Kubota Grand L GST will not move.

VT digger

New member

Equipment
2003 Grand L 3130 GST
Apr 26, 2021
12
0
1
Berlin VT
I have had my 2003 Kubota from new. I did have a new clutch put in about 10 yrs ago because I thought it did not have a dry clutch and let the free play let out even though I constantly checked it on my 66 427 vette. I learned a lesson. This time no smell, good free play every thing was fine then for no reason I went to move it and nothing no feel vibration etc. I am down to the hydraulic clutch, friction clutch or F/R lever connection . I got a WSM today I would like some advice as to how to narrow it down. I have done all the obvious. New fluid, filter checked all electrical. I was going to next check a relief valve and crack a line to see if it is air locked. Any input would be appreciated. I am a very capable mechanic and was a car radio installer for 40 years. so I understand electronics. Bill
 

lugbolt

Well-known member

Equipment
ZG127S-54
Oct 15, 2015
5,248
1,925
113
Mid, South, USA
I have seen the splines of the main clutch get worn, basically gone (seen it a few times). Sometimes you can pull the inspection cover and have a look inside, where usually you'd see metal fragments all over. Some don't have an inspection cover though, so you had to go underneath, big bolt in the middle of the bellhousing with a nail sticking out-remove the bolt and use a nice bright flashlight to look, and maybe a small pencil magnet to fish around a little for metal. If you pull metal out, plan on splitting.

Does the PTO work?
 

VT digger

New member

Equipment
2003 Grand L 3130 GST
Apr 26, 2021
12
0
1
Berlin VT
I have seen the splines of the main clutch get worn, basically gone (seen it a few times). Sometimes you can pull the inspection cover and have a look inside, where usually you'd see metal fragments all over. Some don't have an inspection cover though, so you had to go underneath, big bolt in the middle of the bellhousing with a nail sticking out-remove the bolt and use a nice bright flashlight to look, and maybe a small pencil magnet to fish around a little for metal. If you pull metal out, plan on splitting.

Does the PTO work?
 

VT digger

New member

Equipment
2003 Grand L 3130 GST
Apr 26, 2021
12
0
1
Berlin VT
Thank you for the input, The PTO works. I used a stethoscope last night and confirmed the F/R was connected. The clutch does appear to be be operating as well as the hydraulic clutch. I forgot about the intella panel. No error codes. Bypassed the GTS no response in emergency mode. At this point I am leaning towards the pressure plate feeling as the clutch sounds like it is running thru gravel. I have a bore scope coming to put visuals on the clutch. I was working it pretty hard scooping up several loads of sand before I drove 2 miles to dig a small pond. After I got there it would not move when I got back on to move to the job site. The last 1/2 mile was down hill. I did not coast but think it gave up then. I am bracing for a split. I found a traveling tractor mechanic to do the last clutch in my car audio shop. Cost $700. I am now retired and the shop is gone. If he is not available I am willing to take a crack at it. Have done many clutches on muscle cars as a street racer in the 70's and did a complete mechanical restore on a 66 427 L72 425 HP vette in the last 10 years but never split a tractor. at least I won't have to "bench press " the trans. Love my Kubota more than any car I ever had.