Kubota L2500DT Normal Operating Temperature and Operating Time

[fonzie723]

Hello,

I inherited a Kubota L2500DT and was curious if anyone knew the normal coolant temperature range for the tractor. I suspect the coolant gauge is malfunctioning, but unsure since this is my first time having a tractor. I pointed an infrared thermometer at the radiator housing and says it's around 172 Fahrenheit. Looking at the user's manual, it says there is a overheat alarm. I assume it would whistle if there was an issue but unsure if it will work given the tractor is over 20 years old.

Also, is there a specific amount of time to use the tractor before letting it "rest"?

 

[Roadworthy]

I had a Mitsubishi D2350 which may have been the same vintage. The over temp light was supposed to illuminate at 111 degrees C or 232 degrees F. I suspect if you're running 180 F or so you're in good shape. As far as a specific amount of time to run a tractor, it's commonly an all day machine. The only rest it gets is when you stop for meals or add fuel.

 

[fonzie723]

I had a Mitsubishi D2350 which may have been the same vintage. The over temp light was supposed to illuminate at 111 degrees C or 232 degrees F. I suspect if you're running 180 F or so you're in good shape. As far as a specific amount of time to run a tractor, it's commonly an all day machine. The only rest it gets is when you stop for meals or add fuel.

Thanks for your response!

 

[troverman]

180F is a very good operating temp. With the tractor completely cool, you can always use a low pressure garden hose to clean the radiator cores out since this is the usual reason a tractor overheats. Also verify the coolant is topped up. You can run a tractor all day, every day.

 

[Flintknapper]

Hello,

I inherited a Kubota L2500DT and was curious if anyone knew the normal coolant temperature range for the tractor. I suspect the coolant gauge is malfunctioning, but unsure since this is my first time having a tractor. I pointed an infrared thermometer at the radiator housing and says it's around 172 Fahrenheit. Looking at the user's manual, it says there is a overheat alarm. I assume it would whistle if there was an issue but unsure if it will work given the tractor is over 20 years old.

Also, is there a specific amount of time to use the tractor before letting it "rest"?

I have a L2350DT (similar to your tractor) and it will run (at idle) at about 165°F. Under load....it will increase to 174°-180°F but never over that. Mine did not come with a dash mounted coolant temperature gauge so I added one (analog type).

I believe your cooling system is like mine....in that it has no overflow/recovery tank. If so....it probably has an overflow tube with a 'whistle' device on the end of it.

It is a somewhat primitive warning system in that it 'whistles' only after the coolant has become so hot that it is producing steam and overflowing the radiator cap. IF you ever hear the whistle you need to stop the engine, let it cool and seek out the problem (clogged screen or radiator fins typically).

The temperature you cited (172°F) is well within norms. And as the others pointed out previously, no rest period is required for your diesel engine (provided temps are within reason). Work it all day if you like.

I DO like to let the engine idle and cool some before shutting it down though (circumstance permitting).