For John Deere zero-turn mowers, face the back of the mower, lift the seat and locate the VIN at the top of the frame on the right side. For John Deere 100 Series tractors, stand behind the tractor and locate the VIN on the frame near the back left wheel.
For John Deere steel-deck walk-behind mowers, stand behind the mower and locate the VIN on the left side of the mower deck. Locate the VIN according to your specific John Deere tractor.In addition, each serial number is unique to a specific mower, and can be used to track and identify your machine. These 13 to 17 letters and numbers can provide important information about your tractor, such as the year it was made, where the engine was manufactured, its emission levels, its security code and its transmission designation. Your John Deere tractor vehicle identification number is also known as a product identification number, serial number or lawn mower identification number. Written by Sarah Mason Updated December 28, 2018 Probably for big equipment but I don't know.
There's lots of info available for engine only #'s.
This article has some info How to Read a John Deere VIN | Home Guides | SF Gate
