John Deere Z315E Review
The Z315E is the cheapest Z300 zero-turn, with a 20 hp V-twin and 42-in. deck. It suits yards up to 2 acres with obstacles.
- Deck size
- 42 in
- Horsepower
- 20 HP
- Drive
- Zero-turn, dual hydrostatic
- Fuel type
- Gasoline
Rating breakdown
Key specifications
| Power type | Gasoline |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 20 HP |
| Engine | V-twin OHV, air-cooled (Deere 40 EXi) |
| Displacement | Not published by Deere |
| Fuel type | Gasoline |
| Transmission | Hydro-Gear EZT hydrostatic, twin lever control |
| Drive | Zero-turn, dual hydrostatic |
| Deck size | 42 in |
| Deck construction | Accel Deep, 12-gauge steel (0.105 in), side discharge |
| Cutting height | 1.25 to 4.5 in |
| Blades | Side-discharge blades; MulchControl kit optional |
| Discharge | Side discharge; mulching and bagging with optional kits |
| Top speed | 7 mph forward, 3.5 mph reverse |
| Turning radius | Zero |
| Front tires | 11x6.0-5 casters |
| Rear tires | 18x8.0-8 |
| Weight | 554 lb (no fuel) |
| Dimensions | Width with deck about 50.4 in; 42-in. deck |
| Fuel capacity | 3.0 US gal (11.3 L) |
| Recommended property size | Up to about 2 acres |
| Battery | 12V, 300 CCA |
| Deck lift | Foot pedal |
| Fuel tank | Translucent |
| Seat | 18 in, spring suspension |
| Maximum towing | 250 lb (with optional hitch) |
Pros and cons
What we like
- Lowest price in the Z300 line
- 7 mph top speed
- Easy-to-learn twin-lever steering
- Translucent fuel tank
- 3-year / 200-hour warranty
What could be better
- Smallest engine in the Z300 line
- No armrests, hitch or LED lights as standard
- Smaller 18-in. seat
- Only a 3 gal fuel tank
- Lighter weight limits slope work
Z315E review
Our take on the John Deere Z315E
The John Deere Z315E is the lowest-priced zero-turn in the Z300 Series. It has a 20 hp V-twin, a 42-inch Accel Deep deck and a top speed of 7 mph. Deere says it can mow up to two acres. If you are moving up from a lawn tractor, this is the simplest way in.
Engine and drive
The engine is a 20 hp 40 EXi V-twin. It is air-cooled and uses full-pressure lubrication with a replaceable filter. Drive comes from a Hydro-Gear EZT transmission. Twin levers control speed and direction. Forward speed is 7 mph. Reverse is 3.5 mph.
The Z315E has a transmission bypass for pushing or towing. The park brake sets when you move the levers outward.
Deck
The deck is a 42-inch Accel Deep design in 12-gauge steel. Cutting height runs from 1.25 to 4.5 inches. A foot pedal lifts the deck. A wash port makes cleanup easy. A MulchControl kit and a bagger are optional.
Seat and comfort
The seat is 18 inches wide with spring suspension. It slides 2.8 inches. The Z315E has no armrests, no rear hitch and no LED lights as standard. Deere sells each as an add-on kit. Tires are 11×6.0-5 up front and 18×8.0-8 in back.
Limits to know about
The tank holds 3 gallons and is translucent, so you can see the fuel level. The Z315E weighs 554 lb. It is a lighter machine, so heavy slopes are not its strength.
Who should buy it
Buy the Z315E if you want the lowest price and a small, simple zero-turn. Step up to the Z320M for more power, a bigger seat and a standard hitch.
Buying information
Ownership
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the John Deere Z315E have?
20 hp from a V-twin engine.
What deck size does the Z315E have?
A 42-inch Accel Deep deck made from 12-gauge steel.
How fast is the Z315E?
Up to 7 mph forward and 3.5 mph in reverse.
How big a yard can the Z315E mow?
Deere says up to about 2 acres.
Does the Z315E have armrests or a hitch?
Not as standard. Both are optional kits.
Owner reviews
No owner reviews yet. Own one? Be the first to share what it is like to live with.
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