Kubota Z726X problems? Have you been tearing your hair out and dealing with problems with your Kubota zero-turn mower? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. As reliable and hardworking as Kubotas are, they can still develop issues over time that’ll drive any owner mad.
But never fear, we’ve rounded up the most common problems Z726X owners face and found solutions to get you back to mowing in no time. Whether it’s loss of power, excess vibration, or weird noises coming from the engine, we’ve got you covered.
So grab a cold one, pull up a seat, and get ready to become a Kkubota zero-turn mower troubleshooting expert.
By the time you’ve finished this article, your Z726X will be purring like a kitten again.
Table of Contents
Kubota lawn mower engine won’t start
If your Kubota mower won’t start, don’t panic just yet. There are a few things you can check before calling the mechanic.
A dead or weak battery
First, make sure the battery is fully charged and properly connected. The battery is what provides power to the starter motor and ignition system.
If the battery is dead or not hooked up right, your mower won’t start. Connect the red cable to the positive terminal and the black cable to the negative terminal. Tighten the connections and try starting the mower. If it still won’t start, it’s probably time for a new battery.
Next, check that you have fresh fuel in the fuel tank. Gasoline starts to break down after just 30 days, losing its combustibility.
Drain old fuel from the carburetor and fuel lines and refill the mower tank with new gas. Then, prime the carburetor to get the fresh fuel flowing.
Fuel line problems
Still won’t start?
It could be an issue with the fuel system or fuel lines not delivering enough fuel for combustion. Or maybe the spark plug or ignition coil isn’t producing a strong enough spark. In that case, you’ll need to replace the faulty spark plug or ignition coil.
As a last resort, the mower problems could lie with the starter motor or solenoid.
If the starter isn’t turning over the engine, it will need to be repaired or replaced by a certified Kubota mechanic to get your Kubota zero turn mower up and running again.
Kubota zero turn mower shuts after about an hour
If the mower deck on Kubota zero-turn mowers isn’t engaging, don’t panic – there are a few things you can check before calling the dealer.
The most common cause for the mower problems is that a safety switch is preventing it to operate.
First, make sure the PTO key switch is turned on. This engages the mower blades and is required for the deck to operate. Double-check that the safety switch is in the ‘on’ position.
Next, check your deck belt. Over time and with use, the belt can become worn or damaged, preventing the blades from spinning.
If the belt looks frayed, cracked, or loose, it likely needs to be replaced. Replacing the mower deck belt yourself is doable for most owners.
Another possibility is an issue with the electric PTO clutch. This is what engages and spins the mower blades. If the clutch is malfunctioning, the blades won’t engage.
Check for any visible damage to the clutch wires or assembly. You may need to have a dealer test the clutch to determine if replacement is required.
Finally, the mower problems could stem from your Kubota zero-turn fuse or relay. If either of these components is damaged or blown, it will prevent the deck from operating properly.
Check your owner’s manual to locate and test the PTO fuse and relay. Replacement parts are inexpensive and easy to swap out yourself.
With some troubleshooting, you can get your Kubota zero-turn mower deck back in working order in no time. Start with simple solutions before assuming major repair work is needed.
If all else fails, don’t hesitate to have a certified Kubota zero-turn mower mechanic evaluate your mower. They have the proper tools, training, and experience to diagnose and fix issues quickly so you can get back to mowing.
Kubota zero-turn mower steering issues
What are the main Kubota Z726X problems? Steering issues can often be traced back to problems with the steering linkage, steering gearbox, or front axle.
Here are some common mower problems with your Kubota zero-turn mower and how to troubleshoot them.
Loose or broken steering linkage
The steering linkage connects the steering wheel to the front wheels. If the linkage is loose or broken, you’ll notice the steering feeling sloppy or unresponsive. To check the linkage:
- Park the Kubota zero turn on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
- Have someone slowly turn the steering wheel back and forth while you inspect the linkage under the front axle. Look for any loose, bent, or broken parts.
- Tighten any loose nuts or bolts. Replace any severely bent or broken parts. Lubricate the linkage to prevent future wear.
Faulty steering gearbox
If the gearbox is damaged or worn out, the steering can feel stiff, grind, or lock up. To test the gearbox:
- Park the Kubota zero turn on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
- Have someone slowly turn the steering wheel. Listen and feel for any grinding, catching, or locking sensations.
- If the gearbox seems faulty, it will need to be repaired or replaced. Consult your Kubota zero-turn mower dealer for gearbox service.
Damaged front axle
If the front axle is bent or broken, it can affect steering control and stability. To check the front axle:
- Park the Kubota zero turn on a level surface.
- Visually inspect the front axle for any bends, cracks, or damage. The axle should appear straight.
- The front wheels should move smoothly and in unison. If not, the axle likely needs repair or replacement. Consult your Kubota zero-turn mower dealer.
Performing regular inspections and maintenance will help keep your Kubota zero-turn steering responsively for years to come.
Kubota zero turn mower problems: transmission
If your Kubota zero-turn mower is having issues changing gears or seems to be stuck in one gear, it’s likely experiencing some kind of transmission problem.
The transmission is responsible for transferring the engine’s power to the wheels, so problems here can impact your mower’s performance and handling.
Here are some common transmission issues and potential solutions to get your Z726X moving again.
Faulty solenoid or actuator
The solenoid and actuator are responsible for electronically shifting the transmission into different gears. If these components malfunction or fail, the transmission won’t shift properly.
Check for any visible damage to the solenoid or actuator and test them to determine if replacement is needed.
Low fluid level
Just like the engine, the transmission requires fluid to function properly. If the transmission fluid level is low, it may have trouble shifting gears. Check the transmission fluid level according to the specifications in your owner’s manual.
Add Kubota Super UDT 2 transmission fluid as needed to bring the level up to the “Full” fuel line on the dipstick. This should help eliminate hard or non-existent gear shifts.
Faulty sensor
The transmission shift sensors detect which gear the mower deck should be in based on factors like engine RPM, throttle position, and engine speed. If one of these sensors malfunctions, the transmission won’t shift properly in response.
Inspect the shift sensors for any visible damage or wear and test or replace them as needed. Sensor issues are often an inexpensive fix that can restore smooth shifting.
Dirty fuel filter
The Kubota zero-turn mower, like any machine, can experience issues with a dirty fuel filter. Over time, the fuel filter can become clogged with debris and dirt, which may impede the flow of fuel to the engine.
This can lead to problems such as decreased engine performance, poor fuel efficiency, and even engine stalling.
Poor hydraulic transmission issues
Uh oh, looks like the hydraulic lift on your Kubota zero-turn mower isn’t working. This essential component raises and lowers attachments like mower decks, snow blades, and pallet forks.
Not to worry, here are some common issues and solutions to get your lift working again.
Low hydraulic fluid
The most likely culprit is low hydraulic fluid. Check the sight glass on the side of the hydraulic fluid reservoir — if the level is low, refill with Kubota Super UDT fluid.
It’s also possible that your cap is not tight enough on the fuel line, causing air to enter the system and cause a misfire.
Faulty hydraulic lift control valve
If the fluid level is fine, the issue could be a malfunctioning hydraulic lift control valve. This valve directs the flow of hydraulic fluid to raise and lower the lift arms.
Try actuating the lift lever or safety switch — if you hear the hydraulic pump running but the lift arms don’t move, the control valve is likely stuck or damaged.
Imbalanced or damaged blades
The blades on your Kubota zero-turn mower spin at high speeds to cut grass, so if one is bent, dulled, or off balance it can cause the whole Kubota zero-turn mower to rattle and shake.
Turn power takeoff, disconnect the spark plug, and inspect the blades. Sharpen or replace any damaged blades and rebalance the blade assembly to smooth out your cut and reduce vibration.
Excessive vibration
Excessive vibration can also point to issues with the engine itself, like a fouled spark plug, dirty air filter, or low engine oil level.
Check your engine diagnostics and perform any necessary maintenance to rule out engine issues as the cause of the shaking.
Uneven tire pressure or damaged
The tires on your Kubota zero-turn mower provide cushioning and help absorb impacts from the ground. If one tire has low pressure or is damaged, it can transmit more vibration to the mower. Inflate all tires to the recommended PSI or replace any damaged tires.
Loose components
Over time, nuts, bolts, and other parts on your Kubota zero-turn mower can come loose or fall off, allowing components like the engine, transmission, or blade spindle to become unsecured.
Go over your entire mower and tighten any loose nuts, bolts, screws, or other fasteners to ensure everything is properly secured and unable to shake or rattle.
Excessive vibration is usually a symptom of an underlying issue that requires attention before it leads to damage or unsafe mowing conditions. Take the time to troubleshoot and perform necessary repairs or maintenance to get your Kubota zero-turn mower running smoothly and safely again.
Conclusion
So there you have it, the most common problems with the Kubota mower and how to fix them. These machines are built to last but still need some TLC from time to time.
Hopefully, these troubleshooting tips help you get your Z726X back up and running so you can get back to mowing and maintaining that lawn.
If your issue persists or you have other problems, don’t hesitate to check your owner’s manual or contact your local Kubota zero-turn mower dealer for service. They’re real experts and can diagnose and repair more complex problems to get you back to work.
Stay on top of routine maintenance, and address small issues early, and your Z726X should provide many more years of reliable service.
Good luck and happy mowing!
Learn also the best lawn mower for uneven ground
FAQs
What are the problems with Kubota zero-turn mowers?
While Kubota zero-turn mowers offer powerful performance and are generally well-regarded, like any product, they are not without their potential issues:
– Difficulty in steep terrains. Kubota zero-turn mowers can struggle on hilly or uneven terrains, which may result in reduced maneuverability.
– Cost. These specific Kubota models tend to be more expensive than their competitors, which could be a deterrent for some customers.
– Maintenance. Some users have reported that Kubota zero-turn mowers require frequent maintenance, which can be costly and time-consuming. Beware of issues like engine overheating, stalling, and poor transmission. Engine overheating is one of the most common problems with Kubota zero-turn mowers.
– Fuel efficiency. The Kubota zero-turn mower has a 4-stroke gasoline engine with a 44L fuel tank capacity, These mowers might consume more fuel than other models, leading to higher operating expenses.
Remember, many of these issues can be mitigated with proper use and maintenance. It’s always recommended to consult your user manual or contact Kubota’s customer service for any concerns.
Are Kubota mowers any good?
Kubota zero turn mower cost as much as 300% over their competitors. Regardless of its strength, Kubota’s reputation is a reliable machine.
How much does a Kubota Z726X weigh?
The Kubota mower weighs roughly 1,232 lbs.
Who makes Kubota zero turn?
Kubota Manufacturing of the Americas (KMA). Headquarters: Georgia, US. KMA was founded in 1988 as Kubota’s manufacturing hub in the United States. Kubota tractor models and mowers are manufactured and assembled in Japan.
What to do if Kubota Lawn Mower Engine overheats?
If your Kubota mower overheats, it may be due to several potential issues:
– Dirty or clogged cooling fins. Dirt and debris can clog the cooling fins, preventing the engine from cooling properly. Regular cleaning can help mitigate this issue.
– Low oil levels. An insufficient amount of engine oil can cause the engine to overheat. Check your oil levels regularly and refill as necessary.
– Faulty cooling fan. If the cooling fan is damaged or not working effectively, it may not be providing enough airflow to cool the engine.
– Blocked air filter. A blocked air filter can restrict the airflow to the engine, causing it to heat up. Regularly check and replace your air filter if needed.
Remember, if your engine overheats despite these checks, it’s best to consult with a professional or Kubota’s customer service for further assistance. They will help you to find the best solutions for the most of Kubota Z726X problems.
