Trusted American machinery maker John Deere needs no introduction, established in the early 1830s and producing quality turf equipment since the early 60s. The Z915E is John Deere’s impressive entry-level commercial machine.
Powered by the reliable Kohler CV742 engine producing 25hp, the operator can be assured the engine is proven for this application. Maintenance access around the engine is excellent – the oil filter is easily removed without obstruction and a handy extended drain hose enables oil to be removed without mess. The foot pan lifts out effortlessly without tools to allow ease of access to the top of the deck for inspection and maintenance. The plastic outer spindle covers also remove easily without tools.
The control panel to the right of the operator’s seat has standard features, but also includes a push button blade engagement switch and a unique dial deck height selector. Setting the deck height is simple and effortless with this dial because, unlike many others, the operator can turn it with their fingertips to select the desired cutting height without moving or bending from the operator’s seat. The control levers are a nice thick diameter with soft grip ensuring operator comfort. The seat is also extremely comfortable, especially for an entry-level commercial machine.
The Z915E is robust and built to cope with contractor punishment. Its frame is constructed of heavy duty C-channel, the front forks hold the castor wheels (cast iron and cop extreme punishment), the 7-gauge deck is reinforced in the necessary places and a solid rear cowl protects the engine from inevitable knocks.
The standout piece of equipment on the Z915E, which is apparent the moment you lay eyes on the machine, is the rear wheels. The new technology MICHELIN® X® TWEEL® TURF Airless Radial Tyre* is revolutionary to this type of application. The MICHELIN X TWEEL TURF product has many advantages over conventional wheels and tyres. Firstly, no downtime due to punctures and no costly repairs – the poly-resin flexible spokes enhance operator comfort by absorbing impacts and ensure an even cut because they absorb bumps and uneven terrain more than a conventional tyre rather than bouncing up and down.
My first question was: how long do they last?
The good news is they can last up to three times longer than a conventional pneumatic tyre so I think they are a great addition to the Z915E. The only improvement could be flat-free castor wheels to ensure there is no downtime due to punctures.
The John Deere Z915E is an excellent entry level commercial machine. It provides a neat even cut, it’s fast and comfortable, and is backed by a three year/1200 hour warranty with no hour limit for the first two years^.
Approved for John Deere ZTrak Z900 B, E, M, R Series petrol powered zero-turn mowers equipped with 137 cm (54 in.), 152.4 cm (60 in.) or 182.9 cm (72 in.) decks.
^ Hour/and or usage limitations apply and vary by model. See the warranty for new John Deere Commercial equipment at dealer for details.
† Available in 122 cm (48 in.), 137.2 cm (54 in.) and 152.4 cm (60 in.) widths.