Two questions about Kubota L4600 tractors

[Espeefan]

Hi guys, just a couple quick technical questions about the Kubota L4600.

On the gear drive tractors, I know they are equipped with what Kubota calls a shuttle shift. The shuttle shifts I am familiar with do not require use of the clutch pedal when switching directions. Is this true of Kubota's shuttle shift as well? Is it a hydraulic shuttle shift?

Secondly, just looking to confirm that what I have read is correct - the PTO is independent and has its own hydraulic clutch, correct?

Thanks guys!

 

[1970cs]

IIRC they came in F, DT, HST. The gear drives are a syncro-shuttle.

You have to use the clutch and come to almost a complete stop before changing directions.

Pat

 

[TexasBoy]

I have a L4600 DT 4x4

This model is NOT a true 'shuttle shift', you must use the clutch to change from Forward to Reverse mode.

The PTO is engaged with an electric switch, (a completely flimsy piece of junk I might add that costs $170 if it breaks) and is independent hydraulic.

Aside from the lame switch quality, we love our L4600 DT.

 

[Creature Meadow]

I have a 2012 L4600DT and you must come to a complete stop before changing directions or close to it.

You can up shift say from second to third while moving, do this often.

 

[Espeefan]

Thanks for the info guys. So in the case of Kubota's mechanical shuttle shift, such as that found on the MX series tractors, how does that one work? I really don't mind clutching to change directions. I'm used to it. Hydrostatic drives have their place, but I feel like they rob a lot of power on these compact tractors.

 

[1970cs]

Which MX?

Pat

 

[North Idaho Wolfman]

Hydrostatic drives have their place, but I feel like they rob a lot of power on these compact tractors.

Not really true, a hydrostatic transmission robs very little HP.

 

[Espeefan]

Which MX?

Pat

Looking specifically at the MX5100. Kubota brochures I found state it having a mechanical shuttle.

Not really true, a hydrostatic transmission robs very little HP.

In my experience, a gear transmission is more efficient at putting the power to the ground.

 

[Espeefan]

The more I think about it, the more I believe Kubota's term of mechanical shuttle shift is just another way of saying you push the clutch in to change direction. Otherwise it would be a hydraulic shuttle shift. I haven't found a brochure for the L4600, but it would be my guess that it also has a mechanical shuttle shift.

 

[1970cs]

You are in the same boat with the with 5100! The 5200 is better for shuttling.

Pat

 

[TexasBoy]

I haven't found a brochure for the L4600, but it would be my guess that it also has a mechanical shuttle shift.

Here ya go: Kubota L4600 Brochure

 

[Espeefan]

Thanks Pat. I figured as much. Seems like an M5140 might be a better option for me anyway. Those have a hydraulic shuttle shift, and while I don't mind clutching to reverse directions, I feel like the extra weight and power of a M5140 might be worth considering alone.

 

[Espeefan]

Here ya go: Kubota L4600 Brochure

Thank you very much!