So, you’ve got your eye on the John Deere F935 mower, huh? Everyone’s talking about it, from your neighbor to the pros. But let’s get real for a second.
You want to know if this mower is worth your money. Is it strong? Will it last? And what about those extra features? Don’t worry, I’ve got you.
Let’s dive deep into what the John Deere F935 is all about. We’ll break down its good, bad, and everything in between. By the end of this, you’ll know if it’s the one for you. No more endless searching or doubting. Stay with me; this is the review you need.
Table of Contents
John Deere F935 Overview
The John Deere F935 is a front-mount mower that has garnered attention for its robust features and reliable performance. As part of the F series, it carries the legacy of John Deere’s commitment to quality and efficiency.
While it’s mostly praised, some users have pointed out John Deere F935 issues. Let’s delve into its key specifications and design aspects to get a clearer picture.
Key Specifications and Features
- Engine: The F935 is powered by a 22-horsepower Yanmar engine. This diesel engine is known for its reliability and efficiency.
- Deck Size: The mower can be equipped with various deck sizes, with the 72-inch deck being a common choice among users. The deck’s engagement is swift, taking less than two seconds to go from a stop to a full-blade engagement.
- Hours: While many consider the number of operational hours as a primary factor, the video suggests that the machine’s performance and condition are more crucial. This particular model, for instance, has clocked almost 4,700 hours and still functions efficiently.
- PTO (Power Take-Off): The PTO system is robust, with the hub and belts designed for durability. It’s essential to ensure that the PTO components, especially the hub, are tight and in good condition.
Design and Build Quality
- Cosmetic Condition: Many F935 mowers, being commercial or municipal machines, might show signs of wear and tear. However, cosmetic issues don’t necessarily reflect the machine’s operational quality.
- Engine Compartment: A clean engine compartment is a good sign. The absence of significant leaks, puddles, or excessive grease indicates regular maintenance and care.
- Deck Condition: While decks can wear out over time, evidence of welding or repairs indicates that the machine has been cared for. It’s essential to check for any cracks or welds on the deck and ensure they are well-done.
- Casters: The casters of the F935 can sometimes become loose. While they are replaceable, they can be an expensive component, so it’s essential to check their condition during purchase.
- Overall Cleanliness: A clean machine, especially in areas like the battery compartment and the differential, indicates regular maintenance and care.
Performance and Efficiency
Ground Speed and Mowing Efficiency
The John Deere F935 is a front-mount mower that has been designed to deliver efficient mowing performance. One of the key aspects that users often look for in such machines is their ground speed and how efficiently they can cover large areas.
The F935, being a part of the F series, is built to handle vast expanses of land with ease. From the insights gathered, the F935 is capable of mowing a couple of acres per hour at a minimum.
This speed ensures that users can cover significant ground in a short amount of time, making it ideal for those with large properties or commercial mowing tasks.
The mower’s efficiency is not just about speed but also about the quality of the cut. The 72-inch deck on the F935, while robust, might require a bit more power for optimal performance. However, the machine’s overall design ensures a consistent and even cut across the lawn.
Fuel Efficiency and the Yanmar Diesel Engine
The heart of the F935’s performance lies in its engine. Powered by a 22-horsepower Yanmar 3TNA 72UJ diesel engine, the F935 boasts of durability and reliability. Yanmar engines are known for their robustness, and the one in the F935 is no exception.
Even with almost 4,700 hours on the clock, the engine starts up without any hitches, showcasing its longevity and reliability.
Diesel engines are generally more fuel-efficient than their gasoline counterparts, and the F935’s Yanmar engine ensures that users get the most out of every gallon.
On average, the F935 consumes about a gallon of diesel fuel per hour of mowing, making it relatively economical for large-scale mowing tasks.
Moreover, the engine’s design and build quality play a significant role in the overall maintenance costs. While some components might wear out over time, like the front axles or the PTO shaft, the engine remains a stalwart performer. Its consistent performance, combined with its fuel efficiency, makes the F935 a worthy investment for those seeking a balance between power and economy.
User Experiences and Reviews
Positive User Feedback and Praise
- Durability and Longevity: The John Deere F935, even with its age, is known for its durability. Many users have reported that the machine starts up without any issues, even after accumulating thousands of hours of use. The Yanmar diesel engine, in particular, has been highlighted as a robust and reliable component.
- Performance: The F935 is capable of mowing large areas efficiently. Its design allows for a wide cutting range, making it suitable for properties with extensive lawns or fields. The machine’s performance remains consistent, even when used for extended periods.
- Maintenance: While every machine requires regular maintenance, the F935’s design makes certain tasks, like replacing bearings, straightforward. Additionally, parts for the F935 are readily available, both new and used, making it easier for owners to source replacements when needed.
- Versatility: Beyond just mowing, the F935 can be equipped with various attachments, such as snow blowers, making it a versatile machine for different tasks throughout the year.
Common Issues and Criticisms
- Front Axles and PTO Shaft: One of the common issues faced by users is the tendency for the front axles to break. Additionally, the long PTO shaft from the back of the engine going up front has a tendency to wear out over time, as does some of the drivetrain connecting the PTO on the tractor to the deck.
- Deck Issues: Some users have pointed out that the deck on the F935, while durable, may not be as efficient as newer models. There have been instances of decks requiring welding due to cracks or holes, indicating wear and tear over time.
- Comfort: Compared to newer models, the F935 might not offer the same level of comfort, especially during extended use. This can be a concern for users who mow large areas regularly.
- Horsepower Limitations: The 22-horsepower engine, while reliable, might sometimes feel underpowered, especially when powering a 72-inch deck. This can affect the overall efficiency of the mowing process.
Attachments and Accessories
Front-mount Mower Deck Options
The John Deere F935 is equipped with a front-mount mower deck that offers versatility and efficiency. The mower deck is designed to handle various terrains and mowing conditions. Here’s what you need to know about its features:
- Deck Size: The F935 can be equipped with a 72-inch deck, which is sizable enough to cover large areas in a shorter time. This deck size is ideal for those with expansive lawns or commercial mowing needs.
- Performance: The 22-horsepower Yanmar engine in the F935 should engage this deck effectively. When engaging the deck, it should come up to speed almost instantaneously. A well-maintained machine can go from stop to full blade engagement in less than two seconds.
- Durability: While the 72-inch deck on the F935 is robust, the 7-Iron deck available on some other John Deere models, like the 1445, is even beefier. The 7-Iron deck boasts higher blade tip speeds, which translates to a better cut.
Additional Attachments and Kits
John Deere’s F935 isn’t just about mowing. It’s designed to be versatile, accommodating a range of attachments for various tasks:
- Snow Blower: The F935 can be equipped with a snow blower attachment, making it a year-round machine. This is especially useful for those living in areas with heavy snowfall, turning your mower into a snow-clearing beast during the winter months.
- Brooms and Blowers: Beyond mowing and snow blowing, the F935 can also be fitted with brooms and blowers. These attachments can be invaluable for tasks like clearing debris, leaves, or even light snow from paths and driveways.
- Front Attachments: One of the significant advantages of front-mount mowers like the F935 is the ability to see and control front attachments directly. This provides better maneuverability and precision, especially when handling tasks other than mowing.
Final Thoughts!
The John Deere F935 stands out not just as a mower but as a multi-functional machine adaptable to various terrains and tasks. Its versatility, highlighted by the range of attachments from snow blowers to brooms, sets it apart in the market.
Throughout our review, it’s evident that this front-mount mower offers a blend of performance, durability, and adaptability. For those seeking a reliable machine that can transition seamlessly between seasons and tasks, the F935 is a worthy investment. In conclusion, if you’re looking for a mower that goes beyond just cutting grass, the John Deere F935 is a top contender.
