The John Deere Z335E is a well-regarded residential zero-turn mower that balances power, comfort, and durability, making it a popular choice for homeowners with medium to large lawns.

If you are looking for a durable, powerful, and comfortable zero-turn mower with good customer support and reasonable pricing, it is worth considering.

John Deere Z335E Overview

Key Strengths:

Engine & Performance:

Powered by a 20-hp Briggs & Stratton V-twin engine, the Z335E delivers dependable power for typical residential mowing tasks.

The John Deere Z335E engine is praised for its ease of maintenance and reliability, with accessible oil and fuel filters and spark plugs.

Maneuverability:

Its zero-turn radius and 42-inch Accel Deep stamped-steel deck provide efficient cutting and good clipping dispersion, making it well-suited for medium-sized lawns with obstacles.

User Comfort:

The mower features a medium-back seat with armrests and basic suspension, offering reasonable comfort for residential use.

Maintenance:

The design allows easy access to engine components and includes a washout port for deck cleaning, simplifying upkeep.

Price Point:

Positioned as an entry-level zero-turn, it offers good value for homeowners wanting a branded, durable mower without commercial-grade cost.

Drawbacks & Considerations:

Deck Durability:

The stamped steel deck is lighter and less robust than thicker forged steel decks found on higher-end models, and users should avoid stepping on it to prevent bending.

Caster Wheel Bearings:

The mower uses plastic bushings without grease fittings in the caster forks, which can wear out and cause play or steering issues; regular greasing of other components is recommended to extend life.

Tire Pressure:

The tubeless tires tend to lose air pressure frequently, so regular checks and inflation (around 40-44 psi) are necessary for optimal performance.

Noise & Vibration:

Some users report noticeable noise and mechanical sounds from spindles or idlers, which may require attention.

Not Commercial Grade:

While reliable for residential use, the Z335E is not designed for commercial landscaping demands.

Customer Feedback:

Owners generally appreciate the mower’s engine quality and ease of maintenance but caution about common issues like deck vulnerability, tire air loss, and the need for greasing certain parts.

The John Deere Z335E mower is recommended for homeowners who maintain their equipment well and use it within its intended residential scope.

Technical Details

Engine: 20 hp (14.9 kW) V-twin full-pressure lubrication engine with cast iron cylinder liners, model M40 Intek, providing reliable power and torque for mulching, mowing, and bagging.

Cutting Deck: 42-inch Accel Deep™ stamped-steel mower deck designed for excellent cut quality, efficient clipping dispersion, and durability. The deep deck design reduces recutting of clippings and enhances productivity.

Speed: Maximum forward speed of 7.0 mph and reverse speed up to 3.5 mph, controlled by twin hydrostatic levers (Hydro-Gear EZT transmission).

Fuel Capacity: 2.1 U.S. gallons with a low-fuel indicator light.

Comfort Features: Medium-back seat with armrests and two steel coil suspension springs for shock absorption, a roomy operator platform with large footrest, cup holder, and covered storage compartments.

Additional Features: Wash port for easy deck cleaning, replaceable fuel and oil filters for maintenance ease, 18-position adjustable motion control levers, and a 2-year/120-hour bumper-to-bumper warranty.

Weight: Approximately 555 lbs with mower and fuel.

Price

The base price for the John Deere Z335E with a 42-inch deck is approximately $2,799 USD (as of early 2022 pricing), with optional mulch kits available for an additional cost (~$197) if mulching capability is desired.

Customer Service and Reliability

The John Deere Z335E provides solid customer support with a comprehensive warranty and readily available replacement parts.

Users report that the mower is durable and reliable with basic maintenance, such as regular oil changes and occasional deck belt replacements, which are relatively straightforward to perform.

The mower fits through most gates easily and provides good mowing quality and durability for residential use.

Some users note minor issues but generally recommend the Z335E for its value and performance as a first zero-turn mower.

Summary

The John Deere Z335E zero-turn mower is a solid choice for residential users seeking a reliable, easy-to-maintain machine with good power and maneuverability, though it has some limitations typical of entry-level zero-turn mowers.

Its price point around $2,800 makes it a competitive option in the residential zero-turn mower market.

Customer feedback highlights its reliability and ease of maintenance, making John Deere Z335E a solid choice for homeowners seeking efficiency and quality in lawn care.

It is a dependable, user-friendly zero-turn mower ideal for homeowners with medium-sized lawns looking for a balance of power, comfort, and value, provided they stay on top of routine maintenance and handle the deck carefully.