How to Install a Hitch onto a John Deere Z5 Zero-Turn Mower

Shop Part No. BUC10987

The John Deere Z5 Zero-Turn Mower is a powerhouse in its own right. But did you know you can enhance its capabilities by adding a rear hitch kit? Whether you're looking to tow small trailers or other implements, this hitch kit can be a game-changer. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you install it seamlessly.

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In this Kit:

• Rear hitch

Tools Needed:

• 13mm ratchet and socket

What's a Hitch Plate?

Designed with simplicity in mind, the hitch plate features a standard clevis-style hitch, ensuring compatibility with various attachments. On the back side of the hitch plate, you'll find two slotted holes, which will align perfectly with the two bolts at the rear of the mower.

When installing the Hitch Kit, it's important to understand the hitch's capacity. It can handle a maximum tongue weight of 100 pounds and features a towing capacity of 250 pounds. Always ensure you don't exceed these limits in order to maintain safety and mower performance.
 

Prepping the Mower

If your mower has a yard tool kit installed like the one we are working on here, prepping the mower will involve navigating around the yard tool kit mounting bracket. Regardless of whether the yard tool kit is installed or not though, to prep the mower all that is needed is simply loosening the bolts at the rear of the mower. Loosen the bolts enough to create a gap that the hitch plate can easily slide down onto using the notches on the backside of the plate. To loosen, use a 13mm ratchet and socket.
 

Mounting the Hitch Kit

Once the bolts are loosened, line the notches at the back of the hitch plate up with the bolts and slide it into place. If you have the yard tool kit installed, you may need to push back on the yard tool kit mounting bracket in order to complete this step.

Next, tighten the bolts using your 13mm ratchet and socket. As you do this, ensure there are no gaps between the hitch and the plate or between the plate and the mower frame. A secure fit is essential for a stable performance.
 

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With the rear hitch kit installed on your John Deere Z5, you've just expanded the mower's versatility. Whether you're towing garden trailers or other implements, this hitch ensures you can do so safely and efficiently. If you're considering adding this to your mower, look for part number buc-10897.

If you have questions about any of the information above or are just more of a visual learner, head over to our YouTube channel and watch our video (also attached below)! Leave a comment or question and receive a personal reply from Brent, our resident John Deere expert. Be sure to subscribe and thanks for reading!