John Deere 997
Power
31 hp
Production
2005-2014
Engine
Diesel, 3-cylinder
Transmission
Kanzaki DUP 17S
Weight
1774 lbs (60 deck) [804 kg]
Drive
2WD
From the same series:
Introduction
John Deere 997 / Z997R Zero-Turn Mower
The John Deere 997 and its successor the Z997R series are zero-turn mowers designed for professional landscaping and large-scale turf maintenance. Manufactured in Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina, these machines were produced between 2005 and 2025, serving as robust solutions for demanding mowing operations.
Engine and Performance
The machine is powered by a liquid-cooled, 3-cylinder Yanmar 3TNV82A diesel engine. It features a displacement of 1330 cc and utilizes a direct fuel injection system to deliver a gross power output of 31 hp (23.1 kW) and a net power of 27 hp (20.1 kW). The engine operates at a rated speed of 3000 RPM, supported by a dry air cleaner system.
Transmission and Drivetrain
The drivetrain consists of a Kanzaki DUP 17S hydrostatic transmission, providing infinite forward and reverse speed control. The unit is configured as a two-wheel drive system, equipped with power steering to enhance maneuverability across varied terrain.
Power Take-Off and Mowing Capacity
The mower is equipped with an independent mid-mounted PTO. Engagement is managed through an electro-hydraulic clutch system, with the PTO operating at 2000 RPM when the engine is running at 2800 RPM. Users can select between 60-inch or 72-inch mower deck widths to suit specific acreage requirements.
Dimensions and Operator Safety
The machine features a two-post folding Roll-Over Protective Structure (ROPS) for operator safety. Depending on the deck configuration, the unit length varies between 96 and 99 inches, with a total weight ranging from 1774 lbs to 1842 lbs. It utilizes 15x6-6 front tires and 26x12-12 rear tires designed for lawn and turf applications.
Conclusion
The John Deere 997/Z997R series is engineered for professional-grade turf management. Its combination of a high-torque diesel engine, hydrostatic drive, and specialized mower deck options makes it suitable for intensive mowing tasks requiring high maneuverability and consistent cutting performance.
Production Information of John Deere, 997
- Zero-turn mower
- Built in Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina, USA
| Manufacturer | John Deere |
|---|
Dimension and Tires Information of John Deere, 997
| Length | 96 inches (60 deck) [243 cm] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 1774 lbs (60 deck) [804 kg] |
| Height (Folded ROPS) | 50.4 inches [128 cm] |
| Height (Folded ROPS)(optional) | 99 inches (72 deck) [251 cm] |
| Height (Folded ROPS)(optional) | 1842 lbs (72 deck) [835 kg] |
| Height (ROPS) | 74.8 inches [189 cm] |
| Lawn/turf front | 15x6-6 |
|---|---|
| Lawn/turf rear | 26x12-12 |
Engine Specifications of John Deere, 997
- Yanmar 3TNV82A
- Liquid-cooled horizontal-shaft inline
- Diesel
- 3-cylinder
| Rated RPM | 3000 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1330 cc [81.2 ci] |
| Power (gross) | 31 hp [23.1 kW] |
| Bore/Stroke | 3.23x3.31 inches [82 x 84 mm] |
| Starter volts | 12 |
| Starter | Electric |
| Air cleaner | Dry |
| Fuel system | Direct injection |
| Power (net) | 27 hp [20.1 kW] |
Transmission Information of John Deere, 997
Transmission variants 1
| Transmission | Kanzaki DUP 17S |
|---|---|
| Type | Hydrostatic |
| Gears | Infinite forward and reverse |
Mechanical Specs of John Deere, 997
- Two-wheel drive
- Power steering
- Two-post folding ROPS.
Power Information of John Deere, 997
| Mid PTO | Independent |
|---|---|
| Engine RPM | 2000@2800 |
| Clutch | Electro-hydraulic |
| Mid PTO Type | 2000 |
Electrical System of John Deere, 997
| Ground | Negative |
|---|---|
| Battery volts | 12 |
| Charging amps | 40 |
| Battery CCA | 490 |
Where it sits
With 31 HP, the John Deere 997 sits just below Z997R (37 HP) in John Deere's range. Its power puts it in the 99th percentile of 2000s models in our database (1174 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the John Deere 997 have?
The John Deere 997 delivers 31 HP.
What years was the John Deere 997 produced?
The John Deere 997 was produced in 2005-2014.
What engine does the John Deere 997 have?
The John Deere 997 is powered by a Diesel, 3-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the John Deere 997 use?
The John Deere 997 uses a Kanzaki DUP 17S transmission.
How much does the John Deere 997 weigh?
The John Deere 997 weighs 1774 lbs (60 deck) [804 kg].
Is the John Deere 997 4WD?
The John Deere 997 is available in 2WD.