WIW ZD21 Parts Mower

[KT7303]

I'm located near St Louis MO and am looking at a very nice 2003 kubota ZD21 (standard deck) with ~1000 hours for $4750.00. I'm happy with the $4750 and most likely will buy it. However, he has an identical unit with ~1000 hours that is missing the engine assembly. (no seat, roll bar, radiator, engine, mounts, etc...) This "parts" unit looks pretty good; tires, deck, drive shaft, rear hood, all there.

My question: would it be a wise investment to buy the parts tractor for $1,000.00. Also, would I be crazy to consider rebuilding the parts tractor? Would the more powerful 28HP DSL engine fit or maybe a cheaper air cooled gas model? I love to tinker with stuff, however don't want to get in over my head...

Thx in advance for your replies

 

[D2Cat]

By the time you locate an engine, seat, radiator, etc. you have a pretty good task ahead of you, if you want to make a mower out of it. Just to give you an idea. Radiator $300, engine $2000, good seat $200, RPOS, Belts, fluids..... on and on.

I would not buy the parts mower for parts. If the one you're buying to mow with needs a parts machine to keep it going.....You need to be looking for a different mower!

If you plan on paying his asking price, I'd sure think it would put in a position of negotiating the parts WAY down. He has already sold all the GOOD stuff off the parts mower.

If you want it as bad as you indicate, I'd offer him 5K for all of it, and if he says NO, walk away for a few days.

 

[KT7303]

I run a small business and often I offer what I believe is sound advice; some take my advice, some don't. No question your advice is sound...that said, I guess I'm a glutton for punishment as I bought the parts unit for $400.

However, thx again for taking the time too reply. KT

 

[D2Cat]

How ever you measure it, $400 is better than $1000....if you're buying! I take it you bought the running machine also?

 

[KT7303]

How ever you measure it, $400 is better than $1000....if you're buying! I take it you bought the running machine also?

I want(d) the runner, however it would crank, crank, but no start. (cold) Fires up with shot of carb cleaner. He suggested it did that once in while since he ran it out of fuel.

I've a second one to look at tonite.

 

[D2Cat]

At $4750 there is no way it should need an aid to start!! If it won't fire on it's own the price drops dramatically (like 1/2 price) or he fixes the problem---not cover it up.

Sounds like the seller is trying to pull a slick one on someone!! Don't let it be you.

 

[North Idaho Wolfman]

100% agree with D2Cat, There is no logical reason you should need anything to start it other than the glow plugs, something is wrong with it!
I really hope you didn't buy it, but if you did, just say so and we can help get it running right again!

 

[KT7303]

I have been doing a bit research and it seems many early ZD21/28 mowers had HST issues. That's proly why this parts tractor is stripped of the engine.

Anyways, I think I'll zero in on the ZD3 series here out.