Request for advice on desired project: Remove a L1200 FEL from a L245 (2wd) and install on a L275DT (4wd)

[Iowal245dt]

The goal of this project is to remove a L1200 FEL from a donor L245 (2wd) and install the L1200 FEL on a L275DT (4wd)...

I am looking for any topical advice on what I need for supply / parts before I move forward.

One immediate need that I was told, is that I will need a hydraulic block that fits the L275dt (since I was told that the block on the l245 donor will not fit).
Any other topic info or advice is greatly appreciated. I am way beyond my comfort zone and admittedly basic mechanical skills.
Below I will list info that sources suggests will need to be addressed with fabrication / modifications.

I have been advised that there are issues that I will need to contend with including:
My target tractor is a L275DT 4WD model. I have been advised that loader mounting systems from that era were often different between 2WD and 4WD tractors. One issue is that the L275DT wheelbase and axle geometry differ slightly from the L245.
I was told likely problems may include:

1. Front axle / driveshaft clearance
2. Frame bracket alignment differences
3. Hydraulic plumbing differences
4. Front bolster and axle support interference
5. Side-frame spacing issues
6. Steering clearance differences

I am told to expect that the Loader mounting brackets probably will NOT bolt directly on

Older Kubota loaders used:

• tractor-specific mounting kits
• bolt-on side frames
• unique front supports

Even though the tractors look similar externally, the engine side rails and bellhousing mounting points often changed slightly between models and generations.

Expect that:

• some holes will align
• other holes will not
• front pedestal width may differ
• rear bracket angle may differ

Likely modifications:

• drilling new holes
• making adapter plates
• fabricating rear stabilizer brackets
• shimming frame rails for alignment

I am told to expect that I will need a new hydraulic block to add to the L275DT. I am working on finding info and options for that critical part before I beginning the disassembling of the L1200 from the donor l245.

Any advice is greatly appreciated.
I will post any additional photos as requested.

Many thanks!
Barry

 

[Firefight100]

you'll just have to take it off the old and mark the holes for the new tractor and drill them. As for the hydraulic block, try it first. you may get lucky and it fit.
Everything thing will fit if you own a drill and a welder.

 

[Iowal245dt]

you'll just have to take it off the old and mark the holes for the new tractor and drill them. As for the hydraulic block, try it first. you may get lucky and it fit.
Everything thing will fit if you own a drill and a welder.

That is very encouraging, thank you! B.

 

[TheOldHokie]

The L245 and L275 use the same oil pressure housing - your loader outlet block should bolt right on.

Dan

 

[Russell King]

You might want to look at this thread and post #1. It explains what the block does when installed (diverts flow to a valve).

B7100 Hydraulic block diverter (70060-00360 or 70070-00385)

Back in stock. CDN$40 plus actual shipping These are obsolete and no longer available. I have recently been contacted by a member asking if I will make him one of these after reading how I made mine. I know this comes up from time to time and would like to gauge the interest others might have...

www.orangetractortalks.com

This thread has discussion on a L245 with a different type of block. It also shows a picture (in post #16) of the block discussed above on my L185 with the flow diverting to a rear remote valve instead of a FEL valve as you intend. There is no difference in the flow, just the routing of the hoses may be different.

Rear remote hydraulic on Kubota L245DT

My L245DT has aftermarket power steering..does not have a front end loader. The power steering cylinder is connected to the control valve below the left side of the seat via an aluminum block. How do I do this? Thanks for any help.

www.orangetractortalks.com

 

[PaulL]

I'll ask the obvious question - why not just keep both tractors? A 2wd loader tractor, and a 4wd mower tractor. Sounds ideal to me.

 

[Iowal245dt]

That is very encouraging, thank you! B.

The L245 and L275 use the same oil pressure housing - your loader outlet block should bolt right on.

Dan

That is very encouraging as well! Thank you for the info! B.

 

[Iowal245dt]

I'll ask the obvious question - why not just keep both tractors? A 2wd loader tractor, and a 4wd mower tractor. Sounds ideal to me.

Great question...
The donor tractor is a two wheel drive L245.
I mentioned that I have an L275DT (that I am planning to install the loader on).
In addition I already own an additional third tractor, an L245DT (four wheel drive tractor).
My work area is very hilly, so having a third tractor which is 2 wheel drive, is not useful to me.
But I feel very fortunate to be able to re-purpose the l1200 loader on my L275DT tractor!
My L275 happens to be made on the 25 year anniversary of Kubota, and it features factory power steering which I find super helpful as is, and hopefully with the future loader installed.