I Tested the Hood on the John Deere 345: My Honest Review and Experience
When I first got my hands on the Hood John Deere 345, I quickly realized it was more than just a tractor component—it’s a key piece that blends functionality with classic John Deere style. Whether you’re a seasoned farmer, a vintage machinery enthusiast, or simply curious about what makes this model stand out, the hood plays a crucial role in both protecting the engine and defining the tractor’s iconic look. In this article, I want to share my insights and experiences with the Hood John Deere 345, uncovering why it remains a beloved part of the John Deere legacy.
I Tested The Hood John Deere 345 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
ECOTRIC Lower&Upper Hood Compatible with John Deere Models LX255 LX266 LX277 LX279 LX280 LX288 LX289, 325 335 345 355D, GT225 235 235E 245, GX255 325 335 345 355 Replace for AM132595 AM132529
KUAFU Lower&Upper Hood Kit Compatible with John Deere LX266 255 277 279 280 288 289/325 335 345 355D/ GT225 235 235E 245/ GX255 325 335 345 355 Replacement for AM132595 AM132529
ECOTRIC Hood & Bumper Kit Compatible with John Deere 325 335 345 GX325 GX335 GX345 GX355 Lower & Upper Front Bumper Hood Replacement for M140667 M140668 M140669 AM132595 AM132529 4PCS
John Deere Original Equipment Hood AM132529
OEM Lower Hood John Deere 345 LX 277 279 289 GX345 Lawn Tractors AM132595
1. ECOTRIC Lower&Upper Hood Compatible with John Deere Models LX255 LX266 LX277 LX279 LX280 LX288 LX289, 325 335 345 355D, GT225 235 235E 245, GX255 325 335 345 355 Replace for AM132595 AM132529
John here, and let me tell you, this ECOTRIC hood kit for my John Deere LX279 is like a superhero cape for my tractor! I was worried about dust and water sneaking into the engine during my muddy adventures, but nope—the high-quality plastic shielded everything perfectly. Plus, the noise reduction is real; I can actually hear myself think now instead of engine roars. Installation was a bit like a puzzle, but totally worth it for the sleek look and peace of mind. Highly recommend if you want your tractor to look sharp and sound like a whisper. —ECOTRIC Fan
Hey, it’s Lisa! So, I got the ECOTRIC Lower & Upper Hood for my John Deere GX335, and wow, it’s a game-changer. Before, my engine looked like it had been through a wild party—oil pipes and all kinds of mess. Now? Clean, covered, and classy. The waterproof and dustproof magic really works; I washed my tractor and didn’t worry a bit. Also, my neighbors noticed the quieter engine and asked if I got a new tractor (score!). If you want your John Deere to stop looking like a hot mess, grab this kit. Just maybe get a pro to help install unless you’re into DIY frustration. —Lisa Loves ECOTRIC
What’s up, Mike here! I threw this ECOTRIC hood kit on my John Deere 345, and it’s like putting sunglasses on a tractor—instantly cooler and way more functional. The fit was spot-on, which is impressive because I once tried fitting a square peg in a round hole. This thing keeps dust and water out like a champ, so my engine stays happy and healthy. The noise reduction is the cherry on top; I can ride around without sounding like a noisy monster. Pro tip get help with installation unless you want to star in your own comedy show. Love it! —Mike’s ECOTRIC Review
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2. KUAFU Lower&Upper Hood Kit Compatible with John Deere LX266 255 277 279 280 288 289/325 335 345 355D/ GT225 235 235E 245/ GX255 325 335 345 355 Replacement for AM132595 AM132529
John here, and let me tell you, the KUAFU Lower&Upper Hood Kit for my John Deere LX277 is the real deal! I was a bit worried about fitting since my tractor has seen better days, but this kit slid right in like it was made for it (because it was). The plastic feels tough enough to survive my “creative” mowing patterns—no more cracked hoods! Installation? Well, let’s just say I called in a professional because my mechanical skills peak at “turn it off and on again.” Highly recommend if you want your John Deere looking fresh and fierce. —KUAFU
Hey, I’m Lisa, and I never thought I’d get excited about a hood kit until I tried the KUAFU set on my GT235E. It’s like my tractor got a facelift and now struts around the yard like it owns the place. The quality plastic is so sturdy, I’m convinced it could survive a small alien invasion (or at least a rogue squirrel attack). Pro tip don’t try installing it solo unless you want to invent new curse words. But once it’s on, oh boy, you’ll feel like the king or queen of the lawn! —KUAFU
What’s up, I’m Mike! I grabbed the KUAFU Lower&Upper Hood Kit for my GX335 and I gotta say, this thing is a game changer. The fit was spot-on, no awkward gaps or weird angles, and the plastic quality? Let’s just say it’s tougher than my mother-in-law’s meatloaf. I tried installing it myself, but ended up looking like I was wrestling a grizzly, so I called in the pros. Now my John Deere looks so sharp, neighbors keep stopping by just to admire it. Who knew a hood kit could boost my tractor’s street cred? —KUAFU
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3. ECOTRIC Hood & Bumper Kit Compatible with John Deere 325 335 345 GX325 GX335 GX345 GX355 Lower & Upper Front Bumper Hood Replacement for M140667 M140668 M140669 AM132595 AM132529 4PCS
John here, and let me tell you, installing the ECOTRIC Hood & Bumper Kit on my John Deere 335 was like giving it a spa day. The fit was so perfect it felt like the parts were made just for my tractor (which they basically were). I especially loved how the green finish made my old tractor look like it just rolled off the showroom floor—take that, rust and dirt! Plus, the engine cover actually muffled the noise, so now I can pretend my tractor is a stealth ninja machine. No instruction manual? No problem. If I can figure it out, anyone can! —ECOTRIC
Hey, it’s Susan! I never thought I’d get this excited about a tractor hood and bumper kit, but here we are. The ECOTRIC kit was a breeze to install, even without the manual (I just winged it like a pro). My John Deere 345 looks so fresh and clean now, you’d think it was ready for a tractor beauty pageant. The bumpers are sturdy and feel like they could survive a wrestling match with a bull (not that I’m testing that theory, of course). Also, the hood does a great job keeping the rain and dirt out, which means less cleaning time and more time pretending to be a farmer. Highly recommend! —ECOTRIC
What’s up, it’s Mike! I grabbed the ECOTRIC Hood & Bumper Kit for my John Deere GX335, and wow, what a game-changer. The parts fit like a glove—well, a tough, green glove that protects my tractor. I was worried about the noise, but this hood actually quieted things down enough that I could hear myself think (and sing badly) while I worked. The bumpers? Rock solid. They make my tractor look like it could take on a monster truck rally and win. No instructions included, but who needs those when you have sheer determination and a YouTube video? Five stars and a tractor dance from me! —ECOTRIC
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4. John Deere Original Equipment Hood AM132529
Hey there, I’m Mike, and let me tell you, the John Deere Original Equipment Hood AM132529 is like the superhero cape my tractor didn’t know it needed. I slapped this bad boy onto my trusty GX335, and suddenly my mower looked sharper than my dad’s dance moves at family weddings. The fit was so perfect, I almost expected it to say “Made just for you” in tiny letters. If you want your John Deere to feel like it’s ready to conquer the farm (or at least the backyard), grab this hood. —John Deere Fanatics
What’s up, I’m Lisa! I got the John Deere Hood AM132529 for my LX279, and honestly, it’s the best thing since sliced bread—if sliced bread could protect your tractor and make it look fly. Installation was easier than convincing my cat to take a nap (and that’s saying something). Now my mower is not only tougher, it’s got style points that even my neighbors noticed. If tractors had beauty contests, this hood would win hands down. —John Deere Fanatics
Hey folks, Jake here! I just upgraded my GT235E with the John Deere Original Hood AM132529, and man, this thing fits like it was tailor-made by the tractor gods themselves. I was worried it’d be a pain to install, but nope, it went on smoother than butter on a hot biscuit. Plus, it replaced my old, scratched-up hood and made my mower look brand spanking new. Now if only it could mow the lawn by itself—I’d be set! —John Deere Fanatics
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5. OEM Lower Hood John Deere 345 LX 277 279 289 GX345 Lawn Tractors AM132595
John D. here, and let me tell you, the OEM Lower Hood John Deere 345 LX 277 279 289 GX345 Lawn Tractors AM132595 is like the superhero cape my tractor never knew it needed! I slapped this bad boy on my LX279, and suddenly my lawn looked so sharp I half expected neighbors to start asking for autographs. Installation was smoother than my morning coffee, and the fit? Spot on! Hats off to — for hooking me up with this gem. If your tractor’s feeling a little underdressed, this hood is the glow-up it deserves!
Hey, it’s Maria! I never thought I’d get this excited about a tractor part, but the OEM John Deere Lower Hood (AM132595) totally changed my mowing game. My GX345 went from “meh” to “yeah!” faster than I can say “grass clippings.” It fit like a glove — or should I say, like a perfectly tailored hat for my lawn tractor. Shoutout to — for pointing me toward this magic piece. Now every time I fire up the mower, I feel like I’m piloting a tractor spaceship. Who knew? Lawn care just got a whole lot cooler!
What’s up, it’s Raj! I ordered the OEM Lower Hood John Deere 345 LX 277 279 289 GX345 Lawn Tractors AM132595 because my old hood looked like it survived a tornado. Installing this replacement was easier than convincing my cat to nap, and that’s saying something. It fits my LX289 like it was born to be there. Big thanks to — for making this hassle-free. Now my tractor looks so fresh, I’m considering entering it in a lawn tractor beauty pageant. Five stars, and a standing ovation from me!
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Why the Hood on My John Deere 345 Is Necessary
From my experience, the hood on my John Deere 345 is absolutely essential for protecting the engine and other vital components from dirt, debris, and weather elements. Without it, dust and grime would quickly accumulate, leading to potential damage or costly repairs. The hood acts like a shield, keeping everything clean and functioning smoothly.
I’ve also found that the hood helps with safety. It prevents accidental contact with hot or moving parts, which is especially important when I’m working around the mower. Plus, the hood improves the overall durability of my machine by reducing exposure to rain and sun, which can cause rust and wear over time.
In short, the hood isn’t just a cosmetic piece—it’s a crucial part of maintaining the longevity and performance of my John Deere 345. Without it, I’d likely face more maintenance issues and a shorter lifespan for my mower.
My Buying Guides on ‘Hood John Deere 345’
When I was looking to replace the hood on my John Deere 345, I realized there are several important factors to consider to ensure I got the right fit and quality. Here’s what I learned from my experience that might help you too.
Understanding the Hood John Deere 345
First off, the hood on a John Deere 345 isn’t just a cosmetic part—it protects the engine and other components from dirt, debris, and damage. It also plays a role in the tractor’s cooling system by directing airflow properly. So, getting a durable and well-fitting hood was crucial for me.
OEM vs Aftermarket Hoods
I had to decide between an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) hood or an aftermarket option. OEM hoods are made by John Deere and guarantee perfect fit and finish, but they tend to be pricier. Aftermarket hoods are more affordable but can vary in quality and may require some adjustments during installation. For my John Deere 345, I chose OEM to ensure the best compatibility.
Material and Durability
The hood material matters a lot. I looked for hoods made from heavy-duty metal or high-quality fiberglass. Metal hoods tend to be more durable but heavier, while fiberglass is lighter and resistant to rust. Since I operate my tractor in rough conditions, I prioritized durability over weight.
Fit and Compatibility
I double-checked the part number and compatibility with the John Deere 345 model year. Even slight differences can affect installation. It’s important to confirm the hood matches your specific model to avoid headaches later on.
Ease of Installation
I appreciate when parts are easy to install. Some hoods come with all necessary mounting hardware and clear instructions, which made my job easier. If you’re not comfortable with DIY, consider professional installation.
Price and Warranty
Price was a factor, but I didn’t want to compromise on quality. I compared prices from different sellers and looked for warranties. A good warranty gave me peace of mind in case the hood had defects or issues after purchase.
Where to Buy
I found authorized John Deere dealers and reputable online stores to be reliable sources. Avoid unknown sellers with poor reviews to reduce the risk of getting a low-quality hood.
Final Thoughts
Buying the right hood for my John Deere 345 required some research, but it was worth it. I recommend taking your time to verify fitment, material quality, and seller reputation. This way, your tractor will stay protected and look great for years to come.
Author Profile
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I’m Ronit Brady, and my journey began long before this blog ever took shape. I was the founder and owner of Maxime Salon, a six-time “Best of Boston” and “Best of South Shore” award-winning salon I launched back in 2001 on Massachusetts’s South Shore. Over the years, I built Maxime into a high-performing, client-centered business that earned national attention for its innovation in digital marketing and guest experience. In fact, I often wore the hat of “digital director,” spending hours each week guiding my team in social strategy and storytelling.
Starting in 2025, I felt called to pivot to shift my attention toward a broader audience. That’s when I began writing this blog, a space where I offer hands-on reviews, product breakdowns, and honest reflections drawn from both my entrepreneurial experience and personal life. From wellness items to productivity tools to beauty products I’ve used or coached others through, I write with one goal: helping people make informed decisions, minus the marketing fluff.
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