L3200 HST dies

[Mikec575]

Looking for some advice on a Kubota L3200 HST.

The tractor starts and idles fine, but as soon as I press the HST pedal beyond a creep speed, the engine dies. Hydraulic fluid is full and at the proper level.

Has anyone run into this before? Any common causes I should check first? I’m trying to determine whether it’s an HST issue, relief valve problem, linkage adjustment, or something else.

Any suggestions are appreciated. Thanks!

 

[Russell King]

Assuming that it dies like when you turn the key off, that is a safety switch problem. It is probably the seat switch that tells the tractor that an operator is in the seat. It could also be the HST switch that tells the tractor not to start if the pedal is not in the correct position. I think it is somehow wired into the seat switch safety also.

But look underneath the seat for some switch(es) that are operated when the seat moves downward. A switch may be inside the seat or it may be external to the seat (like on a lawn mower). Clean it or replace it or just make sure it is operating correctly if you can.

 

[whitetiger]

Start the tractor, do not touch the HST pedal, and engage the PTO.
If the engine dies, it's most likely the seat switch.
If the engine continues to run, it's the HST switch.

 

[Jim L.]

In the long run, you're going to need a Workshop Manual anyway.

Look on page 9-M8 to see the diagram for an L-3200HST. Note that there are 13 components to the Operator Presence (safety switch) circuit. The PTO switch is actually two switches. Same for the HST switch(es). So it could be that when the HST switch is moved, something else entirely is shutting down the machine.

The seat switch, actually a three-way switch, is found by rotating the seat forward, and has a long white arm on the left side under the seat.

The HST switch(es) is between the operator's feet, on the right side inside the pedestal. It can be mechanically adjusted to push a plunger in and out. There is a mechanical linkage from the pedal to the HST switch plunger.

The WSM shows several scenarios of things in the wrong position, to help troubleshoot. I think that this is one of those times when it is better to use a meter than to throw in new parts.

 

[westvandude]

Also check the linkage from the "gas" pedal thru the floor and make sure those rod end connections are greased up. There's a following or something under the floor that on mine got stuck and needed bunch of lube. Prob not yer issue but anyhow...