Common Kubota Zero Turn Mower Problems (And Quick Fixes)

Consumers buy zero-turn mowers because of Kubota's reputation for quality and durability. Even the most advanced devices have flaws. In this article, we'll look at common Kubota zero-turn mower problems and how to fix them.

Common Kubota Zero Turn Mower Problems

Tension of the Wheel and Belt

The belts on my Kubota ZT282 are not tensioned, and the wheels are shrieking.

Tension must be adjusted after 100 hours of use or three months, whichever occurs first. This requires lifting the deck off the ground, removing any bolts attaching the transmission cover, and sliding it backwards. Verify that the belts are neither too tight nor too loose by threading them through the idler pulley and tightening their holding bolts.

Poor Quality of Cut

My Kubota ZT272 leaves brown marks where it has mowed the grass.

If you have some lawn maintenance knowledge, you can change the cut height by placing all four wheels in positions 1 or 2. If you lack lawn-care experience, contact a pro for help setting the cut height.

The Machine Won't Start When Warm

When I try to start my Kubota Z482 after it has been running, the engine sputters.

The most likely answer is to dump your fuel tank and replace it with non-ethanol gas. Ethanol gas corrodes carburetor orifices, making engines hard to start after resting. The second possible cause is low oil pressure; if this is the case, check the oil level and restart the machine. Third, and less often, is a broken ignition coil or wire damage from activating the kill switch without first applying the parking brake. In both circumstances, professional help is needed.

Blade Dragging

I attempt to move my Kubota ZT22, but it feels as though something is restraining the blade.

This could be related to whether the parking brake is activated or whether the belt tensioner pulley has enough tension to hold the blades in place during mowing. If there is inadequate belt tension after shifting into drive and setting the parking brake, tighten all four idler pulleys. The second possible cause is low oil pressure; if this is the case, check the oil level and restart the machine. Third, and less often, is a broken ignition coil or wire damage from activating the kill switch without first applying the parking brake. In both circumstances, professional help is needed.

When attempting to adjust the height of the cut, the cutting height adjustment knob will not turn.

I attempted to alter the cutting height of my Kubota Z482 with a height adjustment knob, but it feels as if something is blocking me from turning it.

If so, replace the height restriction switch so the cut height can be adjusted. If the gear is stripped, the height adjustment knob must be replaced. Third, and less often, is a broken ignition coil or wire damage from activating the kill switch without first applying the parking brake. In both circumstances, professional help is needed. Fourth, the knob for adjusting the height may be jammed. If so, add WD-40 to the shaft and try rotating it again. If stuck, replace the height-adjustment knob.

Transmission Gear Slips

When I try to move faster than a moderate walk while cutting my grass with my Kubota ZT22, the transmission slips.

Too much grass or debris may be stuck in the mower's deck or under it, preventing the blades from moving and the torque converter from powering the wheels. To fix this, remove additional buildup from the deck's surface and remove debris trapped underneath with a putty knife or screwdriver. One or more of your belts may be worn and need replacing. Third, a broken ignition coil or wire damage from activating the kill switch without first applying the parking brake could still create starting problems after replacing parts. In both circumstances, professional help is needed. Remove the rear engine cover and add multi-purpose synthetic power steering fluid to the reservoir until it reaches the red or white line. Replacing leaky torque converter drain plugs

The Mower Deck Will Not Raise Completely

I am attempting to raise the mower deck by using the lift lever, but it keeps falling back down.

Broken or disconnected lift wires can be caused by hitting an object with the deck or by degradation. To fix this, remove the mower deck and inspect the right-side lift cable for damage. If you have a defective height limit switch, replace it for the deck to fully raise. Third, and less often, is a broken ignition coil or wire damage from activating the kill switch without first applying the parking brake. In both circumstances, professional help is needed. A malfunctioning solenoid that prevents blade engagement is a less common source of starting troubles that can remain after parts are replaced. The fifth possibility between the height adjustment knob and the height limit switch is a damaged transmission cable. If so, take off the back cover of the engine, check to see if the cable is broken, and if it is, replace it.

The Lawnmower Dies Immediately After Being Started

I hit the "engine start button" on my Kubota ZT22, but nothing happens when I do so.

This is likely due to a faulty throttle/choke control cable on the handle, caused by deck damage or wear and strain. 

Remove the mower deck and fix the right-side throttle/choke cable. Malfunctioning kill switch or wiring. Replacing both pieces fixes the problem. The kill switch is under the seat, and the wiring is below the engine. A bad transmission solenoid prevents mower blades from turning. If so, remove the engine cover and inspect the solenoid for damage. Alternator or wiring problems may prevent your battery from charging. Replace the battery if it's below 12 volts. If your mower won't start or stalls, remove and clean the fuel filter. Sixth, replacing the air filter on the side of the engine and starting the mower without the mowing deck engaged may fix a carburetor problem. Unscrew the fuel cap and clear any debris if it starts but dies instantly. If that doesn't work, rebuild the carburetor. Your lawnmower may not start due to a malfunctioning priming bulb or a clogged fuel line. Check for leaks or damage in the priming bulb and tank neck. Fix all components to fix the problem.

Mower Blades Won't Engage

Nothing happens when I click the "Blade Engage Button" on my Kubota ZT22.

Replace your transmission cable, kill switch, or throttle/choke control cable. To test this, remove the spark plug and press the blade to engage the power cord button; if it engages, fix the transmission solenoid. If both parts are worn out, replace them together. Check the kill switch under the seat or the front panel below the engine for damage or faulty wiring. Check the throttle and choke wires for breaks and appropriate seating.

The mower will not stop.

When I hit the "Blade Engage Button" on my Kubota ZT22, it continues to move.

This is likely due to a faulty kill switch or wiring issue caused by hitting an object with the deck or simple wear and tear. To fix this, remove the mower deck, inspect the kill switch under the seat, and replace it as needed. Wiring must be replaced behind the front panel and under the engine compartment. The throttle/choke control cable may not be properly positioned in its base, causing the blades to continue spinning after the button is removed. Make sure the cable is properly fitted and undamaged. Replace the throttle/choke cable if the problem persists.

Conclusion

You can diagnose your Kubota zero-turn mower by elimination. If you're still unsure after reading the instructions, contact a Kubota dealer.

Your Kubota ZTR mower may have several common difficulties, but not all can be fixed at home. Certain errors require the help of experts with knowledge of this system, and certain circumstances cannot be fixed without them.