Based on the L3 chassis, the L5450 is Kubota's heaviest and most powerful L series tractor model. It has the direct-injected 5-cylinder F2803 engine used today in the M series.

The L5450 was sold from 1990 to 1998. It has an eight-disk wet clutch pack, and hydraulic shuttle shift. With 59 gross horsepower, it was at the top of the L3 line, which included the L4350, L4850 and L5450. The L5450 has an extra perimeter frame at the forward end, which, in combination with the loader frame makes for an industrial-style setup. Tractor with FEL weighs 5900lb without ballast.

Transmission is 8-forward, 8-reverse, with hydraulic shuttle. Clutch and brakes are wet-type running in oil. Clutch was marketed as the "Ever Clutch" suggesting a very long expected life. The 3-point hitch covers Cat I and Cat II. R4 rubber is 12x16.5 and 17.5x24.

The standard FEL for the L5450 is the model LA1150A which is a quick-detach design, but has large-bore cylinders and reinforced frame, like the TL1150 loader used on the L48. To handle the higher flow the L5450 has a front-mounted 13 gpm pump. The easy detach of the loader is important to my operations - much nicer to do all my finish mowing with it off.

When sold as a complete TLB, the L5450 was offered with a Bradco 11-ft backhoe. (The Kubota brochure showed the Bradco backhoe with a Kubota model number designation) The subframe on this backhoe is very strong but very compact - good ground clearance, easy backhoe attachment/removal. The Bradco has replaceable bushings, great strength, tucks in close for good tractor balance - FEL still has some downforce available for back-dragging. The Bradco adds about 2100 pounds with 18" bucket.

In summary, this is a heavy, strong, powerful AND compact tractor with high build-quality. There's a lot of tractor here - its high original price (approx $40k with loader & hoe) was justified. I'd recommend it to anyone - a great rig.

Date Purchased: 4/2001
Purchased: Used
Price Paid: US$24000
Pros: Power, strength, weight, wet clutch, hyd shuttle
Cons: none so far
Rating: