L3800 Glow Plug

Jim L.

Active member
Jun 18, 2014
857
159
43
Texas
First, please identify whether your tractor is an HST or manual.

You will need a Workshop Manual for L3200, L3800. Check above listings at top of this forum for free downloads.

The wiring diagram does not show a glow plug relay, but the parts diagram does. Go to KubotaUSA parts, select the L series, and the L3800 (transmission letter). The parts layout shows the relay to be under the rear bonnet.

My first troubleshooting run would be at the glow plug relay. Just pulling it (power off) should clear the light. Then if needed, the connector pins may be probed with a voltmeter.

Also good chance that the ignition switch is not working properly; holding glow plugs and not connecting start. The switch itself is easily removed as it has a connector, and can be ohmed out.
 
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North Idaho Wolfman

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Staff member
Lifetime Member

Equipment
L3450DT-GST, Woods FEL, B7100 HSD, FEL, 60" SB, 743 Bobcat with V2203, and more
Jun 9, 2013
32,584
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Sandpoint, ID
When you say the glow plug light stays on.
Do you mean only when the is on?
Because if it's on when you turn it on or start to crank, it's because a safety switch (seat, PTO, HST) is engaged.
 

old and tired

Well-known member

Equipment
L2800 HST; 2005; R4
When you say the glow plug light stays on.
Do you mean only when the KEY is on?
Because if it's on when you turn it on or start to crank, it's because a safety switch (seat, PTO, HST) is engaged.
Added the word "KEY" to your reply!!!

Also, I learned something new... Is this really true (I plan to test it out next time I see my tractor!!!)
 

North Idaho Wolfman

Moderator
Staff member
Lifetime Member

Equipment
L3450DT-GST, Woods FEL, B7100 HSD, FEL, 60" SB, 743 Bobcat with V2203, and more
Jun 9, 2013
32,584
8,158
113
Sandpoint, ID
Added the word "KEY" to your reply!!!

Also, I learned something new... Is this really true (I plan to test it out next time I see my tractor!!!)
Different models do different things, but it's fairly common for the oil or glow plug light to remain constant when a safety switch is engaged.
 

Mark Smith

New member

Equipment
L3800
Apr 2, 2025
2
0
1
Louisiana
Sorry about that. Been busy. When I turn the key on, battery and glow plug light on as normal. When I turn the key, glow plug indicator light comes on too and nothing happens. Doesn't even turn over. L3800HST
 
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