OMTCU35848E

*DCY*
JOHN DEERE
AG & TURF DIVISION
TCU35848
D3
ZTrak™
Z900B, Z900M, Z900R Series
OMTCU35848 D3
OPERATOR’S MANUAL
*omtcu35848e*
c WARNING: The Engine Exhaust
from this product contains chemicals known
to the State of California to cause cancer,
birth defects or other reproductive harm.
California Proposition 65 Warning
North American Version

Printed in U.S.A.
Introduction
Introduction
c CAUTION:
Thank You for Purchasing a John Deere
Product Avoid injury! This symbol and text
highlight potential hazards or death to the
We appreciate having you as a customer and wish you
operator or bystanders that may occur if the
many years of safe and satisfied use of your machine.
hazards or procedures are ignored.
IMPORTANT: Avoid damage! This text is used to tell

Using Your Operator’s Manual the operator of actions or conditions that might
result in damage to the machine.
This manual is an important part of your machine and
should remain with the machine when you sell it.
NOTE: General information is given throughout the
Reading your operator’s manual will help you and others manual that may help the operator in the operation or
avoid personal injury or damage to the machine. service of the machine.
Information given in this manual will provide the operator
with the safest and most effective use of the machine.
Knowing how to operate this machine safely and correctly
will allow you to train others who may operate this machine.
If you have an attachment, use the safety and operating
information in the attachment operator’s manual along with
the machine operator’s manual to operate the attachment
safely and correctly.
This manual and safety signs on your machine may also be
available in other languages (see your authorized dealer to
order).
Sections in your operator’s manual are placed in a specific
order to help you understand all the safety messages and
learn the controls so you can operate this machine safely.
You can also use this manual to answer any specific
operating or servicing questions. A convenient index
located at the end of this book will help you to find needed
information quickly.
The machine shown in this manual may differ slightly from
your machine, but will be similar enough to help you
understand our instructions.
RIGHT-HAND and LEFT-HAND sides are determined by
facing in the direction the machine will travel when going
forward. When you see a broken line (------), the item
referred to is hidden from view.
Before delivering this machine, your dealer performed a
predelivery inspection to ensure best performance.
Special Messages
Your manual contains special messages to bring attention
to potential safety concerns, machine damage as well as
helpful operating and servicing information. Please read all
the information carefully to avoid injury and machine
damage.
Introduction
Product Identification
Record Identification Numbers

ZTrak™ Z915B (Z900B Series), Z920M, Z925M EFI,
Z925M EFI Flex Fuel, Z930M, Z930M EFI (Z900M Series),
Z920R, Z930R, Z950R, Z960R, Z970R (Z900R Series)
PIN (010001-) E
If you need to contact an Authorized Service Center for
information on servicing, always provide the product model
and serial number.
You will need to locate the model and serial number for the D
machine and for the engine of your machine and record the C
information in the spaces provided below.
DATE OF PURCHASE:
_________________________________________
DEALER NAME:
_________________________________________ MX51852
DEALER PHONE: Picture Note: Kohler Engine
_________________________________________ ENGINE MODEL NUMBER (C):

__ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __
ENGINE SPECIFICATION NUMBER (D):
__ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __
ENGINE SERIAL NUMBER (E):
__ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __
H
A B
F
MX51851
PRODUCT MODEL NUMBER (A): G
__ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __
PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION NUMBER (B):
__ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ MX51909
Picture Note: Kawasaki Engine

ENGINE MODEL NUMBER (F):
__ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __
ENGINE SPECIFICATION NUMBER (G):
__ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __
ENGINE SERIAL NUMBER (H):
__ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Safety Labels ..........................................................................................................................................................................1

Safety Labels ..........................................................................................................................................................................6
Safety ................................................................................................................................................................................... 11
Operating - Controls ............................................................................................................................................................. 19
Operating ..............................................................................................................................................................................21
Replacement Parts ............................................................................................................................................................... 41
Service Intervals ................................................................................................................................................................... 42
Service Lubrication............................................................................................................................................................... 44
Service Engine .................................................................................................................................................................... 46
Service Transmission ...........................................................................................................................................................62
Service Steering & Brakes....................................................................................................................................................68
Service Mower...................................................................................................................................................................... 71
Service Electrical..................................................................................................................................................................75
Service Miscellaneous.......................................................................................................................................................... 80
Troubleshooting .................................................................................................................................................................... 84
Storage ................................................................................................................................................................................. 96
Specifications .......................................................................................................................................................................98
Warranty ............................................................................................................................................................................. 106
Index ...................................................................................................................................................................................108
Original Instruction
All information, illustrations and
specifications in this manual are based
on the latest information at the time of
publication. The right is reserved to
make changes at any time without
notice.
COPYRIGHT© 2013
Deere & Co.
John Deere Ag & Turf Division
All rights reserved
Previous Editions
COPYRIGHT©
OMTCU35848 D3 -
Table of Contents
Safety Labels
Safety Labels
Safety Label Location (Text)
B C D
R
H
Q G
J
P
O N
MX52183
Picture Note: Use label number listed in table I - AVOID INJURY TCU31665
below to locate complete text of safety label J - HELP AVOID INJURY (Spanish)
message following this illustration. K - ROTATING BELT
A -
AVOID CRUSHING L - ROTATING BLADES
B -
ROLL-OVER PROTECTIVE STRUCTURE M - ROTATING BELT
C -
ROTATING BELT N - THROWN OBJECTS
D -
HOT SURFACES O - ROTATING BLADES AND THROWN OBJECTS
E -
ROLL-OVER PROTECTIVE STRUCTURE P - HELP AVOID INJURY
(Spanish) Q - AVOID TIPPING
F - AVOID CRUSHING (Spanish) R - PREVENT EQUIPMENT FIRES TCU34029
G - HEARING PROTECTION
H - PREVENT EQUIPMENT FIRES (Spanish)
Safety Labels - 1
Safety Labels
Understanding The Machine Safety Roll-Over Protective Structure
Labels
The machine safety labels shown in this
section are placed in important areas on your
machine to draw attention to potential safety hazards.
On your machine safety labels, the words DANGER,
WARNING, and CAUTION are used with this safety-alert
symbol. DANGER identifies the most serious hazards.
The operator’s manual also explains any potential safety
hazards whenever necessary in special safety messages
that are identified with the word, CAUTION, and the safety-
alert symbol.
AVOID CRUSHING
TCU27892
To maintain operator protection and ROPS

certification:
• Replace damaged ROPS, do not repair or revise
• Any alteration of ROPS must be approved by
manufacturer
In conformance with ISO 21299:2009 for energy

absorbing ROPS requirements
• Reference mass: 1967 LBS. [892Kg]
• For use on John Deere Ztrak
• Deere & Company Moline, Illinois, U.S.A.
TCU13514
• Keep Rollover Protective Structure fully extended

• Do not jump if machine tips Rotating Belts
• Use seat belt
When structure must be down
• DO NOT use seat belt
• Drive with extra care
TCU25390
• To avoid injury from rotating belts, keep all shields and

guards in place.
Safety Labels - 2
Safety Labels
Hot Surface near. Do not mow in reverse. Look behind when backing.
Never carry riders, especially children.
Rotating Belts
M134406
Hot surface.
TCU24465
Hearing Protection
guards in place.
Rotating Blades
M131739
TCU27738 • To avoid injury from rotating blades, stay clear of deck
• Prolonged exposure to loud noise can cause impairment edge.
or loss of hearing.
• Wear suitable hearing protection.
Rotating Belts
Avoid Injury
TCU51051

guards in place.
TCU31665
• To avoid injury to children, stop mower when children are
Safety Labels - 3
Safety Labels
Thrown Objects • Keep people a safe distance away
• Before leaving machine:
• -Stop engine -Set park brake -Remove key
Avoid Tipping
M137637
• Do not mow without discharge chute or entire grass

catcher in place.
Rotating Blades and Thrown Objects
TCU31666
• To avoid injury from tipover, drive across slopes, not up

and down. If machine stops going uphill, stop blades and
back down slowly.
M131748
To avoid injury from rotating blades and thrown objects, Prevent Equipment Fires
stay clear of deck edge and keep others away.
Do not mow without discharge chute or entire grass catcher
in place.
HELP AVOID INJURY

TCU34029
• Avoid equipment fires.

• Accumulation of grass, leaves and other debris on or near
hot or moving parts can cause a fire.
• Inspect machine before, during, and after use.
• Shut off engine and allow machine to cool before
cleaning.
Inspect and clean the entire machine and pay special

attention to these locations:
1. Muffler and exhaust system
TCU24659 2. Engine and engine screens
• Operator training required 3. Top of mower deck and under shields
• Read operator’s manual
• Do not operate the machine without guards, shields, and
safety devices in place and working
• Never carry riders
Safety Labels - 4
Safety Labels
Certification
Your product has been certified for compliance with
American National Standards Institute B-71.4, Safety
Specifications for Commercial Turf care Equipment.
Canadian Electromagnetic Compatibility

(EMC) Compliance
This spark ignition system complies with Canadian ICES-
002.
Safety Labels - 5
Safety Labels
Safety Labels
Safety Label Location (No Text)
A
E
F
P
O
M
I H
L
K J
MX52183
Picture Note: Non-text labels are required for H - AVOID INJURY

certain regions of the world. Your machine may not I - ROTATING BELT
be equipped with these labels. Use label number J - ROTATING BLADES
listed in table below to locate complete text of
K - ROTATING BELT
safety label message following this illustration.
L - THROWN OBJECTS
A -
AVOID CRUSHING
M - ROTATING BLADE / THROWN OBJECT
B -
ROLL-OVER PROTECTIVE STRUCTURE
N - AVOID INJURY
C -
HOT SURFACES
O - AVOID INJURY
D -
ROLL-OVER PROTECTIVE STRUCTURE
P - PREVENT EQUIPMENT FIRES
(Spanish)
E - AVOID CRUSHING
F - HEARING PROTECTION
G - AVOID TIPPING
Safety Labels - 6
Safety Labels
Understanding The Machine Safety Roll-Over Protective Structure
Labels
The machine safety labels shown in this
section are placed in important areas on your
machine to draw attention to potential safety hazards.
On your machine safety labels, the words DANGER,
WARNING, and CAUTION are used with this safety-alert
symbol. DANGER identifies the most serious hazards.
The operator’s manual also explains any potential safety
hazards whenever necessary in special safety messages
that are identified with the word, CAUTION, and the safety-
alert symbol.
Avoid Crushing
TCU27892
To maintain operator protection and ROPS

certification:
• Replace damaged ROPS, do not repair or revise
• Any alteration of ROPS must be approved by
manufacturer
In conformance with ISO 21299:2009 for energy

absorbing ROPS requirements
• Reference mass: 1967 LBS. [892Kg]
• For use on John Deere Ztrak
• Deere & Company Moline, Illinois, U.S.A.
TCU31702
• Keep Rollover Protective Structure fully extended

Hot Surfaces
• Do not jump if machine tips
• Use seat belt
When structure must be down:
• DO NOT use seat belt
• Drive with extra care
M137684
Hot surface
Safety Labels - 7
Safety Labels
Hearing protection Avoid Injury
TCU27739
TCU32068
• Prolonged exposure to loud noises can cause impairment
• Operator training required
or loss of hearing.
• Wear suitable hearing protection.
Avoid Tipping • Never carry riders

• Keep people a safe distance away
• Stop engine -Set park brake -Remove key
Rotating Belts
TCU34035
• To avoid injury from tipover, drive across slopes, not up TCU31482

and down. If machine stops going uphill, stop blades and • To avoid injury from rotating belts, keep all shields and
back down slowly. guards in place.
Safety Labels - 8
Safety Labels
Rotating Blades Rotating Blades / Thrown Objects
M118040
• Do not put hands or feet under or into mower when engine

TCU31483
is running.
• To avoid injury from rotating blades, stay clear of deck
• Do not operate mower without discharge chute or entire
edge.
grass catcher in place.
• Do not mow without discharge chute or entire grass
• Keep away from machine while engine is running.
catcher in place.
Avoid Injury
Rotating Belts
TCU31701

guards in place.
TCU31972
Thrown Objects • Operator training required
• Never carry riders
• Keep people a safe distance away
• Stop engine -Set park brake -Remove key
TCU32117
• Stay clear of thrown or flying objects.

• Read operator’s manual.
Safety Labels - 9
Safety Labels
Avoid Injury
TCU34037
• To avoid injury to children, stop mower when children are

near. Do not mow in reverse. Look behind when backing.
Never carry riders, especially children.
Prevent Equipment Fires
TCU34033
• Clean and inspect the entire machine.

• Carefully read Operator’s Manual Machine Cleanout
section for details.
Safety Labels - 10
Safety
engaged before starting engine. Only start engine from the
Safety
Operator Training Required

operator’s position. Use seat belts if provided.
• Read the operator’s manual and other training material. If
• Slow down and use extra care on hillsides. Be sure to
the operator or mechanic cannot read English, it is the
travel in the recommended direction on hillsides. For this
owner’s responsibility to explain this material to them. This
machine, drive across hillsides, not up and down. Turf
publication is available in other languages.
conditions can affect the machine’s stability. Use caution
• Become familiar with the safe operation of the equipment, while operating near drop-offs.
operator controls, and safety signs.
• Slow down and use caution when making turns and when
• All operators and mechanics should be trained. The changing directions on slopes.
owner of the machine is responsible for training the users.
• Never raise deck with the blades running.
• Never let children or untrained people operate or service
the equipment. Local regulations may restrict the age of the • Never operate with the PTO shield, or other guards, not
operator. securely in place. Be sure all interlocks are attached,
adjusted properly, and functioning properly.
• The owner/user can prevent and is responsible for
• Never operate with the discharge deflector raised,
accidents or injuries occurring to themselves, other people,
removed or altered, unless using a grass catcher. Do not
or property.
operate mower without discharge chute or entire grass
• Operate the machine in an open, unobstructed area catcher in place.
under the direction of an experienced operator.
• Do not change the engine governor setting or overspeed
the engine. Operating the engine at excessive speed can
increase the hazard of personal injury.
Preparation • Stop on level ground, lower implements, disengage
• Evaluate the terrain to determine what accessories and drives, engage parking brake, and shut off engine before
attachments are needed to properly and safely perform the leaving the operator’s position for any reason including
job. Only use accessories and attachments approved by emptying the grass catchers or unclogging the chute.
the manufacturer. • Stop equipment and inspect blades after striking objects
• Wear appropriate clothing including hard hat, safety or if an abnormal vibration occurs. Make necessary repairs
glasses and hearing protection. Long hair, loose clothing or before resuming operations.
jewelry may get tangled in moving parts. • Keep hands and feet away from the cutting units.
• Inspect the area where the equipment is to be used and • Look behind and down before backing up to be sure of a
remove all objects such as rocks, toys and wire which can clear path.
be thrown by the machine.
• Never carry passengers and keep pets and bystanders
• Use extra care when handling gasoline and other fuels. away.
They are flammable and vapors are explosive.
• Slow down and use caution when making turns and
a. Use only an approved container. crossing roads and sidewalks. Stop blades if not mowing.
b. Never remove gas cap or add fuel when engine is Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing roadways.
running. Do not smoke. • Be aware of the mower discharge direction and do not
c. Never refuel or drain the machine indoors. point it at anyone.
• Check that the operator’s presence controls, safety • Do not operate the machine while under the influence of
switches and shields are attached and functioning properly. alcohol or drugs.
Do not operate unless they are functioning properly. • Use care when loading or unloading the machine into or
off of a trailer or truck.
• Use care when approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees,
Operating Safely or other objects that may obscure vision.
• Never run an engine in an enclosed area where • Inspect machine before you operate. Be sure hardware is
dangerous carbon monoxide fumes can collect. tight. Repair or replace damaged, badly worn, or missing
parts. Be sure guards and shields are in good condition
• Only operate in good light, keeping away from holes and and fastened in place. Make any necessary adjustments
hidden hazards. before you operate.
• Be sure all drives are in neutral and parking brake is
Safety - 11
Safety
• Before using, always visually inspect to see that the maintained through other maintenance techniques.
blades, blade bolts and the mower assembly are not worn
and damaged. Replace worn and damaged blades and
bolts in sets to preserve balance.
Parking Safely
• Keep safety labels visible when installing accessories and
attachments. 1. Stop machine on a level surface, not on a slope.
• Do not wear radio or music headphones. Safe service and 2. Move motion control levers out to the neutral lock
operation require your full attention. position.
• When machine is left unattended, stored, or parked, lower 3. Disengage mower blades.
the mower deck unless a positive mechanical lock is used. 4. Lower attachments to the ground.
5. Lock the park brake.
6. Stop the engine.
Using a Spark Arrestor
7. Remove the key.
The California Public Resources Code, section 4442.5
provides as follows: 8. Wait for engine and all moving parts to stop before you
leave the operator’s seat.
No person shall sell, offer for sale, lease, or rent to any
person any internal combustion engine subject to Section 9. Close fuel shut-off valve, if your machine is equipped.
4442 or 4443, and not subject to Section 13005 of the 10. Disconnect the negative battery cable or remove the
Health and Safety Code, unless the person provides a spark plug wire(s) (for gasoline engines) before servicing
written notice to the purchaser or bailee, at the time of sale the machine.
or at the time of entering into the lease or rental contract,
stating that it is a violation of Section 4442 or 4443 to use
or operate the engine on any forest-covered, brush-
covered, or grass-covered land unless the engine is Rotating Blades are
equipped with a spark arrestor, as defined in Section 4442, Dangerous
maintained in effective working order or the engine is
constructed, equipped, and maintained for the prevention HELP PREVENT SERIOUS OR
of fire pursuant to Section 4443. Cal. Pub. Res. Code FATAL ACCIDENTS:
4442.5. • Rotating blades can cut off arms
Other states or jurisdictions may have similar laws. A spark and legs, and throw objects. Failure to observe safety
arrestor for your machine may be available from your instructions could result in serious injury or death.
authorized dealer. An installed spark arrestor must be • Keep hands, feet and clothing away from mower deck
maintained in good working order by the operator. when engine is running.
• Be alert at all times, drive forward carefully. People,
especially children can move quickly into the mowing area
Checking Mowing Area before you know it.
• Clear mowing area of objects that • Do not mow in reverse.

might be thrown. Keep people and • Shut off blades when you are not mowing.
pets out of mowing area.
• Park machine safely before leaving the operator station
• Low-hanging branches and similar for any reason including emptying the catchers or
obstacles can injure the operator or interfere with mowing unplugging the chute.
operation. Before mowing, identify potential obstacles such
as low-hanging branches, and trim or remove those
obstacles.
Protect Children
• Study mowing area. Set up a safe mowing pattern. Do not
mow where traction or stability is doubtful. • Death or serious injury can
occur when young children
• Test drive area with mower lowered but not running. Slow
associate having fun with a lawn
down when you travel over rough ground.
mowing machine simply because
• Survey all mowing sites to determine which slopes are someone has given them a ride on a machine.
safe for machine operation and which slopes should be
Safety - 12
Safety
• Children are attracted to lawn mowing machines and • The recommended slope angles are for a machine in its
mowing activities. They don’t understand the dangers of basic configuration. The basic configuration is mower deck
rotating blades or the fact that the operator is unaware of only, no cab, MCS or other attachments. The addition of a
their presence. cab, MCS or other attachments will increase the risk of a
rollover and decrease the recommended operating slope.
• Children who have been given rides in the past may
suddenly appear in the mowing area for another ride and
be run over or backed over by the machine.
• Tragic accidents with children can occur if the operator is Operate Safely on Slopes
not alert to the presence of children, especially when a
• Slopes are a major factor related to loss-of-control and tip-
child approaches a machine from behind. Before and while
over accidents, which can result in severe injury or death.
backing up, stop mower blades and look down and behind
Operation on all slopes requires extra caution.
the machine carefully, especially for children.
• Use lower speeds while mowing and operating on slopes.
• Never carry children on a machine or attachment, even
with the blades off. Do not tow children in a cart or trailer. • If you feel uneasy on a hillside, do not mow it.
They can fall off and be seriously injured or interfere with • Mow across slopes, not up and down.
safe machine operation.
• Watch for holes, ruts, bumps, rocks, or other hidden
• Never use the machine as a recreational vehicle or to objects. Uneven terrain could overturn the machine. Tall
entertain children. grass can hide obstacles.
• Never allow children or an untrained person to operate the • Choose a low ground speed so you will not have to stop
machine. Instruct all operators not to give children a ride on while on a slope.
the machine or in an attachment.
• Rollover can occur before the tires lose traction.
• Keep children indoors, out of the mowing area, and in the
watchful eye of a responsible adult, other than the operator, • Use caution if mowing when grass is wet or slippery. Tires
when a mower is being operated. may lose traction. Tires may lose traction or slip on slopes
even though the brakes are functioning properly.
• Stay alert to the presence of children. Never assume that
children will remain where you last saw them. Turn the • Avoid starting, stopping or turning on a slope. If the tires
machine off if a child enters the work area. lose traction, disengage the PTO and proceed slowly down
the slope.
• Keep all movement on slopes slow and gradual. Do not
make sudden changes in speed or direction, which could
Identify Slopes for Safe Operation cause the machine to roll over.
• Establish your own special procedures and rules for • Keep mower deck lowered to ground while operating on
operating on slopes. These procedure must include a slopes. Raising mower deck while operating on slopes can
survey of all mowing sites to determine which slopes are cause machine to become unstable.
safe for machine operation. Always use common sense
and good judgement when performing this survey.
• Lay a straight piece of sturdy lumber 1.2 m (4 ft) long on
the slope and measure the angle of the slope with an angle
indicator or protractor level.
• Never mow or operate machine on slope angles greater
than 20°.
• Exceeding the maximum recommended slope angle of
20° increases the risk of rollover accidents that can result in
serious injury or death.
• Always consider potential turf conditions and slope angles
when determining the risk of loss-of-control and tip-over
accidents.
• On slope angles of 10° or less the risk of rollover is low,
but as the slope angle increases to the John Deere
recommended maximum of 20° the risk increases to a
moderate level.
Safety - 13
Safety
Operate Safely Near Edges
C
B
A
MX51887
Picture Note: Example side view of slope and

hazards, showing areas (A), (B), and (C)
• Do not mow or operate machine in areas adjacent to
hazards that may cause the machine to roll over. The
machine could suddenly lose traction, slide, and/or roll over
if a wheel goes over the edge or if the edge breaks away.
• Hazards (A) include but are not limited to:
• Drop-offs, ditches, embankments, or bodies of water
and
• Areas of unsafe slope, soft ground, edges along
bodies of water, or area with holes, ruts, bumps, or other
hidden objects.
• Maintain a buffer area (B) at least as wide as the machine
between hazards (A) and the mowing area (C). Do not mow
MX51997
or operate the machine in the hazard area or buffer area.
• Use a walk-behind mower or string trimmer in and around
areas (A) and (B).
• Only mow or operate the machine in the mowing area
(C). Do not exceed the recommended slope operating
angle. Refer to the "Operate Safely on Slopes" section.
Use Seat Belt Properly

• Use a seat belt when operating with
the folding Roll-Over Protective
Structure (ROPS) in the upright
Safety - 14
Safety
position to minimize chance of injury from an accident, bending, drilling, or cutting. It must be replaced to maintain
such as an overturn. the manufacturer’s certification of the structure
• Do not use a seat belt when operating with the folding • The seat is part of the ROPS safety zone. Replace only
ROPS in the folded position. Return the folding ROPS to with John Deere-approved seat.
the upright position as soon as possible.
• Never modify, disassemble or attempt to repair the seat
belt. Keep Riders Off
• Replace entire seat belt if mounting hardware, buckle,
• Only allow the operator on the machine. Keep riders off.
belt, or retractor show signs of damage.
• Riders on the machine or attachment may be struck by
• Inspect seat belt and mounting hardware at least once a foreign objects or thrown off the machine causing serious
year. Look for signs of loose hardware or belt damage, injury.
such as cuts, fraying, extreme or unusual wear,
discoloration, or abrasion. Replace only with John Deere- • Riders obstruct the operator’s view resulting in the
approved replacement parts. machine being operated in an unsafe manner.
• Layers of heavy clothing can interfere with proper
positioning of the seat belt and can reduce the
effectiveness of the seat belt. Avoid High Pressure Fluids
• Hydraulic hoses and lines can fail
due to physical damage, kinks, age,
Rollover Protection System (ROPS) - Use and and exposure. Check hoses and lines
Maintenance regularly. Replace damaged hoses
and lines.
• Never operate the machine without the ROPS installed.
• Hydraulic fluid connections can loosen due to physical
• DO NOT remove the ROPS. damage and vibration. Check connections regularly.
• The ROPS is an integral and effective safety device. Keep Tighten loose connections.
a folding ROPS in the raised and locked position and use • Escaping fluid under pressure can penetrate the skin
the seat belt when operating the machine. causing serious injury. Avoid the hazard by relieving
• Lower a folding ROPS temporarily only when absolutely pressure before disconnecting hydraulic or other lines.
necessary. Do not wear the seat belt when folded down. Tighten all connections before applying pressure.
• Be aware there is no rollover protection when a folded • Search for leaks with a piece of cardboard. Protect hands
ROPS is in the down position. and body from high pressure fluids.
• Be certain that the seat belt can be released quickly in the • If an accident occurs, see a doctor immediately. Any fluid
event of an emergency. injected into the skin must be surgically removed within a
few hours or gangrene may result. Doctors unfamiliar with
• Check the area to be mowed and never fold down a
this type of injury should reference a knowledgeable
folding ROPS in areas where there are slopes, drop offs,
medical source. Such information is available from Deere &
ditches or embankments or bodies of water.
Company Medical Department in Moline, Illinois, U.S.A.
• Check carefully for overhead clearances (i.e. branches, Information may be obtained in the United States and
doorways, electrical wires) before driving under any objects Canada only by calling 1-800-822-8262.
and do not contact them.
• Keep the ROPS in safe operating condition by periodically
thoroughly inspecting for damage and keeping all mounting Driving Safely on Public
hardware tight. Make certain all parts of the ROPS are Roads
installed correctly if the ROPS structure is loosened or
removed for any reason. All ROPS hardware should be Avoid personal injury or death
tightened to the proper torque per manufacturer’s resulting from a collision with another
recommendations. vehicle on public roads:
• Replace a damaged ROPS. Do not repair or revise. The • Use safety lights and devices. Slow moving machines
protection provided by the ROPS will be impaired if the when driven on public roads are hard to see, especially at
ROPS is subjected to structural damage, is involved in an night.
overturn incident, or is in any way altered by welding,
Safety - 15
Safety
• Whenever driving on public roads, use flashing warning • Do not turn sharply. Use additional caution when turning
lights and turn signals according to local regulations. Extra or operating under adverse surface conditions. Use care
flashing warning lights may need to be installed. when reversing.
• Do not coast downhill.
Checking Wheel Hardware

• A serious accident could occur causing serious injury if Maintenance and Storage
wheel hardware is not tight.
• Never operate machine in a closed
• Check wheel hardware tightness often during the first 100 area where dangerous carbon
hours of operation. monoxide fumes can collect.
• Wheel hardware must be tightened to specified torque • Disengage drives, lower implement,
using the proper procedure anytime it is loosened. lock parking brake, stop engine and remove key or
disconnect spark plug (for gas engines). Wait for all
movement to stop before adjusting, cleaning or repairing.
Wear Appropriate Clothing • Clean grass and debris from cutting units, drives, mufflers,
and engine to help prevent fires. Clean up oil or fuel
• Always wear safety goggles, or spillage.
safety glasses with side shields, and
• Let engine cool before storing and do not store near
a hard hat when operating the
flame.
machine.
• Shut off fuel while storing or transporting. Do not store
• Wear close fitting clothing and safety equipment
fuel near flames or drain indoors.
appropriate for the job.
• Park machine on level ground. Never allow untrained
• While operating this machine, always wear substantial
personnel to service machine. Understand service
footwear and long trousers. Do not operate the equipment
procedure before doing work.
when barefoot or wearing open sandals.
• Wear a suitable protective device such as earplugs. Loud • Use jack stands or lock service latches to support
noise can cause impairment or loss of hearing. components when required. Securely support any machine
elements that must be raised for service work.
• Before servicing machine or attachment, carefully release
pressure from any components with stored energy, such as
Towing Loads Safely hydraulic components or springs.
• Stopping distance increases with speed and weight of • Release hydraulic pressure by lowering attachment or
towed load. Travel slowly and allow extra time and distance cutting units to the ground or to a mechanical stop and
to stop. move hydraulic control levers back and forth.
• Total towed weight must not exceed combined weight of • Disconnect battery or remove spark plug (for gas engines)
pulling machine, ballast and operator. Use counterweights before making any repairs. Disconnect the negative
or wheel weights as described in the attachment or pulling terminal first and the positive last. Reconnect positive first
machine operator’s manual. and negative last.
• Excessive towed load can cause loss of traction and loss • Use care when checking blades. Wrap the blades or wear
of control on slopes. Reduce towed weight when operating gloves, and use caution when servicing them. Only replace
on slopes. blades. Never straighten or weld them.
• Never allow children or others in or on towed equipment. • Keep hands, feet, clothing, jewelry and long hair away
• Use only approved hitches. Tow only with a machine that from moving parts. If possible, do not make adjustments
has a hitch designed for towing. Do not attach towed with the engine running.
equipment except at the approved hitch point. • Charge batteries in an open well ventilated area, away
• Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for weight from spark and flames. Unplug charger before connecting
limits for towed equipment and towing on slopes. or disconnecting from battery. Wear protective clothing and
use insulated tools.
• Towed attachments may increase the risk of rollover.
Refer to the “Operating on Slopes” section. • Keep all parts in good working condition and all hardware
tightened. Replace all worn or damaged decals.
Safety - 16
Safety
• Check grass catcher components and the discharge • Excess lubrication or fuel/oil leaks or spills on the
guard frequently and replace with manufacturer’s machine can also serve as collection sites for debris.
recommended parts, when necessary. grass catcher Prompt machine repair and oil/fuel cleanup will minimize
components are subject to wear, damage, and the potential for debris collection and reduced cooling
deterioration which could expose moving parts or allow throughout machine life.
objects to be thrown.
• Bearing failures or overheating can result in a fire. To
• Keep all nuts and bolts tight, especially blade attachment reduce this risk, always follow the instructions in the
bolts, to be sure the equipment is in safe working condition. machine operator’s manual regarding lubrication intervals
and locations. Washing the machine while warm may also
• Check brake operation frequently. Adjust and service as
reduce bearing life and increase potential for premature
required.
bearing failure.
• On multi-bladed machines, take care as rotating one
• Always shut off fuel when storing or transporting machine,
blade can cause other blades to rotate.
if the machine has a fuel shutoff.
Prevent Fires
Hauling
• Besides routine maintenance, one of
• Use care when loading or unloading the machine into a
the best ways to keep your John Deere
trailer or truck.
equipment running efficiently and to
reduce fire risk is to regularly remove • Use full width ramps for loading machine into trailer or
debris buildup from the machine. truck.
• Please review these • Tie the machine down securely using appropriate straps,
recommendations with all operators. See your John Deere chains, cable, or ropes. Both front and rear straps should
dealer with questions. be directed down and outward from the machine.
• Always follow all safety procedures posted on the • Refer to “Transporting Machine” section for more
machine and in this operator manual. Before carrying out information.
any inspection or cleaning, always shut off engine, set
parking brake and remove ignition key.
• After operating, allow machine to cool in an open area Tire Safety
before cleaning or storing. Do not park machine near
flammable materials such as wood, cloth or chemicals. Explosive separation of a tire and rim
parts can cause serious injury or
• Empty any grasscatcher bags or containers completely death:
before storing.
• Do not attempt to mount a tire without the proper
• Frequency of these inspections and cleaning will vary
equipment and experience to perform the job.
depending on a number of factors including operating
conditions, machine configuration, operating speeds and • Always maintain the correct tire pressure. Do not inflate
weather conditions particularly dry, hot and windy the tires above the recommended pressure. Never weld or
conditions. When you are operating in these conditions, heat a wheel and tire assembly. The heat can cause an
inspect and clean these areas frequently throughout the increase in air pressure resulting in a tire explosion.
day. Welding can structurally weaken or deform the wheel.
• Wind direction, terrain type and moisture content of • When inflating tires, use a clip-on chuck and extension
surrounding vegetation can effect where and how much hose long enough to allow you to stand to one side and
debris accumulates. NOT in front of or over the tire assembly.
• Debris can accumulate anywhere on the machine, • Check tires for low pressure, cuts, bubbles, damaged rims
especially on horizontal surfaces. or missing lug bolts and nuts.
• Keeping engine area clean will provide the greatest • Make sure all tires are inflated to the recommended
impact on fire prevention. Other areas requiring regular pressure, especially when operating on slopes. Low
inspection and cleaning include behind wheel rims, wire pressure can cause machine to become unstable on
harness, hose/line routings, mowing attachments, etc. slopes.
Compressed air, leaf blowers or high pressured water can
assist keeping these areas clean.
Safety - 17
Safety
Handling Fuel Safely and batteries, can harm the environment and people:
• Do not use beverage containers for waste fluids -
To avoid personal injury or
someone may drink from them.
property damage, use extreme
care in handling fuel. Fuel is • See your local Recycling Center or authorized dealer to
extremely flammable and fuel learn how to recycle or get rid of waste products.
vapors are explosive: • A Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) provides specific
• Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, details on chemical products: physical and health hazards,
pipes, and other sources of ignition. safety procedures, and emergency response techniques.
The seller of the chemical products used with your machine
• Use only an approved fuel
is responsible for providing the MSDS for that product.
container. Use only non-metal,
portable fuel containers approved by
the Underwriter’s Laboratory (U.L.) or the American Society
for Testing & Materials (ASTM). If using a funnel, make
sure it is plastic and has no screen or filter.
• Never remove the fuel tank cap or add fuel with the engine
running. Allow engine to cool before refueling.
• Never add fuel to or drain fuel from the machine indoors.
Move machine outdoors and provide adequate ventilation.
• Clean up spilled fuel immediately. If fuel is spilled on
clothing, change clothing immediately. If fuel is spilled near
machine, do not attempt to start the engine but move the
machine away from the area of spillage. Avoid creating any
source of ignition until fuel vapors have dissipated.
• Never store the machine or fuel container where there is
an open flame, spark, or pilot light such as on a water
heater or other appliance.
• Prevent fire and explosion caused by static electric
discharge. Static electric discharge can ignite fuel vapors in
an ungrounded fuel container.
• Never fill containers inside a vehicle or on a truck or trailer
bed with a plastic liner. Always place containers on the
ground away from your vehicle before fueling.
• Remove fuel-powered equipment from the truck or trailer
and refuel it on the ground. If this is not possible, then
refuel such equipment with a portable container, rather
than from a fuel dispenser nozzle.
• Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the fuel tank or
container opening at all times until the fueling is complete.
Do not use a nozzle lock-open device.
• Never overfill fuel tank. Replace fuel tank cap and tighten
securely.
• Replace all fuel container caps securely after use.
• For gasoline engines, do not use gas with methanol.
Methanol is harmful to your health and to the environment.
Handling Waste Product and Chemicals

Waste products, such as, used oil, fuel, coolant, brake fluid,
Safety - 18
Operating - Controls
Z900B and Z900M Series
B C
A
H G
J
M
K
MX51910 I - Hourmeter
Picture Note: Z900B Series shown. J - Ignition Key Switch
A - Beverage Holder K - Carburetor Choke Knob (not used on EFI
engines)
B - Left Motion Control Lever
L - Fuel Tank Cap
C - Right Motion Control Lever
M - Fuel Level Gauge
D - Deck Height Adjustment Pedal
E - Park Brake Lever
F - Height of Cut / Transport Lock Knob
G - Engine Speed Control Lever
H - PTO Engagement Knob
Operating - Controls - 19
Z900R Series
B C
G F
I
L
MX51911
A - Beverage Holder K - Fuel Tank Cap

B - Left Motion Control Lever L - Fuel Level Gauge
C - Right Motion Control Lever
D - Park Brake Pedal
E - Height of Cut / Transport Lock Knob
F - Engine Speed Control Lever
G - PTO Engagement Knob
H - Hourmeter
I - Ignition Key Switch
J - Carburetor Choke Knob
Operating - Controls - 20
Operating
Raising and Lowering Operator Seat
Operating
Daily Operating Checklist

❏ Clean grass and debris from operator station foot Standard Seat
platform.
❏ Remove grass and debris from operator’s platform, air
intake screen, engine compartment, transmissions, fans, c CAUTION: Avoid injury! Fingers and hands can
be pinched or crushed. Be aware of potential
traction drive belt and muffler area.
pinch points and keep hands away.
❏ Remove grass and debris from machine and mower
deck. Raising the Seat
❏ Remove mower deck belt shields. Clean grass and 1. Park machine safely. (See Parking Safely in the SAFETY
debris from belt area. section.)
❏ Check all belts for damage or cracking.
❏ Make sure all necessary guards and shields are
A
safely and securely attached. Check for loose, missing, or
damaged parts.
❏ Check mower level, cutting height, and blades.
C
❏ Check engine oil level.
❏ Check transmission oil level.
❏ Check for oil leaks.
❏ Check fuel level.
❏ Check engine air filter.
❏ Check wheel bolt torque. Tighten if necessary.
❏ Check tire air pressure. Check tires for damage or
cracking.
❏ Test park brake. B
❏ Check and adjust motion control linkages.

❏ Check for loose, damaged or missing parts. MX51815
❏ Check battery. 2. Stand on side of the machine and lift seat (A).
❏ Test safety systems. 3. Slide seat rod (B) through the frame cutout (C).
4. Set the seat rod in the lower cutout of the frame.
Avoid Damage to Plastic and Painted Lowering the Seat

Surfaces 1. Stand on the side of the machine.
• Do not wipe plastic parts unless rinsed first. Using a dry 2. Reset seat rod into the top slide of the frame cutout.
cloth may cause scratches. 3. Lower seat and return vehicle into service.
• Insect repellent spray may damage plastic and painted
Deluxe Seat
surfaces. Do not spray insect repellent near machine.
c CAUTION:
• Be careful not to spill fuel on machine. Fuel may damage
surface. Wipe up spilled fuel immediately. Avoid injury! Fingers and hands can
• Prolonged exposure to sunlight will damage hood
surfaces.
Raising the Seat

1. Park machine safely. (See Parking Safely in the SAFETY
section.)
Operating - 21
Operating
Mounting and Dismounting Machine Safely
B
A
MX51843
A
2. Stand on either side of the machine and pull up on either
seat lock latch handle (A) and lift seat (B).
MX51912
B When mounting and dismounting the machine, do so from

the left side of the machine using the step (A) or the foot
plate (B). Park machine safely (see Parking Safely in the
SAFETY section) before dismounting. Do not mount or
dismount the machine from the front.
C Keep the foot plate clean.
D
Adjusting Standard Seat

1. Sit on operator seat.
MX51844
3. Slide seat rod (C) through the frame cutout (D).

4. Set the seat rod in the lower cutout of the frame.
Lowering the Seat

1. Stand on the side of the machine.
2. Reset seat rod into the top slide of the frame cutout.
3. Lower seat. Be sure seat latch is engaged. Return
vehicle into service.
Operating - 22
Operating
middle of the seat.
3. Slide forward or backward to desired position.
4. Release lever.
Adjust Ride Comfort

Adjust seat spring tension knob (B) to the weight of the
operator, so that the seat “floats” in the center of its travel
as the machine traverses rough terrain.
1. Adjust seat suspension.
• Turn seat spring tension knob (B) to the right
(clockwise) for a firmer ride.
• Gently pull forward or backward on the seat back (C)
and turn lever (D) to desired seat back position.
Adjusting Seat Armrests

A
MX51845 A
2. Push and hold the seat adjustment lever (A) toward the
middle of the seat.
3. Slide forward or backward to desired position.
4. Release lever.
Adjusting Deluxe Seat

1. Sit on operator seat.
B
MX38908
1. Raise each armrest (A).

2. Turn adjustment knob (B) clockwise to lower armrest and
counterclockwise to raise armrest. Lower armrests.
B
A
MX51846
2. Push and hold the seat adjustment lever (A) toward the
Operating - 23
Operating
Using Seat Belt Raising and Lowering ROPS
c CAUTION: Avoid injury! Always wear seat belt

when operating machine with folding Roll-Over
c CAUTION: Avoid injury! Always wear seat belt
when operating machine with folding Roll-Over
Protective Structure (ROPS) in upright Protective Structure (ROPS) in upright
position. Do not jump from machine if machine position. Do not jump from machine if machine
tips. tips.
If ROPS must be folded to operate in a low If ROPS must be folded to operate in a low
clearance area, do not use seat belt. Raise clearance area, do not use seat belt. Raise
ROPS and use seat belt as soon as conditions ROPS and use seat belt as soon as conditions
permit. permit.

section.)
A
A
C
B
MX51913
1. Sit in seat.
2. Pull out seat belt buckle (A) and stretch across your lap MX51914a, MX51914
in one nonstop motion.
2. Remove spring pin (A) from drilled pin (B) on left and
3. Insert seat belt buckle into latch (B) until it locks. right sides of ROPS.
4. To release seat belt, press button (C) until buckle comes 3. Remove drilled pin from left and right sides of ROPS.
out of latch.
Operating - 24
Operating
upper ROPS (A) rearward and install drilled pins (B) and
c CAUTION: Avoid injury! Fingers and hands can
spring locking pins to secure position.
2. Repeat for other side of ROPS.
Determining Safe Slope Angles
c CAUTION: Avoid injury! Operating this machine

on slopes can be dangerous. Rollover
accidents can occur and can result in serious
injury or death.
• John Deere has determined that the risk of
rollover is low when this machine is operated
on slopes of 10 degrees or less. The risk of
rollover increases as the slope angle
increases. Never operate this machine on
slopes greater than 20 degrees.
• It is important to establish your own
procedures and work rules for operating the
machine on slopes. The procedures must
include a survey of all mowing sites to
C determine which slopes can be operated on
safely.
MX52031 • Consider potential turf conditions, dips, and
4. Pull ROPS rearward to lowered position (C). holes along with slope angles when
determining a safe slope.
5. Install drilled pins and spring pins back into holes in
ROPS to secure in place. • Before allowing someone to operate this
machine on a slope, make certain the slope is
Placing ROPS into Intermediate Position not too steep for safe operation.
NOTE: When a Material Collection System attachment • Make certain the operator is trained and
is installed, the ROPS cannot be fully lowered. If the capable of operating the machine safely on the
ROPS must be lowered, place it into the intermediate slope.
position.
1. Lay a straight piece of sturdy lumber 1.2 m (4 ft) long on
the slope.
A
2. Measure the angle of the slope with an angle indicator or
B
protractor level.
• If slope is greater than 20°, do not mow.
• If slope is 10° or less the risk for rollover is low.
3. Repeat procedure at several points on the slope to get
an overall idea of the slope angle. Do not operate the
machine on any areas that exceed the manufacturer’s
recommended slope angle.
Using the Comfort and Convenience Package

Controls (Z900R Series)
MX52179
NOTE: Per design, the deck will lower if the lift button
1. With the spring pins and drilled pins removed, lower the is held for more than 12 seconds or the machine is
Operating - 25
Operating
turned off. NOTE: If machine is equipped with convenience
package raise and lower deck with power lift switch
Power Deck Lift located on left control lever.
1. Park machine safely. (See Parking Safely in the SAFETY 4. Raise mower deck using deck lift pedal.
section.)
B C
A
MX26356 A
2. Push button (A) on left motion control lever to raise B

mower deck.
PTO Shut Off

NOTE: Once PTO has been shut off using the button
the PTO switch must be pushed down and pulled up MX51847
again to engage PTO. 5. With deck in raised position, adjust height of cut knob (A)
• Push button (B) on right motion control lever to shut off to align cut height to index mark (B).
PTO. 6. Release pedal to lower deck to desired setting.
Transport Lock
Setting Mower Deck Cutting Height The deck can be locked in a transport position to give
maximum ground clearance when the machine is moved to
c CAUTION:
and from various work sites.
Avoid injury! Rotating blades are The transport lock should always be used if the deck needs
dangerous and can cut fingers and toes. Stop to be in the transport position for more than 12 seconds.
engine, lock the park brake, and wait for blade
The transport lock function allows the deck to be returned
to stop rotating before adjusting cutting height.
to the previous Height of Cut after being in the transport
Cutting height can be adjusted from approximately 25 to position.
139 mm (1 to 5-1/2 in.). Each increment on the knob 1. Park machine safely. (See Parking Safely in the SAFETY
adjusts the height-of-cut (HOC) approximately 6 mm (1/4 section.)
in.).
2. Disengage PTO.
The deck can also be raised and locked in a transport
position, to provide maximum ground clearance when 3. Stop engine and lock park brake.
moving the machine from one area to another. NOTE: If machine is equipped with convenience
package raise and lower deck with power lift switch
Adjusting located on left control lever.
1. Park machine safely. (See Parking Safely in the SAFETY 4. Raise mower deck using deck lift pedal.
section.)
5. With deck in raised position, rotate knob (C) counter
2. Disengage PTO. clockwise into the transport lock position.
3. Stop engine and lock park brake. 6. Release pedal to lower deck to transport setting.
Operating - 26
Operating
Release Transport Lock
NOTE: If machine is equipped with convenience
package raise and lower deck with lift switch located
on left control lever.
1. Raise mower deck using deck lift pedal.
2. Rotate transport lock knob clockwise. Knob will release
to off position.
3. Release pedal to lower deck to previous height of cut A B
setting.
MX4896
Adjusting Mower Deck - All Models 2. Turn left blade (A) as shown. Hold and turn right blade
(B) as shown.
c CAUTION: Avoid injury! Rotating blades are

dangerous. Before adjusting or servicing
NOTE: Use a short ruler or a leveling gauge (Part No.
AM130907) (C) to check the mower blade level.
mower:
• Disconnect spark plug wire(s) or battery
negative (-) cable to prevent engine from
starting accidently.
D
• Always wear gloves when handling mower
blades or working near blades.
NOTE: Mower deck anti-scalp wheels should not

contact the ground while adjusting deck.
C
section.)
MIF
2. Inflate tires to the correct pressure.
Picture Note: Discharge chute raised for photo
3. Raise the mower deck to the transport position. clarity.
4. Inspect mower blades for: 3. Measure distance (D) from the blade tip to the ground on
• Blade sharpness. LH and RH blades.
• Blade damage. • The blade tips should measure within 1/8 in. (3 mm)
of each other.
• Bent blades.
Checking Level (Side-to-Side)

NOTE: Mower deck anti-scalp wheels should not
contact the ground.
E
1. Lower the deck so that the height of cut knob aligns to
index mark 3.
MX4896a
4. Turn right blade (E) so blade tip points straight forward.

Position left mower blade in the straight forward (front-to-
rear) position.
Operating - 27
Operating
5. Measure distance (D) from left front blade tip to the NOTE: Use a short ruler or a leveling gauge (Part No.
ground. AM130907) (A) to check the mower blade level.
• The front blade tip should be 76 mm (3 in.) (+/- 2 mm
[1/16 in.]) from the ground.
6. If the blade tip height is not within the given tolerance
then further adjustment is necessary.
E
Adjusting Blade Tip Height
A
M40137
5. The height (E) of the rear blade tip should be between 3-

D 6 mm (1/8-1/4 in.) higher than the front blade tip.
6. Repeat steps 1-5 for left blade
7. If the blade rake is not within the given tolerance then
further adjustment is necessary.
Adjusting Blade Rake (Front-to-Rear)

C
MX52007
1. Loosen jam nut (C).

2. Turn rod tube (D) on each side of machine to adjust as F
needed so the left and right blade tips are at 76 mm 3 in. (+/
- 2 mm [1/16 in.]).
3. Tighten jam nut (C).
NOTE: If an adjustment was made to the front blade tip
height, the blade rake will need to be checked. G
Checking Blade Rake (Front to Rear Height)

MX52007
1. Lower mower deck to 76 mm (3 in.) cutting height
position. 1. Loosen rear hanger jam nut (F).
2. Position right mower blade (discharge side) in straight 2. Turn tube nut (G) at rear hangers to adjust front-to-rear
forward (front-to-rear) position. level.
3. Measure from the right front blade tip to the ground. 3. The rear of the blade tips should be 1/8-1/4 in. higher
than front.
4. Turn blade one hundred eighty degrees and measure
from right rear blade tip to the ground. 4. Tighten jam nuts to 67 N•m (50 ft-lb).
5. Check blade rake. Repeat adjustment if needed.
Adjusting Deck Lift Spring Tension (B and M

Series Machines)
NOTE: Deck lift spring tension is adjusted at the
factory. If the effort required to raise or lower the
mower deck is not satisfactory, an adjustment may be
necessary.
Operating - 28
Operating
Check Spring Tension Machines with Material Collection System installed:
1. Park machine on a hard, level surface. Deck Recommended Factory
Setting
2. Stop engine and lock park brake.
3. Raise the mower deck to the transport position. 72 Inch 65 mm (2.6 in.)
4. Lift operator seat and lock into position. 60 Inch 58 mm (2.3 in.)
60 Inch - Mulch on Demand 52 mm (2.0 in.)
54 Inch 87 mm (3.4 in.)

B
48 Inch 75 mm (3.0 in.)
Adjust Spring Tension

NOTE: Do not over tension the deck lift spring. If the
A spring is compressed too tightly, the mower deck will
float too freely.
MX42533
Decrease deck lift spring tension if operating in rough
5. Measure length (A).
terrain.
• Z900B Series Machines:
While looking from rear of machine:
Machines without Material Collection System installed:
Deck Recommended Factory • Turn hex nut (B) clockwise to increase deck lift spring
Setting tension.
• Turn hex nut (B) counterclockwise to decrease deck lift
48 , 54, 60 Inch 21 mm (0.8 in.) spring tension.
Machines with Material Collection System installed:
Deck Recommended Factory
Setting Adjusting Mower Deck Anti-Scalp Wheels
48 Inch 57 mm (2.2 in.) NOTE: The flattest cut can be achieved by having all
anti-scalp wheels adjusted off the ground. Check anti-
54 Inch 63 mm (2.5 in.) scalp wheel adjustments each time the mower deck
cutting height is changed.
60 Inch 74 mm (2.9 in.)
It is recommended that all anti-scalp wheels be kept off
• Z900M Series Machines: the ground to minimize scuffing.
Machines without Material Collection System installed:
1. Inflate tire to correct pressure.
Deck Recommended Factory
Setting 2. Adjust mower deck to desired cutting height.
72 Inch 25 mm (1.0 in.)
60 Inch 21 mm (0.8 in.)
54 Inch 43 mm (1.7 in.)
48 Inch 31 mm (1.2 in.)
Operating - 29
Operating
The safety systems installed on your machine should be
checked before each machine use. Be sure you have read
the machine operator manual and are completely familiar
with the operation of the machine before performing these
safety system checks.
C Use the following checkout procedures to check for normal
operation of machine.
D If there is a malfunction during one of these procedures, do
not operate machine. See your authorized dealer for
service.
B Perform these tests in a clear open area. Keep bystanders
A
away.
MX51915
3. Adjust anti-scalp wheel (A) to one of three positions (B).

• Remove nut (C) and carriage bolt (D). Testing PTO Switch
• Adjust wheel up or down so it is approximately 6-13 1. Sit on the operator seat.
mm (1/4-1/2 in.) above mowing surface. 2. Lock the park brake.
4. Install wheel with attaching hardware. 3. Pull PTO knob up to engage.
5. Adjust all wheels to the same height. 4. Turn key switch to the start position.
Result: The engine will start but the PTO should not
engage until the park brake is unlocked and the PTO knob
Testing Safety Systems is disengaged and re-engaged again.
Testing Park Brake Switch

1. Sit on the operator seat.
2. Push PTO knob down to disengage.
3. Unlock park brake.
4. Turn key switch to the start position.
Result: The engine must not crank.
Testing Seat Switch
c CAUTION: Avoid injury! Engine exhaust fumes

contain carbon monoxide and can cause
1. Start the engine.
serious illness or death.
3. Pull PTO knob up to engage.
• Move the machine to an outside area before
4. Raise slightly off the seat.
running the engine.
Result: The engine must stop.
• Do not run an engine in an enclosed area
without adequate ventilation.
• Connect a pipe extension to the engine
exhaust pipe to direct the exhaust fumes out of
the area.
• Allow fresh outside air into the work area to
clear the exhaust fumes out.
Operating - 30
Operating
Testing the Park Brake 2. To unlock the park brake, press park brake release (B).
Park Brake Lever
D
A
MX51848
ztrak-m653dROPS
1. Stop machine on a 17° slope (30% grade). Stop the 1. To lock the park brake, pull upward on park brake hand
engine and lock the park brake. lever (A) fully so that latch (B) is retained into bracket slot
(C).
Result: Park brake must hold the machine stationary.
(Machine should move no more than 61cm (24 in.) in one 2. To unlock the park brake, pull upward slightly on park
hour.) If machine moves more than that, brakes need to be brake handle lever (A), press in button (D) and fully lower
adjusted. See your John Deere Dealer or refer to Adjusting lever. Release button on hand lever.
Park Brake in the Service Steering and Brakes section.
Using Key Switch

Using the Park Brake
c CAUTION: Avoid injury! Children or bystanders

may attempt to move or operate an unattended
machine.
A
Always lock the park brake and remove the key B
before leaving the machine unattended.
C
Park Brake Pedal
W00927
Picture Note: Key switch label.

A - STOP Position - With key in STOP position, all switched
A
power is off, and engine should not run.
B - Run Position - Turn key from STOP to this position and
B all switched power circuits will be on.
C - Start Position - Turn key to start position to crank the
engine. Release key after engine has started and it will
automatically return to the run position. The engine will
MX24787 continue to run.
1. To lock the park brake, press park brake pedal (A) fully
down.
Operating - 31
Operating
Using Indicator Lights distributor.
• Park Brake Switch Light (E) will glow when park brake
Z915B
hand lever is raised or foot pedal is pressed.
• PTO Light (F) will glow when PTO switch is activated.
Using the PTO

Engage PTO:
NOTE: For Z900R models, the PTO will be disabled and
not engage if the key switch is in the RUN and/or
START position for 10 seconds or longer and the
engine has not been started. Turn the key switch to the
A OFF position and then to the START position and start
the engine within 10 seconds to allow the PTO to
engage.
MX51916 1. Move throttle lever to the 1/2 to 3/4 fast position.
• Vehicle Diagnostic Indicator Light (A) is not used. 2. Firmly pull PTO knob up to engage mower deck.
All Other Models 3. Move throttle lever forward to the fast position for
mowing.
Disengage PTO:
B
• Push PTO knob down.
A
Using the Throttle Lever

• Push throttle lever all the way forward to the fast position
when mowing.
F
• Move throttle lever to the half throttle position when
starting and warming the engine.
E
• Pull throttle lever to rear to slow position to idle engine. Do
not run engine at slow idle any longer than necessary.
C
D
MX51849 Using the Hour Meter

• Engine Coolant Temperature Indicator Light (A) is not • The hour meter shows number of hours the machine has
used. run.
• Engine Diagnostic Indicator Light (B) is used for • The service interval chart gives necessary service
Z925M EFI and Z930M EFI engines only. Light will be on if intervals. Use the hour meter and service interval chart to
active engine diagnostic code is present. See your John determine when machine will need service.
Deere dealer.
• Vehicle Diagnostic Indicator Light (C) will flash a
diagnostic code to help the operator identify operational
and electrical problems. See Vehicle Diagnostic Light
Check in SERVICE ELECTRICAL section.
• Engine Oil Pressure Indicator Light (D) will glow when
engine oil pressure is low. If light glows when engine is
running, stop engine immediately. See your John Deere
Operating - 32
Operating
Using the Motion Control Levers Neutral Position
c CAUTION: Avoid injury! Learn use of the motion

control levers and practice at half throttle until
A
becoming proficient and comfortable with the

operation of the machine.
Do not move motion control levers from
forward to reverse or reverse to forward
position rapidly. Sudden direction changes
could cause loss of control or damage the
machine.
The functions of the motion control levers are:

• Dual function neutral position.
• Steering.
• Acceleration. MX52178
• Braking. • Machine speed, motion, and direction can be controlled

when the engine is running, motion control levers are in the
Neutral Lock Position neutral position (A), and the park brake is unlocked.
Forward and Reverse Travel

A
c CAUTION: Avoid injury! Children or bystanders

may be injured by runover and rotating blades.
Before traveling forward or rearward:
• Carefully check the area around the machine.
• Disengage the mower before backing up.
1. Move throttle lever to the fast position.

3. Move both motion control levers from the neutral lock
position inward to the neutral position.
MX52177 4. Push the control levers forward to begin forward motion.
• Forward and reverse movement of the motion control • The farther forward the control levers are moved, the
levers (A) is prevented when levers are moved to the faster the machine will travel.
neutral lock position. 5. Pull both control levers rearward at the same time to
• Operator can exit mower with the engine running when begin reverse motion.
the PTO switch is disengaged, the motion control levers are 6. To stop motion, move both motion control levers forward
in the neutral lock position and the park brake is locked. or rearward until the machine comes to a stop.
• Motion control levers must be in the neutral lock position
to safely enter and exit the operator seat.
Operating - 33
Operating
Forward Travel Left Turn
A A
C
D
MX52088
MX52090
• Gradually move both motion control levers evenly forward
(A) from neutral. To speed up, move the levers farther 1. To turn slightly to the left, push right control lever (C)
forward. To slow down smoothly, slowly move the levers further forward than the left control lever (D).
toward neutral.
Reverse Travel
B B
MX52091
2. To turn sharply to the left, push right control lever (C)

forward and pull left control lever (D) rearward at the same
time.
MX52089
• Look down and behind, then gradually move both motion

control levers evenly rearward (B) from neutral. To speed
up, move the levers farther rearward. To slow down
smoothly, slowly move the levers toward neutral.
Operating - 34
Operating
Right Turn Starting the Engine

serious illness or death.
D running the engine.
C • Do not run an engine in an enclosed area
the area.
MX52092
1. Sit on the operator seat.
1. To turn slightly to the right, push left control lever (D) 2. Lock the park brake.
further forward than the right control lever (C). 3. Push the PTO knob down to disengage the PTO.
4. Move throttle lever to set engine speed:
• Cold engine: Set throttle lever at the 1/2 to 3/4 fast
idle position.
• Warm /Hot engine: Set throttle lever to the fast idle
position.
5. Position choke knob (does not apply to Z925M-EFI and
D
Z930M-EFI):
• Cold engine: Pull knob up and hold in the choke
position.
C
• Warm/Hot engine: If necessary, pull knob up and
hold in choke position.
NOTE: The starter will shutdown after 20 seconds of
cranking. The key can be cycled from OFF to start and
the starter will begin cranking again. After three cycles
MX52093 of cranking for 20 seconds (60 total seconds) the
2. To turn sharply to the right, push left control lever (D) controller activates a thermal shutdown until
forward and pull right control lever (C) rearward at the same components cool down.
time. 6. Turn key switch to the start position.
• Turn key to start position again for no more than 20
seconds.
• Repeat the procedure if necessary.
IMPORTANT: Avoid damage! Unnecessary engine

idling may cause engine damage. Excessive idling
can cause engine overheating, carbon build-up, and
poor performance.
7. Release key to the run position when the engine starts.

8. With engine started:
• Push choke knob down to the off position (does not
Operating - 35
Operating
apply to Z925M-EFI and Z930M-EFI). Operating Mulch-On-Demand Mower Deck
• Move throttle lever to the fast idle position. (MOD) If Equipped
• Unlock park brake. To Mulch:
Engaging Mower
c CAUTION: Avoid injury! Clear mowing area of

all bystanders when operating this machine.
Thrown objects could cause serious injury or
death.
A
Keep hands and feet away from blades and
discharge opening.
Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely
necessary.
IMPORTANT: Avoid damage! To help prevent

damage to the PTO clutch:
• Do not engage PTO with throttle in the fast
position. MX52180
Picture Note: Lever position forward (closed) for

1. Adjust mower deck to desired cutting height.
mulch position.
2. Start engine.
1. Push deck mode lever (A) forward for the mulch position.
3. Move throttle lever to the 1/2–3/4 throttle position.
To Side Discharge:
5. Move both motion control levers to the neutral position.
NOTE: In cold weather or with a new machine, it may
be necessary to engage the choke at the same time as
the PTO knob to prevent the engine from stalling (does
not apply to Z925M-EFI and Z930M-EFI).
6. Firmly pull PTO knob up to engage mower deck.
7. Move throttle lever to the fast position.
A
NOTE: The travel speed and turn rate will vary with the
amount that the control levers are moved.
8. Push motion control levers forward slowly. Mow at a safe
travel speed.
9. To stop machine motion, move both motion control levers
in the opposite direction of motion until machine comes to a
stop.
MX52181
Picture Note: Lever position rearward (open) for

side discharge position.
1. Pull deck mode lever (A) rearward for side discharge
mode.
Operating - 36
Operating
To Adjust Linkages: NOTE: If baffles are removed, store M6 locknut and M6
carriage bolt with baffles for later use.
section.) 5. Move baffle in, out, or remove as required.
2. Place motion control levers in neutral lock position. 6. Secure with M6 locknut (A) and M6 carriage bolt (B).
3. Raise the mower deck to the highest position. 7. Repeat as necessary for second baffle.
4. Loosen hardware (C) on both tie rod ends (D). Rotate
ends to increase or decrease length of tie rod assembly so
that control gates are fully open or closed, as needed. Stopping Engine
Tighten hardware (C) fully before operation.
Baffles: IMPORTANT: Avoid damage! To help prevent engine

backfiring, throttle lever should be set at the 1/2
The Mulch-On-Demand Mower Decks are equipped with throttle position and run for 30 seconds prior to
two adjustable baffles that can be used to control grass stopping the engine.
flow between blades.
1. Move the motion control levers to the neutral lock
Depending on mowing conditions, baffles can be adjusted,
position.
or removed, to improve performance when mulching or side
discharging. 2. Lock park brake.
Baffles should be in the forward position for best mulching 3. Move the throttle lever between the middle and high idle
performance; they should be in the rearward position or position.
removed when side discharging. However, any combination 4. Turn key switch to STOP position.
of baffle placements can be used at the customer's
c CAUTION:
discretion.
Avoid injury! Children or bystanders
To Adjust or Remove Baffles:
may attempt to move or operate an unattended
1. Park machine safely. (See Parking Safely in the SAFETY machine.
SECTION.)
Always lock the park brake and remove the key
2. Raise the mower deck to the highest position. before leaving the machine unattended.
3. Raise front of machine with a safe lifting device. (See 5. Remove key.
Lifting Machine in the SERVICE MISCELLANEOUS
Section.)
Emergency Stopping (Motion Control Levers)
C c CAUTION: Avoid injury! The machine may be

unstable if stopped suddenly. Do not stop
suddenly unless it is an emergency.
B
1. Return both motion control levers to the neutral position.
2. Depress brake pedal.
A
3. Stop mower blade rotation.
4. Turn key switch to stop (Off) position.
5. If possible, lock the park brake.
MX52182
Picture Note: Baffles shown in forward position.

4. Remove M6 locknut (A) and M6 carriage bolt (B) from
baffle (C).
Operating - 37
Operating
Moving Machine by Hand (Using the Bypass
Pump Release Valves)
c CAUTION: Avoid injury! When the bypass valve

is open, the machine will have unrestricted
motion.
• Do not open the bypass valve when the
machine is stopped on an incline to prevent it
from going downhill out of control.
A
IMPORTANT: Avoid damage! Transmission damage
may occur if the machine is towed or moved
B
incorrectly:
MX51917
• Move machine by hand only.
Picture Note: Z900B and Z900M Series Shown.
• Do not use another vehicle to move machine.
• Do not tow machine.
NOTE: Both bypass pump release valves must be fully

closed (pushed inward towards rear of machine)
during normal vehicle operation.
When the machine needs to be moved without starting the
engine, use the bypass pump release valves:
1. Lock the park brake.
2. Lift operator seat and lock into position.
A
B
MX51918
Picture Note: Z900R Series Shown.

3. On both transmissions pull the bypass levers (A and B)
outward to the open position (towards the front of the
machine).
5. Push machine to desired location. Due to hydraulic
system drag, machine will move slowly.
6. Lock park brake.
7. Push both bypass pump release levers inward to the
closed position (towards rear of the machine).
Transporting Machine on a Trailer

Use a heavy-duty trailer to transport your machine. Trailer
must have signs and lights required by law.
NOTE: Trailer capacity must exceed combined machine
weight and attachment weight. (See Specifications
section in Operator’s Manual).
Operating - 38
Operating
c CAUTION: Avoid injury! Use extra care when

loading or unloading the machine onto a trailer
or truck. Machine wheels can go off the ramp
or trailer, causing the machine to tip over.
• To load, back slowly and in a straight line.
Keep wheels away from drop-offs and edges.
• Do not use two separate loading ramps. Use a
full width loading ramp at least 30 cm (12 in.)
wider than machine to keep caster wheels from
going off the ramp edge.
• Use a trailer with sides. A
A
1. Park trailer on level surface.
2. Raise mower deck to the transport position. MX51862
8. Fasten front of machine at both sides of the frame at

points (A) to trailer with heavy-duty straps, chains, or
cables. Straps must be directed down and outward from
machine.
MX22500A
3. Back machine onto heavy-duty trailer with full-width B B

ramp.
5. Lower mower deck completely.
6. Remove key.
7. If equipped, turn fuel shutoff valve to off position. MX51861
9. Fasten rear of machine at both sides of frame at points

(B) to trailer with heavy-duty straps, chains, or cables.
Straps must be directed down and outward from machine.
Mowing Tips
• Mow grass with throttle lever in the full fast/mow position.
• Mow grass when it is dry.
• Keep mower deck and discharge chute clean.
• Properly level mower deck for a smooth cut.
• Use a travel speed that fits the conditions.
• Mow tall or wet grass twice. Cut grass at half desired
height - then cut at desired height.
• Avoid damaging grass by slipping or skidding machine
Operating - 39
Operating
drive wheels. Practice smooth control lever movements.
• When performing sharp turns, do not allow inside
machine drive wheel to stop and twist on grass.
• Keep mower blades sharp. Dull blades will tear grass; tips
of grass will then turn brown.
• Adjust cutting height to remove only 1/3 of the grass at a
time.
• Mow grass often. Short grass clippings will decay quickly.
• Adjust travel speed to match mowing conditions:
• Travel at slow speed when you mow thick, tall grass,
• make sharp turns or trim around objects.
• Use a different mowing pattern each time you mow.
• Overlap mowing paths 50 - 100 mm (2 - 4 in.).
• Drive over ridges and through shallow ditches straight-on,
not at an angle.
Mowing Travel Speeds

Use slow travel speeds for:
• Slopes.
• Trimming.
• Close quarters.
• Tall grass.
Use faster travel speeds for:
• Normal mowing on level ground.
Dismounting to Inspect Mower
c CAUTION: Avoid injury! Help prevent serious

injury. Keep hands and feet away from blades
and the discharge opening.
Do not step on either side of the mower deck
when mounting and dismounting the machine.
Mount and dismount the machine using the
front foot plate.
1. Park machine on a hard, level surface.

2. Push knob down to disengage PTO.
3. Move motion control levers to the neutral lock position.
4. Lock park brake.
5. Stop engine and remove key. Wait for mower blades to
stop turning before leaving operator’s seat.
Operating - 40
Replacement Parts
Replacement Parts
Service Literature
If you would like a copy of the Parts Catalog or Technical
Manual for this machine call:
• U.S. & Canada: 1-800-522-7448.
• All Other Regions: Your John Deere dealer.
Parts
We recommend John Deere quality parts and lubricants,
available at your John Deere dealer.
When you order parts, your John Deere dealer needs the
serial number or product identification number (PIN) for
your machine or attachment. These are the numbers that
you recorded in the Product Identification section of this
manual.
Order Service Parts Online

Visit http://JDParts.deere.com for your Internet
connection to parts ordering and information.
Replacement Parts - 41
Service Intervals
• Test safety systems.
Service Intervals
Servicing Your Machine

Initial Break In (After First 8 Hours)
IMPORTANT: Avoid damage! Operating in extreme
conditions may require more frequent service • Change engine oil and filter.
intervals: • Check and tighten drive wheel hardware.
• Engine components may become dirty or plugged
Initial Break In (After First 300 Hours)
when operating in extreme heat, dust or other
severe conditions. • Change transmission oil and both transmission filters. For
Z900R Series also change inline hydraulic filter.
• Engine oil can degrade if machine is operated
constantly at slow or low engine speeds or for
Every 50 Hours
frequent short periods of time.
• Check air cleaner element.
Please use the following timetables to perform routine
• Grease deck spindles and baffle pivots (MOD only).
maintenance on your machine.
Park the vehicle safely. See Park Safely in the SAFETY Every 100 Hours
Section.
• Change engine oil and filter (Annually or at hour meter
reading, whichever comes first).
• Check traction drive belt and deck belt.
Service Intervals
• Clean and regap spark plugs.
Daily • Check and clean cooling fins.
• Clean grass and debris from operator station foot • Check and clean engine oil cooler (if equipped).
platform.
Every 300 Hours
• Remove grass and debris from operator’s platform, air
intake screen, engine cooling fins, engine compartment, • Check and adjust valve clearance (does not apply to
transmissions, fans, traction drive belt and muffler area. Z915B, Z925M-EFI and Z930M-EFI).
• Remove grass and debris from machine and mower deck. • Change fuel filter (Carburetor Models) (Annually or at
• Remove mower deck belt shields. Clean grass and debris hour meter reading whichever comes first).
from belt area.
Every 500 Hours
• Check all belts for damage or cracking.
• Check and adjust foot park brake (Z900R Series)
• Make sure all necessary guards and shields are safely (Annually or hour meter reading, whichever comes first).
and securely attached. Check for loose, missing, or
• Change transmission oil and both transmission filters. For
damaged parts.
Z900R Series also change inline hydraulic filter. (Every 500
• Check mower level, cutting height, and blades. Hours after Initial Break In).
• Check engine oil level. • Remove cooling shroud and clean debris.
• Check transmission oil level. • Grease front caster wheels-pivots.
• Check for oil leaks. • Check torque on ROPS hardware.
• Check fuel level.
Every 1000 Hours
• Check engine air filter.
• Change spark plugs (Annually or at hour meter reading,
• Check wheel bolt torque. Tighten if necessary. whichever comes first).
• Check tire air pressure. Check tires for damage or • Change fuel filter (Z925M-EFI and Z930M-EFI Models)
cracking. (Annually or at hour meter reading, whichever comes first).
• Test park brake. • Clean battery (Annually or at hour meter reading,
whichever comes first).
• Check and adjust steering control linkages.
• Check for loose, damaged or missing parts. As Needed
• Check battery. • Adjust clutch air gap (Z900M and Z900R Series).
Service Intervals - 42
Service Intervals
• Adjust tracking.
• Adjust transmission neutral.
• Align motion control levers.
• Adjust throttle cable.
• Adjust choke cable (if equipped).
Service Intervals - 43
Service Lubrication
Lubricating Mulch-On-Demand (MOD) Baffle
Service Lubrication
Grease
Pivot Bushings
IMPORTANT: Avoid damage! Use recommended
John Deere greases to avoid component failure and
premature wear.
The recommended John Deere greases are effective A
within an average air temperature range of -29 to 135
degrees C (-20 to 275 degrees F).
If operating outside that temperature range, contact
your Servicing dealer for a special-use grease.
The following greases are preferred:

• John Deere Multi-Purpose SD Polyurea Grease
If not using the preferred grease, be sure to use a general
all-purpose grease with an NLGI grade No.2 rating.
Wet or high speed conditions may require use of a special-
use grease. Contact your Servicing dealer for information.
NOTE: Some types of grease thickeners are not MX52184
compatible with others. Consult your grease supplier 1. On right front of machine, lubricate two grease fittings
before mixing different types of grease. (A) with John Deere Special Purpose HD Water Resistant
NM Grease or John Deere Multi-Purpose HD Lithium
Complex Grease.
Lubricating Mower Deck Spindles
NOTE: Removal of belt shields and foot plate is not
necessary to lubricate the spindles.
B MX52185
2. On left front of machine, lubricate grease fitting (B) with

John Deere Special Purpose HD Water Resistant NM
Grease or John Deere Multi-Purpose HD Lithium Complex
Grease.
MX52094
• Lubricate one mower deck spindle grease fitting (A),

located in the center of the deck.
• Lubricate two mower deck spindle grease fittings (B).
Service Lubrication - 44
Service Lubrication
Lubricating Machine
MX52186
1. Lubricate both front caster wheel pivot grease fittings (A)

with John Deere Special Purpose HD Water Resistant NM
Grease or John Deere Multi-Purpose HD Lithium Complex
Grease.
Service Lubrication - 45
Service Engine
Removing Engine Access Grill
Service Engine
Engine Emissions Information
c CAUTION:
Engine Warranty Maintenance Statement
Avoid injury! Touching hot surfaces
Maintenance, repair, or replacement of the emission control
can burn skin. The engine, components, and
devices and systems on this engine, which are being done
fluids will be hot if the engine has been
at the customer’s expense, may be performed by any non-
running. Allow the engine to cool before
road engine repair establishment or individual. Warranty
servicing or working near the engine and
repairs must be performed by an authorized John Deere
components.
dealer.
Emission Control System Certification Label
section.)
NOTE: Tampering with emission controls and
components by unauthorized personnel may result in
severe fines or penalties. Emission controls and
components can only be adjusted by EPA and/or CARB
authorized service centers. Contact your John Deere
Retailer concerning emission controls and component
questions.
The presence of an emissions label signifies that the
engine has been certified with the United States
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and/or California
Air Resources Board (CARB).
The emissions warranty applies only to those engines
marketed by John Deere that have been certified by the
EPA and/or CARB; and used in the United States and
Canada in off-road mobile equipment.
Avoid Fumes
B

A
serious illness or death. MX51853
• Move the machine to an outside area before 2. Remove two bolts (A) on each side of machine.
running the engine. 3. Remove and set aside engine access grill (B).
• Do not run an engine in an enclosed area 4. Install engine access grill with four bolts.
the area.
Service Engine - 46
Service Engine
Engine Oil hours in a day.
Make sure engine is cold when checking engine oil
level.
Section.)
2. Allow engine to cool.
3. Clean area around dipstick prior to removing it.
MX28667
Picture Note: Oil Viscosities for Air Temperature

Ranges
Use oil viscosity based on the expected air temperature
range during the period between oil changes.
John Deere TURF-GARD™ is preferred:
The following oils are also recommended:
• John Deere Plus-4™ MX25122
• John Deere Plus-50™ II Picture Note: Dipstick in similar location on all
Other oils may be used if they meet one or more of the models.
following: 4. Remove dipstick (A) from tube by unscrewing it. Wipe it
• ILSAC GF-5 clean.
• API Service Category SN 5. Install dipstick in tube, but do not screw on to threads.
• API Service Category SM 6. Remove dipstick. Check oil level on dipstick; oil level
should be between the ADD and FULL marks.
• API Service Category SL
• If oil is low, add oil to bring oil level no higher than the
• API Service Category SJ
FULL mark on dipstick.
• ACEA Oil Sequence A3
• If oil level is above the FULL mark, drain to proper
• ACEA Oil Sequence A2 level.
• ACEA Oil Sequence A1 7. Install dipstick and tighten.
Checking Engine Oil Level Changing Engine Oil and Filter
IMPORTANT: Avoid damage! Failure to check the oil

level regularly could lead to serious engine c CAUTION: Avoid injury! Touching hot surfaces
problems if oil level is out of the operating range:
• Check oil level before operating.
• Check oil level when the engine is cold and not servicing or working near the engine and
running. components.
• Keep oil level between the dipstick marks.
• Shut off engine before adding oil.
NOTE: Check oil twice a day if you run engine over 4
Service Engine - 47
Service Engine
IMPORTANT: Avoid damage! Change the oil more

often if the vehicle is used in extreme conditions:
• Extremely dusty conditions.
• Frequent slow or low-speed operation. E
• Frequent short trips.
Kohler Engines
1. Run engine to warm oil.
2. Park machine safely on a level surface. (See Parking
Safely in the SAFETY section.)
3. Remove engine access grill.
4. Put container under oil drain area.
MX51856
B
9. Clean area around the oil dipstick (E).
10. Unscrew and remove the dipstick.
11. Add approximately:
A Model Engine Oil (with filter)
Z915B 1.6 - 1.8 L (1.7 - 1.9 qt)
Z925M (EFI) and Z930M (EFI) 1.9 (2.0 qt)

C 12. Install and tighten dipstick.
13. Start engine and run at slow throttle for approximately
D
two minutes. Check for leaks around filter and drain plug.
MX51854 14. Stop engine.

Picture Note: Model Z915B shown. 15. Check oil level:
5. Lower hose (A) toward outside of machine frame, and • Remove and wipe dipstick clean with a rag.
remove plug (B) on end hose. Allow oil to drain into • Install dipstick but do not screw onto threads.
container.
• Remove dipstick. Check oil level on dipstick; oil level
6. After oil drains install the drain plug and remove the oil should be between the ADD and FULL marks. Add oil if
filter (C) and allow oil to drain through opening (D) in frame needed.
and into container. Tighten drain plug to 13.6 N•m (120 lb-
in.). 16. Install dipstick and tighten.
7. Apply a film of clean engine oil on gasket of new filter. 17. Install engine access grill.
8. Install filter. Turn filter clockwise until gasket makes Kawasaki Engines
contact with mounting surface. Tighten by hand 3/4 turn
1. Run engine to warm oil.
more after gasket contact.
4. Put container under oil drain area.
Service Engine - 48
Service Engine
Model Engine Oil (with filter)
Z930M, Z930R, Z950R, 2.4 L (2.5 qt)

Z960R, Z970R
D 12. Install and tighten dipstick.
13. Start engine and run at slow throttle for approximately
A
two minutes. Check for leaks around filter and drain plug.
C
14. Stop engine.
15. Check oil level:
• Remove and wipe dipstick clean with a rag.
• Install dipstick but do not screw onto threads.
B
• Remove dipstick. Check oil level on dipstick; oil level
should be between the ADD and FULL marks. Add oil if
needed.
MX51855
16. Install dipstick and tighten.
Picture Note: Model Z920M shown.
17. Install engine access grill.
5. Be certain hose (A) is installed into opening (B) in
machine frame, and open oil drain plug (C). Allow oil to
drain into container.
6. After oil drains close the drain plug and remove the oil
Checking and Replacing Air Cleaner Element
filter (D). Tighten drain plug to 6.9 N•m (61 lb-in).
IMPORTANT: Avoid damage! Dirt and debris can
7. Apply a film of clean engine oil on gasket of new filter.
enter the engine when removing the air cleaner
8. Install filter. Turn filter clockwise until gasket makes elements. Service elements only at prescribed
contact with mounting surface. Tighten by hand 3/4 turn intervals.
more after gasket contact.
1. Park the machine safely. (See Parking Safely in the
SAFETY section.)
B
E
MX51857 MX25118
9. Clean area around the oil dipstick (E). Picture Note: Your model may be different from the
10. Unscrew and remove the dipstick. model shown.
11. Add approximately: 2. Unhook latches (A) and remove cover (B).
Model Engine Oil (with filter)
Z920M, Z920R 2.0 L (2.1 qt)
Service Engine - 49
Service Engine
Checking Spark Plugs
C
c CAUTION: Avoid injury! Touching hot surfaces

components.
IMPORTANT: Avoid damage! Do not clean spark plug

D area with spark plug removed.

section.)
2. Clean area around both spark plugs.
E
MX25119
Picture Note: Your model may be different from the

model shown.
3. Remove primary element (C) and secondary element
(D).
NOTE: The air cleaner elements are not recommended
to be cleaned.
• Do not wash air cleaner elements. A
A
• Do not oil air cleaner elements.
• Do not use pressurized air to clean air cleaner
elements.
4. Inspect air cleaner elements and replace if dirty or at
MX51859
specified intervals
• Replace the secondary element if dirty when the Picture Note: Model Z915B shown. Engine access
primary element is checked and replaced. grill removed for clarity.
5. Clean the housing (E) with detergent and water. Dry 3. Disconnect the spark plug wire (A) from each plug.
thoroughly with a clean cloth. 4. Remove and inspect spark plugs:
NOTE: If the housing is damaged, it must be replaced. • Clean each plug and check for damage, replace if
6. Check the housing for deformation or other damage. The necessary.
housing must seal well and permit only filtered air to reach • If plugs are in good condition, check gap.
the carburetor.
7. Check that no foreign material is obstructing the air
passage.
8. Install new element(s).
9. Replace cover with the “up” mark on the cover at the
twelve o’clock position and secure latches.
Service Engine - 50
Service Engine
IMPORTANT: Avoid damage! To avoid damage from

overheating, clean all debris from cylinder head
cooling fins and engine area as directed by the
machine service intervals.
• The interval for cleaning debris from the engine
compartment area is daily.
B • The interval for removing the clean-out panels and
cleaning all debris from cylinder head cooling fins is
every 100 hours, or more frequently depending on
operating conditions.
M85200
• The interval for removing the cooling shrouds and
5. Check and adjust spark plug gap (B) to 0.76 mm (0.030
cleaning debris from complete cooling system is
in.).
every 500 hours, or more frequently depending on
6. Install spark plugs. operating conditions.
• Kohler Engines: Tighten to 27 N•m (20 ft-lb).
NOTE: After inspection, If all debris cannot be cleaned
• Kawasaki Engines: Tighten to 22 N•m (16 ft-lb). out after performing 100 Hour Interval, the Every 500
7. Install both spark plug wires. Hours interval needs to be performed.
2. Remove covers:
Check and Clean Cooling Fins - Every 100

Hours B
B

components. A A
NOTE: Checking and cleaning cooling fins should be

performed every 100 hours.
MX52229
• Z915B, Z925M EFI and Z930M EFI: Remove four

screws (A) and two covers (B).
Service Engine - 51
Service Engine
Remove Cooling Shroud and Clean Debris
(Z915B) - Every 500 Hours
B c CAUTION: Avoid injury! Compressed air can

cause debris to fly a long distance.
B
• Clear work area of bystanders.

• Wear eye protection when using compressed
air for cleaning purposes.
• Reduce compressed air pressure to 210 kPa
A (30 psi).
A IMPORTANT: Avoid damage! To ensure proper

cooling, keep the engine cooling fins and
C surrounding area clean at all times. Operating the
engine with obstructed cooling fins could cause
MX52230
engine damage due to overheating.
• All other models: Remove two screws (A) and two
covers (B). 1. Park machine safely. (See Parking Safely in the SAFETY
section.)
3. Remove spark plug wires.
c CAUTION: Avoid injury! Compressed air can

D
• Clear work area of bystanders. E

(30 psi).
A
4. With compressed air, thoroughly clean debris buildup. B
5. Install spark plug wires. C
6. Install two covers on shroud.
7. Raise seat.
8. Check and clean engine oil cooler (C) (if equipped) and A
blow out debris with compressed air.
A
9. Lower seat.
MX43961
4. Loosen and remove five socket head bolts (A) and

remove fan screen guard (B).
5. Remove four hex head bolts (C), fan screen and metal
ring below fan screen.
6. Remove air cleaner canister bolt (D) and spread straps.
Bend air intake hose (E), lift canister away from strap and
move air filter housing away from engine shroud.
Service Engine - 52
Service Engine
13. If engine is equipped with an oil cooler, remove
I F G mounting bolts.
14. Remove two shroud bolts (M). Lift shroud (N) upward
and remove from engine.
15. Clean debris from engine area and all engine cooling
fins.
16. Reverse steps to install shroud and tighten all hardware
H securely.
MX43962
7. Remove two air cleaner bracket bolts (F). (Models Z920M and Z920R) - Every 500 Hours
8. Remove two fuel pump bolts (G).
9. Remove two shroud/lift bracket bolts (H).
K • Clear work area of bystanders.
J (30 psi).
IMPORTANT: Avoid damage! To ensure proper

I cooling, keep the engine cooling fins and
surrounding area clean at all times. Operating the
MX43963
10. Remove dip stick mounting bolt (I) and dipstick housing section.)
(J) from engine.
11. Remove four shroud bolts (K). Install dipstick housing
(J) on engine and secure with one bolt (I). 3. Remove engine access grill.
N
L
MX43964
12. Remove wiring harness connector (L) from voltage

regulator.
Service Engine - 53
Service Engine
13. Install air cleaner.
B C
A 14. Install fan screen.
A E 15. Install fan screen guard.
16. Tighten all hardware.
D
F
I
H
(Models Z930M, Z930R, Z950R, Z960R, Z970R)
- Every 500 Hours
c CAUTION:
G
I
Avoid injury! Compressed air can
MX27410
4. Loosen and remove three hex socket head bolts (A) and • Clear work area of bystanders.
remove fan screen guard (B). • Wear eye protection when using compressed
5. Remove three hex head bolts (C) and remove fan screen air for cleaning purposes.
(D). • Reduce compressed air pressure to 210 kPa
6. Open air cleaner latch (E) and remove air cleaner (30 psi).
assembly (F) from top of engine.
7. Remove two hex head bolts (G) and remove fuel pump IMPORTANT: Avoid damage! To ensure proper
(H). cooling, keep the engine cooling fins and
surrounding area clean at all times. Operating the
8. Remove six engine shroud hex head bolts (I). engine with obstructed cooling fins could cause
E
C NOTE: Your model may be different from the model
shown.
section.)
2. Allow machine to cool down.
F
I
A
MX27409
9. Lift shroud (I) upward and remove from engine

compartment.
10. Clean debris from engine area and all engine cooling
fins.
11. Install engine shroud.
12. Install fuel pump.
Service Engine - 54
Service Engine
B D
L
E K
C
C
MX25112
8. Remove the three hex head bolts (K) and fan shroud (L).
MX25110
9. Remove the four hex socket head bolts (M) and the fan
4. Loosen clamp (A), remove hex head bolts (B) and (C).
screen.
5. Lift bracket (D) and pivot air cleaner assembly (E) out
leaving the intake hose connected.
N
G
MX25114
F 10. Remove the engine shroud bolts (N).
MX25113
P
6. Remove the three hex head bolts (F) and air cleaner
bracket (G).
J MX25115
11. Remove the four hex head bolts (O) and remove oil
cooler (P).
MX25111 12. Clean oil cooler fins.
7. Remove the two hex head bolts (H) fuel pump (I) and
disconnect the vacuum hose (J).
Service Engine - 55
Service Engine
(Model Z925M-EFI and Z930M-EFI) - Every 500
Hours
R

Q
(30 psi).
MX25116
13. Z930M, Z930R and Z950R: Loosen the top hex head IMPORTANT: Avoid damage! To ensure proper
bolts (Q) to the voltage regulator (R). cooling, keep the engine cooling fins and
14. Remove the engine shroud. surrounding area clean at all times. Operating the
15. Clean the debris from the engine area and all engine engine damage due to overheating.
cooling fins.
16. Install engine shroud. NOTE: Your model may be different from the model
shown.
17. Tighten voltage regulator top bolt.
18. Install oil cooler. section.)
19. Install fan shroud. 2. Allow machine to cool down.
20. Install fuel pump and connect vacuum hose. 3. Remove engine access grill.
21. Install air cleaner bracket.
Screen and Shroud Removal
22. Pivot air cleaner to proper position and tighten
hardware. C
F
G
E L
A
B
H
MX48714
1. Remove three screws and spacers (A) and guard (B)

from blower housing.
2. Remove four bolts (C) with washers and grass screen
Service Engine - 56
Service Engine
(D) from engine. 15. Clean debris from engine area and all engine cooling
fins.
3. Remove engine control unit mounting bolts (E) to access
shroud cover bolts.
Screen and Shroud Installation
4. Unplug voltage regulator (F).
1. Install engine shroud.
5. Remove engine oil cooler bolts (G), and clean engine oil
2. Install remaining components in reverse order of
cooler fins.
removal.
6. Remove air cleaner (H) and attached air intake hose by 3. Tighten all hardware.
removing the clamp at throttle body.
Replacing Fuel Filter
c CAUTION:
J
I Avoid injury! Fuel vapors are
explosive and flammable:
• Do not smoke while handling fuel.
• Keep fuel away from flames or sparks.
• Shut off engine before servicing.
K
• Cool engine before servicing.
MX48715 • Work in a well-ventilated area.
7. Remove two fuel line clamp bolts (K). • Clean up spilled fuel immediately.
8. Remove two air cleaner bracket screws (J).

IMPORTANT: Avoid damage! Incorrect installation
9. Remove air cleaner brackets (I). of fuel filter may cause engine damage. Install the
filter with the arrow pointing in the direction of fuel
flow (towards the engine) for proper operation.
P Q
NOTE: Change fuel filter when fuel is low.
N
L section.)
O 2. Allow engine to cool.
M 3. Place a drain pan under hoses to catch any fuel that may
P
be left in the hoses.
MX48716
10. Remove fuel pump bolts (L).

11. Remove lift bracket bolts (M).
12. Move throttle bracket (N) away from shroud.
13. Remove breather oil separator (O), mounting hardware
and bracket.
14. Remove remaining bolts around shroud (P) and remove
shroud.
Service Engine - 57
Service Engine
E D
A F
D
C B
A
MX51856
Picture Note: Kohler engine shown. MX51860
Picture Note: Kohler EFI engine shown.

4. Slide clamp (A) down onto fuel hose (B) and disconnect
fuel hose from the outlet side of the fuel filter (C), and drain
E
gasoline into a properly marked container.
D
5. Slide clamp (D) up onto inlet fuel hose (E), and remove
the fuel filter from the inlet fuel hose.
6. Loosen bolt (F) (Z925M-EFI and Z930M-EFI Only).
7. Remove and discard filter.
C A 8. Install new fuel filter.
• Make sure fuel filter is installed with arrow pointing in
B direction of fuel flow.
9. Tighten bolt (F) (Z925M-EFI and Z930M-EFI Only).
10. Connect hoses to new fuel filter and secure each end
MX51858 with hose clamp.
Picture Note: Kawasaki engine shown.
Adjusting Carburetor
NOTE: Carburetor is calibrated by the engine
manufacturer and is not adjustable.
If engine is operated at altitudes above 1829 m (6,000
ft), some carburetors may require a special high
altitude main jet. See your authorized dealer.
If engine is hard to start or runs rough, check the
TROUBLESHOOTING section of this manual.
Possible engine surging will occur at high throttle with
transmission in neutral and mower engagement lever
disengaged. This is a normal condition due to the emission
control system.
After performing the checks in the troubleshooting section
and your engine is still not performing correctly, contact
Service Engine - 58
Service Engine
your authorized dealer. Z915B, Z925M-EFI and Z930M-EFI (Kohler Engines)
Throttle Cable Adjustment
Adjusting Choke and Throttle Cables

A C

components.
B D
MX52220
1. Loosen screw (A) for throttle cable housing (B).

2. Move throttle lever all the way forward to the fast position.
Move throttle lever backward 3.2 mm (1/8 in.).
3. Pull throttle cable outer housing (B) away from carburetor
control plate until it stops. Tighten screw (A) to secure.
B 4. Verify cable operation and full range of throttle lever

within the slot. Repeat if necessary.
Choke Cable Adjustment

A NOTE: No choke adjustment is needed for Z925M-EFI
and Z930M-EFI.
MX51910 1. Loosen screw (C) for choke cable housing (D).
2. Check for proper cable operation by moving choke knob 2. Pull choke knob (A) all the way up to the fast position.
(A) and throttle lever (B) from on to off positions while Push choke knob down 3.2 mm (1/8 in.).
visually inspecting engine control panel.
3. Pull choke cable outer housing (D) away from carburetor
3. If choke knob and/or throttle lever does not have full control plate until it stops. Tighten screw (C) to secure.
travel within their slots, follow procedures below:
4. Verify cable operation and full range of choke knob.
Repeat if necessary.
Z920M and Z920R (Kawasaki Engine)

Service Engine - 59
Service Engine
C D
C D
A B
A B
MX52221
MX52196 Picture Note: Z930M Shown.

2. Loosen screw (A) for throttle cable housing (B). 2. Loosen screw (A) for throttle cable housing (B).
3. Move throttle lever all the way forward to the fast position. 3. Move throttle lever all the way forward to the fast position.
Move throttle lever backward 3.2 mm (1/8 in.). Move throttle lever backward 3.2 mm (1/8 in.).
4. Pull throttle cable outer housing (B) away from carburetor 4. Pull throttle cable outer housing (B) away from carburetor
control plate until it stops. Tighten screw (A) to secure. control plate until it stops. Tighten screw (A) to secure.
5. Verify cable operation and full range of throttle lever 5. Verify cable operation and full range of throttle lever
within the slot. Repeat if necessary. within the slot. Repeat if necessary.
6. Install engine access grill. 6. Install engine access grill.
Choke Cable Adjustment Choke Cable Adjustment

1. Remove engine access grill. 1. Remove engine access grill.
2. Loosen screw (C) for choke cable housing (D). 2. Loosen screw (C) for choke cable housing (D).
3. Pull choke knob (A) all the way up to the fast position. 3. Pull choke knob (A) all the way up to the fast position.
Push choke knob down 3.2 mm (1/8 in.). Push choke knob down 3.2 mm (1/8 in.).
4. Pull choke cable outer housing (D) away from carburetor 4. Pull choke cable outer housing (D) away from carburetor
control plate until it stops. Tighten screw (C) to secure. control plate until it stops. Tighten screw (C) to secure.
5. Verify cable operation and full range of choke knob. 5. Verify cable operation and full range of choke knob.
Repeat if necessary. Repeat if necessary.
6. Install engine access grill. 6. Install engine access grill.
Z930M, Z930R, Z950M, Z960M, and Z970M (Kawasaki

Engines)

Service Engine - 60
Service Engine
Carbon Canister
NOTE: A non-serviceable carbon canister is only
included on certain models.
MX45122
1. A carbon canister (A) is included as a non-serviceable

component on certain model machines.
Service Engine - 61
Service Transmission
Transmission and Hydraulic Oil

D
NOTE: Tractor is filled with John Deere High Viscosity
Hy-Gard™ (J20C) transmission oil at the factory.
Do not mix oils.
Do not use type “F” automatic transmission fluid, J20D
Low Viscosity Hy-Gard™, or Bio Hy-Gard™.
B
HY-GARD
C
-40 -22 -4 14 50 68 86 104 122
32 F
-40 -30 -20 -10 0C 10 20 30 40 50

A
MIF
MX51919
Use the following oil viscosity based on the air temperature 4. Check oil level in reservoir (A). Oil level should be
range. Operating outside of the recommended oil air between MIN (B) and MAX (C) on reservoir.
temperature range may cause premature hydrostatic
transmission failure. 5. If oil is below MIN (B) on reservoir, remove cap (D) from
reservoir and add oil until oil level is between MIN and MAX
John Deere Hy-Gard™ (J20C) transmission oil is specially on reservoir.
formulated to provide maximum protection against
mechanical wear, corrosion, and foaming. 6. Install cap on reservoir and hand tighten only. Do not
overtighten cap.
Checking Transmission Oil Level

Changing Transmission Oil and Filters
IMPORTANT: Avoid damage! Hot hydraulic oil will
expand and show incorrect oil level. Check oil level:
• When oil is cold.
c CAUTION: Avoid injury! Escaping fluid under
high pressure can penetrate the skin and cause
• With engine not running. serious injury. Avoid the hazard by relieving
pressure before connecting hydraulic or other
NOTE: Do not overfill reservoir tank. Oil will expand lines. Tighten all connections before applying
during operation and could overflow. pressure.
1. Park machine safely. (See Parking Safely in the SAFETY • Search for leaks with a piece of cardboard.
section.) Protect hands and body from high pressure
fluids.
• If an accident occurs, see a doctor
IMPORTANT: Avoid damage! Do not use chlorinated immediately. Any fluid injected into the skin
solvents or high pressure water to clean grass and must be surgically removed within a few hours
debris from transmission reservoir cap. or gangrene may result. Doctors unfamiliar
with this type of injury should reference a
3. Clean area around oil level markings and reservoir cap. knowledgeable medical source. Such
information is available from Deere & Company
Medical Department in Moline, Illinois, U.S.A. In
the United States and Canada only, this
information may be obtained by calling 1-800-
822-8262.
Service Transmission - 62
IMPORTANT: Avoid damage! Contamination of

hydraulic fluid could cause transmission damage or
failure. Do not open oil reservoir cap unless
absolutely necessary.
D
Severe or unusual conditions may require a more
frequent service interval.

section.)
2. Allow engine and transmission oil reservoir to cool.
B
3. Place drain pan under both transmissions. C
Z900B and Z900M Series
MX43019
IMPORTANT: Avoid damage! Do not use chlorinated
solvents or high pressure water to clean grass and 5. Install new filter into each transmission, with spring end
debris from filter caps. (B) facing filter cap (C).
6. Replace O-ring (D) on the filter cap.
7. Install filter cap (removed earlier) and tighten to 7.3 -
12.3 N•m (5.4 - 9 lb-ft).
A A
8. Use a safe lifting device to raise the drive wheel off the
ground. Support with jackstands.
10. Fill reservoir until oil level is between MIN and MAX
marks on reservoir.
11. On both transmissions, pull the bypass levers to the
open position.
12. Rotate each drive tire by hand 1 full revolution forward
and backward.
13. Check and fill reservoir until oil level is between MIN
and MAX marks on reservoir.
MX51920 14. Lower seat.
1. Clean area around each filter cap (A). 15. Start engine.
2. Remove filter cap (A) and filter from each transmission. 16. Allow engine to idle for 1 minute at low idle.
Discard filters.
17. Push both motion control levers to full forward and hold
3. Allow transmission oil to drain into a drain pan. for 5 seconds. Pull both control levers to full reverse and
4. Apply a film of clean oil on gasket of each new hold for 5 seconds. Repeat two additional times.
transmission filter. 18. Stop the engine.
19. Push the bypass levers to the closed position.
20. Use a safe lifting device to raise the drive wheels off the
ground. Remove the jackstands.

bodily injury. Remain alert to other people and
the surroundings when operating the machine.
22. Move throttle lever to the 3/4 fast idle position.
24. Run engine in full throttle for 5 minutes and then cycle
motion control levers forward and rearward several times. E
Check for leaks around filters.
25. Stop the engine. Check oil level. Add oil as necessary.
Z900R Series
IMPORTANT: Avoid damage! Do not use chlorinated C

solvents or high pressure water to clean grass and D
debris from filter caps and hydraulic filter base.
MX43019
7. Install new filter into each transmission, with spring end

A A (C) facing filter cap (D).
8. Replace O-ring (E) on the filter cap.
9. Install filter cap (removed earlier) and tighten to 7.3 -
12.3 N•m (5.4 - 9 lb-ft).
10. Use a safe lifting device to raise the drive wheel off the
ground. Support with jackstands.
12. Fill reservoir until oil level is between MIN and MAX
marks on reservoir.
13. On both transmissions, pull the bypass levers to the
B open position.
MX51996 14. Rotate each drive tire by hand 1 full revolution forward
and backward.
1. Clean area around each filter cap (A) and hydraulic filter
(B) base. 15. Check and fill reservoir until oil level is between MIN
and MAX marks on reservoir.
2. Remove filter cap (A) and filter from each transmission.
Discard filters. 16. Lower seat.
3. Remove inline hydraulic filter (B) from filter base. 17. Start engine.
4. Allow transmission oil to drain into a drain pan. 18. Allow engine to idle for 1 minute at low idle.
5. Apply a film of clean oil on gasket of new inline hydraulic 19. Push both motion control levers to full forward and hold
filter and tighten onto filter base. for 5 seconds. Pull both control levers to full reverse and
hold for 5 seconds. Repeat two additional times.
6. Apply a film of clean oil on gasket of each new
transmission filter. 20. Stop the engine.
21. Push the bypass levers to the closed position.
22. Use a safe lifting device to raise the drive wheels off the
ground. Remove the jackstands.

bodily injury. Remain alert to other people and
the surroundings when operating the machine.

24. Move throttle lever to the 3/4 fast idle position.
25. Unlock park brake. 4. Clean transmission fan screens (B).
26. Run engine in full throttle for 5 minutes and then cycle
motion control levers forward and rearward several times.
Check for leaks around filters. Checking and Replacing Traction Drive Belt
27. Stop the engine. Check oil level. Add oil as necessary.
c CAUTION: Avoid injury! Entanglement in a belt

or pulley can cause serious injury. Stop engine
Cleaning Transmission Fan and Cooling Fins and wait for all moving parts to stop.
c CAUTION: NOTE: The traction drive belt is self-adjusted using a

Avoid injury! Compressed air can spring tensioner and does not require a tension
cause debris to fly a long distance. adjustment.
Checking Belt:
section.)
2. Inspect belt for excessive wear, damage or stretching
(30 psi).
while in position on the transmission pulley and drive belt
tensioner pulley.
IMPORTANT: Avoid damage! To ensure proper
cooling, keep the transmission cooling fins and Replacing Belt
surrounding area clean at all times. Operating the 1. Remove mower deck belt. (See Replacing Mower Deck
machine with obstructed cooling fins could cause Drive Belt in SERVICE MOWER Section.)
transmission damage due to overheating.

section.)
c CAUTION: Avoid injury! Components are
installed under spring tension. Wear eye
2. Lift operator seat and lock into position. protection and use proper tools when installing
and removing components with spring tension.
IMPORTANT: Avoid damage! Do not use chlorinated
solvents or high pressure water to clean grass and
debris from transmission fan, cooling fins and C
reservoir.
B
B
MX42538
A
2. Insert a 1/2 in. drive extension tool into square hole (A)
on tensioner arm, and rotate clockwise to release tension
MX51921
on belt (B).
3. Clean cooling fins around exterior of transmissions and
3. While tensioner arm is rotated, remove traction drive belt
fans (A) with a rag, brush, or compressed air.
from traction pulley (C).
4. Slowly rotate tensioner arm counterclockwise to release Adjusting Motion Control Linkages
spring tension.
NOTE: Perform adjustments with rear tires off the
5. Remove belt from both transmission drive sheaves and ground just enough so wheels can rotate.
idler pulley (D).
6. Install belt onto drive pulley and idler pulley as shown.
7. Rotate tensioner arm clockwise and install traction drive A
belt into traction pulley. Release tension and verify belt
routing is correct.
8. Verify that there is a 3.2 mm (1/8 in.) gap (E) between
belt guide (F) and clutch pulley (C). If necessary, loosen
bolt on belt guide and adjust to specification.
Checking and Adjusting Neutral Creep
c CAUTION: Avoid injury! Do not attempt this

adjustment unless you are a qualified and
MX24736
2. Move both motion control levers (A) to the neutral lock

properly trained technician. Improper position.
adjustment can result in an unsafe machine. 3. Sit on seat.
Checking Motion Control Linkages 4. Start engine.
c CAUTION:
section.) Avoid injury! Use extreme caution
2. Raise rear of machine only enough for rear tires to rotate when adjusting for neutral creep. Drive wheels
freely. are free to spin when machine is raised off the
floor and the engine is started.

Do not have engine running any longer than
necessary to do adjustment. Shut off engine
and remove key as soon as possible after
serious illness or death. adjustment is made.
5. Set throttle to fast idle position.
running the engine.
• Do not run an engine in an enclosed area
the area.
3. Start engine.
4. Set throttle lever to the fast position. B

6. If the rear drive wheels begin to creep, an adjustment is
required.
MX24924
7. Locate left and right motion control linkage adjustment

points (B).
8. Be sure the right motion control linkage is in the neutral
lock position. The right drive wheel must not turn. If it does
turn, adjust the motion control linkage.
A
C
MX24919
2. Turn the adjusting screw as required:

MX24925
• If machine tracks to right, turn adjusting screw (A)
Picture Note: Front plate shown removed for clarity. clockwise one rotation.
9. Adjust nut (C) on end of motion control linkage. • If machine tracks to left, turn adjusting screw (A)
• If wheel is spinning in forward direction, turn nut counter-clockwise one rotation.
clockwise to bring wheel to a stop. 3. Test vehicle for proper tracking.
• If wheel is spinning in reverse direction, turn nut 4. Repeat the steps 2 and 3 as necessary to adjust the
counter-clockwise to bring wheel to a stop. tracking.
10. Move the right motion control lever completely forward 5. Return vehicle to service.
and rearward in the slot and then back to the neutral lock-
out position.
• The drive wheels will slow down to +/- 4 rpm. If the
drive wheels are rotating faster than +/- 4 rpm, repeat
previous step.
11. Repeat procedure to adjust the left motion control
linkage.
• Drive wheels should not rotate when in neutral lock
position.
12. Stop engine.
13. Move both motion control levers to the neutral lock
position.
14. Lock park brake.
15. Dismount from the machine.
16. Lower machine.
Adjusting Tracking
If the machine does not track in a straight line while going
forward, adjust the tracking:
section.)
Service Steering & Brakes
Alignment Procedure
Removing and Installing Caster Wheels
c CAUTION: Avoid injury! The machine can fall or

slip from an unsafe lifting device or supports.
• Use a safe lifting device rated for the load to
be lifted.
• Lower machine onto jack stands or other
stable supports and block wheels before
servicing.
Removing
section.)
2. Lift front of machine with a safe lifting device. (See Lifting
Machine in the SERVICE MISCELLANEOUS Section.) A
A
B
MX24920
1. Loosen locknuts (A).

2. Slide both left and right motion control levers forward or
MX27398
rearward to desired position on control arm until levers are
3. Remove hex nut (A) and wheel bolt (B). aligned.
4. Remove wheel from assembly yoke (C). 3. Tighten locknuts.
Installing NOTE: The control lever height can also be adjusted
using this procedure. There are two height settings on
1. Install replacement wheel. the control arms.
2. Install wheel bolt (B) and hex nut (A).
3. Tighten nut and torque to 37 Nm (27 Ft. lbs)
4. Lower machine. Checking and Adjusting Motion Control
Levers Gap
Checking Alignment
Checking and Aligning Motion Control Levers
Check Alignment section.)

section.)
2. Move both motion control levers forward.
3. Check levers for equal alignment. If position of control
levers are unequal, an adjustment is necessary.
Service Steering & Brakes - 68

2. Lock park brake.
C B
MX24917
2. Move motion control levers (A) inward to neutral position.

3. If the ends of the levers strike against each other while in
MX42623
the neutral position an adjustment is needed.
3. Measure the gap (A) between the two washers (B).
Adjustment Procedure
4. Tighten or loosen the brake equalizer adjustment nut (C)
so that the gap (A) between the two washers measures 27
- 29 mm (1-1/16 - 1-9/64 in.).
Neutral Interlock Adjustment (Z900R)

Perform adjustment only if neutral interlock system does
not adequately lock control levers in neutral, or if brake/
steering system has been disassembled.
C section.)
B
3. Back off brake equalizer adjustment nut (C) to end of
threaded rod (D), but do not remove. Check spring to make
sure it is not compressed when park brake is locked.
4. Lock park brake.
MX24918
1. Loosen jam nuts (B). 5. Move control levers to the neutral lock position.
2. Tighten left and right adjustment bolts (C) slightly to

increase gap between handles. The recommended gap
between handles is 6-19 mm (1/4-3/4 in.)
3. Tighten jam nuts to hold adjustment bolts in place.
Adjusting Park Brake

Park Brake Adjustment
Perform adjustment if neutral interlock system adequately
restrains controls in neutral, but brake will not hold on
slope.
section.)

MX24910
MX24913
11. Adjust control set screw (J) until you notice the control
lever begin to move forward in the control slot.
12. Move control lever in and out to verify that it is not
binding with the frame slot. Lock and unlock park brake.
NOTE: Do not pull pedal back manually.
G
H 13. If brake pedal binds or does not fully release, loosen the
set screw by 1/6 of a turn. Check pedal again for binding. If
pedal still binds, loosen the right side set screw by 1/6 of a
MX24911
turn. Repeat as necessary.
Picture Note: Control lever removed for clarity.

6. Loosen jam nuts (E).
7. Adjust (shorten) turnbuckle (F) until cam (G) is fully
engaged under control pivot wedge (H).
MX24912
• When adjusted properly, cam (G) and control surface

(I) will be parallel.
8. Verify that the control lever will freely move in and out of
the slot in the frame before tightening jam nuts.
9. Adjust the equalizer adjustment nut (C). (See Park Brake
Adjustment.)
10. Move control levers to the neutral lock position.

Service Mower
Service Mower
Removing and Installing Foot Plate

B
c CAUTION: Avoid injury! Always operate the

mower with the foot plate installed. Operating
with the foot plate removed can cause serious
injury.
Removing Foot Plate A

section.)
C
B
MX24954
3. Remove belt shield locking ring (A).

4. Remove belt shields (B).
• Lift corner of belt shield from stud (C). Rotate shield
A counterclockwise to clear head pins (D).
Installing Belt Shields

1. Install belt shields.
• Rotate shield clockwise to engage head pins (D) and
stud (C).
MX52095 2. Install belt shield locking ring (A).

2. Rotate foot plate up using handles (A).
3. Remove foot plate.
Replacing Mower Deck Drive Belt
Installing Foot Plate
Removing Deck Drive Belt
1. Place tabs (B) of foot plate into slots in frame.
2. Lower foot plate. section.)
2. Lower mower deck to the lowest cutting height position.
3. Remove mower deck belt shields.
Removing and Installing Mower Deck Belt
Shields 4. Remove foot plate.

personal injury. Do not operate the mower
without the belt shields installed.
Removing Belt Shields

section.)
2. Lower mower deck to the lowest cutting height position.
Service Mower - 71
Service Mower
the window of the cross frame member (H).
Installing Deck Drive Belt

NOTE: If necessary, see drive belt installation label on
mower deck.
C
A A
D
C
B
B
MX51863
Picture Note: Frame parts shown removed for a

more clarity only. MX51864
5. Remove spring (A) from stud (B) using spring puller. 1. Reinstall belt per belt installation label (A). Make sure
there are no twists in the belt.
6. Loosen hardware (C) from idler arm guide and spindle
belt guide (D). Move belt guide (D) out of alignment slot and 2. Make sure idler arm guide (B) is in it’s alignment slot and
rotate it away from the pulley. fully seated. Tighten guide hardware.
7. Remove belt (E) from the deck pulleys. 3. Install belt through the window of the cross frame
member and into PTO drive pulley.
4. Make sure the spring is in the right orientation - long end
toward (C). Hook short end on spring hook (D).
5. Install foot plate.
6. Adjust mower deck to a desired cutting height.
F
Checking and Replacing Mower Blades
c CAUTION: Avoid injury! Do not work near raised

mower deck unless it is safely supported.
G
Mower blades are sharp. Wrap blades or wear

gloves when servicing.
Before performing any service function, wait
H for all moving parts to stop turning.
Disconnect battery or remove spark plug wire
before making repairs.
MX51865
8. Remove belt (F) from PTO drive pulley (G) and through
Service Mower - 72
Service Mower
IMPORTANT: Avoid damage! When replacing mower IMPORTANT: Avoid damage! When installing the
blades always use genuine John Deere Service blade:
Parts. • Make sure the blade is properly seated on the
spindle.
NOTE: Only replace blades. Never straighten or weld
them. • Make sure the concave side of the large washer
faces towards the blade.
Checking Mower Blades
• Install deflector cup, hardened washer, blade, large
1. Park machine safely. (See Parking Safely in the Safety
concave blade washer, and cap screw.
Section).
• Tighten blade bolts to 122 N•m (90 lb-ft).
2. Raise the mower deck to the transport position. (Also the
13.9 cm (5.5 in.) cutting height position.) 4. Lower machine.
3. Raise front of machine with a safe lifting device. (See 5. Adjust mower deck to a desirable cutting height.
Lifting Machine in the SERVICE MISCELLANEOUS
Section.)
4. Check mower blades: Sharpening Blades
• Mower blades should be sharp and free of any
damage.
• Inspect blades; sharpen/balance or replace as
c CAUTION: Avoid injury! Blades are sharp.
Always wear gloves when handling blades or
necessary. working near blades.
Replacing Mower Blades Always wear safety eye protection when
grinding.
1. Use a wooden block to prevent mower blades from
spinning. • Sharpen blades with grinder, hand file, or electric blade
sharpener.
B
E
C
B
D
MIF
• Keep original bevel (A) when grinding.

MX10352a
2. Remove screw (D), hardened washer (C), large concave • Blade should have 0.40 mm (1/64 in.) cutting edge (B) or
blade washer (B), blade (E) and deflector cup (A). less.
• Balance blades before installing.
3. Install replacement blade:
• Blade wing must face toward top of mower deck.
Balancing Blades
c CAUTION: Avoid injury! Blades are sharp.

Always wear gloves when handling blades or
working near blades.
Service Mower - 73
Service Mower
1. Clean blade.
M61524
2. Put blade on nail in a vise. Turn blade to horizontal

position.
3. Check balance. If blade is not balanced, heavy end of
blade will drop.
4. Grind bevel of heavy end. Do not change blade bevel.
Service Mower - 74
Service Electrical
Removing and Installing Battery
Service Electric al
WARNING: Battery posts, terminals and related Removal

accessories contain lead and lead components, chemicals
known to the State of California to cause cancer and
section.)
reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.
2. Raise and secure operator seat.
Service the Battery Safely

C B
c CAUTION: Avoid injury! The battery produces a

flammable and explosive gas. The battery may MX51922
explode: 3. Disconnect negative (-) battery cable (A).
• Do not smoke or have open flame near 4. Remove red cover (B), and disconnect positive (+)
battery. battery cable (C).
• Wear eye protection and gloves. 5. Remove rubber strap (D) from frame tab (E).
• Do not allow direct metal contact across 6. Remove battery from machine.
battery posts.
Installation
• Remove negative cable first when
disconnecting. Installation is done in the reverse order of removal.
• Install negative cable last when connecting. • Clean all electrical connections.
• Tighten cables, install red cover on positive (+) cable, and
install rubber strap.
Checking the Battery (Sealed Batteries)
NOTE: Do not attempt to open, add fluid or service
Cleaning Battery and Terminals
battery. Any attempt to do so will void warranty.
• Keep battery and terminals clean. 1. Park machine safely. (See Parking Safely in the SAFETY
section.)
• Keep battery bolts tight.
2. Disconnect and remove battery.
• Keep small vent holes open.
3. Wash battery with solution of four tablespoons of baking
soda to one gallon of water. Be careful not to get the soda
IMPORTANT: Avoid damage! This battery comes
solution into the cells.
fully charged. If the machine is not used by the
service expiration date indicated on the battery, 4. Rinse the battery with plain water and dry.
charge the battery.
5. Clean terminals and battery cable ends with wire brush
• Recharge, if necessary, at 6-10 amperes for 1 hour. until bright.
Service Electrical - 75
Service Electrical
6. Install battery.
IMPORTANT: Avoid damage! Electric charge from
7. Attach cables to battery terminals, beginning with the booster battery can damage machine components.
positive cable, using washers and nuts. Do not install negative booster cable to machine
8. Apply spray lubricant to terminal to prevent corrosion. frame. Install only to the engine block.
Install negative booster cable away from moving
parts in the engine compartment, such as belts and
Using Booster Battery fan blades.
4. Connect the other end (F) of negative (–) booster cable
c CAUTION: Avoid injury! The battery produces a

flammable and explosive gas. The battery may
to a metal part of the disabled machine engine block away
from battery.
explode: 5. Start the engine of the disabled machine and run

machine for several minutes.
• Do not smoke or have open flame near
6. Carefully disconnect the booster cables in the exact
battery.
reverse order: negative cable first and then the positive
• Wear eye protection and gloves. cable.
• Do not jump start or charge a frozen battery.
Warm battery to 16°C (60°F).
• Do not connect the negative (-) booster cable Replacing Fuses
to the negative (-) terminal of the discharged
battery. Connect at a good ground location IMPORTANT: Avoid damage! When replacing fuses,
away from the discharged battery. be sure the replacement fuse has the same fuse
rating and is installed in the correct location. Failure
to do so could result in damage to the electrical
F
harness and/or electrical components.
C
E
NOTE: The fuses are located on the left side of the
D
engine compartment next to the starter.
The electrical operating system has one 20-amp system
fuse and models equipped with a lift assist system have an
additional 30-amp deck lift fuse.
B A
M71044
A - Booster Battery
B - Disabled Vehicle Battery
1. Connect positive (+) booster cable to booster battery (A)

positive (+) post (C).
2. Connect the other end of positive (+) booster cable to the
disabled vehicle battery (B) positive (+) post (D).
3. Connect negative (–) booster cable to booster battery
negative (–) post (E).
Service Electrical
B
C
MX51849
A - Engine Diagnostic Indicator Light (A) is used

for Z925M EFI and Z930M EFI engines only.
Light will be on if active engine diagnostic code
MX25103
is present. See your John Deere dealer.
1. Remove cover (A) from fuse holder (B) and remove fuse. B - Vehicle Diagnostic Indicator Light (B) will flash
2. Check metal clip in fuse window and discard fuse if clip is a diagnostic code to help the operator identify
broken. operational and electrical problems.
C - PTO Indicator Light (C) will flash a diagnostic
3. Install new fuse and place cover back onto fuse holder.
code to help the operator identify if PTO does
not engage with PTO switch activated (raised).
Diagnostic Light Check (All Models Except

Z915B)
D
The electronic control unit provides a diagnostic light to
help the operator identify operational and electrical
problems by flashing a diagnostic code.
Diagnostic “Real Time” Codes

1. Park machine safely. (See Park Safely in SAFETY
section.)
NOTE: The operator can be seated on the machine or
standing next to the machine.
2. Turn the key to the START position and release key to
RUN mode.
TCU24274
Picture Note: Diagnostic code label is located on

right side console beside operator’s seat.
3. If starter does not engage, use the diagnostic light (B)
and diagnostic codes (D) to diagnose the problem.
• BRAKE NOT ENGAGED (1-2) diagnostic code: one
flash, a short pause and two additional flashes. This
code sequence indicates that the park brake switch has
not been activated. Lock park brake to start engine.
Service Electrical
• STARTER THERMAL PROTECT MODE (2-5) generated in the vehicle control unit and displayed through
diagnostic code: two flashes, a short pause and five a flashing diagnostic code on the display module. Please
additional flashes. This code sequence indicates that refer to the troubleshooting section of this manual for more
the module has started a 60-second cool-down period information.
to prevent the starter from overheating. Turn key switch
to OFF position and let the starter cool down for at least
60 seconds before making another attempt to start
engine. Drive Clutch Adjustment Procedure
4. Once the unit has started and/or while operating the If drive clutch has worn to the extent that the existing air-
machine, the following codes may occur: gap is too large to allow for complete clutch engagement,
the brake shim can be removed to restore air gap and allow
NOTE: For safety, the PTO will not engage with the park
the clutch to continue to function properly.
brake locked and/or operator out of seat.
NOTE: Verify that proper voltage and current are
• PTO/MOW ENGAGED (1-3) diagnostic code: one
supplied to the clutch before proceeding.
flash, a short pause and three additional flashes. This
code sequence can occur when the operator gets out of 1. Clean out any debris from under and around the entire
the seat while operating the machine with the PTO clutch assembly.
engaged. This code can be reset by turning off the PTO
(knob) switch.
A
• OVER VOLTAGE (3-1) diagnostic code: three
flashes, a short pause and one additional flash. This
code sequence indicates that the electronic control unit
has detected a voltage higher than normal in the
electrical system. If the problem is severe, the control
unit may disable the PTO output to the PTO clutch.
Check electrical wiring for loose connections,
specifically the battery positive and negative, starter,
and frame ground on engine block.
MX52191
• WEAK BATTERY OR STARTER SYSTEM ISSUE
(3-3) diagnostic code: three flashes, a short pause and 2. Loosen both M6 brake mounting bolts (A) 1/2 to 1 full
three additional flashes. This code sequence indicates turn.
that the battery may have become too weak to turn the
starter or that the vehicle control unit has detected an
excessive current draw. Recharge the battery. If this B
does not remove the code, check that all starter circuit
harness connections are secure and not “shorted” to
ground.
• OUTPUT FAULT DETECTED (3-7) diagnostic code:
three flashes, a short pause and seven additional
flashes. This code sequence indicates that the vehicle
control unit has detected an electrical problem in the
engine wiring harness. The vehicle control unit's internal
“resettable” fuse had tripped to protect the system. This MX52192
will remain tripped until the fault is removed. Check
engine wiring harness for pinched or frayed wires. 3. Using needle nose pliers, or by hand, take hold of the tab
and remove shim (B) (do not discard shim until proper
5. Refer to the troubleshooting section for additional clutch function has been confirmed).
diagnostic codes. If further diagnostic assistance is
needed, refer to the Technical Manual or consult your John
Deere distributor.
Diagnostic Test Mode

This is a troubleshooting mode that can be used to check
the integrity of the switches, sensors, wiring, and hardware
of the vehicle control unit. The diagnostic information is
Service Electrical
PTO switch off and clutch off. From same position,
A engage and disengage the PTO switch ten consecutive
times to ensure proper function of the clutch.
• If clutch still does not engage, then consult your local
John Deere Dealer for service.
C
MX52193
4. Using a pneumatic line (C), blow out any debris from

under the brake pole and around the aluminum spacers.
5. Tighten each M6 brake mounting bolts (A) to 13 N•m
(115 lb-in.).
MX52194
MX52195
6. Using a 0.010 thick feeler gage (D), verify that a gap is

present between the rotor and armature face on both sides
of the brake pole as shown above.
• If the gap is less than 0.010, then reinstall the shim.
Consult your local John Deere Dealer for service.
• If sufficient gap is present, then proceed to safety
check outlined below.
7. Perform safety check:
• Observe deck from position on mower seat with
engine running to be certain deck is not engaged with
Service Miscellaneous
with regular unleaded gasoline.
Using Proper Fuel and Stabilizer

When changing from one ethanol blend to another, or
IMPORTANT: Avoid damage! Using stale, changing from regular, unleaded gasoline to Flex Fuel, or
contaminated or improper fuel can result in engine from Flex Fuel to regular, unleaded gasoline, it is
and fuel system damage. Repairs caused by stale, recommended that you add as much fuel as possible, at
contaminated or improper fuel are not covered by least half a tank. Do not add less than one third of a tank of
warranty. the new fuel type. It is not recommended to switch
repeatedly between fuel types.
Using Regular Grade, Unleaded Fuel After changing to a new fuel type, run the engine for at least
Use regular grade unleaded fuel with an octane rating of 87 ten minutes to allow the machine to adapt to the ethanol
octane or higher. Fuel blends containing up to 10% ethanol blend ratio of the new fuel. You can expect a slight change
or up to 15% MTBE reformulated fuel are acceptable. Do in performance during that period.
not use fuel or additives containing methanol as engine Ethanol produces less energy per gallon or liter than
damage can occur. regular, unleaded gasoline, so you will need to fill the fuel
Always use fresh, clean fuel that is purchased in a quantity tank more frequently when using Flex Fuel.
that can be used within approximately 30 days. Fuel Ethanol is a renewable fuel made from renewable sources
stabilizer should always be added to the fuel each time fuel such as corn and other crops.
is purchased. Add stabilizer before filling the fuel container
to insure proper mixing. Such practice helps prevent engine
performance problems and allows fuel storage in the
machine all year without draining. Filling Fuel Tank
Store fuel in plastic containers to reduce condensation.
Make sure the cap on the fuel container is tight to reduce
fuel contamination and evaporation. For best fuel storage
c CAUTION: Avoid injury! Fuel vapors are
explosive and flammable:
life, use a self-sealing gas can.
• Shut engine off before filling fuel tank.
Fuel is blended to give best seasonal performance. To
avoid engine performance problems such as hard starting • Allow engine to cool before refueling.
or vapor lock, use in-season fuel. Use fuel during warm
• Do not smoke while handling fuel.
weather that was purchased during that season, and use
fuel during cold weather that was purchased during that • Keep fuel away from flames or sparks.
season. • Fill fuel tank outdoors or in well ventilated
Fuel can become stale in machines with engines that are area.
used seasonally or infrequently during a season. Stale fuel • Clean up spilled fuel immediately.
can produce varnish and plug carburetor or EFI
components which can affect engine performance. • Use clean approved non-metal container to
prevent static electric discharge.
Keep fuel storage container tightly covered and in a cool
area out of direct sunlight. Fuel can break down and
degrade if not sealed properly or exposed to sun and heat. IMPORTANT: Avoid damage! Dirt and water in fuel
can cause engine damage:
Condensation may collect in the fuel tank because of a
• Clean dirt and debris from the fuel tank opening.
variety of operating or environmental conditions and, over
time, may affect your machine’s operation. Fill machine fuel • Use clean, fresh, stabilized fuel.
tank at the end of the day.
• Fill the fuel tank at the end of each day’s operation
to keep condensation out of the fuel tank.
Using Flex Fuel (Ethanol blended fuels such as E85,
E40, E30, E20, E15, and other blends) • Use a non-metallic funnel with a plastic mesh
strainer when filling the fuel tank or container.
Only use Flex Fuel in machines that are designed to use
Flex Fuel. Machines with the Flex Fuel label can use either Fill fuel tank at the end of each day’s operation to prevent
ethanol-blended fuel containing from 0% ethanol (E0) up to condensation and freezing during cold weather.
85% ethanol (E85) or regular, unleaded gasoline.
Use fresh unleaded fuel with an octane rating of 87 or section.)
higher. E85 ethanol fuel should meet ASTM Specification
D5798. Intermediate blends should consist of E85 blended 2. Allow engine to cool.
Service Miscellaneous - 80
3. Remove any trash from area around fuel tank cap.
4. Remove fuel tank cap slowly to allow any pressure built
up in tank to escape.
c CAUTION: Avoid injury! The machine can fall or
5. Fill fuel tank only to bottom of filler neck. Do not overfill. • Use a safe lifting device rated for the load to
6. Install fuel tank cap. be lifted.
• Gas models: Turn cap until clicks. • Lower machine onto jack stands or other
servicing.
Checking Tire Pressure IMPORTANT: Avoid damage! Place jack stands

under frame, not under transmission or engine,
c CAUTION: Avoid injury! Explosive separation

of tire and rim parts is possible when they are
when raising or supporting machine.
serviced incorrectly:
• Do not attempt to mount a tire without the
proper equipment and experience to perform
A
the job. A
• Make sure all tires are inflated to the

recommended pressure, especially when
operating on slopes. Low pressure can cause
machine to become unstable on slopes.
• Do not weld or heat a wheel and tire assembly.
Heat can cause an increase in air pressure
resulting in an explosion. Welding can
structurally weaken or deform the wheel.
• Do not stand in front or over the tire assembly
when inflating. Use a clip-on chuck and
extension hose long enough to allow you to MX51861
stand to one side. 2. Safely lift rear of machine at vertical frame points (A).
Place jack stands or other stable supports near lift
1. Check tires for damage.
locations.
NOTE: Refer to the SPECIFICATIONS section for tire
3. If only lifting rear of machine, block front wheels
pressures.
remaining on ground to avoid movement of machine.
2. Check tire pressure with an accurate gauge.
3. Add or remove air, if necessary.
Lifting Machine
section.)
MX51862
4. Safely lift front of machine at bottom of plates (B). Place
jack stands or other stable supports near lift locations. value is reached.
5. If only lifting front of machine, block rear wheels • Tighten nuts to 100 N•m (75 lb-ft.).
remaining on ground to avoid movement of machine.
3. Lower machine.
6. To lower machine, lift front and/or rear of machine, and
remove jack stands or supports. Lower machine.
Checking ROPS Hardware
Removing and Installing Rear Drive Wheels 1. Park machine safely. (Refer to Parking Safely in the
Safety section.)
c CAUTION:
NOTE: When tightening ROPS hardware, tighten the
Avoid injury! The machine can fall or bolt head side and not the nut.
• Use a safe lifting device rated for the load to
be lifted.
• Lower machine onto jack stands or other
servicing.
Removing:
section.)
MX24740
2. Slightly loosen four wheel nuts (A).

3. Lift machine with a safe lifting device. (See Lifting A
Machine in the SERVICE MISCELLANEOUS Section.)
4. Remove wheel nuts.
MX49923
5. Remove wheel.
2. Tighten the four ROPS attaching bolts (A) on each side
Installing: of ROPS to 115 Nm (85 lb-ft).
1. Install new wheel.

2. Install and tighten alternately until recommended torque
Cleaning Plastic Surfaces
IMPORTANT: Avoid damage! Improper care of

machine plastic surfaces can damage that surface:
• Do not wipe plastic surfaces when they are dry. Dry
wiping will result in minor surface scratches.
• Use a soft, clean cloth (bath towel, diaper,
automotive mitt).
• Do not use abrasive materials, such as polishing
compounds, on plastic surfaces.
1. Wash surface with clean water and a mild liquid

automotive washing soap.
2. Dry thoroughly to avoid water spots.
Cleaning and Repairing Metal Surfaces

Cleaning:
Follow automotive practices to care for your vehicle painted
metal surfaces. Use a high-quality automotive wax
regularly to maintain the factory look of your vehicle’s
painted surfaces.
Repairing Minor Scratches (surface scratch):

1. Clean area to be repaired thoroughly.
IMPORTANT: Avoid damage! Do not use rubbing

compound on painted surfaces.
2. Use automotive polishing compound to remove surface

scratches.
3. Apply wax to entire surface.
Repairing Deep Scratches (bare metal or primer

showing):
1. Clean area to be repaired with rubbing alcohol or mineral
spirits.
2. Use paint stick with factory-matched colors available
from your authorized dealer to fill scratches. Follow
directions included on paint stick for use and for drying.
3. Smooth out surface using an automotive polishing
compound. Do not use power buffer.
4. Apply wax to surface.
Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting
Using Troubleshooting Chart

If you are experiencing a problem that is not listed in this
chart, see your authorized dealer for service.
When you have checked all the possible causes listed and
you are still experiencing the problem, see your authorized
dealer.
Electrical System
If Check
Starter Will Not Work • Blown fuse.

• Loose or corroded battery or ground connections.
• Loose harness or ground connections to starter.
• Park brake switch faulty or not adjusted properly. (See your John
Deere Dealer)
• Key switch or starter faulty. (See your John Deere Dealer)
• Check that park brake is in proper position.
• Low battery power - charge battery.
Battery Will Not Charge • Loose or corroded battery or ground connections.

• Dead cell in battery.
PTO Switch Does Not Work • Blown fuse

• Failed switch.
• Bad clutch.
• Clutch air gap too large. Remove shim.
• Failed regulator/rectifier.
• Loose PTO clutch or switch connections.
• Loose harness or ground connections.
Starter Turns Slowly • Loose or corroded battery or ground connections.

• Low battery power - charge battery.
• Engine oil viscosity too heavy.
• Transmission linkage adjustment problem or failure.
Troubleshooting - 84
Troubleshooting
Engine
If Check
Engine Will Not Start Or Is Hard To Start • Park brake unlocked or not adjusted correctly.
• PTO is engaged.
• Safety interlock switch(es) not engaged.
• Starter motor or solenoid defective.
• Battery weak or discharged (Low electronic control unit voltage).
• Engine seized.
• Faulty electronic control unit or sensor(s)
• Loose or damaged wiring or connections.
• Empty fuel tank.
• Air filter restricted.
• Clogged fuel tank filter, fuel line or vent line.
• Defective fuel pump(s).
• Faulty ignition coil/high tension lead.
• Poor compression.
• Defective head gasket.
• Worn piston/piston rings stuck or not seated.
• Worn or burned valves.
• Worn cylinder bore.
• Engine overheated.
• Flywheel key sheared.
• Intake system leak.
• Pulse fuel pump vacuum leak.
• Key switch not in proper position or faulty.
• Stale or improper fuel / fuel level.
• Plugged fuel filter.
• Plugged air intake filter.
• Spark plug wire is loose or disconnected.
• Spark plug not gapped correctly.
• Blown fuse.
• Electrical problem - dead battery.
• Choke adjusted incorrectly. See your John Deere dealer.
Engine Will Not Slow Idle • Carburetion problems. See your John Deere dealer.
• Bent or kinked throttle cable.
• Bent governor control.
• Incorrect governor idle control.
Troubleshooting
If Check
Engine Runs Rough or Stalls • Plugged fuel filter.

• Plugged air intake system.
• Stale or improper fuel / fuel level.
• Spark plug not gapped correctly.
• Replace spark plug.
• Choke adjusted incorrectly. See your John Deere Dealer.
Engine Knocks • Engine oil level low.

• Reduce load (Slower ground speed).
• Fuel is bad. Fill tank with fresh fuel, correct octane.
• Idle speed too slow.
• Hydraulic lifter malfunction (For Z925M-EFI and Z930M-EFI).
• Internal wear or damage.
Engine Overheats • Low oil level.

• High oil level.
• Warped cylinder head.
• Worn or burned valves, or improper clearance.
• Faulty electronic control unit.
• Broken valve spring.
• Do not operate at slow idle. Operate at fast idle.
• Cooling air intake screen is dirty.
• Excessive engine load.
• Air intake, cooling fins, oil cooler or cooling shrouds clogged.
• Operating at too fast ground speed for conditions.
Troubleshooting
If Check
Engine Lacks Power • Plugged air intake system.

• Plugged fuel line or filter.
• Improper type of fuel. Drain tank and fill with correct fuel.
• Clean cooling fins to help prevent overheating.
• Replace spark plug.
• Stale fuel.
• Dirty fuel injectors (Z925M-EFI and Z930M-EFI).
• Weak or faulty spark plug(s).
• Throttle body loose or leaking at O-ring (Z925M-EFI and Z930M-
EFI).
• Throttle body and throttle shaft worn (Z925M-EFI and Z930M-
EFI).
• Low compression.
• Worn or burned valves, or improper clearance.
• Faulty ignition coil or high tension lead(s).
Engine Uses Too Much Oil • Find and correct oil leaks.
• Incorrect engine oil.
• Plugged oil filter.
• Crankcase overfilled.
• Clogged breather or broken breather reed.
• Failed head gasket.
• Worn or broken piston rings.
• Worn valve stem(s), valve guide(s), and/or valve stem seals.
• Worn cylinder bore(s).
Engine Backfires Through Muffler • Throttle should be set at 1/2 throttle before turning off machine.
• Exhaust leak.
• Intake valve burned or sticking.
High Fuel Consumption • Improper type of fuel.

• Plugged air intake system.
• Operating at too fast ground speed for conditions.
• Improper valve clearance. See your John Deere Dealer.
• Restricted air intake system.
Troubleshooting
Diagnostic Real-Time Codes (Z900M and
Z900R Series)
NOTE: For further assistance with all Diagnostic
Codes, refer to the Technical Manual and/or consult
your John Deere dealer.
Electrical System “Interlock” Violations
Real-Time Diagnostic Diagnostic Code Notes Action Required to

Trouble Code Description Remove Code:
Brake Not Locked 1-2 This code can occur under • Verify the Park brake is
the following conditions: locked.
1. When the engine is trying
to be started without the
brake pedal locked.
NOTE: Machine will
automatically shut down if
the following occurs.
2. When the engine is
running and operator gets
out of seat without the brake
locked.
PTO/Mow Engaged 1-3 NOTE: This will cause the NOTE: For Safety, the PTO
PTO to be disabled. can not be engaged with
the park brake locked or
• This code will occur only
with the operator out of
when getting out of the seat
the seat.
while operating the machine
with the PTO engaged. • Turn key switch to the OFF
position.
Crank Time Exceeded (20 2-4 This code will let the • Return the key to the OFF
second limit) operator know the maximum or RUN position.
cranking time of 20 seconds
per crank has been
exceeded.
Starter Thermal Protect 2-5 This code indicates that the • Turn the key switch to the
Mode, 60-second Cool- module has started a 60- OFF position and let the
Down Needed second cool-down period to starter cool down for at least
prevent the starter from 60 seconds before making
overheating. another attempt to start the
engine.
Troubleshooting
Electrical System “Interlock” Violations
Real-Time Diagnostic Diagnostic Code Notes Action Required to

Trouble Code Description Remove Code:
Engine Oil Pressure Low, 2-7 This code indicates that the • Turn key switch to the OFF
PTO Disabled (Z900R) internal engine oil pressure position.
is low and to eliminate any
• Check oil level in the
extra load on the engine, the
engine.
vehicle control unit will shut
down the PTO circuit. • Check oil pressure sender
on the engine.
For Z900R models, the PTO
will be disabled and not • Check the harness wires
engage if the key switch is in from the oil pressure sender
the RUN and/or START to the vehicle control unit,
position for 10 seconds or insure good connections.
longer and the engine has
not been started. Turn the
key switch to the OFF
position and then to the
START position and start
the engine within 10
seconds to allow the PTO to
engage.
Electrical System 'Fault' Violations
NOTE: For All “Fault” codes it is important to first check battery, starter, and ground connections.
• Codes and instructions as follows.
Electrical System Diagnostic Code Notes Action Required to

Diagnostic Trouble Code Remove Code:
Description
Over Voltage 3-1 This code indicates that the • Inspect the electrical
vehicle control unit has harness for loose
detected a voltage higher connections, specifically the
than normal in the electrical battery positive and
charging system. negative, starter, and frame
ground (on engine block).
Low Voltage 3-2 This code will let the • Check charging system
operator know that the connections.
battery is being depleted.
Weak Battery OR Starter 3-3 This code indicates that the • Recharge the battery.
System Issue battery may have become
• Check starter system
too weak to turn the starter
connections and harness
or that the vehicle control
wiring.
unit has detected an
excessive current draw.
Troubleshooting
Electrical System 'Fault' Violations
NOTE: For All “Fault” codes it is important to first check battery, starter, and ground connections.
• Codes and instructions as follows.
Electrical System Diagnostic Code Notes Action Required to

Diagnostic Trouble Code Remove Code:
Description
Starter or PTO Output 3-4 This code indicates that the • Inspect electrical harness
Circuit is Shorted to Battery output circuit from the for pinched, chafed, or frayed
vehicle control unit for the wires.
start circuit or the PTO
circuit is shorted to the
battery.
PTO Output Over-Current 3-5 This code indicates that • Inspect electrical harness
there is excessive current for pinched, chafed, or frayed
through the PTO circuit. wires.
Output Fault Detected 3-7 This code indicates that the • Inspect engine harness for
vehicle control unit has pinched or chafed wires.
detected an electrical
problem in the engine wiring
harness and the vehicle
control unit’s internal re-
settable fuse has tripped to
protect the system.
PTO Circuit Open 5-6 This code indicates that an • Turn key switch to the OFF
open circuit exists between position.
the PTO output from the
• Inspect for a poor
module and the clutch coil
connection between switch
ground.
contacts in the PTO switch,
or an intermittent/open
circuit in the harness
connections between the
module and the PTO clutch,
or an open circuit in the PTO
clutch coil winding.
Diagnostic Test Mode Codes (Z900M and

Z900R) (With Machine OFF)
This mode is used to check the integrity of the switches,
sensors, wiring, and hardware of the vehicle control unit.
Diagnostic information is generated in the vehicle control
unit and displayed through a flashing code on the display
module (next to the wrench icon).
NOTE: Do not rotate the key past RUN to START mode
during these three cycles.
Before entering the Diagnostic Test Mode, it is best to turn
off all switch INPUTS (i.e., brake not locked, PTO switch not
in the on position, operator not in seat, etc.). Once all the
Troubleshooting
INPUTS are off, the operator can enter the Diagnostic Test
Mode by cycling the key switch quickly from OFF to RUN
exactly three times. On the third cycle leave the key in the
RUN mode.
Upon entering the Diagnostic Test Mode, the vehicle
control unit will perform an automatic diagnostic check. If
there are no system FAULTS and all the INPUTS are not
detected, the display will flash a 1-1 Code.
See the chart below for instructions on how to remove the
Fault/Input Codes in order to achieve a 1-1 Display.
Diagnostic Test Fault/Input Code Description Action Needed to Remove Unwanted Codes:
Mode Code
3-7 Vehicle Control Unit’s INTERNAL • Inspect battery, starter, and ground connections.
Resettable Fuse Tripped
• Inspect engine harness for pinched or chafed wires.
3-1 Battery Voltage High • Inspect electrical harness for loose connections,
specifically the battery positive and negative, the starter,
and frame ground (on engine block).
3-2 Battery Voltage Low • Check battery, starter, and ground connections.
• Check charging system connections.
1-2 Key switch to START Verify key switch is in RUN mode not START.
1-3 PTO (Knob) Switch Input ON Turn OFF switch (knob in the down position).
1-4 Brake Switch Input ON Unlock the brake pedal, check brake switch for
engagement.
1-5 Seat Switch Input ON De-activate seat switch (operator not in seat).
1-8 Deck Lift Switch Input ON Release the left lever arm button (black) switch.
1-9 PTO Stop Switch ON Release the right lever arm button (yellow) switch.
Diagnostic Test Fault/Input Code Description Action Needed to Generate the Code:
Mode Code
2-2 Engine Oil Pressure Switch ON (I.E. Disconnect the harness connector at the oil pressure
Closed) switch located on the engine.
Once the 1-1 Code has been achieved, the following steps
should be performed to complete the Diagnostic Test Mode
INPUT CHECKS in order to verify electrical functionality for
code.
Actions Required to Verify Electrical Functionality INPUT Description Diagnostic Test Mode
Code
Note: INPUT actions can be performed in any
order.
Turn the KEYSWITCH to the START position. The 1-2 Key switch to START 1-2
Code should flash. Return to RUN position.
Pull the knob to activate the PTO switch. The 1-3 code PTO (Knob) Switch Input ON 1-3
should flash. Return PTO to OFF position.
Troubleshooting
Actions Required to Verify Electrical Functionality INPUT Description Diagnostic Test Mode
Code
Note: INPUT actions can be performed in any
order.
Activate the BRAKE pedal. The 1-4 code should flash. Brake Switch Input ON 1-4
De-activate the pedal.
Sit on seat to activate the SEAT switch. The 1-5 code Seat Switch Input ON 1-5
will should flash. Get out of the seat.
Push the black button on the left lever arm to activate Deck Lift Switch Input ON 1-8
the DECK LIFT switch. The 1-8 Code should flash.
Release the button.
Push the yellow button on the right lever arm to PTO Stop Switch ON 1-9
activate the PTO STOP switch
Requires removal of the harness connector at the oil Harness connection to the oil 2-2
pressure switch on the engine. This will generate the pressure switch is working.
code.
If the Diagnostic Test Mode Codes cannot be achieved
when applying the INPUT Actions listed above, inspect the
applicable wiring harness connections and switch, or
contact your local John Deere Dealer for further assistance
or part replacement.
Machine
If Check
Excessive Machine Vibration • Engine speed too slow.
Machine Will Not Move With Engine Running • Park brake locked.
• Transmission hydraulic oil level low.
• Transmission oil cold - allow engine to warm.
• Drive belt slipping or broken.
• Bypass pump release valves open.
• Traction drive belt damaged or worn.
• Transmission problems. See your John Deere Dealer.
Machine Creeps With Engine Running and Motion • Check and adjust neutral creep.
Control Levers in a Neutral Position
Brakes
If Check
Machine levers are adequately locked in neutral Check and adjust neutral creep.
when the park brake is engaged, but the machine See Park Brake Adjustment.
creeps.
Check and secure cables and hardware.
Troubleshooting
If Check
Machine levers have excessive fore-aft movement Check and align motion control levers.
with the park brake engaged. Check control levers for loose hardware or excessive wear.
Machine levers are adequately locked in neutral, Back out neutral interlock adjustment set screws 1 flat and re-check
and no creep exists, but the brake pedal will not system for binding.
fully release due to binding in the system.
Add grease to neutral interlock cam.
Check and align motion control levers.
Control levers rub/contact slots in the frame when Check and align motion control levers.
moved to “out” position.
Brake pedal difficult to engage. Check and align motion control levers.
Add grease to neutral interlock cam.
Brake switch not engaging/disengaging Check and align motion control levers.
Steering
If Check
Steering Not Working • Bypass pump release valves partially open.

• Improper tire Inflation.
• Hydrostatic transmission oil low.
Mower
If Check
Discharge Chute Plugged • Grass is wet - ground speed may need to be adjusted.
• Raise cutting height.
• Run engine at fast idle.
• Ground speed too fast for conditions.
• Correct installation of deck drive belt.
• Incorrect blade.
Troubleshooting
If Check
Mower Deck Vibrates • Run engine at fast throttle.

• Loose hardware.
• Check/replace deck drive belt.
• Blade bolts are loose.
• Blade not in pilot when installed.
• Blades are bent or worn.
• Sharpen and balance blades.
• Remove belt shields and clean debris from pulleys.
• Check pulleys for proper alignment or damage. See a John Deere
dealer.
Mower Deck Belt Breaks • Blade rake (Front-to-Rear adjustment) not within specifications.
Adjust as required. See Adjusting Mower Deck in the Operating
Section.
• Debris on deck or lodged in deck drive system. Clean as required.
• Belt guide damaged or out of alignment. See Replacing Mower
Deck Drive Belt, Installing Deck Drive Belt in the Service Mower
Section.
Mower Blades Do Not Engage • Deck drive belt slipping or broken, check belt for wear and replace
if necessary.
• Deck belt tension spring not installed or broken.
• PTO switch failure.
• Clutch air gap too large. Remove shim.
• Fuse is blown.
• Loose electrical connections.
Mower Deck Does Not Lift or Lower Easily • Check lift assist spring settings. Adjust for more or less assistance
when lifting. See Adjusting Deck Lift Spring Tension in the
Operating Section.
• Excessive debris build up.
Mower Mows Unevenly • Mower deck not properly leveled.

• Run engine at fast throttle.
• Reduce ground speed when making turns.
• Sharpen or replace blades.
• Change mowing pattern.
• Check air pressure in all traction unit tires.
Troubleshooting
If Check
Poor Quality Cut • Clean debris build-up from underside of deck.

• Check blades for sharpness and damage.
• Check discharge chute for damage.
• Change blades.
• Mowing too fast for grass conditions.
Mower Deck Does Not Lift (Convenience Package) • Vehicle Control Unit Lift Circuit Overheat Protection Circuit
Activated - Only use deck lift actuator button to lock deck - do not
use to transport.
Mower Blade Stop Time Excessive • Clutch air gap too large. Remove shim.
Mulch-On-Demand Handle Loose • Check linkage adjustments.

• Check gate bushings for wear.
Mulch-On-Demand Material Dispersion • Check linkage adjustments.

• Check gate bushings for wear.
• Adjust and/or remove chamber separator baffles.
• Clean debris build-up from underside of deck.
• Check blades for sharpness and damage.
• Check discharge chute for damage.
• Change blades.
• Mowing too fast for grass conditions.
Storage
NOTE: Try to anticipate the last time the machine will
Storage
Storing Safety
be used for the season so very little fuel is left in the
fuel tank.
c CAUTION: Avoid injury! Fuel vapors are
explosive and flammable. Engine exhaust
2. Turn on engine and allow to run until it runs out of fuel.
3. For machines equipped with key switch, turn key to off
fumes contain carbon monoxide and can cause
position.
serious illness or death:
• Run the engine only long enough to move the IMPORTANT: Avoid damage! Stale fuel can produce
machine to or from storage. varnish and plug carburetor or injector components
• Machine fires and structure fires can occur if and affect engine performance.
a machine is stored before allowing it to cool, • Add fuel conditioner or stabilizer to fresh fuel
or if debris is not removed from around the before filling tank.
engine and muffler, or if stored near
combustible materials. 4. Mix fresh fuel and fuel stabilizer in separate container.
Follow stabilizer instructions for mixing.
• Do not store vehicle with fuel in the tank
inside a building where fumes may reach an 5. Fill fuel tank with stabilized fuel.
open flame or spark. 6. Run engine for a few minutes to allow fuel mixture to
• Allow the engine to cool before storing the circulate through carburetor on gas engine or fuel injectors
machine in any enclosure. on diesel engine.
Engine:
Engine storage procedure should be used when vehicle is
Preparing Machine for Storage not to be used for longer than 60 days.
1. Repair any worn or damaged parts. Replace parts if 1. Change engine oil and filter while engine is warm.
necessary. Tighten loose hardware.
2. Service air filter if necessary.
2. Repair scratched or chipped metal surfaces to prevent
3. Clean debris from engine air intake screen.
rust.
4. On gas engines:
3. Remove grass and debris from machine.
• Remove spark plugs. Put 30 mL (1 oz) of clean
4. Clean under the deck and remove grass and debris from
engine oil in cylinder(s).
inside chute and bagger.
• Install spark plugs, but do not connect spark plug
5. Wash the machine and apply wax to metal and plastic wires.
surfaces.
• Crank the engine five or six times to allow oil to be
6. Run machine for five minutes to dry belts and pulleys.
distributed.
7. Apply light coat of engine oil to pivot and wear points to
5. Clean the engine and engine compartment.
prevent rust.
6. Remove battery.
8. Lubricate grease points and check tire pressure.
7. Clean the battery and battery posts. Check the
electrolyte level, if your battery is not maintenance free.
Preparing Fuel and Engine For Storage 8. Close fuel shut-off valve, if your machine is equipped.
9. Store the battery in a cool, dry place where it will not
Fuel: freeze.
If you have been using “Stabilized Fuel,” add stabilized fuel NOTE: The stored battery should be recharged every
to tank until the tank is full. 90 days.
NOTE: Filling the fuel tank reduces the amount of air in 10. Charge the battery.
the fuel tank and helps reduce deterioration of fuel.
If you are not using “Stabilized Fuel:”
1. Park machine safely in a well-ventilated area. (See
Parking Safely in the SAFETY section.)
Storage - 96
Storage
IMPORTANT: Avoid damage! Prolonged exposure to

sunlight could damage the hood surface. Store
machine inside or use a cover if stored outside.
11. Store the vehicle in a dry, protected place. If vehicle is

stored outside, put a waterproof cover over it.
Removing Machine From Storage

1. Check tire pressure.
2. Check engine oil level.
3. Check battery electrolyte level, if your battery is not
maintenance free. Charge battery if necessary.
4. Install battery.
5. On gas engines: Check spark plug gap. Install and
tighten plugs to specified torque.
6. Lubricate all grease points.
7. Open fuel shut-off valve, if your machine is equipped.
8. Run the engine 5 minutes without the mower or any
attachments running to allow oil to be distributed
throughout engine.
9. Be sure all shields and guards or deflectors are in place.
Storage - 97
Specifications
Specifications
Engine
For Kohler Certified Power Info: www.kohlerengines.com
Model Z915B
Engine Manufacturer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kohler
Engine Model . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . CV740
Displacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 725 cc (44.0 cu. in.)
Cylinders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Two
Bore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83 mm (3.3 in.)
Stroke . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 mm (2.64 in.)
Compression Ratio. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9.0:1
Speed, Fast Idle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3600 +/- 100 rpm
Speed, Slow Idle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1700 +/- 150 rpm
Valving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . OHV
Valve Adjustment Clearance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Self-adjusting hydraulic lifters
Oil Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Screw On Type
Cooling Type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Air
Air Cleaner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dual Stage Heavy Duty Air Cleaner
Spark Plug Gap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.76 mm (0.030 in.)
Spark Plug Torque . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 N•m (20 lb-ft)
For Kawasaki Certified Power Info: www.kawasaki-criticalpower.com
Models Z920M and Z920R

Engine Manufacturer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kawasaki
Engine Model . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . FX730V
Displacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 726cc (44.3 cu. in.)
Cylinders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Two
Bore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78 mm (3.1 in.)
Stroke . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76 mm (3.0 in.)
Valving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . OHV
Cooling Type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Air
Ignition Coil Air Gap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.20-0.40 mm (0.008-0.016 in.)
Valve Adjustment Clearance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.10-0.15 mm (0.004-0.006 in.)
Specifications - 98
Specifications
Model Z925M EFI and Z925M EFI Flex Fuel
Engine Model Z925M EFI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ECV740
Engine Model Z925M EFI Flex Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . FCV740
Displacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 747 cc (45.6 cu. in.)
Cylinders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Two
Bore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83 mm (3.3 in.)
Stroke . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 mm (2.72 in.)
Valving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . OHV
Cooling Type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Air
Model Z930M and Z930R

Engine Model . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . FX801V
Displacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 852 cc (52 cu. in.)
Cylinders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Two
Bore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84.5 mm (3.33 in.)
Stroke . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76 mm (3 in.)
Valving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . OHV
Cooling Type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Air
Model Z930M EFI

Engine Model . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ECV749
Specifications - 99
Specifications
Displacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 747 cc (45.6 in.)
Cylinders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Two
Bore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83 mm (3.3 in.)
Stroke . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 mm (2.72 in.)
Valving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . OHV
Cooling Type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Air
Model Z950R
Make . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kawasaki
Engine Model Number . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . FX850V
Cylinders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Two
Bore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84.5 mm (3.33 in.)
Stroke . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76 mm (3 in.)
Valving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . OHV
Cooling Type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Air
Model Z960R
Engine Model . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . FX921V
Cylinders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Two
Bore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89.2 mm (3.5 in.)
Stroke . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80 mm (3.2 in.)
Specifications - 100
Specifications
Speed, Slow Idle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1700 +/- 150 rpm
Valving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . OHV
Oil Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Spin On Type
Cooling Type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Air
Model Z970R
Engine Model . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . FX1000V (FXT00V)
Cylinders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Two
Bore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89.2 mm (3.5 in.)
Stroke . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80 mm (3.2 in.)
Speed, Slow Idle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1700 +/- 150 rpm
Valving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . OHV
Oil Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Spin On Type
Cooling Type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Air
Drivetrain
Z915B, Z920M, Z925M, Z930M
Type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Independent Left and Right Hydrostatic Transmissions
Pump . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 cc (0.79 cu in.)
Motor13 cc (0.79 cu in.)
Number of Speeds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hydrostatic, Variable Speed (Up to 10 mph)
Z920R, Z930R, Z950R, Z960R, Z970R

Type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Independent Left and Right Hydrostatic Transmissions
Specifications
Pump . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 cc (0.79 cu in.)
Motor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 cc (0.79 cu in.)
Number of Speeds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hydrostatic, Variable Speed (Up to 12 mph)
Electrical System
Charging System (Z915B) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Amp regulated
Charging System (Z900M and Z900R Series) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Amp regulated
Ignition (CV740, ECV740, FCV740 and ECV749 Engines). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Digitally Controlled Battery-Coil Type
Ignition (FX730V, FX801V, FX850V, FX921V, FX1000V) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Flywheel Magneto Transistor Type
Starter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Solenoid Shift
Fuel System
Fuel Type (Regular Unleaded Fuel Machines)
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Regular Unleaded (Minimum 87 Octane)
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Ethanol Blended Fuel (Up to 10%)
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . MTBE Reformulated Fuel (Up to 15%)
Fuel Tank Location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Left of Operator Seat
Fuel Type (Flex Fuel Machines)

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Regular Unleaded (Minimum 87 Octane)
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Ethanol Blended Flex Fuel (E0 to E85 with Minimum 87 Octane)
Fuel Tank Location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Left of Operator Seat
Steering and Brakes

Steering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dual Control Levers
Steering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hydraulic
Park Brake
Z900B and Z900M Series . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hand Lever - Internal Wet Disk
Z900R Series . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Foot Pedal - Internal Wet Disk
Tires
Front (Z900B Series) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 x 5.0-6
Front (Z900M and Z900R Series) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 x 6.5-6
(48”) Rear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 x 9.5-12
(54”,60”,72”) Rear. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 x 12-12
Inflation Front (Z900B Series) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124 kPa (18 psi)
Inflation Front (Z900M and Z900R Series) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N/A - semi-pneumatics
Specifications
Inflation Rear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83 kPa (12 psi)
Battery
Voltage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 volt
CCA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 300 amp
BCI Group Size . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U1L
Capacities
Fuel Tank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43.5 L (11.5 gal)
Z900R Series Transmission Oil (With Filters) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4.25 L (4.5 qt)
Z900B and Z900M Series Series Transmission Oil (With Filters). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.75 L (4 qt)
Engine OIl
Z915B - With Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.6 - 1.8 L (1.7 - 1.9 qt)
Z925M - With Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.9 L (2.0 qt)
Z920M and Z920R - With Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.0 L (2.1 qt)
Z930M, Z930R, Z950R, Z960R and Z970R - With Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.4 L (2.5 qt)
Travel Speeds at Full Engine RPM

Z915B, Z920M, Z925M, Z930M
Forward . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0 - 16.1 km/h (0 - 10 mph)
Reverse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0 - 7.2 km/h (0 - 4.5 mph)
Z920R, Z930R, Z950R, Z960R, Z970R

Forward . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0 - 19.3 km/h (0 - 12 mph)
Reverse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0 - 7.2 km/h (0 - 4.5 mph)
Specifications
Dimensions
Wheel Base . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.35 m (53 in.)
Overall Height (ROPS Down) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.19 m (47 in.)
Overall Height (ROPS Up) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.85 m (73 in.)
Overall Length (48, 54 & 60-Inch Decks) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.16 m (85 in.)
Overall Length (72-Inch Deck) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.21 m (87 in.)
Overall Width (48–Inch Deck)

Chute Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.37 m (54 in.)
Chute Down . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.57 m (62 in.)

Chute Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.52 m (60 in.)
Chute Down . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.75 m (69 in.)

Chute Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.68 m (66 in.)
Chute Down . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.88 m (74 in.)

Chute Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.95 m (77 in.)
Chute Down . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.18 m (86 in.)
Weight
NOTE: Weight of machine depends on seat option. Weight ranges shown covers all seat options.
Z915B
48 in. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 499-503 kg (1100-1110 lb)
54 in. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 509-513 kg (1122-1132 lb)
60 in. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 530-534 kg (1168-1178 lb)
Z920M
48 in. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 547-565 kg (1207-1246 lb)
48 in. MOD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 562-571 kg (1238-1277 lb)
54 in. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 563-582 kg (1241-1284 lb)
60 in. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 568-586 kg (1253-1292 lb)
Z925M EFI, Z925M EFI Flex Fuel

54 in. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 563-581 kg (1242-1281 lb)
54 in. MOD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 580-598 kg (1279-1318 lb)
60 in. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 569-586 kg (1254-1292 lb)
Z930M
60 in. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 578-596 kg (1275-1314 lb)
Specifications
60 in. MOD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 600-618 kg (1323-1362 lb)
72 in. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 610-627 kg (1344-1383 lb)
Z930M EFI
60 in. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 578-596 kg (1275-1314 lb)
60 in. MOD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 600-618 kg (1323-1362 lb)
Z920R
48 in. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 554-572 kg (1222-1261 lb)
54 in. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 570-587 kg (1256-1295 lb)
Z930R
54 in. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 580-597 kg (1278-1317 lb)
54 in. MOD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 596-614 kg (1315-1354 lb)
60 in. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 585-603 kg (1290-1329 lb)
Z950R
60 in. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 587-605 kg (1294-1333 lb)
60 in. MOD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 609-626 kg (1342-1381 lb)
72 In. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 618-636 kg (1363-1402 lb)
Z960R
60 in. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 591-609 kg (1304-1343 lb)
60 in. MOD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 613-631 kg (1352-1391 lb)
72 In. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 623-640 kg (1373-1412 lb)
Z970R
72 In. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 624-642 kg (1376-1415 lb)
Recommended Lubricants
Engine Oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TURF-GARD™ OR PLUS-4™
Hydraulic Oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . JD High Viscosity HY-GARD™ J20C
Grease
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .John Deere Multi-Purpose SD Polyurea Grease
(Specifications and design subject to change without notice.)
Warranty
regulations adopted by the California Air Resources Board;
Warranty
Product Warranty
•Designed, built and equipped so as to conform at the time of sale with
Product warranty is provided as part of John Deere’s support program for
applicable U.S. Environmental Protection Agency regulations under 40
customers who operate and maintain their equipment as described in this
CFR Parts 1054 and 1060: and,
manual.
• Free from defects in materials and workmanship which cause such
Engine related warranties stated in this manual refer only to emissions-
engine to fail to conform with applicable regulations for a period of two
related parts and components of your engine. The complete engine
years of engine use from the date of sale to the ultimate purchaser.
warranty, less emission-related parts and components, is provided
separately as the “Limited Warranty for New John Deere Equipment”. Emissions Warranty Interpretation
• Any warranted part that is not scheduled for replacement as required by
the maintenance instructions in the Operator’s Manual is warranted for two
years. If any such part fails during the period of warranty coverage it will
California and U.S. EPA Emissions Control System be repaired or replaced by John Deere. Any such part repaired or
Warranty Statement (Off-Road Gas Engines) replaced under warranty is warranted for the remaining warranty period.
Your Warranty Rights and Obligations • Any warranted part that is scheduled only for regular inspection in the
maintenance instructions in the Operator’s Manual is warranted for two
The California Air Resources Board, John Deere, and the United States
years. A statement in the Operator’s Manual to the effect of “repair or
Environmental Protection Agency are pleased to explain the emissions
replace as necessary” does not reduce the period of warranty coverage.
control system’s warranty on your model year 2013 or 2014 spark ignited Any such part repaired or replaced under warranty is warranted for the
off-road engine equipment. In California, new equipment that uses small
remaining warranty period.
or large (less than 1 liter) spark ignited off-road engines must be designed,
built and equipped to meet the State’s stringent anti-smog standards. John • Any warranted part that is scheduled for replacement as required
Deere must warrant the emissions control system on your spark ignited maintenance in the Operator’s Manual is warranted for the period of time
off-road engine equipment for the period listed below provided there has prior to the first scheduled replacement point for that part. If the part fails
been no abuse, neglect or improper maintenance of your equipment. prior to the first scheduled replacement, the part will be repaired or
replaced by John Deere. Any such part repaired or replaced under
Your emissions control system may include parts such as: carburetors or
warranty is warranted for the remainder of the period prior to the first
fuel-injection system, ignition system, catalytic converters, fuel tanks, scheduled replacement point for the part.
valves, filters, clamps, connectors, and other associated components.
Also included may be hoses, belts, sensors and other emission-related • Repair or replacement of any warranted part under the warranty will be
assemblies. performed at no charge to the owner at any authorized John Deere Turf
and Utility retailer.
Where a warrantable condition exists, John Deere will repair your spark
ignited off-road engine equipment at no cost to you including diagnosis, • The owner will not be charged for diagnostic labor which leads to the
parts and labor. determination that a warranted part is defective, provided such work is
performed by John Deere.
Manufacturer’s Warranty Coverage:
• John Deere will repair damages to other engine components proximately
This emissions control system is warranted for two years. If any emissions caused by a failure under warranty of any emissions-related warranted
related part on your equipment is defective, the part will be repaired or
part.
replaced by John Deere.
• Add-on or modified parts that are not exempted by the California Air
Owner’s Warranty Responsibilities:
Resources Board may not be used. The use of any non-exempted add-on
• As the spark ignited off-road equipment owner, you are responsible for or modified parts will be grounds for disallowing a warranty claim. John
the performance of the required maintenance listed in your Operator’s Deere will not be liable to warrant failures of warranted parts caused by
Manual. John Deere recommends that you retain all receipts covering the use of a non-exempted add-on or modified part.
maintenance on your spark ignited off-road engine equipment, but John
Emission Warranty Parts List
Deere can not deny warranty solely for lack of receipts or for your failure to
ensure the performance of all scheduled maintenance. Coverage under this warranty extends only to the parts listed below (the
emissions control system parts) to the extent these parts were on the
• As the spark ignited off-road engine equipment owner, you should engine and equipment purchased.
however be aware that John Deere may deny you warranty coverage if
your spark ignited off-road equipment or a part has failed due to abuse, Fuel Metering System:
neglect, or improper maintenance or unapproved modifications. • Carburetor and internal parts (or fuel injection system).
• You are responsible for presenting your spark ignited off-road engine
• Air/fuel ratio feedback and control system.
equipment to an authorized John Deere Turf and Utility retailer as soon as
a problem exists. The warranty repairs should be completed in a • Cold start enrichment system.
reasonable amount of time, not to exceed 30 days. If you have a question
Evaporative System:
regarding your warranty coverage, you should contact your John Deere
Turf and Utility retailer, or the John Deere Customer Contact Center at 1- • Fuel tank, fuel cap and tether.
800-537-8233, or e-mail John Deere from www.Deere.com.
• Fuel hose, line, fittings, clamps.
General Emissions Warranty Coverage: • Fuel pump, fuel shut-off valve.
The warranty period begins on the date the equipment is delivered to an
• Fuel vapor hoses, fittings.
ultimate purchaser. John Deere warrants to the ultimate purchaser and
each subsequent purchaser that the spark ignited off-road engine • Carbon canister.
equipment is:
• Rollover/slant valve for fuel vapor control.
• Designed, built and equipped so as to conform to all applicable
Warranty - 106
Warranty
• Purge and vent line. Any new battery which becomes unserviceable (not merely discharged)
due to defects in material or workmanship within 90 days of purchase will
Air Induction System:
be replaced free of charge. Installation costs will be covered by warranty if
• Air cleaner (1) the unserviceable battery was installed by a John Deere factory or
dealer, (2) failure occurs within 90 days of purchase, and (3) the
• Intake manifold.
replacement battery is installed by a John Deere dealer.
Ignition System:
PRO RATA ADJUSTMENT
• Spark plugs.
Any new battery which becomes unserviceable (not merely discharged)
• Magneto or electronic ignition system.
due to defects in material or workmanship more than 90 days after
• Spark advance/retard system. purchase, but before the expiration of the applicable adjustment period,
will be replaced upon payment of the battery’s current list price less a pro
Exhaust System:
rata credit for unused months of service. The applicable adjustment period
• Exhaust manifold. is determined from the Warranty Code printed at the top of the battery and
chart below. Installation costs are not covered by warranty after 90 days
• Catalyst muffler.
from the date of purchase.
Miscellaneous Items Used in Above Systems
THIS WARRANTY DOES NOT COVER
• Vacuum and temperature switches.
A. Breakage of the container, cover, or terminals.
• Electronic controls.
B. Depreciation or damage caused by lack of reasonable and necessary
• Hoses, belts, connectors and assemblies.
maintenance or by improper maintenance.
Limited Liability
C. Transportation, mailing, or service call charges for warranty service.
a) The liability of John Deere under this Emissions Control System
Warranty is limited solely to the remedying of defects in materials or LIMITATION OF IMPLIED WARRANTIES AND PURCHASER’S
workmanship. This warranty does not cover inconvenience or loss of use REMEDIES
of the non-road equipment or engine or transportation of the equipment or
To the extent permitted by law, neither John Deere nor any company
engine to or from the John Deere Turf and Utility retailer. John Deere shall
affiliated with it makes any warranties, representations, or promises as to
not be liable for any other expense, loss, or damage, whether direct,
the quality, performance or freedom from defect of the products covered
incidental, consequential (except as listed above under “coverage”) or
by this warranty. IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND
exemplary arising in connection with the sale or use of or inability to use
FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, TO THE EXTENT
the non-road equipment or engine for any other purpose.
APPLICABLE, SHALL BE LIMITED IN DURATION TO THE APPLICABLE
b) No express emissions control system warranty is given by John Deere ADJUSTMENT PERIOD SET FORTH HERE. THE PURCHASER’S ONLY
with respect to the equipment and engine except as specifically set forth in REMEDIES IN CONNECTION WITH THE BREACH OR
this document. Any emissions control system warranty implied by law, PERFORMANCE OF ANY WARRANTY ON JOHN DEERE BATTERIES
including any warranty of merchantability or fitness for a particular ARE THOSE SET FORTH HERE. IN NO EVENT WILL THE DEALER,
purpose, is expressly limited to the emissions control system warranty JOHN DEERE OR ANY COMPANY AFFILIATED WITH JOHN DEERE BE
terms set forth in this document. LIABLE FOR INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES. (Note:
Some states do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts
c) No dealer is authorized to modify this Federal, California and John
or the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages. So
Deere Emissions Control System Warranty.
these limitations and exclusions may not apply to you.) This warranty gives
you specific legal rights, and you may also have some rights which vary
from state to state.
Tire Warranty NO DEALER WARRANTY

John Deere warranty applies for tires available through the John Deere The selling dealer makes no warranty of it’s own and the dealer has no
parts system. For tires not available through the John Deere parts system, authority to make any representation or promise on behalf of John Deere,
the tire manufacturer’s warranty applicable to your machine may not apply or to modify the terms or limitations of this warranty in any way.
outside the U.S. (See your John Deere dealer for specific information.)
PRO RATA MONTHS OF ADJUSTMENT
NOTE: If your battery is not labeled with a warranty code, it is a
warranty code B.
Limited Battery Warranty
NOTE: Applicable in North America only. For complete machine Warranty Code Warranty Period
warranty, reference a copy of the John Deere warranty statement.
Contact your John Deere dealer to obtain a copy. A 40 Months
TO SECURE WARRANTY SERVICE B 36 Months
The purchaser must request warranty service from a John Deere dealer C 24 Months
authorized to sell John Deere batteries, and present the battery to the
dealer with the top cover plate codes intact.
FREE REPLACEMENT
Warranty - 107
Index
Electronic Control Unit, Check ........................................ 77
Index
Emergency Stopping ....................................................... 37

A Engine Emissions Information ........................................ 46
Adjusting Tracking .......................................................... 67 Engine Oil ....................................................................... 47
Air Cleaner Element, Servicing ...................................... 49 Engine Oil Level, Checking ............................................. 47
Armrests, Adjusting Seat ................................................ 23 Engine Oil and Filter, Changing ...................................... 47
Engine Specifications ...................................................... 98
B Engine and Fuel Storage, Preparing ............................... 96
Balancing Blades ............................................................ 73 Engine, Checking and Cleaning Cooling Fins ................. 51
Battery Specifications ................................................... 103 Engine, Cleaning Debirs (Z920M and Z920R) ................ 53
Battery and Terminals, Cleaning .................................... 75 Engine, Cleaning Debirs (Z930M, Z930R, Z950R, Z960R,
Battery, Checking the ..................................................... 75 Z970R) ............................................................................ 54
Battery, Removing and Installing .................................... 75 Engine, Cleaning Debris (Z915B) ................................... 52
Battery, Service Safely ................................................... 75 Engine, Cleaning Debris (Z925M EFI, Z930M EFI) ........56
Battery, Using Booster ................................................... 76 Engine, Removing Rear Grill .......................................... 46
Belt Shields, Removing and Installing Mower Deck ....... 71 Engine, Starting the ........................................................ 35
Belt, Checking and Replacing Traction Drive ................. 65 Engine, Stopping ............................................................. 37
Belt, Replacing Mower Deck Drive ................................. 71 Engine, Troubleshooting ................................................. 85
Belt, Using the Seat ........................................................ 24
F
Blades, Balancing ........................................................... 73
Blades, Checking and Replacing Mower ........................ 72 Filter, Changing Engine Oil and ...................................... 47
Blades, Sharpening ........................................................ 73 Filters, Change Hydrostatic Transmission Oil and .......... 62
Brake, Adjusting Park ..................................................... 69 Fins, Cleaning Hydraulic Oil Cooler ................................65
Brake, Testing Park ........................................................ 31 Foot Plate, Removing and Installing Mower Deck .......... 71
Brake, Using Park .......................................................... 31 Front Caster Wheels, Removing and Installing ...............68
Brakes, Troubleshooting ................................................ 92 Fuel Filter, Replacing ...................................................... 57
Bypass Pump Release Valves, Using ............................ 38 Fuel Safety ...................................................................... 18
Fuel Storage ................................................................... 96
C Fuel System Specifications ........................................... 102
Carbon Cannister ........................................................... 61 Fuel Tank, Filling ............................................................. 80
Carburetor, Adjusting ..................................................... 58 Fuel and Stabilizer, Using Proper ................................... 80
Certification ...................................................................... 5 Fuses, Replacing ............................................................76
Choke Cable, Adjusting .................................................. 59
G
Comfort and Convenience Package, Using ................... 25
Controls, Operator Station (Z900B and Z900M Series) . 19 Grease ............................................................................ 44
Controls, Operator Station (Z900R) ............................... 20 Grill, Removing Engine Access .......................................46
Cooling Fins, Check and Clean Engine .......................... 51 H
Creep, Checking and Adjusting ...................................... 66
Hour Meter, Using the .....................................................32
Cutting Height, Adjusting Mower Deck ........................... 26
Hydraulic Oil Cooler Fins, Cleaning ................................65
D Hydraulic and Transmission Oil ...................................... 62
Daily Operating Checklist ............................................... 21 Hydrostatic Transmission Oil Level, Check ....................62
Deck Belt Shields, Removing and Installing Mower ....... 71 Hydrostatic Transmission Oil and Filters, Change .......... 62
Deck Cutting Height, Adjusting Mower ........................... 26 I
Deck Drive Belt, Replacing Mower ................................. 71
Identification Numbers .....................................................-1
Deck Foot Plate, Removing and Installing Mower .......... 71
Indicator Lights, Using .................................................... 32
Deck Lift Spring Tension, Adjust .................................... 28
Deck Spindles, Lubricate Mower .................................... 44 K
Diagnostic Light Check ................................................... 77
Key Switch, Using ........................................................... 31
Dimensions ................................................................... 104
Knob, Using the PTO Switch .......................................... 32
Drive Clutch, Adjustment ................................................ 78
DriveTrain Specifications .............................................. 101 L
E Level Mower Deck ..........................................................27
Lever, Using the Throttle ................................................. 32
Electrical System Specifications ................................... 102 Levers, Checking and Aligning Motion Control ...............68
Electrical System, Troubleshooting ................................ 84 Levers, Using the Motion Control .................................... 33
Index - 108
Index
Lifting Machine ............................................................... 81 ROPS, Raising and Lowering ......................................... 24
Literature, Service .......................................................... 41 Rear Drive Wheels, Removing and Installing ................. 82
Lubricants, Recommended .......................................... 105
S
M Safety Label Location (No Text) .......................................6
Machine, Lifting .............................................................. 81 Safety Label Location (Text) .............................................1
Machine, Lubricating ...................................................... 45 Safety Systems, Testing ................................................. 30
Machine, Mounting and Dismounting ............................. 22 Safety, Tire ...................................................................... 17
Machine, Transporting .................................................... 38 Seat Belt, Using the ........................................................ 24
Metal Surfaces, Repairing and Cleaning ........................ 83 Seat, Adjusting Armrests ................................................ 23
Motion Control Levers, Checking and Adjusting Gap ..... 68 Seat, Adjusting Deluxe .................................................... 23
Motion Control Levers, Checking and Aligning .............. 68 Seat, Adjusting Standard ................................................ 22
Motion Control Levers, Using the ................................... 33 Seat, Raising and Lowering Operator ............................. 21
Moving Machine by Hand ............................................... 38 Service Intervals ............................................................. 42
Mower Blades, Checking and Replacing ........................ 72 Service Literature ............................................................41
Mower Deck Anti-Scalp Wheels, Adjusting .................... 29 Sharpening Blades ..........................................................73
Mower Deck Belt Shields, Removing and Installing ....... 71 Slope, Determining Safe Angles ..................................... 25
Mower Deck Cutting Height, Adjusting ........................... 26 Spark Arrestor, Using ...................................................... 12
Mower Deck Drive Belt, Replacing ................................. 71 Spark Plugs, Checking .................................................... 50
Mower Deck Foot Plate, Removing and Installing .......... 71 Specifications, Engine .....................................................98
Mower Deck Spindles, Lubricate .................................... 44 Spring Tension, Adjust Deck Lift (B and M Series Machines)
Mower Deck, Level ......................................................... 27 ......................................................................................... 28
Mower, Dismounting to Inspect ...................................... 40 Steering, Troubleshooting ............................................... 93
Mower, Engaging ........................................................... 36 Stopping, Emergency ...................................................... 37
Mowing Tips ................................................................... 39 Storage, Preparing Fuel and Engine for ......................... 96
Mowing Travel Speeds ................................................... 40 Storage, Preparing Machine for ...................................... 96
Mulch-On-Demand Mower Deck Pivot Bushings, Lubricat- Storage, Removing Machine from ..................................97
ing ................................................................................... 44 Storing Safety .................................................................96
Mulch-On-Demand Mower Deck, Operating .................. 36 Switch Knob, Using the PTO .......................................... 32
O T
Oil Cooler Fins, Cleaning Hydraulic ............................... 65 Technical Manual ............................................................41
Oil Level, Check Hydrostatic Transmission .................... 62 Testing PTO Switch ........................................................ 30
Oil Level, Checking Engine ............................................ 47 Testing Park Brake ......................................................... 31
Oil and Filter, Changing Engine ..................................... 47 Testing Park Brake Switch ..............................................30
Oil and Filters, Change Hydrostatic Transmission ......... 62 Testing Seat Switch ........................................................ 30
Oil, Engine ...................................................................... 47 Throttle Cable, Adjusting ................................................. 59
Oil, Hydraulic .................................................................. 62 Throttle Lever, Using the ................................................. 32
Oil, Transmission ............................................................ 62 Tire Pressure, Check ...................................................... 81
Operating Checklist, Daily .............................................. 21 Tire Specifications ......................................................... 102
Operating, Mulch-On-Demand Mower Deck .................. 36 Tracking, Adjusting ......................................................... 67
Operator Seat, Raising and Lowering ............................ 21 Traction Drive Belt, Checking and Replacing ................. 65
Transmission Oil Level, Check Hydrostatic ....................62
P Transmission Oil and Filters, Change Hydrostatic .......... 62
PTO Switch Knob, Using the .......................................... 32 Transporting Machine .....................................................38
Park Brake, Adjusting ..................................................... 69 Travel Speeds, Mowing .................................................. 40
Park Brake, Testing ........................................................ 31 Troubleshooting Chart .................................................... 84
Park Brake, Using .......................................................... 31
Parts Catalog .................................................................. 41 V
Parts, Replacement ........................................................ 41 Valves, Using Bypass Pump Release ............................. 38
Pivot Bushings, Lubricating Mulch-On-Demand Mower
Deck ............................................................................... 44
W
Plastic And Painted Surfaces, Avoid Damage To .......... 21 Warranty, Product ......................................................... 106
Plastic Surface Cleaning and Repairing Surfaces .......... 83 Weight ........................................................................... 104
Wheels, Removing and Installing Front Caster ...............68
R Wheels, Removing and Installing Rear Drive ................. 82
ROPS Hardware, Tightening .......................................... 82
Index - 109
Index
Index - 110
John Deere Quality Statement
John Deere Quality Statement
John Deere Quality
John Deere equipment is more than just a purchase, it’s an investment in quality. That quality goes beyond our equipment
to your John Deere dealer’s parts and service support. This support is needed to keep you a satisfied customer.
That’s why John Deere has initiated a process to handle your questions or problems, should they arise. The following three
steps will help guide you through the process.
Step 1
Refer to your operator’s manual
A. It has many illustrations and detailed information on the C. It gives ordering information for parts catalogs, service
safe and proper operation of your equipment. and technical manuals.
B. It gives troubleshooting procedures, and specification D. If your questions are not answered in the operator’s
information. manual, then go to Step 2.
Step 2
Contact your dealer
A. Your John Deere dealer has the responsibility, authority, C. If the parts and service people are unable to resolve your
and ability to answer questions, resolve problems, and fulfill problem, see the dealership manager or owner.
your parts and service needs.
B. First, discuss your questions or problems with your D. If your questions or problems are not resolved by the
dealer’s trained parts and service staff. dealer, then go to Step 3.
Step 3
Contact John Deere
A. Your John Deere dealer is the most efficient source in addressing any concern, but if you are not able to resolve your
problem after checking your operator’s manual and contacting your dealer, contact John Deere for assistance.
B. For prompt, effective service, please have the following ready before you call:
The name of the dealer with whom you’ve been working. Your serial number which you recorded on the inside front
cover of this manual.
Your equipment model number.
If the problem is with an attachment, your attachment
Number of hours on machine (if applicable).
identification number.
C. Then call 1-800-537-8233 (United States and Canada) and our advisor will work with your dealer to investigate your
concern. If you are outside the United States and Canada, contact us at the following web site: www.deere.com/wps/
dcom/en_US/regional_home.page.
John Deere Quality Statement - 111

Service Record
Service Record
Record Service Dates
Oil Change Oil Filter Lubricate Air Cleaner Fuel Filter Coolant
Change Machine Element Change Change
Check/Clean
Service Record - 112

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Record Identification Numbers

DEALER PHONE: Picture Note: Kohler Engine

_________________________________________ ENGINE MODEL NUMBER (C):

PRODUCT MODEL NUMBER (A): G

Picture Note: Kawasaki Engine

Safety Labels ..........................................................................................................................................................................1

Safety Label Location (Text)

To maintain operator protection and ROPS

In conformance with ISO 21299:2009 for energy

• Keep Rollover Protective Structure fully extended

• To avoid injury from rotating belts, keep all shields and

• To avoid injury from rotating belts, keep all shields and

• To avoid injury to children, stop mower when children are

• Do not mow without discharge chute or entire grass

Rotating Blades and Thrown Objects

• To avoid injury from tipover, drive across slopes, not up

HELP AVOID INJURY

• Avoid equipment fires.

Inspect and clean the entire machine and pay special

Canadian Electromagnetic Compatibility

Safety Label Location (No Text)

Picture Note: Non-text labels are required for H - AVOID INJURY

To maintain operator protection and ROPS

In conformance with ISO 21299:2009 for energy

• Keep Rollover Protective Structure fully extended

Avoid Tipping • Never carry riders

• To avoid injury from tipover, drive across slopes, not up TCU31482

• Do not put hands or feet under or into mower when engine

• To avoid injury from rotating belts, keep all shields and

• Stay clear of thrown or flying objects.

• To avoid injury to children, stop mower when children are

Prevent Equipment Fires

• Clean and inspect the entire machine.

Operator Training Required

• Clear mowing area of objects that • Do not mow in reverse.

Picture Note: Example side view of slope and

Use Seat Belt Properly

Checking Wheel Hardware

Handling Waste Product and Chemicals

Z900B and Z900M Series

A - Beverage Holder K - Fuel Tank Cap

Daily Operating Checklist

❏ Check and adjust motion control linkages.

Avoid Damage to Plastic and Painted Lowering the Seat

Raising the Seat

B When mounting and dismounting the machine, do so from

Adjusting Standard Seat

3. Slide seat rod (C) through the frame cutout (D).

Lowering the Seat

Adjust Ride Comfort

Adjusting Seat Armrests

Adjusting Deluxe Seat

1. Raise each armrest (A).

c CAUTION: Avoid injury! Always wear seat belt

1. Park machine safely. (See Parking Safely in the SAFETY

DCY