Kubota L3940 Reviews
L3940
Model Year: 2011
Basically I was looking for a glorified cab tractor that I could still get a belly mower under it. Well, I found it! I have been very happy to say the least. I added an Alpine sound system with ANR Bluetooth and had the ceiling insulated and all I can say is "Mowin' in style" Very happy with the tractor.
Pros: Tons of features, Comfortable, Very Reliable, Great Choice.
Cons: Can't exit out the right side very easy.
Model Year: 2011
Basically I was looking for a glorified cab tractor that I could still get a belly mower under it. Well, I found it! I have been very happy to say the least. I added an Alpine sound system with ANR Bluetooth and had the ceiling insulated and all I can say is "Mowin' in style" Very happy with the tractor.
Pros: Tons of features, Comfortable, Very Reliable, Great Choice.
Cons: Can't exit out the right side very easy.
Kubota L3940HST+
Model Year: 2009
L3940 HST+, turf tires, FEL, heavy duty bucket, quick attach with front blade. Used mainly for mowing with Woods RD7200, very efficient with HST and turf tires. Also used for snow removal with front blade, turf tires work very well on pavement. FEL for hobby use, odd jobs, and volunteer work. Pulls 6' bush hog in high weeds with ease. HST+ with hydro high-low, 3 ranges, cruise control, and auto-throttle is very nice. No major bad comments, only a few picky dislikes. The Grand L HST tractor is an awesome machine.
Pros: HST+, Kubota build and quality, general operation.
Cons: No 4x4 engagement light, diff lock pedal spring hard to push down, no grease point on rearward front bearing support, too many safety and warning decals on new shiny bright orange machine.
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Model Year: 2009
L3940 HST+, turf tires, FEL, heavy duty bucket, quick attach with front blade. Used mainly for mowing with Woods RD7200, very efficient with HST and turf tires. Also used for snow removal with front blade, turf tires work very well on pavement. FEL for hobby use, odd jobs, and volunteer work. Pulls 6' bush hog in high weeds with ease. HST+ with hydro high-low, 3 ranges, cruise control, and auto-throttle is very nice. No major bad comments, only a few picky dislikes. The Grand L HST tractor is an awesome machine.
Pros: HST+, Kubota build and quality, general operation.
Cons: No 4x4 engagement light, diff lock pedal spring hard to push down, no grease point on rearward front bearing support, too many safety and warning decals on new shiny bright orange machine.
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330 Hour Review L3490 HST Cab w/Loader & Backhoe
Model Year: 2009
I thought I would give an update on this rig as I have gone past 300 hours. I do have one complaint that is new. Apparently, the remote that was installed (rear remote) to operate the grapple when purchased, is causing hydraulic pressure surges in the backhoe, which is blowing out o-rings in the backhoe. The dealer recommended disconnecting the BH feed line when using the grapple, not very convenient when I switch back and forth between backhoe and grapple regularly (multiple times within the same day). The dealer is looking into a bypass valve/switch, but I'm waiting for alternatives to having to disconnect the BH just to use the grapple. Drop me a line if you've experience any similar issues with backhoe o-rings. I'd guess if you are running any type of hydraulic remote with the backhoe attached, you may experience similar problem. I will write an update once I have an acceptable solution. The tractor itself has performed well, as has the loader.
Pros: Tractor. Cab. Power.
Cons: Backhoe o-ring issues when using remote.
Model Year: 2009
I thought I would give an update on this rig as I have gone past 300 hours. I do have one complaint that is new. Apparently, the remote that was installed (rear remote) to operate the grapple when purchased, is causing hydraulic pressure surges in the backhoe, which is blowing out o-rings in the backhoe. The dealer recommended disconnecting the BH feed line when using the grapple, not very convenient when I switch back and forth between backhoe and grapple regularly (multiple times within the same day). The dealer is looking into a bypass valve/switch, but I'm waiting for alternatives to having to disconnect the BH just to use the grapple. Drop me a line if you've experience any similar issues with backhoe o-rings. I'd guess if you are running any type of hydraulic remote with the backhoe attached, you may experience similar problem. I will write an update once I have an acceptable solution. The tractor itself has performed well, as has the loader.
Pros: Tractor. Cab. Power.
Cons: Backhoe o-ring issues when using remote.
Happy with My L3940 Cab
Model Year: 2011
Well it's been 80 hours now, and I am very happy with the purchase. The Grand L series really is the best buy in that style and series of tractor. The Auto-Throttle and Auto-HST is simply impressive. I bought the L3940 because it was the biggest tractor that I could still use a MMM. Once adjusted correct it mows well but not great. It will still leave some stripes or low areas when I make turns. I may be able to adjust it out a little more, but I guess I am too impatient. I insulated the roof, added a nice stereo system, added two rear remotes and the multi-function front remote.
Pros: Comfortable, tons of features, well built and great AC.
Cons: Wish it was easier getting out of right side of tractor cab.
Model Year: 2011
Well it's been 80 hours now, and I am very happy with the purchase. The Grand L series really is the best buy in that style and series of tractor. The Auto-Throttle and Auto-HST is simply impressive. I bought the L3940 because it was the biggest tractor that I could still use a MMM. Once adjusted correct it mows well but not great. It will still leave some stripes or low areas when I make turns. I may be able to adjust it out a little more, but I guess I am too impatient. I insulated the roof, added a nice stereo system, added two rear remotes and the multi-function front remote.
Pros: Comfortable, tons of features, well built and great AC.
Cons: Wish it was easier getting out of right side of tractor cab.
Nice Tractor, But...
Model Year: 2008
This is a nice tractor, but it doesn't have enough power for its size. My dad purchased this tractor new. He bought it mainly because of its large size. This tractor weighs close to twice what my JD2720 does and is twice as big but only has 7hp more. I can use many of the same attachments he can. A six foot flail mower bogs this tractor down and would kill it on a hill without reducing speed to a crawl. The throttle is usually set at close to max in order to get enough power out of it. It also sucks fuel like crazy. On the plus side, the heated cab and snowblower are great. The cab is so quiet, sometimes you have to turn attachments on a second time to be sure they are running because you may not hear them. The snowblower throws snow like a commercial unit. Seriously, if you want snow on the other side of your house, no problem. Just angle the shoot over the roof and let it fly. No kidding, snow is thrown 50 feet from this unit. I would never want to slip and fall into the secondary blade of this monster. It sounds like it would chew you up and spit you out the shoot. We were disappointed with the FEL lifting capacity. With forks it will lift about 1600lbs. It's not bad but it would be great if it could lift a ton of wood pellets. Overall, it's a nice tractor but spend a little more money and get more hp if you want this size chassis.
Pros: Cab, snowblower.
Cons: hp, fuel usage.
Model Year: 2008
This is a nice tractor, but it doesn't have enough power for its size. My dad purchased this tractor new. He bought it mainly because of its large size. This tractor weighs close to twice what my JD2720 does and is twice as big but only has 7hp more. I can use many of the same attachments he can. A six foot flail mower bogs this tractor down and would kill it on a hill without reducing speed to a crawl. The throttle is usually set at close to max in order to get enough power out of it. It also sucks fuel like crazy. On the plus side, the heated cab and snowblower are great. The cab is so quiet, sometimes you have to turn attachments on a second time to be sure they are running because you may not hear them. The snowblower throws snow like a commercial unit. Seriously, if you want snow on the other side of your house, no problem. Just angle the shoot over the roof and let it fly. No kidding, snow is thrown 50 feet from this unit. I would never want to slip and fall into the secondary blade of this monster. It sounds like it would chew you up and spit you out the shoot. We were disappointed with the FEL lifting capacity. With forks it will lift about 1600lbs. It's not bad but it would be great if it could lift a ton of wood pellets. Overall, it's a nice tractor but spend a little more money and get more hp if you want this size chassis.
Pros: Cab, snowblower.
Cons: hp, fuel usage.
Kubota L3940
Model Year: 2011
I haven't had this tractor for very long but the time I have had it has been a very good experience. I have a 724 loader and a 6 foot King Kutter tiller. The loader has decent power and the tiller has done a fantastic job thus far. I plan on buying a 6 foot finish mower in the near future to cut approximately 3 acres of grass/brush. As of this review I have no complaints regarding this model.
Pros: Incredibly easy to operate, good power for size and very maneuverable.
Cons: Lacks a little power on the loader, but I think that's to be expected with some things I've attempted to do.
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Model Year: 2011
I haven't had this tractor for very long but the time I have had it has been a very good experience. I have a 724 loader and a 6 foot King Kutter tiller. The loader has decent power and the tiller has done a fantastic job thus far. I plan on buying a 6 foot finish mower in the near future to cut approximately 3 acres of grass/brush. As of this review I have no complaints regarding this model.
Pros: Incredibly easy to operate, good power for size and very maneuverable.
Cons: Lacks a little power on the loader, but I think that's to be expected with some things I've attempted to do.
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Kubota BH 90 Backhoe
Model Year: 2010
I have had nothing but problems with mine - hydraulic leaks, Kubota had the wrong cylinder on backhoe, it wont trench, went through 2 pumps, still shakes and barely digs, still under warranty and it still doesn't work. I had it in for repair at 10 hrs on it many times through 150 hours on it and its still not fixed. Its been in for repair more than I've had it in working condition. The warranty is running out quickly. Ive been to two dealers. The first one was half the problem. I don't think they knew what they were doing, so they did nothing. The second has tried and has been doing things - new pump, new cylinder, put in some shims for more power, now the whole backhoe shakes when I try to use it. So I'm taking it back again for repair.
Pros: Kubota tractor is great.
Cons: Backhoe BH90 is terrible.
Model Year: 2010
I have had nothing but problems with mine - hydraulic leaks, Kubota had the wrong cylinder on backhoe, it wont trench, went through 2 pumps, still shakes and barely digs, still under warranty and it still doesn't work. I had it in for repair at 10 hrs on it many times through 150 hours on it and its still not fixed. Its been in for repair more than I've had it in working condition. The warranty is running out quickly. Ive been to two dealers. The first one was half the problem. I don't think they knew what they were doing, so they did nothing. The second has tried and has been doing things - new pump, new cylinder, put in some shims for more power, now the whole backhoe shakes when I try to use it. So I'm taking it back again for repair.
Pros: Kubota tractor is great.
Cons: Backhoe BH90 is terrible.
200 hour update L3940 Cab HST w 724 loader b92 backhoe & grapple
Model Year: 2009
Thought I would post an update at 200 hours. Still love the tractor and have been clearing land for a new home. It's risen to all the challenges I've put it to. The weak points I've noticed since my last review. The backhoe hydraulic valves seem less tough than I would like, and one has failed requiring warranty repair (thus the 4 stars in build quality). The hydraulic connections to the loader seem to leak more than they should—possibly a dealer/assembly issue. The seat (not air, but spring ride) tends to be pretty squeaky in rough terrain. I've broken off no less than 4 top/rear flasher lights (they are really exposed and vulnerable). It would be nice to see those built right into the cab top for protection. It's done great with everything from removing stumps with the backhoe, to moving logs with the grapple, to bush hogging pretty rough thick underbrush. I've been amazed the cab has be able to fit through every nook and cranny I've needed to squeeze through. I usually flip the mirrors around in front against the windshield when in brush. The stall guard is a nice feature when doing loader work. The dual speed auto function I haven't found to be as useful. I will be putting this machine to the test this spring building a driveway, excavating for a basement and building a house/barn. I'm certain it will rise to whatever need I have.
Pros: Power, operator view/comfort, backhoe and loader power.
Cons: It could use tougher hydraulic valves/components.
Model Year: 2009
Thought I would post an update at 200 hours. Still love the tractor and have been clearing land for a new home. It's risen to all the challenges I've put it to. The weak points I've noticed since my last review. The backhoe hydraulic valves seem less tough than I would like, and one has failed requiring warranty repair (thus the 4 stars in build quality). The hydraulic connections to the loader seem to leak more than they should—possibly a dealer/assembly issue. The seat (not air, but spring ride) tends to be pretty squeaky in rough terrain. I've broken off no less than 4 top/rear flasher lights (they are really exposed and vulnerable). It would be nice to see those built right into the cab top for protection. It's done great with everything from removing stumps with the backhoe, to moving logs with the grapple, to bush hogging pretty rough thick underbrush. I've been amazed the cab has be able to fit through every nook and cranny I've needed to squeeze through. I usually flip the mirrors around in front against the windshield when in brush. The stall guard is a nice feature when doing loader work. The dual speed auto function I haven't found to be as useful. I will be putting this machine to the test this spring building a driveway, excavating for a basement and building a house/barn. I'm certain it will rise to whatever need I have.
Pros: Power, operator view/comfort, backhoe and loader power.
Cons: It could use tougher hydraulic valves/components.
Updated Review of Kubota L3940 Cab backhoe, grapple, bucket.
Model Year: 2009
I seriously looked at the JD 3520 and 3720 cab models and they just felt like lawn mowers on steroids, whereas the Kubota felt like an industrial machine. I have not been disappointed with the 3940, the bucket, the backhoe (9') or the grapple that I purchased with it. I'm clearing land, lots of work in the brush with the exception of knocking off the exposed rear hazard lights, it has been excellent. The cab offers protection from the heat and the mosquitoes
It has fit through every nook and cranny I needed the squeeze through. I have the HST plus. For the most part, the HST works great. It has 3 gear ranges with low/high in each, and of course variable speed in all. The Kubota just seem to be heavier build (heavier axles, heavier frame, etc), whereas the JD was lots of plastic parts, less frame and smaller in general. It also seems to go a long time on the 13 gal tank of diesel. One complaint, which I knew going in, the front axle has exposed boot/tie rod. They have a U-shaped piece of steel to protect, but when you turn left or right, it exposes the boot-which I've torn ($17 to replace). JD puts those mechanisms behind the axle. Kubota should too. The back hoe seems to have plenty of power, I like the 9' reach (JD was only 7'). The other thing I liked about this model, is that it has a larger cu ft block (122 vs JD at 90, I think-going from memory). The Kubota has 4 cylinders, is not turbo charged, and seems to run smooth and steady. The JD seemed like it was really "jacked up" and the turbo and engine sounded more like a drag racing engine, worrying me that the JD may require more maintenance on the engine and costlier repairs (Turbo, etc). I really like the tractor, plan to keep it for the long haul.
Pros: Power, durable construction, efficient.
Cons: Front axle tie rods could be protected better.
Model Year: 2009
I seriously looked at the JD 3520 and 3720 cab models and they just felt like lawn mowers on steroids, whereas the Kubota felt like an industrial machine. I have not been disappointed with the 3940, the bucket, the backhoe (9') or the grapple that I purchased with it. I'm clearing land, lots of work in the brush with the exception of knocking off the exposed rear hazard lights, it has been excellent. The cab offers protection from the heat and the mosquitoes
It has fit through every nook and cranny I needed the squeeze through. I have the HST plus. For the most part, the HST works great. It has 3 gear ranges with low/high in each, and of course variable speed in all. The Kubota just seem to be heavier build (heavier axles, heavier frame, etc), whereas the JD was lots of plastic parts, less frame and smaller in general. It also seems to go a long time on the 13 gal tank of diesel. One complaint, which I knew going in, the front axle has exposed boot/tie rod. They have a U-shaped piece of steel to protect, but when you turn left or right, it exposes the boot-which I've torn ($17 to replace). JD puts those mechanisms behind the axle. Kubota should too. The back hoe seems to have plenty of power, I like the 9' reach (JD was only 7'). The other thing I liked about this model, is that it has a larger cu ft block (122 vs JD at 90, I think-going from memory). The Kubota has 4 cylinders, is not turbo charged, and seems to run smooth and steady. The JD seemed like it was really "jacked up" and the turbo and engine sounded more like a drag racing engine, worrying me that the JD may require more maintenance on the engine and costlier repairs (Turbo, etc). I really like the tractor, plan to keep it for the long haul.Pros: Power, durable construction, efficient.
Cons: Front axle tie rods could be protected better.
L3940 on a Hill Side
Model Year: 2010
Beware of using the L3940 on a hill side. There is a design flaw in the hydraulic pick up tube (its too short). If the nose is up in the air the fluid will not pick up and you will loose all steering and the tractor will go to neutral. Very scary.
Pros: Bottom tractor.
Cons: Inadequate on the hill side.
Model Year: 2010
Beware of using the L3940 on a hill side. There is a design flaw in the hydraulic pick up tube (its too short). If the nose is up in the air the fluid will not pick up and you will loose all steering and the tractor will go to neutral. Very scary.
Pros: Bottom tractor.
Cons: Inadequate on the hill side.
Kubota L3940 cab with backhoe and 724 bucket
Model Year: 2009
I just hit 50 hours on the meter. This tractor is all and more than I expected it would be. Have been clearing land/brush and removing stumps. Seems to have plenty of power for everything I've tried so far. The 9' backhoe is great and has great reach and power. Loader is also great. Self leveling bucket would be cool, but works great. I also picked up a Virnig grapple bucket, which has been awesome for moving brush, stumps, logs, etc. I mounted a hook at the back of the bucket, between the braces of the bucket, and this has been useful pulling smaller trees, etc. The cab is really nice, I was a little worried it would not be convenient working in the woods, but no problems at all. The little bit I drove it in the winter, the heat was great. I like the side windows and back windows, both open easily for ventilation, etc. Really loving working on this tractor, seems super solid, and just generally well designed and layed out. I went with the 3940, as it was the largest tractor that could still carry a belly mid mount finishing mower. Not sure I will even use it to mow, but I believe the next larger tractor 4240 doesn't offer some mid mounted devices. HST transmission seems flawless. Really runs a long time on a tank of fuel, I've been amazed at how little it burns, even when working all day. I looked at both the JD 3720 and 3920, but both were 3 cylinder engines and just seem much smaller and less "commercial" than the Kubota. We still have a few JD's in the family, in this size the 3940 just seemed like the best value.
Pros: Power, versatility, comfort
Cons: None
Model Year: 2009
I just hit 50 hours on the meter. This tractor is all and more than I expected it would be. Have been clearing land/brush and removing stumps. Seems to have plenty of power for everything I've tried so far. The 9' backhoe is great and has great reach and power. Loader is also great. Self leveling bucket would be cool, but works great. I also picked up a Virnig grapple bucket, which has been awesome for moving brush, stumps, logs, etc. I mounted a hook at the back of the bucket, between the braces of the bucket, and this has been useful pulling smaller trees, etc. The cab is really nice, I was a little worried it would not be convenient working in the woods, but no problems at all. The little bit I drove it in the winter, the heat was great. I like the side windows and back windows, both open easily for ventilation, etc. Really loving working on this tractor, seems super solid, and just generally well designed and layed out. I went with the 3940, as it was the largest tractor that could still carry a belly mid mount finishing mower. Not sure I will even use it to mow, but I believe the next larger tractor 4240 doesn't offer some mid mounted devices. HST transmission seems flawless. Really runs a long time on a tank of fuel, I've been amazed at how little it burns, even when working all day. I looked at both the JD 3720 and 3920, but both were 3 cylinder engines and just seem much smaller and less "commercial" than the Kubota. We still have a few JD's in the family, in this size the 3940 just seemed like the best value.
Pros: Power, versatility, comfort
Cons: None
L3940
Model Year: 2009
Purchased with turf tires and 7' front blade. 1st job was 6' bush hog in 6' of weeds. Normally run 6' rear finish mower. Cruise control is very efficient for long run mowing. Turf tires work great when moving snow. Engine starts easily at 0F. Tractor has been a pleasure to operate.
Pros: HST+ is best transmission currently available compared to any other compact tractor manufactuer.
Cons: Need light to tell when 4 wheel drive is engaged. Front end loader control valve sealing rubber keeps poping out.
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Model Year: 2009
Purchased with turf tires and 7' front blade. 1st job was 6' bush hog in 6' of weeds. Normally run 6' rear finish mower. Cruise control is very efficient for long run mowing. Turf tires work great when moving snow. Engine starts easily at 0F. Tractor has been a pleasure to operate.
Pros: HST+ is best transmission currently available compared to any other compact tractor manufactuer.
Cons: Need light to tell when 4 wheel drive is engaged. Front end loader control valve sealing rubber keeps poping out.
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Tough Machine
Model Year: 2008
I gave "Performance" 4 stars only because I could use a bit more power. I push this machine very hard and it has performed flawlessly.
Pros: Everything about it.
Cons: Fuel fill is in a difficult area to reach without spilling on the hood.
Model Year: 2008
I gave "Performance" 4 stars only because I could use a bit more power. I push this machine very hard and it has performed flawlessly.
Pros: Everything about it.
Cons: Fuel fill is in a difficult area to reach without spilling on the hood.