John Deere Z950M Tractor Information

Price

New (2025): $14,799–$16,799 (varies by dealer, deck, and options)

Used: $2,600–$19,995 depending on age, hours, and condition

Weight

Operating Weight: 1,275–1,365 lbs (578–619 kg), depending on deck and configuration

Common Problems & Solutions

1. Engine Starting Issues

Causes: Old fuel, clogged filters, worn spark plugs, or battery issues.

Solutions: Replace fuel, clean/replace air and fuel filters, check/replace spark plugs, ensure battery is charged and connections are clean.

2. Mower Deck Not Engaging

Causes: Faulty PTO switch, worn or broken belts, electrical issues.

Solutions: Test/replace PTO switch, inspect/replace belts, check wiring and fuses.

3. Overheating

Causes: Dirty cooling fins, clogged air filter, low oil.

Solutions: Clean cooling fins, replace air filter, check and top off oil.

4. Uneven Cutting

Causes: Dull blades, unlevel deck, improper tire pressure.

Solutions: Sharpen/replace blades, level deck, check and adjust tire pressure.

5. Hydraulic System Malfunctions

Causes: Low or old hydraulic fluid, leaks.

Solutions: Check fluid level, replace fluid as needed, inspect for leaks.

6. Electronic Troubles

Causes: Loose wiring, weak battery, water ingress in control panel.

Solutions: Inspect and secure wiring, replace battery if needed, protect electronics from moisture.

Maintenance Tip: Regular oil changes, blade sharpening, and keeping filters clean can prevent most issues and extend mower life.

Attachments & Accessories

Mower Decks: 60″ or 72″ 7-Iron PRO decks

Mulch Kits

Mulch on Demand

Tweels (airless radial tires)

Rear Discharge Deck

Extended Warranties

What are the benefits of the propane option available for this mower?

The propane option available for the John Deere Z950M mower offers several key benefits:

Reduced Fuel Costs: Propane conversion kits can lower fuel expenses by up to 30%, depending on fuel prices, making it a more economical choice over gasoline.

Lower Emissions: Propane burns cleaner than gasoline, resulting in reduced emissions and a smaller environmental footprint, which is beneficial for meeting stricter regulations and for environmentally conscious operations.

Reduced Fuel-System Maintenance: Propane fuel systems tend to be cleaner, which can lead to less carbon buildup and fewer maintenance issues related to the fuel system compared to gasoline engines.

Same Power and Performance: The propane option maintains the Z950M’s class-leading 27-hp engine performance without sacrificing horsepower or torque.

Operational Convenience: Propane tanks can be quickly swapped, allowing for longer mowing times with minimal downtime for refueling.

In summary, the propane option enhances the mower’s efficiency and environmental friendliness while potentially lowering operating costs and maintenance needs, all without compromising power or reliability.

What safety and maintenance advantages come with using propane instead of gasoline?

Using propane instead of gasoline in mowers like the John Deere Z950M offers several safety and maintenance advantages:

Safety Advantages

Safer Fuel Storage: Propane tanks are safer to store than gasoline because propane is stored under pressure as a gas and does not spill or pool on the ground, reducing fire and contamination risks.

Non-Toxic and Non-Polluting: Propane is nontoxic and will not contaminate soil or groundwater if leaks occur, unlike gasoline which is a hazardous liquid.

Lower Flammability Risk: Propane is considered the least flammable of alternative fuels and does not produce smoggy exhaust, improving operator and environmental safety.

Leak Detection: Propane has an added odorant for easy leak detection, and proper handling protocols reduce risks further.

No Fuel Spills: Since propane is a gas, it eliminates gasoline spills during refueling, which are a common hazard and environmental concern with gasoline mowers.

Maintenance Advantages

Cleaner Burning Fuel: Propane burns cleaner than gasoline, producing fewer carbon deposits and less engine gunk, which helps keep the engine and fuel system cleaner and reduces maintenance frequency.

Extended Engine Life: Propane engines run cooler and experience less stress on internal parts, which can extend engine life compared to gasoline engines.

Longer Service Intervals: Propane does not gum up carburetors or fuel systems like gasoline, resulting in fewer carburetor problems and longer intervals between oil changes and spark plug replacements.

Fuel Stability: Propane does not degrade over time, unlike gasoline which can go stale in a few months, reducing issues related to old fuel and improving reliability.

Reduced Exhaust Emissions: Propane emits significantly fewer harmful pollutants (carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, VOCs), which helps maintain cleaner engine internals and reduces environmental impact.