7 Common Kubota Zero Turn Mower Problems (Fixed)
If you are an owner of a Kubota zero-turn mower and have recently started experiencing some problems, you’re in the right place.
During our research, we’ve found seven common Kubota zero-turn mower problems that occur from time to time.
These common Kubota zero-turn mower issues are the mower doesn’t start or move; it doesn’t cut grass efficiently, overheats vibrates, pulls to one side, stops working, and deck issues.
If you have any of these issues, stay with us till the end of this article.
We’re here today to discuss the problems and simple fixes so that whatever is bothering your machine doesn’t interrupt for too long.
7 Kubota Zero Turn Mower Problems With Solutions
Here are the top 7 problems, along with the solutions. All you need to do is figure out your problem, and we have solutions ready. Keep reading!
Mower Doesn’t Start or Move.
The most common issue that Kubota zero-turn mower owners face is their mower either doesn’t start or move.
Both situations are frustrating because you won’t be able to work. Luckily, you can try a few things before deciding to take it for repairs.
Fixed:
- First, make sure that your mower has enough gas. If the tank is low, fill it up and try to start it again.
- Next, check to see if the mower key switch is in the correct position – typically, it should be placed in ‘On.’
- Check the air filter if the zero-turn mower is old; there’s a high chance it must be clogged. So clean it, and the mower will work fine.
- Ensure the battery is charged or the fuel is full.
- Check the hydrostatic transmission drive. If it’s engaged, disengage it; otherwise, the mower won’t move forward or backward.
- Lastly, don’t forget to follow all steps of starting a zero-turn mower. If you’re starting it wrongly, the mower won’t start, no matter what you do.
Doesn’t Cut Grass Evenly
Having a beautiful lawn with evenly cut grass is the dream of many lawn lovers.
Unfortunately, not everyone is able to fulfill this dream because a mower doesn’t cut grass evenly. And it happens with Kubota zero-turn mower customers too.
Does this problem have a solution? Yes, and the best part is you don’t need to go to any technician; you can do everything yourself.
Also Read: What are Kubota ZD331 Problems and How to Solve Them?
Fixed:
- 90% of the time, the problem with uneven grass is related to the blade. Therefore, check the blades of the mower whether they’re installed correctly.
- If they are installed correctly, then touch the edges of the blades (carefully by not putting too much pressure). Sharp edges mean the issue has nothing to do with blades, and dull edges mean you need to sharpen the blade.
- What if the blades are sharp? It means the issue is with the spindle. This part transfers the power from the engine to the blades. If it doesn’t work, the blades won’t work either. In case of a damaged spindle, replace it as soon as possible.
Zero-Turn Mower Overheats
Overheating is a serious issue because if you don’t take it seriously, your Kubota zero-turn mower might face serious problems with the engine.
But where to start? How to find the reason behind the overheating issue?
Rest assured, to help you out, we’ll discuss the possible reasons below and how you can spot them along with the solutions.
Also Read: Lawn Mower Overheating Symptoms (6 Reasons & Solutions)
Fixed:
- Another issue that creates the overheating issue is the clogged deck. To solve this issue, lower the deck and check the bottom. If it’s clogged, then clean it and enjoy mowing the lawn.
- You should also check the mower blades. The reason behind it is that dull blades don’t work efficiently, and the engine has to put pressure in order for them to work, resulting in overheating issues.
- Have you heard about cooling fins? It’s the part that helps maintain the engine temperature. If it’s blocked by debris and grass, the engine will overheat. So, open the engine case and clean the debris for proper airflow.
Mower Vibrates
According to many Kubota zero-turn mower customers, they sometimes feel that the mower deck vibrates whenever they try to use it.
At this point, some people think that the issue is with the engine, but it’s a misconception.
Fixed:
- What we’ve found out is that it mostly happens because of clutch-bearing issues. Otherwise, the problem must be with the spindle. So inspect both parts of the mower and replace them if damaged.
- If the first solution doesn’t help, check the bottom part of the mower and see whether there’s any rock or anything stuck.
Pulls to One Side
The fifth common issue is whenever we start the Kubota zero-turn mower, it doesn’t go straight.
It will either go to the left or right, and you’ll feel that you have no control over the mower. What should you do in this situation? We’ve two solutions!
Also Read: Top 10 Kubota B2601 Problems | With a Solution Guide
Fixed:
- Mowers come with four tires, and if these tires don’t have equal and sufficient air pressure, you won’t be able to move them. When one of the tires doesn’t move, the mower will pull to one side. To solve this issue by checking the air pressure.
- Another main reason behind this issue is the steering levers aren’t adjusted, and you need to adjust them. The bolts at the center of the drive arms help you adjust them.
Deck Isn’t Lifting
The lawn mower comes with an amazing option which is deck lifting. You can adjust the deck level according to your preference.
But this feature sometimes doesn’t work, and when it happens, you won’t be able to set the deck.
Fixed:
There might be one of these reasons behind the issue.
- The zero-turn mower lifting cables are damaged, which makes it impossible for us to lift the deck level. In that situation, you need a professional because you can’t repair the wires without any expertise.
- Another issue is that the mower lifting system is connected to the height switch. This switch is available beside the seat, and its housing must have moisture, or the nuts must be rusty. You can open the housing and clean it to solve the issue.
Stops Working Suddenly
Among all issues, this one is the most dangerous one. It makes us panic all of a sudden, and we end up thinking that we’ve lost our mower.
Don’t worry; that’s not the case because mower zero turn mower stops working for many reasons.
Fixed:
- The first reason the mower might not be working is it has no fuel or old fuel. Besides that, the fuel lines might be clogged as well as the cooling fins. So make sure to fill the tank with new fuel and check the fuel lines and cooling fins.
- If you see that the mower stops working all of a sudden and the engine is overheating. The issue would be that the engine needs oil. In case it doesn’t work, go to the technician to examine the engine.
Also Read: List of Kubota M7060 Problems – Fix The Problems With This Guide
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are Kubota’s zero-turn mowers good?
Yes, Kubota zero-turn mowers are a good deal. They work well and fast, and the overall performance of cutting grass is outstanding.
In addition, they have a huge variety for you in the range of residential to commercial mowers.
What would cause a zero-turn mower not to start?
There are several things that can cause a zero-turn mower not to start. For example, the hydrostatic drive transmission is engaged, the starting switch is off, it has no fuel, or the issue might be with the air filter, spark plug, or fuel filter.
How long do Kubota mowers last?
The lifespan of the Kubota mowers varies from model to model. If the Kubota mower’s lifespan is about 500 hours, it will easily last for 8 years.
While 500 – 1000 hours lifespan means 10 years and 1000 – 1500 lifespan indicates more than 20 years of life.
Conclusion
Remember, no matter how many Kubota zero-turn mower problems you’re facing; there’s always a solution. You only have to find it and solve it according to our guide.
If you think the issue isn’t listed here and you have no idea about it, then contact any expert.
Once it’s solved, make sure you take care of the maintenance of the zero-turn mower. Without maintenance, the mower will again show issues.