John Deere 1550 terraincut mower
Commercial Mowers

The 1500 Series TerrainCut™ Front Mowers are powered by liquid-cooled, 3-cylinder diesel engines.

These engines feature low levels of exhaust and emissions, reduced noise levels, and excellent fuel economy. They also meet the necessary Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Tier 4 emissions requirements.

The 1570, 1575, 1580, and 1585 models are biodiesel compatible from the factory up to B20. The 1550 model requires an optional kit to be compatible with B20 biodiesel fuel.

Key features of the engine include:

• Economical cast-in block cylinder design for good cooling and long life
• Indirect fuel injection (1550)
• Direct fuel injection (1570, 1575, 1580, 1585) 
  • Injects fuel directly on top of pistons for more efficient combustion
  • Delivers more horsepower per gallon of fuel
  • Improves starting
  • Develops more horsepower per gallon of fuel and improves starting
• Aluminum alloy pistons with built-in steel struts are lightweight to reduce connection rod bearing loads and provide good heat transfer characteristics
• Design permits tighter tolerances and neutralizes expansion of the piston, thereby reducing blow-by gas and noise from the piston slap
• Higher top rings on the piston and a thinner head gasket greatly reduce the volume of unburned waste gases and increase combustion efficiency
• Timing gears and injector drive gears utilize helical profile gears to help lower engine noise; gear teeth have a newly designed roll-off profile, giving almost no clash, no noise, and no backlash
• Fuel filter with replaceable element
• Full-pressure intake manifold provides quick starts in temperatures down to 0°F (-18°C) (optional engine coolant heater attachment assists starting under more extreme conditions)
• Auto-bleed fuel system – there is no need to prime the system if the tractor runs out of fuel; the system self-primes the injection pump, lines, and injectors, providing fast fuel recovery
• Key start and shutoff eliminates fuel shut-off knob; electric solenoid shuts fuel supply off immediately when key is turned off
• See-through coolant recovery tank permits operator to check coolant level without removing radiator cap
• Enclosed engine compartment to keep out debris and lower sound levels
• Sealed radiator compartment to keep trash and debris on outside of hood
• Excellent torque for plenty of lugging power when operating in tough mowing conditions
• Full-pressure lubrication for positive lubrication, even when operating on slopes
• Dual-element, dry-type, replaceable air cleaner completely sealed for effective cleaning
  • 90 percent to 95 percent of dirt ejected before it reaches the paper element
• Secondary safety element for additional filtering
• Progressive-type air restriction indicator to let operator know when the filter needs servicing
• Automotive-type alternator for plenty of charge to the battery and power for accessories 
  • 75 amp for open-station models
  • 95 amp for ComfortCab models
• Automatic initiation of air heater for easier cold-weather starting
• Automotive-sensing system tells operator when engine is ready to start

Rear-mounted radiators

Fuel tank is large capacity with convenient gauge for maximum uptime

Fuel tank features:

• 16-U.S. gal. (60.6-L) capacity provides a 10-hour run time.
• Top draw provides clean fuel.
• Fuel indicator is conveniently located.

Since 1998 the John Deere 7-Iron™ mower deck has demonstrated commercial quality, performance, and durability. The 7-Iron PRO, FastBack™, and FastBack PRO mower decks deliver an even higher-quality cut in even more diverse conditions.

TerrainCut Front Mower Compatibility

Rear weights (UC13263) are required based on machine configuration. Must also order TCB10303, rear weight mounting bracket.

*Mower deck offset for trimming capability. Vehicle track width is 2 in. (5.1 cm) wider on the discharge side of deck. This may cause the tire to drive over uncut grass on discharge side of deck.

NOTE: These mower decks will not retrofit to F900 Series or F1145 Front Mowers.

Rotate for Service (RFS™)

Rotate for Service (RFS) feature provides access for cleaning and maintenance of the mower decks:

• The rotation angle will vary depending on deck size and power unit tire size.
• No tools are required to access belts.
• The underside of the mower deck is easy to access.
• Easy on/off design simplifies installing and removing mower decks.
• Top, greaseable spindles can be accessed without removing belt covers.

The Rotate for Service position also reduces the length of the machine for trailering.

Heavy-duty blade spindles

The mower spindle housings are made of ductile cast iron.

Key benefits of ductile cast-iron spindle housings:

• Ductile cast-iron material provides superior impact strength.
• Gusseted design puts reinforcement where it is needed.
• Strength of cast iron protects against damage from blade impacts.
• Grease fitting is mounted at the top for easy access.
• Grease pressure-relief valve minimizes seal damage from overfilling with grease and keeps debris from entering housing.
• The 8-in. (20.3-cm) diameter housing distributes loads and impacts to minimize deck-shell damage.
• Spindle allows ability to be rebuilt.

NOTE: The 72-in. (183-cm) 7-Iron V-Flex Side-Discharge Mower Deck has an aluminum center spindle housing. The outside blades are driven by cast-iron gearboxes.

60-in. (152-cm) 7-Iron PRO Side-Discharge Mower Deck

Features include:

• Blade tip speed of 18,000 fpm (5486 m/min) for more blade strikes per inch mowed.
• Trim-edge bumper reduces damage to the mower deck and property.
• Redesigned front baffle manages airflow and controls clippings better.
• Blade spindle housings are made of ductile cast iron
  • Gusseted design puts reinforcement where it is needed.
• Spindle pocket reinforcement gives even greater structural durability.
• Adjustable anti-scalp wheels help smooth out the mowing job.
• Standard semi-pneumatic caster tires will not go flat from punctures.

The mower is designed to provide exceptional cut quality at higher travel speeds:

• The mower deck is stamped from 7-gauge, 0.179-in. (4.6-mm) steel to minimize the number of welds and provide a smooth underside, with fewer sharp corners, for reduced material buildup.
  • Provides precision components and long deck life
  • Single piece of steel means no welds to break
  • Provides a smooth underside, without corners, reducing material buildup
• 0.75-in. (1.9-cm) solid steel bar is welded to mower deck perimeter for added strength.
• The rounded corners of the stamped deck help distribute impact stress to reduce the potential of damage when the mower contacts trees, rocks, curbs, and other fixed obstacles.
• A deep-deck design of 5.5-in. (14-cm) delivers excellent airflow so material can be processed quickly and efficiently.
• 1-in. to 6-in. (2.5-cm to 12.7-cm) cutting heights, in 0.5-in. (1.3-cm) increments, allow the operator to match all mowing conditions.

Unique baffling system allows grass to stand up before being cut, producing a uniform length and appearance:

• Baffling system eliminates clumping, blowout, and windrowing.
• Wide discharge opening provides even clipping dispersal for an excellent, finished appearance in all conditions.

62-in. (157-cm) FastBack Mower Deck

The 62-in. (157-cm) FastBack rear-discharge mower is ideally suited for:

• Areas where people are present
  • Schools
  • Parks
  • Playgrounds
  • Traffic areas (city boulevards, roadsides, etc.)
• Conditions and applications:
  •  Areas with long grass and weeds
  • Areas where customer is not as concerned about having a wide dispersal of grass (park areas, roadsides, etc.)
• Government bids that specify a rear discharge mower. 

Key features of the 62-in. (157-cm) Rear-Discharge Mower Deck include: 

• Mower deck is constructed of 7-gauge, 0.179-in. (4.6-mm) steel for the strength to stand up to the demanding use of commercial and municipal mowing applications.
• Blade spindle housings are made of ductile cast iron.
  • Gusseted design puts reinforcement where it is needed.
• Deck is constructed with a  unique baffling system that reduces clumping and windrowing and produces a finished appearance that competitive rear-discharge mowers cannot match.
• The belt-drive system has an easy-to-adjust tension device.
  • By using a spring system, the risk for over tensioning is eliminated, ensuring a long belt life and excellent performance during the season.
• For easy service and maintenance, the deck can be rotated into the vertical locked service position.
• Deep-deck design increases airflow so more material can be processed.
• Operator can trim with either side.
  • Dual side trimming increases operator productivity.
• 1-in. to 6-in. (2.5-cm to 15.2-cm) cutting heights, in 0.5-in. (1.3-cm) increments, allow the operator to match all mowing conditions.
• Gauge wheels, rollers, or side-mounted skid shoes lift the deck over uneven surfaces for a well-groomed appearance.

• Double-captured anti-scalp wheels provide increased durability.

• Easy lift and lock system for service purposes.

• Standard semi-pneumatic caster tires will not go flat when punctured.

• Spindles can be greased without removing belt shields.
• 1-in. (2.5-cm) cold-forged spindles are strong for long life.
  • Heat-treated to provide additional strength
• Certified to European (CE) standards

72-in. (152-cm) 7-Iron PRO Side-Discharge Mower Deck

Features include:

• Blade tip speed of 18,000 fpm (5486 m/min) for more blade strikes per inch mowed.
• Trim-edge bumper reduces damage to the mower deck and property.
• Redesigned front baffle manages airflow and controls clippings better.
• Spindle pocket reinforcement gives even greater structural durability.
• Blade spindle housings are made of ductile cast iron.
  • Gusseted design puts reinforcement where it is needed.
• Adjustable anti-scalp wheels help smooth out the mowing job.
• Standard semi-pneumatic caster tires will not go flat from punctures.

The mower is designed to provide exceptional cut quality at higher travel speeds:

• The mower deck is stamped from 7-gague, 0.179-in. (4.6-mm) steel to minimize the number of welds and provide a smooth underside, with fewer sharp corners, for reduced material buildup.
  • Provides precision components and long deck life
  • Single piece of steel means no welds to break
  • Provides a smooth underside, without corners, reducing material buildup
• 0.75-in. (1.9-cm) solid steel bar is welded to mower deck perimeter for added strength.
• The rounded corners of the stamped deck help distribute impact stress to reduce the potential of damage when the mower contacts trees, rocks, curbs, and other fixed obstacles.
• A deep-deck design of 5.5-in. (14-cm) delivers excellent airflow so material can be processed quickly and efficiently.
• 1-in. to 6-in. (2.5-cm to 12.7-cm) cutting heights, in 0.5-in. (1.3-cm) increments, allow the operator to match all mowing conditions.

Unique baffling system allows grass to stand up before being cut, producing a uniform length and appearance:

• Baffling system eliminates clumping, blowout, and windrowing.
• Wide discharge opening provides even clipping dispersal for an excellent, finished appearance in all conditions.

72-in. (183-cm) FastBack PRO Mower Deck

The 72-in. (183-cm) Rear-Discharge FastBack PRO Mower Deck is ideally for professional landscapers and government municipalities requiring rear discharge placement of grass and debris, John Deere FastBack PRO rear-discharge mower decks deliver a commercial mowing solution. Advantages of a rear-discharge mower include:

• Less chance of damage from objects being thrown from the mower deck
• Time savings with the ability to mow closely around fixed objects with either side of the deck
• A cleaner mowing experience by lessening the amount of debris that can blow onto the operator

A rear-discharge mower deck is ideally suited for:

• Schools
• Parks
• Playgrounds
• Traffic areas (city boulevards, roadsides, etc.)
• Areas with long, grassy spots that need to be cut, where you are not as concerned about wide dispersal of grass (park areas, roadsides, etc.)
• Some government bids specify that the mower is equipped with a rear discharge.

Key features of the 72-in. (183-cm) Rear-Discharge Mower Deck include:

• Mower deck is constructed of 7-gauge, 0.179-in. (4.6-mm) steel for the strength to stand up to the demanding use of commercial and municipal mowing applications.
• Blade spindle housings are made of ductile cast iron.
  • Gusseted design puts reinforcement where it is needed.
• Deck is constructed with a unique baffling system that reduces clumping and windrowing and produces a finished appearance that competitive rear-discharge mowers cannot match.
• Operator can trim with either side.
  
  • Dual side trimming increases operator productivity.
  • Trim-edge bumpers on each side reduces damage to the mower deck and property.
• The belt-drive system has an easy-to-adjust tension device.
  • By using a spring system, the risk for over tensioning is eliminated, ensuring a long belt life and excellent performance during the season.
• For easy service and maintenance, the deck can be rotated into the vertical locked service position. Deep-deck design increases airflow so more material can be processed.
• 1-in. to 6-in. (2.5-cm to 15.2-cm) cutting heights, in 0.5-in. (1.3-cm) increments, allow the operator to match all mowing conditions.
• Gauge wheels or rollers lift the deck over uneven surfaces for a well-groomed appearance.
• Double-captured anti-scalp wheels provide increased durability. Easy lift and lock system for service purposes.
• Standard semi-pneumatic caster tires will not go flat when punctured. Spindles can be greased without removing belt shields.
• 1-in. (2.5-cm) cold-forged spindles are strong for long life.
  • Heat-treated to provide additional strength
• Certified to European (CE) standards

Mower deck specifications

PTO shaft drive is easy to access for quick-change of equipment

Live, independent power take-off (PTO) powers a mower deck, rotary broom, or two-stage snow blower:

• PTO can be engaged or disengaged on the go for greater productivity.
• Hydraulic PTO clutch has delay relief valve for soft engagement.
• Wet clutch design provides long life.
• PTO is easily accessible.

Tires are matched to the machine size and mower widths

1550, 1570, 1575 tires

Standard drive tires:

• 23x10.5-12 or 23x8.5-12 (1550, 1570)
• 23x10.5-12 (1575)

Available steering tires: 18x8.5-10 (4WD) or 18x8.5-8 (2WD)

1580, 1585 tires

Standard drive tires: 26x12-12, 6 PR drive tires (1580, 1585)

Standard steering tires: 20x10.00-10, 6 PR steering tires (1580, 1585)

Optional mulching kits add versatility to the mower decks

Kits are available to convert the 60-in. (152-cm) and 72-in. (183-cm) 7-Iron™ PRO Side-Discharge Mower Decks into mulching decks for use in grass and leaves.

The mulch kits include mulching blades, baffles, end covers, and attaching hardware.

Maneuverability:

• Turn radius of 13 in. (33 cm)
• Uncut circle of 28 in. (71.1 cm) with a 72-in. (183-cm) 7-Iron™ PRO mower deck
• Deck offset and pulled rearward 
• Tail-follows-the-trail trimming capability with 72-in. (183-cm) side-discharge mower deck
• Steered wheels (tail) stay within the path (trail) cut by the mower deck, allowing maneuverability without the rear of the machine contacting mowing obstacles

Hydrostatic power steering provides the following benefits:

• Makes it easy to turn the unit for less operator fatigue
• Allows quick turns - two turns lock to lock - for excellent productivity

The steering console offers the following:

• Throttle
• Key switch
• Headlight switch
• T4 display for monitoring performance (1570, 1575, 1580, 1585)

Console information/warning lights include the following:

• Hour meter
• Battery discharge light
• Engine oil pressure
• Engine coolant temperature
• Hydraulic oil over temperature
• Air preheater
• Lights
• Power take-off (PTO) operation indication

Two-pedal foot control:

• Allows the operator to select speed and direction with just the touch of a toe
• Keeps both hands free for steering and operating controls

Master stop brake (parking brake):

• Provides stopping power to both drive wheels
• Disengages the power take-off (PTO)
• Disengages the optional cruise control
• Used also for a parking brake

Individual turn-assist brakes:

• Provides additional traction when operating on hillsides
• Ideal for tight trimming situations
• Works in conjunction with hydrostatic foot controls to stop or slow the unit for turns

Differential lock:

• Locks both front drive wheels together for added traction
• Easily engaged with the left foot

The 4WD control lever is standard on 1575, 1580, and 1585; it is a factory-installed option on the 1550 and 1570.

The 4WD control lever:

• Allows the operator to select between on-demand or full-time 4WD on 1550, 1570, and 1575 models
• Allows the operator to select between on-demand or full-time 4WD and full-time two-wheel drive (2WD) on 1580 and 1585 models

Electronic cruise control (optional):

• Beneficial when mowing open areas or when transporting

The lift-control lever is conveniently located within easy reach of the operator's right hand.

A two-speed transaxle shift lever is standard on 1580 and 1585.

Safety starting system helps protect the operator and others

TerrainCut™ Front Mowers have an operator-presence system.

To start the engine the following conditions must be met:

• Master brake must be depressed or the parking brake locked; the hydrostatic foot controls will then be in the neutral position.
• PTO must be disengaged
• Ignition key must be used.

In addition, once the engine is running, an interlock automatically shuts the engine and PTO off if the operator leaves the seat. To keep the engine running, the operator must disengage the PTO and set the parking brake before dismounting.

Tilt steering and headlights are standard equipment

The three-piece steering column provides the following:

• Easy access to the steering valve and electrical components
• Better fit-up and appearance
• Easy adjustment to accommodate all operators
• Standard 50-W halogen headlights

Tilt steering

Tilt steering column allows the operator to adjust to the most comfortable position:

• Allows additional clearance for platform entry and exit
• Over 15 in. (38.1 cm) of travel
• Works in conjunction with the seat to accommodate all operators, regardless of size

Brakes and differential lock are convenient to use for maximum productivity

Wet-disk brakes are standard equipment:

• Provide positive stopping power and long life
• Require minimal adjustment
• Individual turn brakes are located on left side of platform

The differential lock is also included as standard equipment:

• Locks both front drive wheels together for extra traction, when needed
• Conveniently located pedal to allow the operator to engage the differential lock with the left foot while maintaining speed and direction (forward or reverse) with the right foot

12-V power outlet is convenient to use

The 12-V power outlet can be used to recharge radios and cell phones, popular tools used by commercial cutters.

The outlet is conveniently located under the front of the seat.

ROPS complies with safety standards

The ROPS complies with the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 1928.51 standard for rollover protection.

Operator comfort enhances productivity. TerrainCut™ Front Mowers include suspension seats with green accents and an embroidered John Deere logo. The comfort-adjust mechanical spring suspension seat is base equipment, and an air-suspension is an optional upgrade. The operator can adjust suspension by increasing or decreasing pressure for optimum comfort. Fore-aft adjustments accommodate both tall and short operators.

Both seats are 24-in. (61-cm) tall and include back-angle, lumbar, and arm rest adjustments. The eye-catching seats are constructed from two unique vinyl textures and sewn with decorative stitching. Retractable seat belts prevent belts from becoming tangled in the seat suspension and controls.

Other comfort features include:

• Standard cup holder
• Noise level meets North American and European standards

Overview

A JDLink™ M Modem connects a commercial mower to the John Deere Operations Center, which enables you to manage your fleet more efficiently, increase productivity, and reduce labor costs. With a modem and Operations Center, you are always connected to the work in progress and can make timely adjustments to keep your fleet mowing.

JDLink M Modem

A JDLink M Modem is standard equipment on model year 2024 and newer TerrainCut Front and Wide-Area Mowers.

A modem can be field installed on:

• Model year 2024 and newer Z700 ZTrak™ Mowers
• Model year 2024 and newer gasoline-powered Z900 ZTrak Mowers
• Model year 2024 and newer Z994R ZTrak Mowers
• Model year 2021 and newer Z997R ZTrak Mowers
• Model year 2024 and newer Q800 QuikTrak™ Mowers
• Model year 2025 and newer R Series commercial walk-behind mowers
• Model year 2022-2023 TerrainCut Front Mowers
• Model year 2023 TerrainCut Wide-Area Mowers

See compatibility section for serial number breaks and requirements.

John Deere Operations Center

The John Deere Operations Center tracks your fleet and provides tools to analyze mower data. The connected features vary by mower model.

Location and status

The JDLink M Modem regularly transmits the location and operational status of each mower in the fleet so you can monitor mowing progress in Operations Center.

• Location history-Display of map with current and past locations of each mower.
• GPS Speed-Maps each mower’s current speed, based on GPS location data, so you can target operator training.
• Hours of operation-Reports the time of day the vehicle has been operated.
• Geofencing-Alerts when a mower enters or exits a prescribed area, for example if the mower has been stolen or an operator entered an area that should not be mowed.
• Curfews-Alerts if the mower is operating outside prescribed times, for example residential areas with early-morning noise restrictions.

Engine hours

The modem regularly transmits the mower’s engine hours to inform maintenance planning and balance use.

• Sync-The mower reports actual engine hours to the Operations Center.
• Key-Engine hours are estimated by monitoring the key switch. Engine hours can be corrected in Operations Center.

Maintenance planner

Factory or custom maintenance plans can be established in Operations Center. Maintenance alerts are sent when engine hours reach maintenance intervals.

Machine Analyzer Tool

On select products, the modem reports the time the mower spent transporting, idling, and working. The Operations Center’s Machine Analyzer tool reports usage data which allows you to analyze operator behavior, identify causes of low productivity, and initiate corrective actions.

Fuel level

On select products, the modem reports the fuel level. On these products, an analysis of fuel consumption is available in the Operations Center Machine Analyzer Tool. Measuring fuel consumption enables you to address causes of excessive fuel use.

Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)

On select products, the modem transmits the trouble codes generated by the mower’s control units to the Operations Center. Addressing DTCs can reduce downtime and repair costs. For example, a low-engine oil pressure DTC can indicate an engine is low on oil. Addressing the issue can prevent costly downtime and repairs.

To help address issues quickly, when a DTC is generated, the Operations Center can display a push notification on the mobile app and send an email. Operations Center can also be configured to limit notifications to stop-level severity DTCs.

Service Advisor Remote

On select products, John Deere dealers can perform remote diagnostics, software programming, and adjustments without the cost of a service call.

Compatibility

A JDLink M Modem is standard equipment on model year 2024 and newer (SN 110,001-) TerrainCut Front Mowers and model year 2024 and newer (SN 690,001-) TerrainCut Wide-Area Mowers.

A JDLink M Modem can be field installed on the commercial mowing products listed below. Field installation attachments simplify modem installation, and include brackets, mounting hardware, harness, and instructions. Field installation requires a JDLink M Modem to be ordered separately. The field installation attachments include a wiring harness therefore the modem should be ordered with the less harness option code.

Engine hood

Engine hood includes large screened area:

• Minimizes the amount of material that can get to the cooling radiators
• Minimizes the need to clean the hood screens 

Hood latch keeps the hood securely in place, providing an optimum seal:

• A single hood latch is located on top of the hood behind the seat.

Designed-in service accessibility helps ensure daily maintenance is completed to keep the machine operating at peak performance.

The hood opens rearward, exposing the following:

• Engine
• Oil and fuel filter
• Hydraulic oil cooler
• Radiator check/fill

The hood can be totally removed, if necessary. The seat flips forward for access to air filter, fuse bank, engine oil dipstick, and front of engine.

Easy-to-turn knobs are provided to release the air conditioning condenser (1575 and 1585 only) and fuel and hydraulic oil coolers so they can be tilted back to permit thorough cleaning between them and the engine coolant radiator.

Quick response (QR) codes link to owner information web pages

To speed access to owner information web pages, a QR code is printed onto a product identification number (PIN) label located on the control console near the seat. The owner information web pages that include links to:

• Safety and how-to videos
• Operator’s manuals
• Parts catalogs
• Maintenance reminder sheets
• Attachments
• Warranty statements

Foot platform access panel

The panel on the foot platform can be removed for access to the transaxle, PTO shaft, and most linkages.

Easy-to-read daily service decal is located on the bottom of the foot platform panel:

• Provides access to easily hook up driveshaft when changing implements
• Makes it more likely service will be performed at the optimum time, thus ensuring the highest level of performance and uptime

Removal of the foot platform gives convenient access to the driveshaft that powers the mower deck, snow blower and rotary broom:

• Helps make changing from one front implement to another easier and more convenient

 Hydraulic hoses have reusable O-ring seal (ORS) fittings:

• ORS fittings seal at a lower torque to prevent leaks.
• Fittings can be removed from a damaged hose and installed on another hose.
• Downtime and cost for repairs are reduced considerably.

RFS feature provides access for cleaning and maintenance of the mower decks:

• The service-latch pin allows mower deck to lock into position to ensure deck is held in position for cleaning or service.
• The top-greaseable spindle grease fittings can be accessed without removing the belt covers. 

Trailering features are included to reduce the time and cost to move equipment

Trailering features are designed-in for convenience:

• Designed-in trailer tie-downs are located at the front and rear of the machine.
• Slotted lift arms allow the front caster wheels to lift the mower deck when driving onto a trailer.
• Rotate For Service™ (RFS) decks take up less room when transporting on trailers, allowing more room for other important equipment.

Remote battery posts

Remote battery posts simplify jump starting. Both positive and negative posts are located  in front of the right rear steer tire.

The revolutionary tubular, high-strength welded steel frame provides durability and allows major components to be located lower in the machine:

• The design results in a lower center of gravity for better stability and traction on hillsides and slopes.
• Rollover protective structures (ROPS) are integral members of the frame.

Durable design

Durability features of the frame include:

• Heat-treated cast-iron axles with 1.24-in. (3.15-cm) kingpins
• Internal wet-disk brakes
• Hydraulic PTO clutch, with brake
  • Provides smooth engagement and long life
• Hydrostatic oil cooler
• O-ring seal (ORS) hydraulic fittings
• Integrated, shaft-driven power take-off (PTO)
• Sealed relays and electrical connectors
• Heavy-duty, dual hydraulic cylinders
• Nodular cast-iron lift arm sockets
• Cast-iron rear bumper

A Kanzaki® 30-cc transmission is used for reliable operation.

Durability features include the following:

• High-capacity hydrostatic transmission and heavy-duty transaxle maximize performance and uptime and minimize cost of maintenance. 
• Charge pump is used to efficiently deliver oil to the transmission.
• Oil cooler helps maintain optimum transmission oil temperature for superior performance and longer transmission life in the most challenging operating conditions.
• Maximum forward top speed is 12 mph (19.3 km/h) on the 1550, 1570, and 1575 and 15 mph (24.1 km/h) on the 1580 and 1585.
• Self-bleeding design helps keep air out of the system.

Kanzaki is a trademark of Kanzaki Kokyukoki Manufacturing Company.

Mechanical rear-wheel drive is available as standard equipment (1575, 1580, 1585) or as a factory-installed option (1550, 1570):

• On-demand four-wheel drive automatically engages and disengages as needed.
  • Constantly maximizes trimming ability
  • Offers better fuel economy than full-time four-wheel drive 
  • Provides better steering tire wear than full-time four-wheel drive 
  • Increases traction and trimming ability to allow a novice operator to mow like an expert
  • Works in the forward direction only
• Full-time four-wheel drive is on at all times.
  • Can be engaged or disengaged on the go
  • Provides maximum traction and flotation in poor conditions
  • Works in reverse as well as the forward direction
• Two-wheel drive position is available on 1580 and 1585 with two-speed transaxle.
  • Disengages rear axle when transporting at high ground speeds

Dual 23x8.5-12 drive tires are available for increased hillside stability, flotation, and reduced ground compaction.

In addition, single drive tires may be set in the narrow or wide position to match mowing conditions.

NOTE: These tires are available for the 1550 and 1570 models only.

Tail follows the trail

Tail-follows-the-trail trimming with 72-in. (183-cm) mower decks. Steered wheels (tail) stay within the path (trail) cut by the mower deck, allowing maneuverability without the rear of the machine contacting mowing obstacles.

Maneuverability:

• Turn radius 13 in. (33 cm)
• Uncut circle – 28 in. (71cm) with a 72-in. (183-cm) 7-Iron PRO mower deck
  • Deck offset for increased trim capability

Front mowers must be properly ballasted for both good performance and safe operation. Ballast requirements differ depending on the front mower model and the implement being used.

The chart below gives the minimum ballast requirements for the various product configurations. Additional ballast is recommended for operating on slopes or other conditions that may warrant it.

NOTE: Use only implements and accessories recommended by the manufacturer.

Front mowers and current (model year 2015 and later) implements

Front mowers and model year 2014 and prior implements

The foldable two-post Roll-Gard rollover protective structure (ROPS) and retractable seat belt are standard equipment.

• Foldable for trimming, such as when mowing under trees or bushes

Safety certification

John Deere commercial mowers are evaluated by the manufacturer (John Deere Turf Care) and conform to American National Standards Institute (ANSI) / Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI) 5395-1 and 5395-3 safety requirements for combustion-engine-powered lawnmowers.