Agreed. I once thought they were just hype and a waste of money. Then, the local dealer brought me one to use while my grooming mower blades were on order. It was amazing. I ordered one within a week and haven’t looked back. I mow over ten acres with a Z960M…
Good review from an actual owner with the comparison to more traditional mowers, and a first-time owner of a zero turn. I have a 1992 John Deere RX75 I purchased new in 1993 off the dealer lot, mainly because of my grandfather's advice from years ago. He was a retired farmer in Minnesota who'd run John Deere equipment and made his living with them. I used to go up to what was left of the farm as a boy starting at 11 for the summer and started mowing then on front engine JD riding mowers. We mowed 3 or 4 acres of grass at least once a week. He warned me about the Craftsman grade of mowers and maintain power equipment properly. When I purchased my first rider, naturally it was a JD. The RX75 swings a 30-inch blade, and I have a bagger kit I got with it. That same mower is around 31 years old now, and has mowed my 1/2 acre of grass, bagged tons of leaves over the years, hauled firewood, rocks, and loads of dirt, etc. Still runs like the day I got it. 9hp Kawasaki engine, and I am still running the original bags even. I have only had to replace a few belts in all those years, aside from oil changes, grease, one starter, and air filters. Now in 2 years I will retire, maybe next year, and we are going to move to Idaho to someplace with at least an acre of grass or more. Why? I love the beauty of a nice lawn, a big one. This is what brought me to your review, because I will likely upgrade to a zero turn, and with the reliability I've had it will be another JD. I appreciate the well-done review-it was very informative from someone that actually owns one, not a robot voice BS review company that Google/Bing always prioritize. Good review, thanks.
Man thank you very much! I learned the hard way cutting my nieces yard. Her yard is on the main street with a small slope off the side walk, I almost flipped over going sideways. I ended up scalping part of the side. I ended up doing the slope with a push mower. Listening to you helped a lot.
I have over two acres to mow and I had an X590 John Deere with power steering and a big cushy high back seat, it did a good job but it took me forever to mow. Last year I made the leap and traded it in on a Z545R and never looked back, it does a fantastic job in half the time.
Been using 42" cut lawn tractors for years cutting about 2 acres. My grandson just bought a country home on 10 acres of mostly grass. I decided that for him, a Z530M would be a good choice. It will be delivered at the end of this month.
I worked big farms all the war through college. Using the methods we used tilling land, makes a big difference in mowing time. I do my ends and lay off lands while mowing. It really speeds up garden tractor mowing time. These simple methods will really reduce mowing times on your tractor. Unless you have a lot of obstacles a garden tractor will save you a lot of money over the zero turn.
Those are pretty good. Especially when they are under warranty. If the transmission goes out looking at about $1800 at a John Deere dealer, or around $950 for a replacement and a lot of work to do by yourself.
@@TrowelandError Thanks and good luck. I have a 40 inch cut Murray I put a 25 horsepower Kohler engine on. That thing can cut tall, thick grass, and not bog. I really enjoy it. I just bought a 48 inch cut John Deere, 22 horsepower Briggs. Needs some work, then I plan on selling it.
well I had a 54" cut Z425 It was getting tires, so just ordered the Z530M, it will be here tomorrow morning at 8:30 AM I made the mistake of buying a Yanmar 225 diesel with a front loader and 60" deck, only to find out it was too heavy for my property. Very quiet mower, and I love everything about it, except the weight. (it is for sale) I have 94 acres (not all grass) , but lots to cut, I would guess 5-6 acres. A search for the Z530M brought me here, thanks for the video, and happy cutting. Owen Sound, Ontario, Canada
I use a z530m 60 inch deck and mow to cemeteries one is 4 acres the other is 3 overall it’s a good mower for what I use it for and it has already paid for itself in 1 mowing season
Thanks for explaining the difference between Zero Turn and front engine tractors. I just went through this in April and was told that I spent to much on my X350 when I could get a zero turn. I cut 2 ditches, one length of front of property and one length of side of the property. I always have Gorilla cart hooked to it while not cutting. I got 48 inch deck cause it was easy to remove. I cut just over 2 acres and already have 50 hours on it. Hope you continue to enjoy.
I have the very same mower model year 2021 not much has changed. I would suggest checking the deck height using the deck gauge mine was 1/2” too short when I had the deck set for 4” it was mowing @3.5”
I'm glad you like it. I was looking for a 545R and no one had them in stock, so I went with the 530R and love it. We cut an acre at the house and 3 acres around our 9500 sq. ft. garden at our farm and this mower does the exact same thing my bush hog does! Im glad I got mine. Finding accessories is tough right now unless I want to drive 4.5 hrs.
@@TrowelandError I want the tool box so I can replace a belt or make small repairs if needed, and I want to and the rear bumper for some added protection for the rear. Already came with the hitch so I can pull the cart with a load of firewood.
Enjoyed your review. I like the new 2023 models. I purchased in 2022 a JD Z345R the last year for those models. I have watched a lot of videos on zero turn mowers before I made my decision. And very satisfied with my purchase. I would have liked to see JD keep the yellow paint scheme on the mower decks. I think it just makes them stand out more. Overall I’ve been satisfied with my purchase.
Congrats on the new mower, I had my z530m delivered last week. I liked they had the 4yr or 300hr warranty. Ordered my 8 hr new engine oil change kit and plan on doing it myself as the JD dealership (and everyone ) are two months behind on service. Had to adj the scalpers and and deck height before I could use it. Love the 24hp Kawasaki motor and 4.5 gal gas tank. I have the mulch kit like you but will only use it when I am field mowing. I have 5 acres and like you it was taking me all day with a JD x384. The z530m goes up to 8 mph, but on hilly terrain I am only going max speed on the straightaways. Hope you do a follow up video after you have put some hours on. Was going to mention Home Depot has a lot of the JD accessories like the OEM JD foot pegs and covers at a better price since they sell the JD zero turns in the 300 series. Happy Mowing 😎👍
Thank you for watching! Glad to hear from another z530m owner. The four year warranty was definitely a big factor in my purchase. Another great feature in the series is the ease of maintenance. You should have no problem with your eight hour service. Also, good information about Home Depot carrying the accessories. Thanks for the comment and happy mowing!
I have a ryobi battery powered mower. I love it. It’s light weight and cuts great. Folds up out of the way. I got it because I don’t have a lot of yard to cut and wanted something quiet and light. I hate dealing with gasoline and oil so it was the right choice for me. If I had a lawn like yours I’d buy what you have in a heartbeat.
We love Ryobi products also, and it definitely makes sense in your situation if you don't have a lot of yard to cut! I love that yours can fold up and be stored out of the way too! 🙌🏼😊Thanks for watching!
John Deere makes fantastic mowers. Follow the recommendations for maintenance, like I’m sure you will, and it will last you a long time. Mower wise I have a 48” Scag VRide II and a 60” Scag Cheetah II. I have a part time lawn business and currently take care of 18 properties. I run Scag equipment due to my local dealer support. I can talk mowers all night 😀. Congratulations and stay safe. From Mid-Mo, Fezz.
Would love to know how much mowing time it saved you going from tractor to the zero turn? I currently have a tractor with a 42 inch deck and am picking up a JD 530R this week with a 54 inch deck. Can’t wait to see how much time it saves me, took 2 hours with the 42 inch deck.
Hey, Aimee here. I'll ask Matt tonight, but from my perspective I think it has cut his mowing time *at least* in half. There was a bit of a learning curve at first (like most things!) so it's only gotten faster for him. So I def think you're going to be getting some of that 2 hours back in your life! Keep us posted on how you like it and your results. Thanks for watching and happy mowing!
I use a x738 for my mowing business. Works extremely well. I don't recommend zero turns when your up this far in the sticks as they say. Seen other lawn care workers get stuck in the mud. I have 4wd. I don't recommend John deeres stripping wheel roller kit as it tears up grass. Thee x738 has many many many different applications I use for my customers. Thee bucket in the back with Thee 3 piont hitch works very well for hauling sticks and big branches. All in all I'd give it a 10 out of 10.
I hear ya. I to had a walk behind mower to do a laelrge yard and a rider back in 1990. It was nice. Then last year I bought a 22 hp zero turn mower and good lord it makes doin the yard a lot easier
I just bought a brand new Z330R at home depot for $1999. I'm waiting for delivery. There was two for that price, another man was buying the other one as I was buying mine. I originally went there to buy a front engine tractor mower because I always thought zero turns were not as versatile as tractors and they are not safe on hills. My question is, do the roll bars come standard? I noticed none of the mowers had roll bars at the store.
Fantastic video! I’m doing a lot of research on Zero turn. We’re buying property that has a humongous yard to mow (8 acres). These mowers price points are all over the map. I’m not sure if I need a commercial grade mower or if I could get by with a residential model. The previous owners have Kubota 60” with the Kawasaki FX850VEFI motor. Not sure if this is considered a commercial mower or not. Do you have any thoughts form? Thanks again for the great video!
Congrats on the new property, that sounds awesome! For that much property, it may be best to see what your options are with a dealer. I certainly think this mower could handle it, but there might be better options to better suit your unique situation. Thanks again for watching and happy mowing! Keep us updated on what you decide!
Congrats on your new mower! We had the dealership do ours. I think if you can get under it yourself it would be possible for you to put it on. If you don't think that you can get underneath, it's probably best to just have the dealership do it for you. I don't believe it was much more to have them do it for us. Thanks for watching and commenting. Happy mowing!
I bought the z530m after owning it a little over a year, cutting an acre and a half. Decided to trade it in on a Z740R . Personally, the Z530M are a decent mower but beat you to death . It's OK for the size of the lawn you are using it to cut grass .
Nice! We haven't checked out the Z740R yet but just upgrading to the Z530M has made life so much easier so far (and less pain than the riding mower!) Thanks for watching Rob! Happy mowing!
Yep, the Z740R is a much better build mower, and I like the fact that the break is integrated in the handles . So you never have to remember to disengage the parking break or set the break . And the comfort glide seat is a nice feature.
Just keep in mind that John Deere only warranties the deck for one year, then you're on your own. In Missouri that's just one season, or about 25 cuttings. I have the same one, and a 1025R, and the deck blew the belt tensioner and pulled rivets and it was not covered under warranty, so buyer be careful. In my opinion, JD doesn't stand behind what they make.
Might have to take that up with youtube as their algorithm is user driven (as in what you search determines what will come up in results more often). Sorry you accidentally found this video mistakenly.
Hi Marissa, thanks for watching! Highly recommend visiting some dealers and just sitting in a few and seeing if you feel a difference that is worth saving up a little extra for. It could definitely make a difference in your comfort! Happy mowing!
Hmmm. Seat that “rocks back and forth” seems a bit dangerous. I would not be comfortable with that. I too owned several push mowers, then a lawn tractor (for 11 years) and this year moved to a zero turn (Scag) this year. With a 12000 square foot yard I agree with your conclusion it is perhaps the best piece of lawn equipment I have ever purchased. However, despite the downsides there are circumstances in which I choose to use a push mower, for example, after overseeding when I am concerned that a 900 pound zero turn might damage young grass. Overall, I thought your review was informative. We just disagree on what zero turn to purchase. Nothing wrong with that.
Might not have explained it well, seat slides back and forth, just ever so slightly to absorb the shock so your back doesn't. Thanks for watching Dale!
@@TrowelandErrorNo problem. I’m just a 71 year old homeowner whose experience has taught me a few things. I also push the perimeter before pulling out the zero turn because our yard is heavily slanted on one side. I don’t want to slide or roll into the woods. I never want to test the effectiveness of ROPS. 😅
@@dalewiley9208 we love getting input from those more experienced, that's how we learn! And yes, we definitely don't want you rolling over on those slopes!
I had a used 1990's 46" Kohler 13 hp (?) JD tractor mower. That my late husband bought at a auction for $300 or so. After throwing parts into it before and after his death in August 2012. With making it more the of the cost of a new mower...The engine started leaking oil. I bought a JD Z540M mower in 2016 and traded in 2018 JD Z540M. Was going to trade in 2020. Covid hit and no new mowers were available. So still have the 2018 with 347 hours. I don't have the deck leveling foot push on mine. It's not that difficult to raise or lower deck. I think the new design it would be just something more to go wrong and need repair. Plus I live out in the country and have barb wire fences to go under. That foot pedal sticking up would get caught on for getting close to trim grass around fence post. I don't have the roll guard and it would be in the way for trimming under trees. I don't have the mulching device. I think it would clog the mower when doing heavy grass and leaves. I just go over grass/leaves several times to chop up finer when thicker. I keep seat stationary. My air filter cover is different with a couple of knobs to turn. Not difficult. Deck cover requires a bolt to be taken out. Not difficult. My air filter has a black foam piece that goes over it and I remove it rinse clean with water, let dry and put back on. I also tap dust out air filter after each mow use and clean mower filter housing. I had engine overhead at JD done at 200 hours as recommended by JD manual. Two years ago I had right mower deck spindle needing repair. So as they had deck apart. I had the other two spindles, 4 mower guide pulleys and deck belt replaced. (As finding out with my JD tractor mower deck if belt guide pulleys aren't replaced at same time of new mower deck belt installed. The mower deck belt gets shredded immediately when engaged otherwise.) Engine oil/air filter/greased is changed at 50 hours and I use JD recommended oil and filters. The Kawasaki engine (excellent engine) takes 2 quarts and one cup oil as stated in manual. Not as salesman stated only 2 quarts. I have a complete service including new mower blades at dealer every other year. (Yearly was costing over $350 including pickup and delivery for JD service so I cut back to every other year. I can do it for parts $50 )With change oil/air filter/grease at 50 hours in between JD servicing. I use non ethanol gas and put fuel saver immediately in gas cans after filling. Also put fresh gas with fuel saver in Z540M for winter storage. I've never taken battery out for winter storage. It's always started next spring. I put moth balls in small containers in various locations on mower at fall to keep mice out. As first year I had mice problems. JD dealer recommended moth balls placement. I have over 2 acres with many trees of hilly lawn. Last year my lawn was only mowed 7 times because of very dry weather.. I'm a 5'1" 75 year old widow of almost 12 years lady that was married over 43 years. I would recommend this mower. But they have gone up in price over a $1000. My JD dealer always has immediate available parts and great service after the sale. Thank you for your review and video. Blessings to you.
@@elijahbey3366 I stand corrected. My 2016 was Z540M traded for 2018 Z540M that I still have. My apologies to you. I should have checked my model number better. Thank you for the clarification. I've been happy with both mowers.
@@elijahbey3366 Following owner's manual instructions of doing required maintenance is key to trouble free repairs. Oil, filters and grease are cheap compared to parts and labor cost. Your neighbor made a good choice of Z540M.
Agreed. I once thought they were just hype and a waste of money. Then, the local dealer brought me one to use while my grooming mower blades were on order. It was amazing. I ordered one within a week and haven’t looked back. I mow over ten acres with a Z960M…
Good review from an actual owner with the comparison to more traditional mowers, and a first-time owner of a zero turn. I have a 1992 John Deere RX75 I purchased new in 1993 off the dealer lot, mainly because of my grandfather's advice from years ago. He was a retired farmer in Minnesota who'd run John Deere equipment and made his living with them. I used to go up to what was left of the farm as a boy starting at 11 for the summer and started mowing then on front engine JD riding mowers. We mowed 3 or 4 acres of grass at least once a week. He warned me about the Craftsman grade of mowers and maintain power equipment properly. When I purchased my first rider, naturally it was a JD. The RX75 swings a 30-inch blade, and I have a bagger kit I got with it. That same mower is around 31 years old now, and has mowed my 1/2 acre of grass, bagged tons of leaves over the years, hauled firewood, rocks, and loads of dirt, etc. Still runs like the day I got it. 9hp Kawasaki engine, and I am still running the original bags even. I have only had to replace a few belts in all those years, aside from oil changes, grease, one starter, and air filters. Now in 2 years I will retire, maybe next year, and we are going to move to Idaho to someplace with at least an acre of grass or more. Why? I love the beauty of a nice lawn, a big one. This is what brought me to your review, because I will likely upgrade to a zero turn, and with the reliability I've had it will be another JD. I appreciate the well-done review-it was very informative from someone that actually owns one, not a robot voice BS review company that Google/Bing always prioritize. Good review, thanks.
@@JemezDaveNM84 sounds like you got a lot of great years out of the JD! Really appreciate your comment and watching the video- Happy mowing!
Man thank you very much! I learned the hard way cutting my nieces yard. Her yard is on the main street with a small slope off the side walk, I almost flipped over going sideways. I ended up scalping part of the side. I ended up doing the slope with a push mower. Listening to you helped a lot.
So glad you didn't flip over! Push mowing better than getting hurt. Glad the video helped, thanks for watching and happy mowing!
I have over two acres to mow and I had an X590 John Deere with power steering and a big cushy high back seat, it did a good job but it took me forever to mow. Last year I made the leap and traded it in on a Z545R and never looked back, it does a fantastic job in half the time.
That's awesome, glad you like it! Thanks for watching Patricia and happy mowing!
Been using 42" cut lawn tractors for years cutting about 2 acres. My grandson just bought a country home on 10 acres of mostly grass. I decided that for him, a Z530M would be a good choice. It will be delivered at the end of this month.
That's exciting Karl! We hope your grandson enjoys it!
I worked big farms all the war through college. Using the methods we used tilling land, makes a big difference in mowing time. I do my ends and lay off lands while mowing. It really speeds up garden tractor mowing time. These simple methods will really reduce mowing times on your tractor. Unless you have a lot of obstacles a garden tractor will save you a lot of money over the zero turn.
@@ralphllivrah9551 great insight, thanks Ralph! And thanks for watching-happy mowing!
Those are pretty good. Especially when they are under warranty. If the transmission goes out looking at about $1800 at a John Deere dealer, or around $950 for a replacement and a lot of work to do by yourself.
Thanks for watching Bert- Fingers crossed we can keep ours in good shape! Happy mowing!
@@TrowelandError
Thanks and good luck.
I have a 40 inch cut Murray I put a 25 horsepower Kohler engine on. That thing can cut tall, thick grass, and not bog. I really enjoy it. I just bought a 48 inch cut John Deere, 22 horsepower Briggs. Needs some work, then I plan on selling it.
@@bertgrau3934 that's a great way to maximize your resources!
I’m in Springfield and just bought a 530 with a 60 inch deck. This thing is AMAZING!
So glad you're enjoying it! Thanks for watching and happy mowing!
well I had a 54" cut Z425
It was getting tires, so just ordered the Z530M, it will be here tomorrow morning at 8:30 AM
I made the mistake of buying a Yanmar 225 diesel with a front loader and 60" deck, only to find out it was too heavy for my property.
Very quiet mower, and I love everything about it, except the weight. (it is for sale)
I have 94 acres (not all grass) , but lots to cut, I would guess 5-6 acres.
A search for the Z530M brought me here, thanks for the video, and happy cutting.
Owen Sound, Ontario, Canada
@@07decker hope you enjoy it as much as I've enjoyed ours! Come back and let us know- Happy mowing!
I use a z530m 60 inch deck and mow to cemeteries one is 4 acres the other is 3 overall it’s a good mower for what I use it for and it has already paid for itself in 1 mowing season
Thanks for explaining the difference between Zero Turn and front engine tractors. I just went through this in April and was told that I spent to much on my X350 when I could get a zero turn. I cut 2 ditches, one length of front of property and one length of side of the property. I always have Gorilla cart hooked to it while not cutting. I got 48 inch deck cause it was easy to remove. I cut just over 2 acres and already have 50 hours on it. Hope you continue to enjoy.
Hey Roddie, thanks for watching! We love our Gorilla Cart also!
I have the very same mower model year 2021 not much has changed. I would suggest checking the deck height using the deck gauge mine was 1/2” too short when I had the deck set for 4” it was mowing @3.5”
I have a 2023 Z545R with the 60" deck and love it, too. The seat makes a bigger difference than most people realize.
Hi Dale! The seat can definitely make a difference, especially for those with chronic pain issues. Thanks for watching and happy mowing!
Good info. Thanks. I just ordered a Z530R54 and I think I’m going to love it. I cut about 2 acres.
That's awesome! Come back and let us know how you like it, happy mowing! 🚜
I have two bad knees and the zero turn mower is a big help
So glad it helps you out! Work smarter not harder!
I'm glad you like it. I was looking for a 545R and no one had them in stock, so I went with the 530R and love it. We cut an acre at the house and 3 acres around our 9500 sq. ft. garden at our farm and this mower does the exact same thing my bush hog does! Im glad I got mine. Finding accessories is tough right now unless I want to drive 4.5 hrs.
Thanks for watching Scott, glad you like yours! What kind of accessories are you thinking about getting?
@@TrowelandError I want the tool box so I can replace a belt or make small repairs if needed, and I want to and the rear bumper for some added protection for the rear. Already came with the hitch so I can pull the cart with a load of firewood.
Enjoyed your review. I like the new 2023 models. I purchased in 2022 a JD Z345R the last year for those models. I have watched a lot of videos on zero turn mowers before I made my decision. And very satisfied with my purchase. I would have liked to see JD keep the yellow paint scheme on the mower decks. I think it just makes them stand out more. Overall I’ve been satisfied with my purchase.
Hey Steve, thanks for watching! Happy mowing!
Congrats on the new mower, I had my z530m delivered last week. I liked they had the 4yr or 300hr warranty. Ordered my 8 hr new engine oil change kit and plan on doing it myself as the JD dealership (and everyone ) are two months behind on service. Had to adj the scalpers and and deck height before I could use it. Love the 24hp Kawasaki motor and 4.5 gal gas tank. I have the mulch kit like you but will only use it when I am field mowing. I have 5 acres and like you it was taking me all day with a JD x384. The z530m goes up to 8 mph, but on hilly terrain I am only going max speed on the straightaways. Hope you do a follow up video after you have put some hours on. Was going to mention Home Depot has a lot of the JD accessories like the OEM JD foot pegs and covers at a better price since they sell the JD zero turns in the 300 series. Happy Mowing 😎👍
Thank you for watching! Glad to hear from another z530m owner. The four year warranty was definitely a big factor in my purchase. Another great feature in the series is the ease of maintenance. You should have no problem with your eight hour service. Also, good information about Home Depot carrying the accessories. Thanks for the comment and happy mowing!
Nice video. I bought this same mower in April of 2022. I love it!
Glad to hear you enjoy it too! Thanks for watching Andy!
One of the best reviews of this machine! Thank you. I cant wait to get one 👍🏼
Hey Marco, we think you're gonna love it! Thanks for watching and commenting, happy mowing!
I have a ryobi battery powered mower. I love it. It’s light weight and cuts great. Folds up out of the way. I got it because I don’t have a lot of yard to cut and wanted something quiet and light. I hate dealing with gasoline and oil so it was the right choice for me. If I had a lawn like yours I’d buy what you have in a heartbeat.
We love Ryobi products also, and it definitely makes sense in your situation if you don't have a lot of yard to cut! I love that yours can fold up and be stored out of the way too! 🙌🏼😊Thanks for watching!
John Deere makes fantastic mowers. Follow the recommendations for maintenance, like I’m sure you will, and it will last you a long time. Mower wise I have a 48” Scag VRide II and a 60” Scag Cheetah II. I have a part time lawn business and currently take care of 18 properties. I run Scag equipment due to my local dealer support. I can talk mowers all night 😀. Congratulations and stay safe. From Mid-Mo, Fezz.
@@232fezzthanks for watching Fezz! Stay cool out there taking care of all those properties!
Would love to know how much mowing time it saved you going from tractor to the zero turn? I currently have a tractor with a 42 inch deck and am picking up a JD 530R this week with a 54 inch deck. Can’t wait to see how much time it saves me, took 2 hours with the 42 inch deck.
Hey, Aimee here. I'll ask Matt tonight, but from my perspective I think it has cut his mowing time *at least* in half. There was a bit of a learning curve at first (like most things!) so it's only gotten faster for him. So I def think you're going to be getting some of that 2 hours back in your life! Keep us posted on how you like it and your results. Thanks for watching and happy mowing!
I use a x738 for my mowing business. Works extremely well. I don't recommend zero turns when your up this far in the sticks as they say. Seen other lawn care workers get stuck in the mud. I have 4wd. I don't recommend John deeres stripping wheel roller kit as it tears up grass. Thee x738 has many many many different applications I use for my customers. Thee bucket in the back with Thee 3 piont hitch works very well for hauling sticks and big branches. All in all I'd give it a 10 out of 10.
Hey John, thanks for watching! Happy mowing!
I hear ya. I to had a walk behind mower to do a laelrge yard and a rider back in 1990. It was nice. Then last year I bought a 22 hp zero turn mower and good lord it makes doin the yard a lot easier
That's great, I'm glad you're having an easier time with it! Thanks for watching!
I just bought a brand new Z330R at home depot for $1999. I'm waiting for delivery. There was two for that price, another man was buying the other one as I was buying mine. I originally went there to buy a front engine tractor mower because I always thought zero turns were not as versatile as tractors and they are not safe on hills.
My question is, do the roll bars come standard? I noticed none of the mowers had roll bars at the store.
Fantastic video! I’m doing a lot of research on Zero turn. We’re buying property that has a humongous yard to mow (8 acres). These mowers price points are all over the map. I’m not sure if I need a commercial grade mower or if I could get by with a residential model. The previous owners have Kubota 60” with the Kawasaki FX850VEFI motor. Not sure if this is considered a commercial mower or not. Do you have any thoughts form? Thanks again for the great video!
Congrats on the new property, that sounds awesome! For that much property, it may be best to see what your options are with a dealer. I certainly think this mower could handle it, but there might be better options to better suit your unique situation. Thanks again for watching and happy mowing! Keep us updated on what you decide!
I'm picking mine up tomorrow!
@@alangrant7349 hey Alan! 👋 that's awesome - hope you enjoy it, come back and let us know what you think! Thanks for watching and Happy mowing!
@@TrowelandError I love it so far!
I’m likely getting a Z530M this week, great review. Is the mulching kit something you put on, or is it better to have the dealership do it?
Congrats on your new mower! We had the dealership do ours. I think if you can get under it yourself it would be possible for you to put it on. If you don't think that you can get underneath, it's probably best to just have the dealership do it for you. I don't believe it was much more to have them do it for us. Thanks for watching and commenting. Happy mowing!
I bought the z530m after owning it a little over a year, cutting an acre and a half. Decided to trade it in on a Z740R . Personally, the Z530M are a decent mower but beat you to death . It's OK for the size of the lawn you are using it to cut grass .
Nice! We haven't checked out the Z740R yet but just upgrading to the Z530M has made life so much easier so far (and less pain than the riding mower!) Thanks for watching Rob! Happy mowing!
Yep, the Z740R is a much better build mower, and I like the fact that the break is integrated in the handles . So you never have to remember to disengage the parking break or set the break . And the comfort glide seat is a nice feature.
Just keep in mind that John Deere only warranties the deck for one year, then you're on your own. In Missouri that's just one season, or about 25 cuttings. I have the same one, and a 1025R, and the deck blew the belt tensioner and pulled rivets and it was not covered under warranty, so buyer be careful. In my opinion, JD doesn't stand behind what they make.
Thank you for watching and the additinal info. I'm sorry to hear about yours 😕
I am looking at this and the Gravely ZT XL so what does everyone think?
Thanks for watching! What are you currently using?
@@TrowelandError JD x320
Now, the description that appear in the search is a 545R. The actual review is of a 530R. Don’t you think that’s misleading to accrue views…
Might have to take that up with youtube as their algorithm is user driven (as in what you search determines what will come up in results more often). Sorry you accidentally found this video mistakenly.
I think the question for me is buying a higher end riding lawnmower for 3k versus spending $3500 on an entry level cadet or JD.
Hi Marissa, thanks for watching! Highly recommend visiting some dealers and just sitting in a few and seeing if you feel a difference that is worth saving up a little extra for. It could definitely make a difference in your comfort! Happy mowing!
John Deere is the best and made in the USA. Obviously the smaller the lawn the lower model to get. The z300 series is excellent
Get a better striping kit. Also, make sure you’re not striping when it’s damp. Checkmate makes a better striping kit
Good tip, thanks for watching!
I've always trimmed with a TRIMMER. I didn't realize Weed Eater was still in business!👍
Thanks for watching Charles!
Hmmm. Seat that “rocks back and forth” seems a bit dangerous. I would not be comfortable with that. I too owned several push mowers, then a lawn tractor (for 11 years) and this year moved to a zero turn (Scag) this year. With a 12000 square foot yard I agree with your conclusion it is perhaps the best piece of lawn equipment I have ever purchased. However, despite the downsides there are circumstances in which I choose to use a push mower, for example, after overseeding when I am concerned that a 900 pound zero turn might damage young grass. Overall, I thought your review was informative. We just disagree on what zero turn to purchase. Nothing wrong with that.
Might not have explained it well, seat slides back and forth, just ever so slightly to absorb the shock so your back doesn't. Thanks for watching Dale!
Great info about using the push mower after overfeeding, we hadn't thought about that yet-appreciate your input Dale! Happy mowing!
@@TrowelandErrorNo problem. I’m just a 71 year old homeowner whose experience has taught me a few things. I also push the perimeter before pulling out the zero turn because our yard is heavily slanted on one side. I don’t want to slide or roll into the woods. I never want to test the effectiveness of ROPS. 😅
@@dalewiley9208 we love getting input from those more experienced, that's how we learn! And yes, we definitely don't want you rolling over on those slopes!
I had a used 1990's 46" Kohler 13 hp (?) JD tractor mower. That my late husband bought at a auction for $300 or so. After throwing parts into it before and after his death in August 2012. With making it more the of the cost of a new mower...The engine started leaking oil. I bought a JD Z540M mower in 2016 and traded in 2018 JD Z540M. Was going to trade in 2020. Covid hit and no new mowers were available. So still have the 2018 with 347 hours. I don't have the deck leveling foot push on mine. It's not that difficult to raise or lower deck. I think the new design it would be just something more to go wrong and need repair. Plus I live out in the country and have barb wire fences to go under. That foot pedal sticking up would get caught on for getting close to trim grass around fence post. I don't have the roll guard and it would be in the way for trimming under trees. I don't have the mulching device. I think it would clog the mower when doing heavy grass and leaves. I just go over grass/leaves several times to chop up finer when thicker. I keep seat stationary. My air filter cover is different with a couple of knobs to turn. Not difficult. Deck cover requires a bolt to be taken out. Not difficult. My air filter has a black foam piece that goes over it and I remove it rinse clean with water, let dry and put back on. I also tap dust out air filter after each mow use and clean mower filter housing. I had engine overhead at JD done at 200 hours as recommended by JD manual. Two years ago I had right mower deck spindle needing repair. So as they had deck apart. I had the other two spindles, 4 mower guide pulleys and deck belt replaced. (As finding out with my JD tractor mower deck if belt guide pulleys aren't replaced at same time of new mower deck belt installed. The mower deck belt gets shredded immediately when engaged otherwise.) Engine oil/air filter/greased is changed at 50 hours and I use JD recommended oil and filters. The Kawasaki engine (excellent engine) takes 2 quarts and one cup oil as stated in manual. Not as salesman stated only 2 quarts. I have a complete service including new mower blades at dealer every other year. (Yearly was costing over $350 including pickup and delivery for JD service so I cut back to every other year. I can do it for parts $50 )With change oil/air filter/grease at 50 hours in between JD servicing. I use non ethanol gas and put fuel saver immediately in gas cans after filling. Also put fresh gas with fuel saver in Z540M for winter storage. I've never taken battery out for winter storage. It's always started next spring. I put moth balls in small containers in various locations on mower at fall to keep mice out. As first year I had mice problems. JD dealer recommended moth balls placement. I have over 2 acres with many trees of hilly lawn. Last year my lawn was only mowed 7 times because of very dry weather.. I'm a 5'1" 75 year old widow of almost 12 years lady that was married over 43 years. I would recommend this mower. But they have gone up in price over a $1000. My JD dealer always has immediate available parts and great service after the sale. Thank you for your review and video. Blessings to you.
They didn't start making the Z530M until 2021.
@@gailjohnson6670 Z535M was made in 2016, but not the 530.
@@elijahbey3366 I stand corrected. My 2016 was Z540M traded for 2018 Z540M that I still have. My apologies to you. I should have checked my model number better. Thank you for the clarification. I've been happy with both mowers.
@@gailjohnson6670 My neighbor has the 540, he loves it.
@@elijahbey3366 Following owner's manual instructions of doing required maintenance is key to trouble free repairs. Oil, filters and grease are cheap compared to parts and labor cost. Your neighbor made a good choice of Z540M.
Stripping kit waste of money 😢
Hey Paul, have you tried the striping kit? We still haven't had luck with it, but wasn't sure if it was user error or not.
It’s a nice mower, but it has a stamped deck. You should’ve bought a Toro.🤷🏻♂️
Which Toro do you have?
@@TrowelandError 2000 series Z master 52“
@@neachtarrsainn3216 nice!