Flat Idler Pulley for John Deere AM106627 AM121602 AUC16698 Fits 335 345 325 LX88 LX78 G100 and Some Sabre with 48" Deck

What It Is

This is a flat idler pulley (non-grooved) that routes and tensions the drive belt on select John Deere lawn tractors and Sabre models equipped with a 48-inch deck. It replaces OEM numbers AM106627, AM121602, and AUC16698, commonly used on the 300-series, LX, G100, and compatible Sabre decks.

Fitment & Compatibility

Before buying, verify your mower’s deck size—this pulley is designed for 48-inch decks only, not 42-inch or 54-inch. Confirm your model number from this list: John Deere 335, 345, 325, LX88, LX78, G100 (gas models), and some Sabre models with a 48-inch deck. Measure your existing pulley: the flat idler should have a 3.5-inch outer diameter and a 0.5-inch bore (center hole). If your pulley has a groove or different dimensions, this won’t fit. Double-check the OEM part numbers on your old pulley: AM106627, AM121602, or AUC16698. Aftermarket pulleys like this one are generally interchangeable but may use a slightly different bearing seal—inspect for smooth spin before installing.

Key Things to Know

• Quality: At $11.58, this is a budget-friendly aftermarket part. Expect a metal outer body with a sealed bearing; it’s decent for the price but may not last as long as OEM (which often costs 2-3x more).
• Installation: Moderate difficulty—requires removing the deck belt, loosening the idler arm bolt, and swapping the pulley. No special tools needed beyond a socket wrench and a pry bar for belt tension.
• Common gotcha: The pulley may be slightly thicker than OEM (check clearance against the deck frame). If it rubs, you’ll need to add a thin washer behind the mounting bolt.
• Bearing noise: Run the deck briefly after install. If you hear a grinding or wobble, the bearing may be defective—return it quickly.

Should You Buy It

If you need a quick, low-cost fix for a worn flat idler pulley on a 48-inch John Deere or Sabre deck and you’re comfortable with a basic swap, this is a solid value. It’s not for heavy commercial use or if you want OEM longevity, but for a homeowner mower it’ll get the job done.