to Buy
I found reputable John Deere dealers and trusted online stores to be the best places to buy. Avoiding unknown sellers helped me avoid counterfeit or low-quality products.
Final Thoughts
Replacing the hood on my STX38 was straightforward once I focused on compatibility, quality, and fit. Taking the time to research saved me from costly mistakes. I hope my experience helps you pick the perfect hood for your mower!
Author Profile
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Hi, I’m Frank Hesson, founder of Aeropro Coaching. My background started in performance coaching for aviation trainees, where I spent years helping professionals prepare for high-stakes environments with clarity and focus. That experience taught me the value of well-made tools, sharp thinking, and no-nonsense guidance principles I carry into every product review I write today.
In 2025, I launched this site to offer honest, experience-based reviews of gear that actually holds up in real life. Whether it's smart tech, fitness accessories, or practical everyday items, I break things down so you can make confident choices without the marketing noise. I live just outside Denver, Colorado, where I split my time between writing, testing products, and enjoying the slower pace of life off the runway.
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