ZD 326 first time

[shui5612]

Good evening everyone,

I just took delivery of a used ZD326. It's a 2008 with just over a thousand hours.

Now I don't have a owners manual which I plan on ordering Monday as well as a service manual, but until then the weekend is long and loads of work can be done.

What should I check? Obviously the battery, engine oil and coolant levels come to mind but can anyone guide me on what else I should check or replace? Hydro oils? I found the steering arms to be slightly offset, if I push both in all the way one side is a tiny bit faster than the other, however one tire was abit deflated compared to the other. Is there any adjustment?

It's also my first zero turn and I can't wait until i will have a chance to mow the lawn with it instead of my small garden tractor.


Being my first kubota, can you guys also tell me what oils and filters this thing needs so I can get on that first thing in the morning?

Thanks again everyone.
Ian.

 

[xring100]

I just bought a new zd1211 there should be limiting stops (bolt and jam nut) in front of the lever to prevent how far you can push it forward. I'd do a full flush on all the fluids. Unless you have a service history showing when they were changed last. I would recomend UDT2 for the hydrostatic fluid. Engine oil pick your favorite diesel oil. Grease all the zirc fittings i believe my mower has 33 or so.

 

[Scooby074]

Do the basic service. Oil and filters. Batt terminals etc. Air pressures. Check deck belt

Grease (including the spindles), drivshafts

Try to get a service history before tackling the hydros because they might not need it yet.

The mower pulling to one side is easily fixed . There are stops under the covers at the base of the handles. Personally I prefer to use a tachometer resting on the rims with them elevated so that both right and left are adjusted to the same speeds throughout their range. Kubota has a spec for max wheel RPM, shop manual isnt here or Id post it.

That should get you started.

 

[DaleHotz]

I'd also change out the fuel filters - there are two plastic filters behind/below the battery box. Easiest to do if you disconnect both hoses above and then remove bolts and drop the assembly below that contains the filters and pump. Just don't forget to put tank fuel switch in off position first. I've had to change mine on the ZD326 multiple times, as they are very sensitive to quality of diesel fuel.tt

 

[shui5612]

Thank you all for the quick replies,

I gave her a wash today and full inspection. Made a list of the filters and oils I need.

What is the little rocker switch on the instrument panel? Has no markings next to it and I can't figure out what it does.

Also started greasing all the zerks up but I'm sure I'm missing a couple.

I also found a 2 pin connector disconnected. It's by the instrument cluster.

Oils were changed not too long ago. Before winter and only did 20-30hours. But I'll change everything up to have some peace of mind.

Lastly, can you guys give me some do's and don'ts? Like not to try and reverse in idle or engage blades unless it's at x % of the throttle minimum.. just looking for tips.

Machine runs great. But I'm having a hard time tracking straight so far Hahaha. I hope that improves over time..

Thanks again,
Ian

 

[JOHNTHOMAS]

Don't drive it down hill on wet grass.:shocked: When it starts sliding, and it will ,then it slides faster the more you pull the levers in reverse. If you think you have to try it, then do it on a hill where there is nothing but open field at the bottom.

 

[groundcover]

I usually do a loop around , blowing in, then at one corner line up with something on the other corner to site on to make a straight line and mow diagonally across the center. Next time mow the other direction . They are heavy machines and mixing up the mowing pattern helps keep compaction down and makes the stripes you see on commercial accounts. Be gental on your turns,especially when the turf is wet, a 'k' turn will do less damage than just spinning in place. Have fun !

 

[shui5612]

Well i can sure say that driving this thing is really fun... you cant hear the hydros whinning so its abit hard to check if the wheels are slipping, only to find a giant patch of still yellow grass to be gone.

The key is supposed to turn the engine off, correct? the old owner has made a small lever that pulls on the engine switch near the throttle lever to shut it off, hmmm.... how does the key turn the engine off if it does? (originally).

Being a 2008, it shouldnt have the exhaust issue but can anyone post pictures of the updated frame/brackets?

Lastly i read that there were issues with the deck support arms cracking, and they have been later re-enforced. is it a common issue?

Thanks again, ill be stopping by the kubota dealer for all the parts and if needed ill order them.

ian

 

[om21braz]

Don't drive it down hill on wet grass.:shocked: When it starts sliding, and it will ,then it slides faster the more you pull the levers in reverse. If you think you have to try it, then do it on a hill where there is nothing but open field at the bottom.

+1 One main point to remember - when you lose traction, you also lose the ability to steer. This one is definitely better to know ahead of time.