GST transmission

WhiteRock · Jan 7, 2005

I wonder what year the GST was introduced and if the GST is a big seller. It would be interesting to see how the electronics hold up. I see where a lot of tractors folks are concerned about electronic controls integrated into tractors.

I guess I'm a little worried myself. However this is a good example of technology that reduces operator work load allowing more focus on the task. I think the electrical sequencing of the hydraulics is pretty innovative. I would expect a long life out of the mechanicals due the accuracy and computations of the shift that are unmatched by an operator.

Being an EE/CS person, I believe the technology is there and proven. Mileage may vary with how it deployed by different manufactures.

The step up from generators to alternators appears to have been a good one. I don't read where folks want a generator instead of an alternator, or order there tractor with no charging electronics. Only problems I typically see here are operations or modifications beyond the designed scope.

There are a lot of electronics in vehicles, transmissions, and drive trains. It seems to continue to increase. Its also been going on for quite few years now.

SkyPup · Jan 7, 2005

The GST with 12 forward speeds was introduced with the new Grand L-30 series tractors, it is the one with the newly incorporated proportional valve for the clutch.

Previous versions of GST type transmission by different manufacturers do not have the proportional valve and that made their shifts very stiff and difficult.

dknarnd · May 31, 2005

It has been awhile since any posting on the GST transmission has taken place so I was wondering if anyone has more insight on the use and durability of this transmission?

Although I could not determine this from the threads I am assuming that you use the clutch to start, stop but not necessarily when changing directions.

willywildes · May 31, 2005

you only use the clutch when real fine movement is needed. like backing up to a implement, or pulling forward right up to something you don't want to hit. starting , stopping or change of direction, or changing gears, you just move the shuttle forward or back. move the gear selector to change gears, no clutch. hope this helps . good luck.

DUMBDOG · May 31, 2005

The clutch is not used for much with the GST, I only use it to put it in creep gear. The rest of the time I select the gear, then either forward or reverse and then give it the throttle. For stopping, decrease the throttle and put it neutral. Of course there are times when starting out or stopping where I do use the clutch. It is quite a system. My only concern is that sometimes I feel that it is to jerky when dropping down a gear.

SkyPup · Jun 1, 2005

I keep the rpms constant when dropping down a gear and it works real slick that way on both our GST Kubota's.

slowzuki · Jun 1, 2005

Someone was asking how long the GST was around, the old 8 spd version has been in Kubotas since 1985 at least I think. I believe I saw one at the dealer on trade. Seemed to still work fine.