Kubota ZD331 Towing question

cptcrnch1

Forum Newbie
Joined
Aug 16, 2025
Threads
1
Messages
2
Hi Kubota Newbie here. I've tried searching this question and I'm not finding exactly what I'm looking for, so hoping someone can shed some light on it for me.

I have a 2012 ZD 331 Zero Turn mower (diesel - pretty sure that's the D in zD). It has a hydrostatic transmission.

I just bought a property that this mower came with. The mower has been dealer serviced up to this point. I cut about 6 acres per week. I'm concerned that if I have any issues with the mower and have to get it back to the barn, how can I safely tow it back? I've read that some kubota models have a lever that releases the transmission so it can be towed and free wheel, however I can not locate this type of lever on my model. I have looked in my owners manual and it does not mention a level nor does not give specifics on releasing the transmission to free wheel.

I have noticed that on a hill, pointing down, if I shut the motor off, push both steering handles out laterally into a "neutral" position (position that they'd have to be in to start the motor), and take my foot off the brake, the mower will moved down the hill because of gravity. I'm not sure if this is considered 'neutral' for this transmission but it does move. I'm not sure if in this position, the transmission is or isn't in gear, but it will drift down. Is this 'neutral'?

That being said, is that the appropriate position in case it ever has to be towed? As in, if engine is off, brake is released and handles are in 'start'/lateral position - can it be towed in this position? I'm just thinking ahead in case I have issues and don't want to damage transmission. thanks for any input on this. Cheers! - JR
 

Auto Doc's

Lawn Addict
Top Poster Of Month
Joined
Sep 7, 2024
Threads
14
Messages
1,124
It can be towed or pushed with the engine and brake off, but it will resist it. The fluid in the hydrostatic transmission will bypass internally. It can only be moved slowly, or it will fight back.

Maybe ask you dealer for more information. Some transmissions have a bypass valve that must be turned.

Here is a workshop manual for you to study:

file:///C:/Users/user/AppData/Local/Temp/MicrosoftEdgeDownloads/6298471c-4c59-462f-8314-7f300860231b/Zero%20turn%20ZD%20321,%20326,%20331.pdf
 

StarTech

Lawn Royalty
Joined
Feb 19, 2020
Threads
111
Messages
12,257
Auto Doc, I doubt the OP can access your computer remotely....Try linking a manual on the web or one of the online drives such as Google Drive or One Drive.
 

Rivets

Lawn Royalty
Joined
Mar 11, 2012
Threads
61
Messages
15,624
Owners manual states the following:
5. TRANSPORTING
1. Disengage power to attachment(s) when transporting
or not in use.
2. Do not tow this machine. Use a suitable truck or trailer
when transporting on public roads.
3. Use extra care when loading or unloading the machine
into a trailer or truck.
4. This machine is not allowed to be used on public
roads
 
Top