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John Deere Z970R
ZTrak™ Zero-Turn Mower


  • 7-Iron™ PRO Mowing Deck
  • Brake-N-Go starting
  • Cross-porting hydraulic transmission
  • Rear Discharge Deck

Features

Powerful 35.0-hp (26.1-kW) commercial-grade engine delivers class-leading performance and efficiency
Z970R engine Z970R engine

The Z970R is powered by an air-cooled, vertical shaft engine:

  • 35.0-hp (26.1-kW) gas engine

Engine features include:

  • Overhead valve design
    • More horsepower and torque per cubic inch of displacement
    • Better fuel efficiency
  • Full-pressure lubrication with full-flow filter
    • Reduces engine wear by ensuring proper lubrication, even when operating on hillsides or uneven terrain
    • Oil filter helps keep oil clean for increased engine life
    • V-twin big block design
  • Vertical shaft
  • Easy-access, dual-element air filter with quick-release latch
  • 15-amp alternator
  • Fuel pump
  • Complies with strict Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and California Air Resources Board (CARB) emission standards without loss of horsepower or torque
  • Aluminum block engines
    • Effectively dissipate heat
    • Lightweight and strong construction
    • Extend engine life due to elimination of debilitating engine temperatures
    • Air-cooled engine design
Air cleaner filters out dust that can damage an engine
Engine air cleaner Engine air cleaner
Air cleaner cover removed Air cleaner cover removed

ZTrak™ Z900 Mowers are equipped with a dual-element, canister-style air filter, easily accessible from the rear of the machine without tools.

  • The filtration system pulls clean air from above the engine, in turn filtering out the dust that can damage an engine over time.
  • Filters are extremely easy to change when required.
  • Pre-cleaner provides more protection against contamination in dusty and dirty applications.
Mow all day on a single tank of fuel with efficient and easy-to-fill fuel tank
Fuel tank and filler neck Fuel tank and filler neck
Fuel filler neck Fuel filler neck

The ZTrak™ Z900 Mowers are equipped with one single-fill, top-draw fuel tank:

  • 11.5-U.S. gal. (43.5-L) capacity enables operators to mow all day without refueling.
  • The fuel gauge makes it quick and easy to see how much fuel is in the tank.
  • Top draw provides added safety.
  • A large fuel-filler neck is angled to make it easy for an operator to complete the fueling process.

Under normal conditions, load, and operation, fuel consumption for the Z900 ZTrak Mowers is 1.5 U.S. gph (5.7 L/hr) to 2.2 U.S. gph (8.3 L/hr), depending on the horsepower and conditions.

Extra durability and mowing performance from 7-Iron™ PRO Side-Discharge decks pressed from a single piece of steel
54-in. (137-cm) 7-Iron PRO Mower Deck 54-in. (137-cm) 7-Iron PRO Mower Deck
72-in. (183-cm) 7-Iron PRO Mower Deck 72-in. (183-cm) 7-Iron PRO Mower Deck

7-Iron PRO mower decks have demonstrated quality, performance, and durability. They deliver a high-quality cut in diverse conditions.

Key features of the 7-Iron PRO mower deck:

  • Deck is forged from 7-gauge, 0.179-in. (4.6-mm) steel to minimize the number of welds and provide a smooth underside with fewer sharp corners for reduced material buildup.
  • Significantly fewer welds on the deck shell to wear or break - it is forged from a single sheet of steel rather than multiple fabrications. An anti-skid step on the deck provides easy machine mounting.
  • Extra reliability and long life with cast-iron blade spindle housings.
  • Higher blade tip speed than many competitors - approximately 18,500 fpm (5,639 m/min) for more blade cuts per inch mowed.
  • A deep-deck design of 5.5 in. (14 cm) delivers excellent airflow so material can be processed quickly and efficiently.
  • The wider and higher discharge opening provides even clipping dispersal for an excellent finished appearance in all conditions.
  • Quick-release belt covers do not require tools or the removal of a ring clip; just lift one corner of the cover and rotate it slightly to remove.
    • A hole in the deck tab is provided for use of an optional ring clip for extra security, if desired.
    • This makes it quick and easy for you to clean out trash that may collect around the spindle sheave.
Mower rectangular leading-edge reinforcement Mower rectangular leading-edge reinforcement
Dual-captured anti-scalp wheel Dual-captured anti-scalp wheel
  • Deck has rectangular leading deck edge reinforcement and the rounded corners of the forged deck help distribute impact stress to reduce the potential of damage when the mower contacts trees, rocks, curbs, and other fixed obstacles.
  • Dual-captured front and rear anti-scalp wheels provide deck flotation over even the toughest terrain.
  • Three 1-in. (2.5-cm), cold-forged spindles are heat-treated for strength without bulk and are supported by ball bearings, providing reliability and performance; spindle housings are ribbed cast iron providing both excellent strength and heat dissipation.
  • The trim edge of the deck is equipped with a bumper that provides great abrasion resistance to protect the machine and the property.
  • The front edge is raised above the blade plane to allow even cutting of tall grass and is reinforced with a square bar for durability. The front baffle has been redesigned to better manage airflow and control clippings.
  • Three spindle grease fittings are accessible from the top.
  • Blade overlap is 1.6 in. (40.6 mm), nearly 0.79 in. (20 mm) greater than previous decks, to reduce striping between blades.
  • Quick-change, cutting-height adjustment.
Extra reliability and long life with cast-iron blade spindle housings
Cast-iron mower spindle Cast-iron mower spindle
Cast-iron mower spindle Cast-iron mower spindle

On every commercial mower deck there are three 1-in. (25-mm) spindles that are cold-forged and heat-treated for strength. Spindles are supported by precision ball bearings that provide great performance and reliability.

  • Superior impact strength provided by ductile cast-iron material.
  • Gusseted design puts reinforcement where it is needed.
  • Strength of cast iron protects against damage from blade impacts.
  • Easy access grease fittings are mounted at the top of the spindle shafts for convenience.
  • Grease pressure-relief valve minimizes seal damage from overfilling with grease and keeps debris from entering housing.
  • Chance of deck shell damage is minimized with the 8-in. (20.3-cm) diameter housing and six mounting bolts that distribute loads and impacts.
  • Ability to be reliably rebuilt is provided by use of cast iron.
7-Iron PRO mower deck

Mower deck

Z915E

Z920M

Z930M

Z950M

Z960M

Z930R

Z950R

Z970R

48-in. (122-cm) 7Iron PRO side-discharge

x

x

           

54-in. (137-cm) 7Iron PRO side-discharge

x

x

x

   

x

   

60-in. (152-cm) 7Iron PRO side-discharge

x

x

x

x

x

x

x

x

72-in. (183-cm) 7Iron PRO side-discharge

     

x

x

 

x

x

Mower deck step and trim-edge bumper shown on 54-in. (137-cm) mower Mower deck step and trim-edge bumper shown on 54-in. (137-cm) mower

The deck step safely aids the operator's entrance and egress from machine.

Fully adjustable suspension seat with ComfortGlide™ fore/aft suspension offers exceptional operator comfort
ComfortGlide fore/aft suspension
ComfortGlide fore/aft suspension control lever ComfortGlide fore/aft suspension control lever

The seat has the ComfortGlide fore/aft suspension system that gives superior ride comfort over uneven areas:

  • Seat can travel up to 2 in. (50.8 mm) fore and aft to absorb bumps for a significant enhancement to ride comfort.
  • Control lever provides the ability to easily lock out fore/aft suspension movement if desired.
  • One lever has three functions:
    • Slide seat forward and back 3 in. (10.2 cm) to allow the operator the ability to choose the leg room needed
    • Activate ComfortGlide fore/aft seat suspension
    • Lock out ComfortGlide fore/aft seat suspension
Fully adjustable suspension seat with armrests
Fully adjustable, mechanical suspension-seat Fully adjustable, mechanical suspension-seat
Suspension seat control Suspension seat control

A fully adjustable suspension seat with armrests is standard on R Series:

  • Adjustable back angle is provided for individual operator comfort.
  • Adjustable lumbar support helps to suit the needs of the operator.
  • A suspension seat control dial gives easy adjustment for operator weight and ride comfort.
  • A convenient seat latch provides ease of lifting the seat.
Designed for operator comfort
Operator station Operator station

Two-lever hydrostatic control provides the following:

  • The operator can select the ground speed and direction control simply by moving levers forward or reverse.
  • Positive neutral lock position for levers provides added safety.
  • Brake & Go operator-presence system returns levers to the neutral position when the brake pedal is actively engaged. 
  • Starting the machines is as easy as starting a car. It no longer matters if the control levers are extended out or pulled in, as long as the parking brake is engaged. Just turn the key and go.
  • Wide-bend, large-diameter steering levers swing out easily for entry and exit from the operator platform.
Foot pegs
Foot pegs available as standard on R-spec Z900’s Foot pegs available as standard on R-spec Z900’s

Foot pegs help in providing the operator with a comfortable foot placement:

  • Location and angle of foot pegs can be adjusted for individual operator comfort.
Foot platform isolators
Foot platform isolators Foot platform isolators

Foot platform isolators provide the operator with added comfort:

  • Vibration to the legs and feet is reduced.
Brake & Go starting system
Parking brake pedal (Z900R Series) Parking brake pedal (Z900R Series)
Parking brake lever (Z900 E and M Series) Parking brake lever (Z900 E and M Series)

The Brake & Go starting system is a John Deere exclusive. This feature makes the starting process on all ZTrak™ mowers easier, while also making it possible to remove two interlock switches from the machine.
 
The Brake & Go starting procedure helps a novice operator look and feel like a professional. To start the machine, the parking brake must be engaged. It does not matter whether the power take-off (PTO) switch is on or off, nor does it matter if the control levers are pulled in or in the out position.
 
As long as the parking brake is engaged, the machine will start. When the parking brake is applied, the control levers cannot be moved to the forward or reverse positions.

Adjustable levers
Adjustable levers Adjustable levers

The motion control levers have two height positions and can also be adjusted forward or rearward within the slotted holes. The levers should be adjusted so the operator can achieve a full range of control operation comfortably.

Tracking adjustment
Tracking adjustment Tracking adjustment

The easy-to-turn (from-the-seat) tracking adjustment allows operators to keep their mowers straight and able to produce professional striping results.

Right-hand control panel
Right-hand control panel Right-hand control panel
Right-hand control panel Right-hand control panel

The controls are grouped together on the right console, providing one central location for key switch, throttle, PTO engagement, height-of-cut, diagnostics, and hour meter:

  • Rocker-type PTO switch
  • Height-of-cut knob with transport lock
  • Key switch
  • Hour meter
  • Throttle
  • Separate choke control
    • Easy choke operation yields less fouling of plugs
    • No choke required for the electronic fuel injection (EFI) models
Onboard storage and cup holder
Onboard storage Onboard storage
Cup holder Cup holder

Several storage areas are provided on the ZTrak machines. A convenient cup holder is also available.

Easy-to-operate height-of-cut adjustment enables on-the-go changes
Mower deck height adjustment knob Mower deck height adjustment knob

An easy-to-use cutting-height lift system allows the operator to adjust the mower deck height with no tools and minimal effort. The easy-to-grip knob allows operators to dial in the desired height of cut (HOC).

Cutting height can be adjusted from approximately 1 in. to 5.5 in. (2.5 cm to 14 cm). Each increment on the knob adjusts the HOC approximately 0.25 in. (0.64 cm). The deck can also be raised and locked in a transport position to provide maximum ground clearance when moving the machine from one area to another.

The transport lock function allows the deck to be returned to the previous HOC after being in the transport position:

  • Use the foot-lift pedal to lift the deck and engage the transport lock.
  • Rotate the knob to adjust from 1 in. to 5.5 in. (2.5 cm to 14 cm) in 0.25-in. (0.64 cm) increments.

This design increases productivity by allowing operators to change the cutting height without having to leave the seat.

Standard comfort and convenience allows for easy deck height adjustment and power take-off (PTO) shutoff
Comfort and convenience handles Comfort and convenience handles

The comfort and convenience package combines large, ergonomically angled control levers with specially padded grips to provide unmatched comfort and reduced fatigue:

  • Keeps hands on the control sticks to minimize equipment damage and make them more comfortable over long operating days.

The control levers have built-in electronic controls to raise or lower the mower deck or disengage the mower blades.

Control buttons Control buttons

The push button (A) on the left motion control lever raises the mower deck.

The push button (B) on the right-hand control lever shuts off the PTO.

Once the PTO has been shut off using the button, the PTO switch must be pushed down and pulled up again to engage the PTO.

Three-year, bumper-to-bumper warranty
Z960M ZTrak™ Mower Z960M ZTrak™ Mower
Z930R ZTrak Mower Z930R ZTrak Mower
E and M Series 3-year, 1200-hour bumper-to-bumper warranty

An exclusive 2-year, unlimited hour/3-year, 1200-hour (whichever comes first) bumper-to-bumper warranty is standard for all John Deere E and M Series Mowers. The warranty is best in its class and places John Deere at the forefront of commercial mowing. It is also hassle free, with one company handling all of the paperwork.

NOTE: 36 months or 1200 hours, whichever comes first. For the first 24 months, there is no hour limitation.

R Series 3-year, 1500-hour bumper-to-bumper warranty

An exclusive 2-year, unlimited hour/3-year, 1500-hour (whichever comes first) bumper-to-bumper warranty is standard on all John Deere R Series mowers. The warranty is best in the industry and puts John Deere at the forefront of commercial mowing. It is also hassle free, with one company handling all of the paperwork.

NOTE: 36 months or 1500 hours, whichever comes first. For the first 24 months, there is no hour limitation.

Mower decks are safety certified
54-in. (137-cm) 7-Iron PRO Mower Deck 54-in. (137-cm) 7-Iron PRO Mower Deck

Mowers decks are evaluated by the manufacturer (John Deere Turf Care) and conform to American National Standards Institute (ANSI) B71.4 2004 safety certification specifications for commercial turf care equipment.

Heavy-duty frame provides strength and durability
Z970R shown with optional X® Tweel® Turf airless radial tire technology Z970R shown with optional X® Tweel® Turf airless radial tire technology

The durability features of the frame are as follows:

  • Heavy-duty, thick-gauge, steel channel mainframe for strength and durability
  • Cast I-beam caster arms to handle the beating and pounding professional mowers receive
  • Wide-open access for maintenance and cleaning
Two-piece rear bumper provides protection
Illustration of ZTrak™ mower rear bumper Illustration of ZTrak™ mower rear bumper

A steel rear bumper provides protection for the machine. The bumper is made of two pieces, making it easy to remove and install when using a material collection system (MCS).

A rear hitch can be added to the steel bumper for towing purposes. ZTrak E, M, and R Series Mowers can tow up to 400 lb (181.4 kg).

Michelin, X, and Tweel are trademarks of Michelin North America, Inc.

Durable, hydrostatic drivetrain including cross porting delivers better cooling and provides easy access
Heavy-duty ground drive Heavy-duty ground drive

The hydrostatic drive included with the R Series Mowers features two 13-cc (0.8-cu in.) unitized hydraulic pumps combined with commercial-grade, heavy-duty, 13-cc (0.8-cu in.) wheel motors into a single unit. The R Series drive units feature cross porting, where the hydraulic fluid from the side doing the least work is filtered and then fed into the input of the side doing the most work. This ensures that the coolest fluid is going into the side working the hardest in order to provide the best performance during extended hillside operation in the same direction.

One pump and one motor drive each wheel on the ZTrak™ R Series Mowers. This provides several benefits:

  • Exceptional cooling in high load conditions
  • Easy-to-check level and refill hydraulic oil
  • Opens up access under the seat
Michelin® X® Tweel® Turf airless radial tire technology for ZTrak™ Mowers eliminates downtime and reduces cost of operation
Flat-free rear tire shown on ZTrak™ Mower Flat-free rear tire shown on ZTrak™ Mower

John Deere provides the commercial mower industry with the Michelin X Tweel Turf technology for Commercial ZTrak Mowers:

  • 24x12N12 as an ordering option code for ZTrak Gas Mowers with 48 in., 54 in., 60 in., and 72 in. (137-cm, 152-cm, and 183-cm) Mower Decks
    • 24x12N12 is also available as base code equipment for ZTrak Gas Mowers with 48 in., 54 in., 60 in., and 72 in. (137-cm, 152-cm, and 183-cm) Mower Decks (ordering information available at Configurator on the Tweel model page)
  • 24x12N12 as an ordering option code for ZTrak Z994R Diesel with 54 in., 60 in., and 72 in. (137-cm, 152-cm, and 183 cm) Mower Decks
  • 26x12N12 as an ordering option code for Z997R Diesel with 60 in. and 72 in. (152-cm and 183-cm) Mower Decks

Michelin is a world leader in tire manufacturing and technology. This airless radial tire solution is an industry first for John Deere, which provides an additional advantage to John Deere customers.

Advantages of the Michelin X Tweel Turf include:

  • Mowing performance is improved.
    • Rutting is reduced because the Michelin X Tweel Turf has more support across the surface for improved flotation and better ground contact.
    • Unique energy transfer within the poly-resin spokes reduces the bounce associated with pneumatic tires.
    • Excellent curb climbing is possible due to the Michelin X Tweel Turf construction and flexibility.
    • More consistent cut quality is achieved because inconsistent tire pressure is eliminated.
  • Uptime is improved.
    • The exclusive technology eliminates downtime and associated cost due to flat or damaged tires.
    • Punctures and sidewall damage no longer result in downtime.
  • Cost of operation is reduced.
    • Cost of repairs and maintenance is reduced. One single unit replaces the current tire, wheel, and valve assembly. There is no need for complex tire-mounting equipment.
    • No need to spend time checking and optimizing tire pressure.
    • The need to purchase and stock plug kits and spare tires is eliminated, particularly for professional landscape contractors and government agencies who normally stock them.
    • The tire tread will last up to three times longer than current pneumatic tires because automotive-grade rubber is used for the tread.
Michelin X Tweel Turf Michelin X Tweel Turf
Michelin X Tweel Turf Michelin X Tweel Turf

Heavy-duty construction provides the ultimate in performance and reliable operation:

  • High-strength poly-resin spokes carry the load.
  • Four-hole, heavy-duty steel hub for durability.
  • Deep, open-tread design provides excellent cleaning and traction.
  • Zero degree, high-tensile proprietary carcass provides great lateral stiffness while resisting damage from impact and penetration.

NOTE: In some cases, different size Tweel tires are required depending on the mower deck size.

Tires deliver exceptional traction and maneuverability
24x9.5-12 drive tire 24x9.5-12 drive tire
24x12-12 drive tire 24x12-12 drive tire
15x6-6 front flat-free semi-pneumatic tire 15x6-6 front flat-free semi-pneumatic tire
13x6.5-6 front flat-free semi-pneumatic caster tire 13x6.5-6 front flat-free semi-pneumatic caster tire
15x6-6 front flat-free semi-pneumatic tire 15x6-6 front flat-free semi-pneumatic tire

The ZTrak E Series Mowers with 48-in. (122-cm) mower decks come with 24x9.5-12 4 PR drive tires. E Series Mowers with 54-in. (137-cm) and 60-in. (152- cm) decks come with 24x12-12 4 PR drive tires. All E Series Mowers are equipped with 13x6.5-6 front pneumatic caster tires.

 

The ZTrak M Series Mowers with 48-in. (122-cm) mower decks come with 24x9.5-12 4 PR drive tires. M Series Mowers with 54-in. (137-cm), 60-in. (152- cm), and 72-in. (183-cm) decks come with 24x12-12 4 PR drive tires. All M Series Mowers are equipped with 13x6.5-6 front flat-free semi-pneumatic caster tires.

 

The ZTrak R Series Mowers with 48-in. (122-cm) mower decks come with 24x9.5-12 4 PR drive tires. R Series Mowers with 54-in. (133-cm), 60-in. (152-cm) and 72-in. (183-cm) decks come with 24x12-12 4 PR drive tires. All R Series Mowers are equipped with 15x6-6 front flat-free semi-pneumatic tires.

 

The tires provide:

  • Excellent traction, flotation, and curb climbing
  • Low center of gravity to increase hillside mowing capability
  • Caster wheels and caster wheel towers with sealed bearings for long life and easy steering
  • Offset front caster wheels to help improve the inside corner-trim performance and reduce between-blade striping

Michelin, X, and Tweel are trademarks of Compagnie Générale des Etablissements Michelin SCA.

Mower is easy to service with many accessible components
Z970R left front view Z970R left front view

The design of the Z900 Series makes many service components reachable and easily accessible from the ground.

  • Large, open engine compartment at the rear of the machine provides convenient servicing and ensures the engine heat is directed away from the operator.
Flip-up foot panel Flip-up foot panel
Flip-up seat Flip-up seat
Engine service
Engine oil check/fill and drain tube (shown on Z740R) Engine oil check/fill and drain tube (shown on Z740R)

The engines are easy to service, including changing the oil:

  • The engine oil check/fill tube is located at the top of the engine and easy to see and reach.
  • No-tools oil drain is convenient to use (Z915E, Z920M).
  • A flexible oil drain tube is included to conveniently drain oil into a pan, thus eliminating oil spills (Z930M, Z950M, Z960M, Z930R, Z950R, Z970R).
Onboard maintenance chart
Maintenance chart Maintenance chart

All ZTrak™ Mowers come with an onboard maintenance chart that is conveniently located inside the right-hand console. The service interval chart gives necessary service intervals.

Quick response (QR) codes link to owner information web pages
QR code label QR code label

To speed access to owner information web pages, a QR code is printed onto a product identification number (PIN) label located near the onboard storage. The owner information web pages that include links to:

 

  • Safety and how-to videos
  • Operator’s manuals
  • Parts catalogs
  • Maintenance reminder sheets
  • Attachments
  • Warranty statements
Diagnostics
Hour meter (M Series pictured) Hour meter (M Series pictured)
Diagnostic chart Diagnostic chart

The hour meter shows the number of hours the machine is run when the key switch is in the on position. It only counts the hours the engine is actually running. Machine diagnostics are the first step of a monitoring system to help operators quickly diagnose common downtime issues. A trouble code light is included on the hour meter.

 

Use of the hour meter and service interval chart helps determine when the machine will need service.

Specs & Compare

ADD MODEL

Key Specs

Z970R
Current Model
Engine Manufacturer/modelFX1000V
Engine powerGross at 3,600 rpm
35 hp
26.1 kW
Fuel tank capacity11.5 U.S. gal.
43.5 L
Mower deck size60-in. (152-cm) 7Iron™ PRO side-discharge
72-in. (183-cm) 7Iron™ PRO side-discharge
72-in. (183-cm) FastBack™ PRO rear-discharge
Blade tip speed7Iron PRO: Approximately 18,500 fpm
72-in. (183-cm) FastBack: Approximately 18,000 fpm
TransmissionHydrostatic
Speed range0-12 mph
0-19.3 km/h
Drive wheels24x12-12
Caster wheels13x6.5-6
Warranty36 months or 1500 hours, whichever comes first
First 24 months, no hour limitation

Engine

Manufacturer/ModelFX1000V
PowerGross at 3,600 rpm
35 hp
26.1 kW
Displacement61 cu in.
999 cc
CylindersTwo
Crankcase capacityWith filter, 2 U.S. qt
1.9 L
Oil filterFull flow, replaceable
LubricationFull pressure
CoolingAir
Air cleanerPre-cleaner
Yes
Heavy-duty canister type with safety element
Injection

Fuel system

Fuel typeGasoline
Fuel consumptionUnder normal conditions, load, operation, and dependent on loads and operating conditions 1.1-1.9 U.S. gal./hr
4.2-7.2 L/hr
Fuel tank capacity11.5 U.S. gal.
43.5 L
Fuel tank switch/shut-off valveYes

Electrical system

Charge system20 amp
Battery voltage12 V
Cold cranking amp300 amp
Hour meterStandard, digital
Operator presence starting systemBrake-N-Go (foot)

Drivetrain

TransmissionHydrostatic
Hydraulic pumps
Wheel motorsTuff Torq heavy-duty integrated piston wheel motor
Travel speedSpeed range
0-12 mph
0-19.3 km/h
Forward
0-12 mph
0-19.3 km/h
Reverse
0-4.5 mph
0-7.2 km/h
Speed and direction controlTwin levers
Hydraulic capacity5.9 U.S. qt
5.6 L
Hydraulic oil cooler
FilterInternal, replaceable

Buyer's note

Tires

Drive wheels24x12-12
Rear tires
Load rating4 PR

Brakes

Dynamic brakingTwin levers
Park brakeInternal wet disk integrated in the transmission
Park brake actuationFoot brake

PTO

TypeElectro-magnetic, 225 lb-ft
305 Nm
DriveV-belt

Mower decks

Size60-in. (152-cm) 7Iron™ PRO side-discharge
72-in. (183-cm) 7Iron™ PRO side-discharge
72-in. (183-cm) FastBack™ PRO rear-discharge
Deck construction7-Iron™ PRO: 7-gauge, 0.179-in. (4.6-mm) one-piece forged steel
FastBack™ PRO: 7-gauge, 0.179-in. (4.6-mm) fabricated steel
Discharge
Height-of-cut rangeIncrements
0.25 in.
0.64 cm
1-5.5 in.
2.54-14 cm
Cutting width60, 72 in.
152, 183 cm
Deck thickness

Blades

LengthVaries by deck size
Thickness0.25 in.
0.64 cm
Blade tip speed7Iron PRO: Approximately 18,500 fpm
72-in. (183-cm) FastBack: Approximately 18,000 fpm
NumberThree

Wheels

Caster wheel typeFlat free
Caster wheels13x6.5-6
Front anti-scalp rollersRH, center, LH
Rear anti-scalp rollersStandard

Dimensions

Length84 in.
213 cm
WidthWith chute down, 74, 86 in.
188, 218 cm
Rear discharge, 75.8 in.
192.5 cm
HeightWith ROPS up, 73 in.
185 cm
With ROPS down, 47 in.
119 cm
Weight1,326 to 1,445 lb
601 to 655 kg

Operation

Rollover protective structure (ROPS)Yes
Slope operating limit20 degrees (10 degrees with material collection system installed)

Additional information

Offers & Discounts

No current offers.

Accessories & Attachments

Lighting

Beacon Light Kit - 2214TCBUC11406
Beacon Light Kit - 2214TCLP40112
LED front work light kit (2) - 2214TCBUC10955

Miscellaneous

Cargo Tray - 2214TCBUC10980
Hitch Kit - 2214TCBUC10300
Jack Kit - 2214TCBUC10584
ShadePro™ Canopy (Z900 Gas) - 2214TCBUC11070
String Trimmer Mount - 2214TCBUC10870
Sun Canopy - 2214TCLPA11548
Trash Receptacle Kit - 2214TCBUC11306
Yard Tool Kit - 2214TCBUC11034

Mulch Kits

Mulch Kit (1524-mm (60-in.) 7-Iron, 7-Iron II and 7-Iron PRO) - 2214TCTCB10953
Mulch Kit (1828.8-mm (72-in.) 7-Iron, 7-Iron II and 7-Iron PRO) - 2214TCTCB10951
Mulch Kit (1828.8-mm (72-in.) Rear Discharge FastBack PRO) - 2214TCBUC10904

Reviews

Jeff 1701
Location: Buchanan, GA
Length of Ownership: 6months
Usage: Weekly
Strong mower in tall grass

I live on 38 acres of land with 20 acres of pasture grass. The 970R cuts through the fields with ease and is 3 times faster than a tractor with a bush hog or tow behind mower. Cuts the grass in one pass nice and clean. The 72" mower deck handles high volume and discharges neatly.


jjr09
Location: Ohio
Length of Ownership: 6months
Usage: Weekly
Great mower..misleading fuel consumption

This is a great mower that gets the job down..however mowing 2.5 hours on flat ground uses 1/2 tank of gas!! Not quite what was advertised and more of a pain to try to get job down when having to refill so often. We did have this looked at by dealer and everything was fine. Don’t waste the money on striper it’s way to narrow.


swede
Location: dixon Il
Length of Ownership: 1yearOrLonger
Usage: Weekly
use to mow fairgrounds around 12 ACRES THE MOWER IS A BEAST IT JUST WANTS TO GO AND MOW EVERYDAY

USE TO MOW FAIRGROUNDS AROUND 12 ACRES THE MOWER WANTS TO GO AND MOW...ENGINE IS A BEAST...

Pros:

  • solid heavy duty frame and powerful dependable eng

Jetdr98
Location: Pennsylvania
Length of Ownership: 1month
Usage: Weekly
Do yourself a favor and purchase this machine

I did a ton of research before I made this purchase. Being a Deere customer for several years I was naturally a little biased but with the amount of money I was about to throw down I wanted be absolutely certain I was making the right choice for my situation. I test drove a handful of other brands, and had many discussions with the sales guys. Every model had features I liked and disliked, even the Deere. The decision was made to go with the Deere because of the the overall quality and comfort of the machine and because Deere put together the best deal financially. I ordered my machine with a 60” deck, suspension seat, and the Tweels. I couldn’t be more pleased with the results. This machine will give an excellent cut at nearly any speed you want to run, I have a large mostly open yard and run it at about 3/4 speed wherever I can and it looks just as good as the areas I have go slow. Rough terrain is a problem across the board with zero turn machines. I have not tried any of the front suspension gimmicks on the market, but, I am looking at them a little closer. If you are on the fence about this machine like I was I can tell you I am very pleased with my decision to go with the Deere. Machines in this class are a lot of money and in this case you get what you pay for. I expect to be running this machine for the next ten years at a minimum. One thing I dislike, one idler pulley on the deck doesn’t have enough clearance between the pulley and the deck, makes it a little harder to clean under than the other pulleys.


Duainemo
Location: Stafford, VA
Length of Ownership: 1yearOrLonger
Usage: Weekly
THIS BEAST rULES my yard and Acreage

I completely recommend the purchase of the Z970R if you have acreage. We bought the Z970R in May 2019 for a new property with some acreage and we LOVE IT! Have never owned more than a push mower but needed much more with our new acreage and hills. Initially thought of a tractor with mow capability just because of the diversity but in the end did this for expediency of mowings sake and this was less expensive for how much I would need it as well as MUCH faster. The mower came with zwheels, which are pretty interesting in their own right and I have grown to like a LOT as I don't have to worry about tire pressures or popped tires. They seem very easy to maintain. I do question their traction but have not had a real reason to question it, it just feels like it would not do great but to this point I've had no issues. We also got the deluxe extra glide seat (I extremely recommend if you will be on this 4-5 hours a stretch like I am), which I believe has saved my back and neck too many times to count. The seat is phenomenal as it can adjust for my wife as well, who is much smaller than me. This beast was well worth the purchase. I do wish I had gotten the mulching package from day but didn't know it was an option. This mower has served as a lawn mower as well as a brush hog. We have beat back about 15 feet of forest creep in most areas and the Z970R has handled the whole thing like the Champ it is. My neighbors are all jealous as I knock out almost 3 times the area they have in about the same time they use their regular ride on mowers. I can take this many more places they can. I cannot picture myself on anything else - ever.

Pros:

  • it's a beast
  • zwheels no tire pressure issues
  • size is just right
  • durability for grass fields and small brush
  • speed is great
  • handling is spot on
  • gas engine not diesel
  • everything
  • deluxe extra glide seat
  • handling is whatever you want it to be - excellent

Cons:
  • mulching package was not standard

Dozer63
Location: Moweaqua, Il
Length of Ownership: 6months
Usage: Weekly
Look no further

I have mowed with a JD 2320 since I purchased it new in 2013 and purchased a new Z970R this mowing season. The zero turn will mow circles around the tractor and makes a clean cut. I went with the 72" deck, 35HP gas engine and the nice suspension seat. The seat is amazing and I have not run out of power with the 35HP engine. The only other options I would of liked are the mulch on demand but its not available for the 72" deck and I should have went with the tweel. The mower is built very stout and I don't have any complaints after using it this last mowing season.


Diesel
Location:
Length of Ownership: 3months
Usage: Daily
green workhorse

This machine is worthy of a challenge I have as yet been unable to provide. I am not a commercial operator but I have lots of mowing to do. Purchasing this mower was the right decision. It is more expensive but trade in value is great and parts and service are a phone call.


viktire
Location: Masachusett's
Length of Ownership:
Usage: Daily
pretty good, i think it work's good, very well built machine,reliable

really good, the cut quality could not have been better, the machine is kind of bulky, meaning they could make is a little smaller, all of there commercial zero turns are 84" long, plus Bag = about 9 feet, all adding up to less trailer space, the price i feel could be 14,500$ instead of 15,500$, but all in all it is a great quality machine for the high budget business, there stander price's are more sensible if you are looking for a cheaper, just as reliable mower, check out Bradley mower's, they have great customer service.

Pros:

  • good build
  • reliable
  • cut quality

Cons:
  • overpriced
  • bulky

JohnDeereOwner
Location:
Length of Ownership: 1yearOrLonger
Usage: Weekly
Gets the job done

Strong engine, clean cut, easy running. Putting the brake on and off on ours is tricky.


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