W61R MOWER

Commercial Walk-Behind Mower

  • 61-inch (155-cm) floating mower deck
  • Powerful 25 hp (18.6 kW) V-twin engine
  • Self-propelled hydrostatic drive system
  • Easy-to-use controls for operator comfort and convenience

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Features



W48R showing compact design, overheadW48R showing compact design, overhead
W52R showing compact design, leftW52R showing compact design, left

From the operator's station to the mower deck, John Deere walk-behind mowers have a compact and functional design:

  • Caster wheels are set in as close to the mower as possible.
    • Shortest overall machine length to maximize maneuverability and minimize space needed on a trailer
  • The compact design of John Deere commercial walk-behind mowers allows access to operate in tight areas where larger ride-on machines cannot fit. Often, this means the area can be mowed with a walk-behind mower so it is not necessary to switch to another mower, which helps reduce the time on site.
  • With the compact design of John Deere commercial walk-behind mowers, less space is required on a truck or trailer, possibly freeing up space for an extra mower, resulting in less time on property, saving both time and money.
W61R mower deck, rightW61R mower deck, right
W48M MowerW48M Mower

Whether mowing hills or on level terrain, trimming, or mowing straight-away, the operator of a John Deere commercial walk-behind mower is able to control the machine:

  • The compact design makes the machine easier to maneuver.
  • Caster wheels are set close to the blades for most effective ground following capability.
  • Compact design takes less space for mowing tighter areas.
Heavy-duty frame
Mower frame, frontMower frame, front
R Series mower frame, rearR Series mower frame, rear

John Deere commercial walk-behind mowers are designed around a heavy-duty formed and welded steel frame for strength and reliability:

  • Welded frame consists of a combination of tubes and plate steel for a continuous frame that delivers long life
  • Yoke and caster wheel assemblies are built strong for long life
Convenient tie-down locations
Front tie down pointsFront tie down points
Rear tie down pointsRear tie down points
  • Front and rear tie down points are provided to aid in transport.
  • Allows ability to secure straps pulling in opposite directions to keep unit from rolling during transport.
Wheels and tires
Front caster wheel, W48R shownFront caster wheel, W48R shown
Rear drive wheel, W48R shownRear drive wheel, W48R shown

Large, flat-free front caster wheels and 4-ply rear drive wheels provide smoother operation:

  • Rear tires are sized for the machine and mower width to give optimum deck overhang for trimming performance.
    • Tire size
      • 18x6.5-8 (W36M, W36R)
      • 18x8.5-8 (W48M, W48R, W52R, W61R)
    • Benefits include:
      • Better slope performance
      • Easier to operate over uneven ground
      • Better traction
      • Increased ground clearance
  • Front caster wheels are designed for the best performance.
    • Large, 9x3.5-4 size for good flotation and easy steering
    • Flat-free, semi-pneumatic design for reliability
    • Positioned back close to the mower deck for most effective ground following capability
Electronic fuel injection (EFI) engineElectronic fuel injection (EFI) engine
Air-cooled engine, left sideAir-cooled engine, left side

W61R Commercial Walk-Behind Mower has an electronic fuel injected (EFI) air-cooled, vertical-shaft engine.

  • 25 hp (18.6 kW)
    • 45.6 cu in. (747 cc)
    • Electric start with a large 300 cold-cranking amp (CCA) battery for fast, convenient starts
  • EFI allows for fast starts without use of a choke - no choke lever is needed.
    • Starts are quick and easy, even for inexperienced operators.
    • EFI increases uptime.
    • Fast, reliable starts are routine just like with a modern automobile. EFI automatically meters fuel, including the extra fuel needed to start a cold engine, eliminating flooding from unnecessarily choking a warm engine. No carburetor adjustments are needed at altitude.
    • There are no choke-related problems since the choke is eliminated, thus ensuring operator confidence and quick starts, even in cold ambient temperatures (snow blower use). The mechanical throttle cable is replaced by an electric linkage that is not susceptible to wear or freezing.
    • Cost of ownership is reduced.
    • EFI precisely meters fuel to each engine cylinder. Fuel usage can be expected to be about 10 percent less than with a similar carbureted tractor.
    • Maintenance expenses are reduced because of fewer complaints related to hard starting, vapor lock, misfire, run-on, or fouled spark plugs.
  • V-twin design for smooth operation and fast starts
    • Consistently strong torque at low- or high-speed operation
  • Aluminum engine block
    • Effectively dissipates heat
    • Lightweight and strong construction
  • Overhead valve design
    • More horsepower and torque per cubic inch of displacement
    • Better fuel efficiency
    • Less oil consumption
    • Cooler operating temperature
Air-cooled engineAir-cooled engine
Engine cleanout port covers and air filter removedEngine cleanout port covers and air filter removed
  • Rotating grass chopper screen
  • Dual-stage air cleaner for extended engine life and efficient operation
  • Cylinder head cleanout ports to ease maintenance
Engine oil coolerEngine oil cooler
Oil filter and drain hoseOil filter and drain hose
  • Hydraulic valve lifters
    • Oil pressurized, ensuring that push rods stay in constant contact with the rocker arms
    • No adjustment required
  • Full-pressure lubrication with full-flow filter
    • Reduces engine wear by ensuring proper lubrication, even when operating on hillsides or uneven terrain
    • Helps keep oil clean for increased engine life
  • Complies with strict U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and California Air Resources Board (CARB) emission standards without    loss of horsepower or torque
Fuel tank and battery
Fuel tank and in-line fuel filterFuel tank and in-line fuel filter
BatteryBattery

Large, 5.4-gal. (20.4-L) top draw fuel tank is easy to fill with large filler opening in an easy-to-reach location.

  • Fuel pump for dependable, consistent operation
  • Top-draw system to reduce the chance for fuel leakage
  • Replaceable in-line fuel filter for trouble-free operation

Powerful, 300-CCA battery is secured and protected from damage in an easy-to-access location.

R Series drive systemR Series drive system
M and R Series tracking adjustment knobM and R Series tracking adjustment knob

W36R, W48R, W52R, and W61R Mowers are equipped with an infinitely variable hydrostatic drive system with reverse, which does the following:

  • Provides infinite ground-speed adjustments from 0 mph to 7.5 mph (0 km/h to 12.1 km/h) to meet the mowing application
  • Enables a smoother transition from one speed to another 
  • Gives a reverse speed of 3 mph (4.8 km/h), enabling the operator to back out of tight mowing areas and increase productivity
Wheel motor and steel oil tubesWheel motor and steel oil tubes
Transmission oil reservoirTransmission oil reservoir

Wheel motors power the rear drive wheels. Steel oil tubes between the pumps and wheel motors are used for maximum reliability.

A transmission oil reservoir is located next to the fuel tank for easy checking.

Sight glass for checking oil level without opening hydraulic system minimizes risk of contamination entering the system.

Replaceable transmission oil filterReplaceable transmission oil filter

The transmission oil filter is a replaceable spin-on type for easy service.

Operator station (R Series shown)Operator station (R Series shown)
Compact control console (R Series shown)Compact control console (R Series shown)

All of the controls are located within comfortable reach of the operator. Simplified operation of each control offers superior convenience, productivity, and safety:

  • Color-coded and clearly marked levers, switches, and buttons enable simplified operation.
  • Bilingual decals in English and Spanish are provided.
  • The operator presence system requires that one of the bails must be depressed to operate the unit; the machine must be in neutral and the power take-off (PTO) must be disengaged to start.
    • Operator presence control levers are recessed into control handle when engaged, provides a smooth contour and comfortable handle to hold during operation.
  • Separate choke and throttle – This takes the guesswork out of choke operation, with less chance of fowling the spark plugs.
    • The W61R model with electronic fuel injection (EFI) does not require a choke.
  • Electric PTO clutch on the engine powers the mower deck. The PTO switch on the dash is easy to see and use.
Steering control locked in neutral positionSteering control locked in neutral position
Steering levers control speed and direction in useSteering levers control speed and direction in use
  • Speed and steering controls are designed for ease of operation.
  • Ergonomically designed control configuration on all units gives good operator comfort and leverage while driving.
  • A speed-control lever is conveniently located in the center of the console and used to set maximum desired speed.
Operator presence control handle in useOperator presence control handle in use
  • Low actuation force is required for operator comfort.
  • The neutral lock is spring-loaded for easy release.
Electric PTO switchElectric PTO switch
Electric PTO clutchElectric PTO clutch

A convenient and easy-to-operate switch is located on the console to operate the electric clutch, which powers the mower deck.

Parking brake (W36M, W48M)
Parking brake lever, W48M shownParking brake lever, W48M shown

W36M and W48M parking brake control lever:

  • Color coded and located above the console, within easy reach of the operator
  • Actuates internal braking mechanism of the transmissions
Parking brake (W36R, W48R, W52R, W61R)
Left brake pawl and color-coded parking brake controlLeft brake pawl and color-coded parking brake control
Right brake pawl, W48R shownRight brake pawl, W48R shown

W36R, W48R, W52R, and W61R parking brake control lever:

  • Color coded and located above the console, within easy reach of the operator
  • Actuates arm that creates a mechanical locking interference on both drive tires
  • Brake pawl located near top of tire to eliminate contact with curbs
Operator presence systemOperator presence system
Right speed control lever and neutral lockRight speed control lever and neutral lock

Safety features are designed into M and R Series commercial walk-behind mowers:

  • Before the engine will start, the transmission speed control lever must be locked in neutral, the parking brake set, the power take-off (PTO) disengaged, and the key switch turned to the on position.
  • Left- and right-hand speed/direction control levers are locked in neutral by spring-loaded knobs on the end of control handles.
    • The knob has a finger lever, making it easy to move to the locked position while holding the control lever in the neutral position.
    • The locking knob is spring loaded for easy release of the control levers.
  • Separate choke and throttle – this takes the guesswork out of choke operation, and there is less chance of fouling the spark plugs.
    • The W61R has electronic fuel injection (EFI) and does not require a choke control.
  • Color-coded and clearly marked switches and buttons are easy to find.
Parking brake lever (W48R shown)Parking brake lever (W48R shown)
Key switchKey switch
  • Convenient parking brake location
  • The key switch interlock prevents bypass starting
Mower deck shieldsMower deck shields
Control panelControl panel
  • Shields are easy to remove and reinstall so they are more likely to be put back on after removal
  • Safety labels
  • Bilingual decals in English and Spanish
2-year bumper-to-bumper warranty

John Deere warranty includes:

  • Single source
  • 24-month coverage
  • Unlimited hours of use
  • Commercial application

All parts, except tires and batteries (which are warranted under separate documents provided with each product), are warranted

Engine service
Engine service points, W48R engine shownEngine service points, W48R engine shown
Engine cleanout port covers and air filter removed, W61R shownEngine cleanout port covers and air filter removed, W61R shown

Engine service points are easy to reach:

  • Oil drain tubes are provided to reduce oil spills and mess.
  • Cleanout ports make inspecting and cleaning engine cooling fins easy.
Durable and adjustable control linkage
Control rods with adjustable endsControl rods with adjustable ends
Plated and adjustable control rods and endsPlated and adjustable control rods and ends

Control rods and ends are plated to stop rust and corrosion:

  • Large pivot points for minimal wear and long life
  • Grease fittings to lubricate for continued smooth operation
  • Adjustable rod ends for easy and accurate adjustments
Control linkage protected when nesting equipmentControl linkage protected when nesting equipment

Control linkages are positioned tightly to the main frame structure to protect them from damage, such as being bent that could impact the speed and tracking of the unit.

Transmission service
Transmission oil reservoir, W36M shownTransmission oil reservoir, W36M shown
Replaceable transmission oil filter, W52R shownReplaceable transmission oil filter, W52R shown

Transmission oil reservoirs are easy to access and fill.

The transmission oil filter is a replaceable spin-on type for easy service.

Tow release
Transmission tow-release, M Series designTransmission tow-release, M Series design
Hydraulic bypass valve, R Series designHydraulic bypass valve, R Series design

Transmission tow valves are easy to find and use.

Convenient tie-down locations
Front tie-down pointsFront tie-down points
Rear tie-down pointsRear tie-down points
  • Front and rear tie-down points are provided to aid in transport.
  • More-rounded corners contribute to a clean, attractive appearance.
  • Greater strength results from eliminating sharp angles where peak loads can cause failure.
W61R mower deckW61R mower deck
W61R mower deckW61R mower deck

John Deere commercial mower decks have always demonstrated quality, performance, and durability. Each commercial walk-behind mower is equipped with a high-quality fabricated mower deck:

  • 10-gauge, 0.135-in. (3.42-mm) fabricated steel deck top with added 10-gauge, 0.135-in. (3.42-mm) spindle mounting plate
  • 7-gauge, 0.19-in. (4.8-mm) side skirts with reinforcement bar

The fabricated, floating mower deck delivers an extremely high-quality cut in diverse conditions:

  • Floating suspension enables the best possible cut.
  • Reinforced front lower edge provides strength and durability.
  • Four mower front wheels are double-captured for durability and adjustable to three positions to suit the cut height.
  • Two-coat paint covering protects the mower deck and resists corrosion. 
  • Deep-deck design for superior capacity.
  • Side and center anti-scalp wheels promote a smooth mowing job.
Mower deck underside (similar W48M mower shown)Mower deck underside (similar W48M mower shown)
Rear mower wheelRear mower wheel
  • Hardened steel blades extend cutting time and increase durability.
  • High blade-tip speed of approximately 18,000 fpm (5,486 m/min) for more blade strikes per inch mowed.
  • R Series mower decks include a rear wheel for additional anti-scalp protection.
    • Adjustable to three height positions to suit the cut height
Flexible mower-discharge deflectorFlexible mower-discharge deflector
Inset caster wheelsInset caster wheels

A high-quality polyethylene deflector gives an excellent finished appearance:              

  • Wide, formed discharge deflector provides even clipping distribution.
  • Large discharge deflector evenly disperses expelled clippings.  

Caster wheels with flat-free tires contribute to a smooth, even cutting job:

  • Large, flat-free caster wheels carry the mower deck smoothly over the lawn.
  • Caster wheels are close to the mower deck to reduce vehicle footprint and turning radius.
    • With the wheels less exposed, there is less chance they will get snagged by immovable obstacles, thus improving maneuverability and reducing chance of damage.
Mower cut-height adjustment
Mower cut-height adjustmentsMower cut-height adjustments
Mower cut-height adjustment clipMower cut-height adjustment clip

A floating mower deck has several advantages over a fixed mower deck design:

  • Follows ground contour more effectively for a more even cut
  • Travels smoothly above the ground with minimal chance of scalping
  • Easier to adjust the cutting height

Mower cutting height can be set from 1.5 in. (3.8 cm) to 4.5 in. (11.4 cm) in 0.5-in. (1.3-cm) increments:

  • The free-floating deck gives a smoother, more level cut.
  • Height-of-cut changes can be made without tools.
  • Large handles are provided to facilitate lifting the mower deck for setting the cut height.
  • Cut-height adjustment pins have 90-degree bend for easy removal and reinstallation.
Mower shields in placeMower shields in place
Easy-to-remove mower deck shieldsEasy-to-remove mower deck shields

Mower deck shields are easily removed with hand knobs for access to the drive belt and other service points:

  • Easy-attach belt shields allow for quick access for service.
  • Four hand knobs allow removal of both mower shields.
  • Greaseable spindles with easy, top access for simplified servicing.
  • Spindle grease fittings can be greased with shields in place.
Optional mulching attachment
Optional mulching kit and blades (similar design shown)Optional mulching kit and blades (similar design shown)

An optional mulching attachment and special mulching blades are available:

  • The high-performance mulching attachment includes formed steel baffles to control the material for superior performance.
  • Special mulching blades can also be used for side discharging, though overall cutting performance may be slightly less than with the standard blades.
Optional mulching kit and blades (similar design shown)Optional mulching kit and blades (similar design shown)

An optional mulching attachment and special mulching blades are available:

  • The high-performance mulching attachment includes formed steel baffles to control the material for superior performance.
  • Special mulching blades can also be used when side discharging, though overall cutting performance may be slightly less than with the standard blades.
  • The mulching attachment allows for conversion of the mower deck so it can be used to perform the mulching function (grass or leaves).
Operating tips when mulching:
  • Mow when grass is dry.
  • Observe the one-third rule.
    • No more than one-third of the grass blade should be cut off at one time. This allows more efficient mulching and will promote the continued good health of the grass.
    • If the desired cut height cannot be achieved by cutting off one-third, or there is clumping of the clippings, it may be required to cut higher, wait a day, then lower the mower and make a second pass.
  • Mow at proper intervals, approximately every four to five days.
  • Always mow with sharp blades.
  • Adjust ground speed to allow the mower deck to process the clippings effectively.

Specifications


Compare the specifications of up to 4 models

Key Specs w61r-mower
Current Model
Engine manufacturer/modelECV740-EFI - California Air Resources Board (CARB) compliant
Engine powerAt 3600 rpm 25 hp*
18.6 kW
Fuel tank capacity5.4 U.S. gal.
20.4 L
Mower deck Size61 in.
155 cm
Blade tip speedApproximately 18,000 fpm
5,486 m/min
TransmissionTwo Hydro-Gear™, 0.73-cu in. (10-cc) hydraulic pumps and Danfoss 12 cu-in. (197-cc) wheel motors and ergonomic handles with spring loaded neutral lock
Speed rangeForward, 0-7.5 mph
0-12.1 km/h
Reverse, 0-3 mph
0-4.8 km/h
Drive wheels18x8.5-8
Caster wheels9x3.5-4 semi-pneumatic
Warranty24 month, single source commercial
Engine
Manufacturer/modelECV740-EFI - California Air Resources Board (CARB) compliant
PowerAt 3600 rpm 25 hp*
18.6 kW
Displacement45.6 cu in.
747 cc
CylindersV-twin
Crankcase capacity
Operating speed3,600 rpm
Idle Speed
Ignition/StarterElectronic/electric start
ValvingOverhead valves
Oil filterStandard
LubricationFull pressure
GovernorFlyweight all speed governor
HourmeterStandard, digital
Cooling systemAir cooled
Air cleanerDual HD canister
MufflerLow tone
Fuel System
Fuel typeGasoline
Fuel tank capacity5.4 U.S. gal.
20.4 L
Fuel pumpVacuum-operated diaphragm
Fuel delivery systemClosed-loop electronic fuel injection (EFI)
Fuel tank switch/Shut off valveNo
Filler neck opening
Fuel pickupTop draw
Electrical System
IgnitionElectronic spark
HourmeterStandard, digital
Operator presence starting systemPTO off, park brake engaged, speed lever in neutral
Drivetrain
TransmissionTwo Hydro-Gear, 0.73-cu in. (10-cc) hydraulic pumps and Danfoss 12 cu-in. (197-cc) wheel motors and ergonomic handles with spring loaded neutral lock
Wheel motorsDanfoss 12 cu in.
197 cc
Shift mechanismErgonomic handles with spring-loaded neutral lock
Tires
Drive wheels18x8.5-8
Outside to outside tire measurement
Caster wheels9x3.5-4 semi-pneumatic
Shift mechanism
Travel Speed
Forward speedsInfinite
Reverse speedsInfinite
Speed rangeForward, 0-7.5 mph
0-12.1 km/h
Reverse, 0-3 mph
0-4.8 km/h
Brakes
TypeDynamic braking with hand controls, hand lever to set parking brake
Dimensions
Height44.8 in.
114 cm
Length with deck83 in.
211 cm
WidthDeflector down - 75 in.
191 cm
Deflector up for storage - 65 in.
165 cm
Weight745 lb
338 kg
Mower Decks
SizeMaterial
10-gauge, 0.14-in. (3.42-mm) fabricated steel deck top with added 10-gauge, 0.14-in. (3.42-mm) spindle mounting plate, 7-gauge, 0.19-in. (4.8-mm) side skirts with reinforcement bar
Blades
Three high-lift
Length - 21 in.
53.3 cm
Thickness - 0.25 in.
0.64 cm
Blade drive
V-Belt
Blade tip speed
Approximately 18,000 fpm
5,486 m/min
Cutting height
1.5-4.5 in.
3.8-11.4 cm

61 in.
155 cm
Buyer's note
Warranty24 month, single source commercial