Every John Deere 900 series Ztrak will need this repair.

In this video I show how to do the offical John Deere warranty repair that eventually ever Ztrak 900 series zero turn mower will need.
The pto clutch's anti rotation /clutch stop repair & upgrade.
Eventually the clutch will break through the original frames flange that prevents the pto clutch from spinning. When this happens it often damages the expensive PTO clutch itself.
I provide detailed instruction on how to do the upgrade / repair as well as part numbers for the parts needed. No welding is required when using the John Deere upgrade bracket.
Z900 B/E/M/R Series use part # TCA24793
All Z900A & Z800 Series use part # TCA25664
I also show you where you can buy the OEM pto clutch directly from the manufacturer for $ hundreds less.
If you know how to weld you can save yourself the cost of that bracket. Check out this video to see how • John Deere Ztrack 900 ...
To find the correct updated parts for all your John Deere equipment, go to www.deere.com.
Thanks for watching and subscribing for more videos like this coming soon!
My goal is to make helpful 'how to repair' videos and teach valuable skills that will help people save thousands of $$$, make money on the side or even start their own business.

[@Mechanical_Mind]

To find tools, shop equipment, mower parts and more, you can find them at my store. Click this link: www.amazon.com/shop/mechanicalmind I'll get a commission on the sale at no extra cost to you. It's a great way to help the channel and get the items you need.

[@kennethhopkins2919]

You are the man! I ran into this issue a year ago. John Deere have no indication that there was a fix. I welded a piece of stock as you did. Thanks for helping us DIY guys out. We are a dying breed

[@mickeyhurst4648]

These videos are very helpful for anyone who has a john deere. I came across your channel a few weeks ago trying to get familiar with the different models right before I started with trigreen. I have came across alot issues within 2 weeks that I remember seeing in your videos. They are very helpful

[@philliprowell6588]

Great information and fine job yes I have a 915B really love it 450 hours beginning to get some loose bearings

[@3sons66]

Wow...I literally ran into this video after over a year of searching. My 900 series sounds AWFUL. I think it needs both of these parts that you did here!! Thank you!!

[@Mechanical_Mind]

Glad the video helped. There are two different brackets available. Z900 B/E/M/R Series take part # TCA24793. All Z900A & Z800 Series use part # TCA25264

[@annieyoung253]

Thanks for the shout-out lol but especially thanks for the tip on a cheaper part from the manufacturer. I'm distrustful of aftermarket parts but I really can't always pay that high JD price tag! When I do my Z930's overhaul this winter, I'll be sure to check for this issue. 🧐

[@PastPreserver]

I'm loving your videos I just bought a used 2016 920M with 2800 hours I question the meter because it's in really nice shape. I just looked at that part it all seems tight and good now I'm in debate of doing this now or keeping a eye on it and do it later 😅. Thanks for the tips on these mowers will definitely come in handy in the future 👍

[@domsileo1145]

I own a Z970r and a Z950r and really appreciate your channel….

[@Mechanical_Mind]

Thanks Dom! I apperciate you watching and subscribing!

[@rockslawncare4746]

This Video was right on time, I have a 950M with 500 hours and it has a good bit of wear, very close wearing through, I ended up making a bracket instead of spending the 300 bucks from the dealer. Great job on the videos!

[@Mechanical_Mind]

When its not under warranty I just grind down that flange and weld on a thick steel bushing to the bottom of the frame. Here is a video I made on that. kzbin.info/www/bejne/r2GudnyHh85obZY

[@rockslawncare4746]

@@Mechanical_Mind Im having an issue with my 652m, the steering linkage that goes into the pump on the left side is loose and seems to be spread out allowing the linkage to slip by the pump linkage. the pump bolt seems to be tight but you can see space between the individual linkage arms. any ideas, I'm not sure if the bolt that goes into the pump is migrating out or just loose. Thank you again for the vides

[@philliphall5198]

Thank You for information and advice Good to know what I will be seeing this summer at shop

[@stoneyblack6905]

Hi mate, another great video, great closeups on the repairs, it will make it easy for owners to follow. Yes, l have a z930r in my stable of Deeres.😂 Have a nice day 🍻

[@Mechanical_Mind]

Thanks Stoney for being a subscriber and being active on the channle! I have big plans for this channle. Im going to have more videos and links to my website where my subscribers can find all the products and tools I show. If you have any video ideas or topics you think I should cover just let me know. Thansk again my friend 🍻🍻

[@stoneyblack6905]

No… Thank you! Ohh, Thanks for the subscriber mention too. Big plans, big ideas 👍🏼 I’ll let you know!🍻

[@WilliamDraper-ym3nv]

Good job, very helpful.

[@Rockrewls]

Great video, informative.

[@kirbyzicafoose9526]

Thanks! This video really helped me out!

[@Mechanical_Mind]

Thanks for the Super thanks! I mentioned you in my last video!

[@trayvinsonn7598]

Damn this helped me so much thanks man

[@sherrischneider2794]

You did a great job

[@Mechanical_Mind]

Thanks Sherri! Thanks for watching also. Im literally doing that same repair right now on a Z950M. Also replacing the engine because the customer ran the original engine completely out of oil until it locked up

[@smoejith9283]

This is also an issue on some John Deere riding mowers. I have an X280 and it has that rod sticking down that is gradually wearing through..

[@franwebb7756]

Good info!

[@shanepipkin4041]

thanks for the video

[@Mechanical_Mind]

Thanks Shane for always watching and being active on the channel!

[@keithvoorhes6536]

The oil hose happens all the time also. We have 6 z970rs. Also we have stand by clutches. We go thro like 4 a season.

[@CountyCorral]

I must say if the operator didn’t engage the pto at full throttle I feel like this wouldn’t be a problem. But I do think this setup could be better engineered. Good informative video!

[@regconrad7783]

Thai awesome I bought a used 915 60hrs on engine started battle rattle on top end sure it was a collapsed lifter it was smoking on start up. I put John Deere break in oil in it just cause I had some jugs before I tore into it. Started it a couple times still rattling kind of gave was going to order some parts on the third start motor went quite no smoking ran that oil for a bit changed it out thing runs line a top very expressive mower

[@johnnyt5347]

At work we have last 3-5 years z997r diesels and the air filter cap that you have to undo to blow it out is kinda crappy design cause of the clips and fallen off few times on rough terrain and melted on one . Then when blowing the radiator off between coolers varies and the one year is nice because it tilts back easily to get deep into it and clear it , but then ya have the plastic fasteners that bend back and up on the one model which not good in my opinion because after awhile they don’t stay up and/or break . And the seat is pretty heavy and awkward to lift which when blowing the mower off we have it tilted up and spindle deck guards off and rear hood back as to clear everything off and out and many people including myself wasn’t aware of the controller arms grease zert on right arm one which deck has to be lowered down setting and then look up kinda hidden around plastic fuel tank area . ( but thought there had to be one or something for hard , heavy play it gets). Don’t get me wrong they’re great and we use em for our shops and weed commission for older one which gets abused and has been for tall grass/weeds over 12 inches of yard complaints around town from neighbors , citizens , abandoned properties and so on. And nasty job at that. Tweels are nice and all but when you have an huge uneven property to maintain with slight humps/dips and mowing decent speed you’ll drop a tad and tires flatten which will cut short or scalp pending variables and for wet steeper hills I’d rather have lugs so not to slip or increased odds of flipping and tweels get lil bit of mud on them they turn into slicks. May sound like lot of complaining but it’s really just a few things cause all and all it’s great; all 3 of em . Of course the newest is nicest with best seat also. Too bad they couldn’t make grease zerts group area all together like on big equipment like a loader , then ya could just do a couple east spots and get em all done faster /less hassle. But do like them. Now how bout they make ac for em similar to kubota did with a cab? Lol. Or without but it’d have to stay cold to be blowing cold and feeling it on those super hot days plus dirty ,dusty conditions at times. 😂

[@lloydstinson9291]

Recently purchased a used z950r. Any special things to look for and do? has a 72 inch deck. You do a great job with the videos. thanks

[@Mechanical_Mind]

Watch this video kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZqWpcnR8ftqSjM0 How many hours does it have?

[@lloydstinson9291]

@@Mechanical_Mind 2700 hours on it .. its a 2014

[@Mechanical_Mind]

@@lloydstinson9291 At those hours my main concern would be the condition of the hydros. Id change the oil to inspect its condtion and see if there are any contaminants in the filters. There is a magnet directly above the plastic cap. The plastic cap that you remove to change the filter. Once the filter is removed feel that magnet with you finger or use a scope to check for metal pieces stuck to that magnet. If there are metal pieces stuck to that magnet you can expect future trouble... Expensive future trouble. Next would be the engine. Note the rate of oil consumption. If its more than 1oz per cylinder per hour then it may have worn rings or valve seals. When checking the engine oil smell it to make sure it doesnt smell like gas. To check the proper oil level do not screw the dip stick down on the threads. Id also check the valve clearances. Most importantly subscribe to my channle for future videos and check out my past videos Ive done on your mower! 🍻

[@steveperchinsky5833]

Hi would you know why ,y 997r diesel runs for a while and then beeps and shuts the blades off??

[@christianvasquez8228]

Cada tiempo se le cambia las bujías a medida zero turn 960m

[@FishFind3000]

When you do this repair do you have to replace the clutch or only the new reinforcing plate?

[@Mechanical_Mind]

Just the plate. I failed to mention in this video that I replaced this clutch under warrnty due to it having a rough lower bearing. Anytime a machine is under warranty I will inspect everything closely and repair or replace anything I can justifiably do under JD warranty. John Deere pays us for the parts and labor. Not the customer. Once the machine is out of warranty the cost of the parts and labor is on the customer.

[@DewongLucas]

Another great video! I have a Z950M with it completely broken and Z930M with it almost broke. Will this broken flange cause the Z950M to be very noisy when on?

[@Mechanical_Mind]

Thanks Dewong, if that flange has broken the noise be hearing is the clutch trying spin around and the clutch will be ruined quickly. If that is not the issue, and you are hearing a noise while the engine is running its most likely the traction belt idler. They go out frequently and I could hear them from 100 ft away. If the noise you are noticing only occurs when the blades are engaged its most likely a deck idler or spindle.

[@DewongLucas]

Thanks for the great response. Turns out the Z950M was run without oil and blew the engine. The FX850V-FS13R engine that goes in is on Back order and there is no clue when it will be available. Is it possible to use another engine (FX850V-FS12S) as a replacement? @@Mechanical_Mind

[@Mechanical_Mind]

@DewongLucas I'm not sure... I don't know the difference between the FS13R vs the FS12S. I can't find anything online to say what the difference between them is

[@firetaz39]

Does anyone know if later models modified this weak design spot to not require this improvement bracket? Am getting ready to shop for this mower late model used and curious if I can avoid year models this problem was plagued with. Thanks for any feedback.

[@Mechanical_Mind]

They are still made the same way. They usually fail after 1000 hours give or take

[@tri-countypropertymanageme8029]

I have ran scag for a few years now. Not really had many issues. I have been wanting to try a deere 950m. From your standpoint, would it be a good move? I have a deere dealer and scag dealer close

[@Mechanical_Mind]

The 950M is a great Commerical grade mower. I dont have any experience working on a Scag but I know guys that love the Scag brand. I plan to make some videos soo where I visit some of my local dealerships of other brands to check out their machines and do some comparisons. I do believe that John Deere machines hold their vaule better than the other brands. Plus finding dealers and parts would be eaiser vs less common machines. John Deere has an awesome Warranty on their commercial mowers. Overall I think both brands are high quality and both will work well if properly maintained. Maintenance is key! One point in John Deere's corner is that you have me and my channle for added support! 😉. Thanks for watching and commenting. 🍻 Check out some of the other videos I made and I hope you will subscribe.

[@clyderidge3235]

I own a 950 M it’s awesome

[@nickh9632]

Mine failed at 400hr lucky for me John Deere payed to fix it after the 4th harness was ripped off…

[@omantoodle2437]

We have a z930

[@robertmailhos8159]

My John Deere l.t 133 has a.problem with the muffler.i got a New one for it the end Cap came off and it broke at the pipe flange that connects to the Kohler c series over Head engine

[@Mechanical_Mind]

Hey Robert, did the new muffler break?

[@robertmailhos8159]

@@Mechanical_Mind yes it did

[@Mechanical_Mind]

If its a new part I'd say return it for another. Or Mig weld it to repair it. Im about to do some videos in welding

[@michaelkennedy2528]

I have the Z930M, not sure if this update has been done, but that part number when Googled came to a $300.00 part. That is crazy!! Is there an alternative/generic, I have a hard time paying 300 bucks for a small piece of metal lol

[@Mechanical_Mind]

If know how to weld you can repair it without that bracket. Here is a video I did on it kzbin.info/www/bejne/r2GudnyHh85obZY

[@michaelkennedy2528]

@@Mechanical_Mind Thanks, I will check that out. I can lay a few beads pretty good so that may well be my option.

[@michaelkennedy2528]

@@Mechanical_Mind Do you have the dimensions on that bushing?

[@davidevans9469]

I have a z994r that I bought in May 2020 with 163 hours. Is this an issue that the John Deere dealers will warranty or recall?

[@Mechanical_Mind]

The only way they will warranty it is if the clutch's stud breaks out and past that hole in the frame. This lets the clutch spin around and get in a bind which results in a new pto clutch also.

[@davidevans9469]

@@Mechanical_Mind Thanks! Also, good information in your vidoes!

[@kellyx57]

Does anybody know if either of the repair brackets mentioned in this video will fit a Z910A? It looks the same in the area that fails, but not sure if the hole layout would be the same. The brackets are not listed in the 910 IPL and the 910 isn't listed in the list of units that these 2 fit.

[@Mechanical_Mind]

Hi Kelly. The bracket you need is TCA25264. Another option is to weld on a steel bushing like I show in this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/r2GudnyHh85obZY. Only to be done by a professional. Thanks for watching. 🍻

[@kellyx57]

@@Mechanical_Mind Thanks for the info. I'm not a welder, so it would probably be cheaper to install the bracket, than taking the mower to somebody and paying them to weld a bushing on. I wonder why the bracket isn't listed in the IPL for the 910, like it is for most of the other ZTrak models?

[@kellyx57]

@@Mechanical_Mind The TCA25264 was indeed the correct part for the Z910A. It was an easy repair and I don't have to worry about it happening again. I'll keep an eye on everything from here on out. Thanks so much for posting this info. I would have never known that this option was available. The people I talked to at my local John Deere dealer didn't seem to know about it either.

[@Mechanical_Mind]

@@kellyx57 Im happy to help. I use Deere.com to find parts even though I have full access to John Deere parts advisor at work. Deere.com is great and is often updated before the dealerships system but its still not perfect. Like how that bracket is not listed for your 910. Here is another video you may find helpful kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZqWpcnR8ftqSjM0. Also I did a video about using Deere.com kzbin.info/www/bejne/b3vKipaOf82ErK8

[@josephshaw7584]

What are the torque specs for tightening the pto clutch?

[@Mechanical_Mind]

80 N•m, (60 lb-ft)

[@SamHTX-kb2oy]

I have a Z915E 54" the JD parts look up doesn't show either of those brackets fitting/needed for my machine, can you please advise THANKS

[@Mechanical_Mind]

For some reason the JD parts system doesn't list the brackets for many of the models. But this all you need: Z900 B/E/M/R Series use part # TCA24793 All Z900A & Z800 Series use part # TCA25664

[@SamHTX-kb2oy]

THANKS for getting back to me so fast, I'm gonna attempt to fix this PTO myself (with your helpful video) !

[@SamHTX-kb2oy]

ok I'm having trouble getting the PTO clutch off the main drive shaft. I've hit it several times from the hole by the oil filter and its NOT coming off...any more ideas? and as a side note the bolt that holds the PTO on the drive shaft broke off inside the shaft, its gonna be fun ! ! !

[@Mechanical_Mind]

@SamHTX-kb2oy There have been several times where I ended up having to cut the clutch off with a slicer wheel and grinder. It sucks for sure. Also the broken bolt in the crankshaft shaft....here is one video I did on extracting that bolt. kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z5PdeYuPi6uHm7c And kzbin.info/www/bejne/jpSrd6eipLafqNE

[@Mechanical_Mind]

@@SamHTX-kb2oy I have some removal tips and tricks in the video kzbin.info/www/bejne/b2OyZGCMr89nnNE

[@bobbywartman2058]

Well done Vid......But I hate the last thing you did.....Cutting that tye wrap the way you did.....I cut them flush with a single edge razor blade. The way you cut it someone needs to get their hand in there for some reason....And rips their Damn hand open on that sharp tye wrap.

[@Mechanical_Mind]

I fully understand. I actully did go back and cut it flush. I just did that while filming because it was kinda akward getting in there with one hand while holding my camera with the other hand. I often just film quick short segments to demo what and where Im doing stuff. Also thats one reason I like wearing those gloves. So I can get deep into areas and my hands dont get all cut up on stuff.

[@stoneyblack6905]

Wow… l thought l was picky!

[@Mechanical_Mind]

@@stoneyblack6905 🤣🤣🤣

[@bobbywartman2058]

@@stoneyblack6905 Why I have built a reputation for making things Right... :) Also..If you've had your arm /hand ripped open via sharp ended try Wraps.... You point it out... :)

[@stoneyblack6905]

Hi mate, no offence to you at all… I’m glad theirs other out there like me. l totally agree with you in every way, do it right or don’t do it at all, do it once do it well. I’m very meticulous in what l do to… Cheers.

[@user-wq3qy1se7o]

Any idea on a 3-5 code on a z960r?

[@Mechanical_Mind]

3-5 = PTO output overcurrent.

[@FishFind3000]

How many hours does the average failure occur?

[@Mechanical_Mind]

Id say the average hours is around 1200hrs. It really depends more on how many time the pto has been engaged. Its a somewhat easy repair. If you know how to weld you can save over $200 and just weld a thick metal bushing to the frame to replace the flange. Ive already done a video on that. When mowers that are out of warranty that need this repair, that is what I do to save the customer some money. John Deere charges $287.69 for that bracket part # TCA24793. Which is f..king ridiculous IMO.

[@FishFind3000]

@@Mechanical_Mind I agree many times there pricing is ridiculous. You would think with their design flaw that they would give this to the customers as a discount to try and save face with their failure. If you get one of these out of warranty I’d love to see how your metal replacement bushing looks like. I have a z920m I bought this year and only have 60 hours on it. I don’t think I’ll start and stop it enough times in 3 years to show enough damage for free warranty work. Do you have any experience with the mod decks?

[@Mechanical_Mind]

@@FishFind3000 Check out this video I did months ago about how to do this exact same repair without needing to buy that bracket. kzbin.info/www/bejne/r2GudnyHh85obZY

[@Mechanical_Mind]

@@FishFind3000 The common issue with the MOD decks is that the baffles get knocked out of alignment with the other ones. I'll make a video on those next time I get one in.

[@FishFind3000]

@@Mechanical_Mind that would be great, I have a 48” mod deck on my z920m so any info on them is great. I just tried some hi lifts on mine and I think there working better then the standard blades with the thin northern grass we have but I need more time to really tell. I also sheared one of the baffle bolts. Do you know what the torque spec is on them? From Google a m6 8.8 bolt is only good for 7-8lbft of torque. Funny thing was I bought the new bolts and nuts from Deere, $5 for the 4 nuts and bolts, $16 to ship it 20 miles from the dealer. At least it came in less then 24 hours after ordering. I checked on McMaster later and I could have gotten 100 nuts and bolts for $20…. Deere is making a killing on some of these items.

[@mikeadler434]

👍👍

[@danielgleason3194]

hope Deere up dated their 900 series mowers after this!

[@bartfart2123]

keep some fire blanket around and stuff it in place where sparks will be flying. makes HUGE difference . always nervous when sparking up around clippings or oily residue

[@mattkemp5765]

Just baffles me how ANYBODY would by a John doe 🤨 if u don't even try n research what Mowers are good or whatever, if u ever just look around at lawn care people in your city. . How often do you see them driving a jd?? 😂NEVER. I'VE TRIED EVERY MOWER BRAND ...AT LEAST A 100 DIFFERENT MOWERS EASILY I'VE TESTED AND IVE NEVER CONTEMPLATED A JD , THEY JUST LOOK LIKE A STEAMY PILE OF SHIT, AND THIS PROVES MY THEORY

[@mikeadler434]

👍👍