
Z960M ZTrak™ Zero-Turn Mower
- John Deere
- Ztrak Mowers
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Key Features & Specs
- 7-Iron™ PRO Mowing Deck
- Mulch On Demand™ Available
- Gasoline Engine
- Deck Size 60", 60" MOD, 72"
- Fuel Options Gas
- HP* 31 hp
- Deck 7Iron™ PRO Deck

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Durable hydrostatic drive train that delivers better cooling and provides easy access
Heavy-duty ground drive
The hydrostatic drive features two 13-cc (0.8-cu in.) unitized hydraulic pumps combined with commercial-grade, heavy-duty wheel motors into a single unit.
One pump and one motor drive each wheel on the ZTrak™ E and M 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
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Easy-to-operate height-of-cut adjustment enables on-the-go changes
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.
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Durable 7Iron™ PRO decks pressed from a single piece of steel
72-in. (183-cm) 7Iron PRO deck shown
The ZTrak™ M and R Series Mowers are equipped with either a side-discharge or Mulch On Demand™ 7Iron PRO deck.
7Iron PRO mower decks have demonstrated quality, performance, and durability. They deliver a high quality cut in diverse conditions.
Key features of the 7Iron PRO mower deck:- Deck is stamped 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 stamped from a single sheet of steel rather than multiple fabrications. An anti-skid step on the deck provides easy machine mounting.
- Higher blade tip speed than many competitors - 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.
Mower rectangular leading-edge reinforcement
Dual-captured anti-scalp wheel
Key features of the 7Iron PRO mower deck:
- Deck has rectangular leading deck edge reinforcement and the rounded corners of the stamped 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 aluminum providing both excellent strength and heat dissipation.
- 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.
7Iron PRO mower deck
M Series R Series Z920M - 48 in. (122 cm), 54 in. (137 cm), 60 in. (152 cm) Z930R - 54 in. (137 cm), 60 in. (152 cm) Z925M EFI - 54 in. (137 cm), 60 in. (152 cm) Z950R - 60 in. (152 cm), 72 in. (183 cm) Z930M - 54 in. (137 cm), 60 in. (152 cm) Z970R - 60 in. (152 cm), 72 in. (183 cm) Z945M EFI - 60 in. (152 cm) Z950M - 60 in. (152 cm), 72 in. (183 cm) Z955M EFI - 60 in. (152 cm), 72 in. (183 cm) Z960M - 60 in. (152 cm), 72 in. (183 cm) Mower deck step shown on 72-in. (183-cm) mower
The deck step safely aids the operator's entrance and egress from machine.
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Three seat choices with ComfortGlide™ fore/aft suspension offer exceptional operator comfort
There are three seating options available for the M and R Series, all of which are factory installed :
- Deluxe comfort seat with armrests
- Deluxe comfort seat with armrests and isolation
- Fully-adjustable suspension seat with armrests
ComfortGlide fore/aft suspension
ComfortGlide fore/aft suspension control lever
Each 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
Deluxe comfort seat with armrests
Deluxe comfort seat with armrests
The deluxe comfort seat with armrests is standard on all E, M, and R Series models:
- Rubber springs are provided to increase ride comfort.
- A convenient seat latch makes it easy to lift the seat.
- The seat is factory installed.
Deluxe comfort seat with armrests and isolation
Deluxe comfort seat with armrests and isolation
Rubber isolation mount
The deluxe comfort seat with armrests and isolation is available on the E, M, and R Series:
- Rubber springs are provided to isolate the seat base and to increase ride comfort.
- A convenient seat latch makes it easy to lift the seat.
- Isolation mounting is a good feature to reduce vibration for operators who do not require the fully-adjustable suspension seat option.
- Factory installed on Z900s ordered with the deluxe comfort seat with armrests and isolation option.
Fully-adjustable suspension seat with armrests
Fully-adjustable, mechanical suspension-seat
Suspension seat control
A fully-adjustable suspension seat with armrests option is available on the M and R Series:
- Adjustable back angle is provided for individual operator comfort.
- Adjustable lumbar support 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 for ease of lifting the seat
- On Z900s ordered with the fully-adjustable suspension seat with armrests option, it is factory installed.
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Powerful 31-hp (23.1-kW) commercial-grade engine delivers class-leading performance and efficiency
Z960M engine
The Z960M is powered by an air-cooled, vertical shaft engine:
- 31-hp (23.1-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
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Available Mulch On Demand™ deck
Mulch On Demand mower deck
Mower deck with chute closed
The Mulch On Demand mower deck delivers unprecedented levels of productivity and versatility to commercial mower operation. With the ability to switch between side discharge and mulching operation with the flip of a lever as the operator mows, keeping most clippings out of landscaping features and where they are wanted is extremely easy.
Mulch On Demand open
Mulch On Demand closed (latch standard on material collection system [MCS] equipped models only)
Lever position open (latch standard on MCS-equipped models only)
Lever position closed
Key features of the 7Iron PRO Mulch On Demand mower deck:
- Deck can be converted from a wide-open side discharge mode to a fully chambered mulching mode with a single move of a lever. NOTE: Mulch On Demand decks are a balance between a side discharge deck and a side discharge deck with a mulching kit.
- Deck is stamped 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 stamped from a single sheet of steel rather than multiple fabrications. Anti-skid step on the deck provides for easy machine mounting.
- Mulch On Demand decks are superior to aftermarket chute blockers due to the movable baffles.
- Higher blade tip speed than many competitors - 18,500 fpm (5,639 m/min) for more blade cuts per inch mowed.
- Rounded corners of the stamped deck help distribute impact stress to reduce the potential of damage when the mower contacts trees, rocks, curbs, and other fixed obstacles.
- Deep-deck design of 5.5 in. (14 cm) delivers excellent airflow so material can be processed quickly and efficiently.
- Wider and higher discharge opening provides even clipping dispersal for an excellent finished appearance in all conditions.
- 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 aluminum providing both excellent strength and heat dissipation.
- The front edge is raised above the blade plane to allow even cutting of tall grass and reinforced with a square bar for durability. The front baffle has been redesigned to better manage airflow and control clippings.
- Dual-captured anti-scalp wheels provide deck flotation over even the toughest terrain.
- Three greasable spindle zerks accessible from the top.
- Blade overlap is 1.6 in. (40 mm), nearly 0.79 in. (20 mm) greater than previous decks, to reduce striping between blades.
- Quick-change, cutting-height adjustment.
7Iron PRO Mulch On Demand mower deck
M Series R Series Z920M - 48-in. (122-cm) Mulch On Demand Z930R - 54-in. (137-cm) Mulch On Demand Z925M EFI - 54-in. (137-cm) Mulch On Demand Z950R - 60-in. (152-cm) Mulch On Demand Z930M - 54-in. (137-cm) Mulch On Demand
Z930M - 60-in. (152-cm) Mulch On DemandZ970R - 60-in. (152-cm) Mulch On Demand Z945M EFI - 60-in. (152-cm) Mulch On Demand Z950M - 60-in. (152-cm) Mulch On Demand Z955M EFI - 60-in. (152-cm) Mulch On Demand Z960M - 60-in. (152-cm) Mulch On Demand -
Three-year, bumper-to-bumper warranty
Z930M ZTrak Mower
Z970R ZTrak Mower
E and M Series three-year, 1200-hour bumper-to-bumper warranty
An exclusive two-year, unlimited hour/three-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 three-year, 1500-hour bumper-to-bumper warranty
An exclusive two-year, unlimited hour/three-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. -
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
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 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 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. and 60 in. (137-cm and 152-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
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 Tweels are required depending on the mowing deck size.
Michelin, X, and Tweel are trademarks of Michelin North America, Inc. -
Spindle assembly provides greater performance and reliability
Spindle assembly
On every John Deere ZTrak™ mower deck, there are three 1-in. (2.5-cm) spindles that are cold-forged and heat-treated for strength without bulk. The spindles are supported by precision ball bearings, providing great performance and reliability.
The spindle housing is made of aircraft-grade, ribbed cast aluminum. This unique casting design embosses reinforcing gussets in the housing, which adds both strength and cooling surface area that stands up to commercial applications.
These spindles can be greased from the top and require no disassembly to reach. Grease channels provide lubrication to both bearings. -
Mower is easy to service with many accessible components
Z945M EFI front view
Z945M EFI rear 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 seat
Onboard 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.
Diagnostics
Hourmeter (M Series pictured)
Diagnostic chart
The hourmeter 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 hourmeter.
Use of the hourmeter and service interval chart helps determine when the machine will need service.
Blades
Length | Varies by deck size |
Thickness | 0.25 in. 0.64 cm |
Number | Three |
Blade tip speed | Approximately 18,000 fpm 5,486 m/min |
Brakes
Dynamic braking | Twin levers |
Park brake | Internal wet disk integrated in the transmission |
Park brake actuation | Hand brake |
Buyer's note
Warranty | 36 months or 1200 hours, whichever comes first First 24 months, no hour limitation |
Dimensions
Length | 84 in. 213 cm |
Width | With chute down, 74, 86 in. 188, 218 cm |
Height | With ROPS up, 73 in. 185 cm With ROPS down, 47 in. 119 cm |
Weight | 1,252 to 1,340 lb 568 to 608 kg |
Drivetrain
Wheel motors | Tuff Torq heavy-duty integrated piston wheel motor |
Speed and direction control | Twin levers |
Hydraulic capacity | 5.9 U.S. qt 5.6 L |
Filter | Internal, replaceable |
Travel speed | Speed range 0-10 mph 0-16.1 km/h Forward 0-10 mph 16.1 km/h Reverse 0-4.5 mph 0-7.2 km/h |
Transmission | Hydrostatic |
Electrical system
Charge system | 20 amp |
Battery voltage | 12 V |
Cold cranking amp | 300 amp |
Hour meter | Standard, digital |
Operator presence starting system | Brake-N-Go (hand) |
Engine
Displacement | 61 cu in. 999 cc |
Cylinders | Two |
Crankcase capacity | With filter, 2 U.S. qt 1.9 L |
Oil filter | Full flow, replaceable |
Lubrication | Full pressure |
Cooling | Air |
Air cleaner | Pre-cleaner Yes Heavy-duty canister type with safety element |
Manufacturer/Model | FX921V |
Power | Gross at 3,600 rpm, 31 hp 23.1 kW |
Fuel system
Fuel type | Gasoline |
Fuel consumption | Under 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 capacity | 11.5 U.S. gal. 43.5 L |
Fuel tank switch/shut-off valve | Yes |
Key Specs
Mower deck Size | 60, 72 in. 137, 183 cm |
Engine Power | Gross at 3,600 rpm: 31 hp 23.1 kW |
Drive wheels | 24x12-12 |
Blade tip speed | Approximately 18,000 fpm 5,486 m/min |
Fuel tank capacity | 11.5 U.S. gal. 43.5 L/hr |
Caster wheels | 13x6.5-6 |
Warranty | 36 months or 1200 hours, whichever comes first First 24 months, no hour limitation |
Transmission | Hydrostatic |
Engine Manufacturer/model | FX921V |
Speed range | 0-10 mph 0-16.1 km/h |
Mower decks
Deck construction | 7-Iron PRO, one-piece stamped steel with reinforcements |
Deck thickness | 7 gauge 0.18 in. 4.6 mm |
Discharge | Side, MOD |
Height-of-cut range | Increments 0.25 in. 0.64 cm 1-5.5 in. 2.54-14 cm |
Cutting width | 60, 72 in. 152, 183 cm |
Size | 60, 72 in. 152, 183 cm |
PTO
Type | Electro-magnetic, 225 lb-ft 305 Nm |
Drive | V-belt |
Tires
Load rating | 4 PR |
Drive wheels | 24x12-12 |
Wheels
Caster wheel type | Flat free |
Front anti-scalp rollers | RH, center, LH |
Rear anti-scalp rollers | Optional |
Caster wheels | 13x6.5-6 |
Additional information
Date collected | 07-Jun-2017 |
5.0
Powerful
We have used John Deere mowers since we started our maintenance business and this mower takes the cake. We've owned Z915Bs, Z930Ms, Z950Ms, QuikTrak and walk behind units. Now we have 2 Z960Ms and love them! We have a 60" side discharge on one unit paired with a MCS. Our other unit has a 54" MOD deck to fit in our tight cemetery applications. Our local dealer has represented John Deere in an outstanding way and has us coming back time and time again. If you're looking for power and quality cut in a unit look no further than the Z960M.
MBLC
- From: Western, NY, USA
- Usage Frequency: Daily
- Level of Experience: Expert
Z960M
I own a 1026R and a Z960M. They are both awesome machines. I have always owned a JD and never any issues. Nothing runs like a Deere baby!!!!
OraidinPA
- From: Barnesville, PA 18214, USA
- Usage Frequency: Weekly
- Level of Experience: Expert
