Built in the mid 70's this grey market does not have a synchronized transmission. Since purchasing, I have never tried to shift on the fly as I have no experience double clutching, etc. Also, have never used the tractor on other that a few of the slower (lower gears). Used to a car where you really can't start out in fifth gear. Have tried to read as much as possible but there seems to be some conflicting info. Regardless of the gear I think I need to use, must I always start from a standing stop and once moving if I want to change gears, must I always stop first. Anyone out there with a similar model that could advise me what you do?? Thanks.
Shifting a Kubota L2000DT (L225DT)
- Thread starter allantg
- Start date
You are correct on this. The older tractors are NOT shift on the fly and you will grind out gears and wear out your clutch alot faster that way. So from a dead stand still select a speed and direction, relase the clutch and go.
I have an L225DT and when i'm in high range, i frequently shift thru the gears while moving albeit very gingerly! I have "learned"where the shift points are. But honestly, you can put the tractor in whatever gear you want (1st thru 8th), let out the clutch and go! Starting out in 8th gear takes a bit of clutching but nothing that will wear it out unless you're pulling a huge load around all the time. Be careful not to clash the gears like the warnings state. Always have the tractor at a complete stop when shifting between forward and reverse.
I own a L2000DT and have shifted it on the fly once or twice but would not recommend doing it as it just tears it up. Better to have a tractor that works or pay the price later 
For what its worth, and despite the warning and recommendations pasted on that great big label on the dash, I shifted our old L345 on the fly for most of its life and never had a problem. The key to shifting without much (if any) grind at all is timing the shift. How fast you move the lever between the gear and at what rpm. I found the most effective way to up shift was to single (not double) clutch and shift the gear relatively quick quickly (with a flick of the wrist) all the while letting off the foot throttle a bit to allow the RPM to drop. When done right its slides right into the next gear like your favorite compact car.
For us it seemed like a necessity. When driving on the road (especially with some load or a trailer and especially in a hilly area), starting in 8th gear was just murder on the clutch. I would start in 6th and then shift up to 7th and then 8th. Rolling downshifts to climb the hills (8th to 7th) took even more practice to execute smoothly.
Obviously is it safest to the transmission to only shift at a complete standstill. It's your tractor, and your risk. I feel that it 'can' be done safely.
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question ? i have a older kubota,in the 70's,L22DT,4X4 24hp diesel,can you tell me if this is a gray market tractor ? whats the difference ? plus if u see my thread ned help....
WANTED Im looking for a entire tractor or front end or just one front end inner axle housing for a Kubota 1975 L225DT 4x4
bobby 870-284-1748
bobby 870-284-1748
