ZD321 apparantly has HUGE problem !!!!

[ToddFord]

I went to trade my ZD21 today for a ZD321. The dealer said he had three units but would not sell me the 321 - tell you why in a minute. Went to another dealer - same thing. Weird right? Read below.....

It seems that Kubota has a HUGE problem with the 321 being UNDERPOWERED for the new transmission and the deeper decks on the 60" models. The problem is so severe that Kubota is about to order ALL dealers to halt all sales on these models until they can figure out what to do. People are returning them sporatically nationwide (mainly in the southern states where grass is in full growth) complaining with this problem.

Anyone else heard of this going on?

 

[Ace Power Equipment]

ToddFord,
The new ZD series has a much larger capacity HST transmisson. Requiring more HP to run it. Ground speed has icreased from 9.4mph to 10.6mph in forward. The ZD321 weighs 245lbs more than a ZD21 with a 60 inch deck. The newer ZD series is also longer than the ZD21. Third Kubota has increased the blade tip speed for better cut quality. From what I understand the HP is an issue when climbing hills with blades engaged. What Kubota is doing with retailed units is unknown. I'm in NJ we haven't started mowing yet, only cleanup and fert apps. You should look at new model ZD326S.It is based on the ZD321 specs but has a 26HP engine.

Model HP Weight Length Blade Tip Speed Fuel Tank
ZD21-60 21 1455 80.3 in 17500 fpm 7.9 gal
ZD25-60 25 1660 89.0 in 17500 fpm 7.9 gal
ZD321-60 21 1700 86.0 in 18200 fpm 11.9 gal
ZD326-60S 26 1750 86.0 in 18200 fpm 11.9 gal

Remember there are now 2 models of ZD326. One with S and one with P. These were discussed in another thread. Hope this helps.

Brian

 

[ToddFord]

Brian,
Thanks for the information and reenforcing my point. The best transmission available, deeper 60" deck, and much more weight is too much for 21 hp.

 

[MessickFarmEqu]

Power seems to be a real issue. I'm surprised they did not catch this sooner. We've retailed a 321 with a 54" deck, but changed all our 321's to 326's. It should be noted that the price difference is only $200 with the existing rebates.

 

[ToddFord]

Power seems to be a real issue. I'm surprised they did not catch this sooner. We've retailed a 321 with a 54" deck, but changed all our 321's to 326's. It should be noted that the price difference is only $200 with the existing rebates.

Can you elaborate a little more when you say you "changed" the 321's to 326's? I thought Kubota was not offering ANY rebates on the ZD 300 series.

Thanks for your dealer input.

 

[workinallthetime]

glad i went with the 326, they didnt even have any of the 321 at the dealer but i did see one this weekend while i was ordering my b3030 at another dealer.

 

[MessickFarmEqu]

There are rebates, $300 on the ZD326's and $500 on the ZD331's

 

[wushaw]

I just had the opportunity to look at the new 300 series mowers and noticed one flaw...maybe 1/2" trim capabilites on the 60" deck other than that I think it is a beautiful beast.

 

[jlbota]

I thought my ZD21 was underpowered and that was the reason I sold it. So I couldn't imagine all the new specs with that same 21hp engine. I bet they are way underpowered now. The ZD21 I had mowed great on flat ground but it really slowed way down on hills with the mower engaged. It just didn't have enough power to keep it all running at top speed.

 

[BCNU]

Neil, on the Kubota web site it shows $0 dollar for rebates on the ZD 300 series. Is this a regional thing or have they just not updated their web site?