2007 ZD331 Issue

4wheelfurry · Mar 25, 2012

Kays Supply said:
You got me to thinking, and my ZD326 is a 2007. I called my local guy and he said it fell into the serial numbers that had an issue. His results were " repair as needed". He couldn't tell me if there was a preventative fix. He "will call me back". We will see how that goes.

I bet you will fall into the same category as me, there is no formal recall so if it ain't broke there is no problem and if it does break then it is out of warranty... Unless you prefer to get an extended warranty for just such occasion, I did not. However I did Google the Item # and ended up getting a new manifold for $65.00. It fit a welding machine with the 331 engine. Beats $350 the STEALER quoted me! I repaired my harness, replaced the battery and patched up the hood, I'll be back in business when the manifold gets here. I will eventually get the hood trim that melted, another $50.00 should be good as new.

As for the bracket, the newer serial model mowers come with BUT the muffler was redesigned to accept a bracket and two head bolts need to be replaced with stud bolts. Total cost to upgrade to the new style is around $300 for all parts not counting the manifold! I plan to build a bracket of some sort and bolt it to existing bolts on the muffler and engine block. Done deal

Pics posted:

jcummins · Mar 26, 2012

Here's how the bracket fits in on my ZD326.

Kays Supply · Apr 1, 2012

Thanks a bunch for the picture. Can you get one of the mounting point on the engine?

Kays Supply · Apr 7, 2012

I gave up on the factory " doing the right thing" so I took the picture of the bracket to my dealer. He has ordered the bracket for me that bolts to the engine. I plan to make a bracket for my stock muffler. I hope this prevents the issue.

Kays Supply · Apr 23, 2012

Update, still waiting for OEM bracket. It has been on BO for 2 weeks. " He'll call me when it comes in."

Knifemaker · Oct 6, 2013

I have a ZD331 that was purchased new in August 2007 and this morning the exact same thing happened to me. I cranked the mower and bammm!, the exhaust manifold broke off uniformly on all three ports. The pictures posted by 4wheelfurry could be pictures taken of my mower. Has there been any change in Kubota's attitude toward this OBVIUOS defect?