Kubota HST vs standard transmission

[jimbobs61]

I am looking at the Kubota L3200 with loader for brushcutting, fire lane maintenance and general light duty on a small farm (mainly a pine plantation). I want it to be easy for my wife to use. Is the HST worth the extra $ with this in mind? She can drive a standard but we are both prone to ride the clutch. Also, how important would it be to go up to the 3800? Thanks, Jim

 

[RoyJackson]

If you and your wife are prone to ride a clutch, you don't want a gear tractor, IMHO.
If you do get a gear transmission, I suggest you consider one with an independent PTO and operate in a gear with a low enough ground speed you won't feel it necessary to ride the clutch.

 

[jimbobs61]

It seems like the time I ride the clutch is when I am in reverse, either to hook up an implement or backing up using an implement. Not while going forward doing something like bushhogging.

 

[RobertN]

Both of my tractors have been HST. Me, my wife, and our son all drive sticks daily.

I would be concerned if you both are clutch riders, in regards to a manual trans.

When we up-sized from our old 19hp hst Kubota, we went HST again, mostly because my wife got really comfortable with the L3410HST that she used daily at the nursery she worked at for a couple years. She uses the tractor frequently at home; she wanted HST, and a big loader. So, she wound up with HST, and a 1 yard loader...

We wanted a used L3410 like at the nursery, but got a NH TC40D(limited tractors at time on used market). Love the NH, but also really liked that L3410...

I have used Kubota L35 TLB with GST in the past; I really liked that trans too... Since you're in the market, I would try that trans style too.

I have used a couple manual trans/shuttle shift tractors. It was not a big deal to use. On our hilly treed property the HST sure is easier though...

 

[Thomas]

Once your wife get use to HST she'll like it..alot,matter fact you may lose little seat time yourself.

You'll also find HST lot better when useing FEL...less footing shifting.

 

[RoyJackson]

It seems like the time I ride the clutch is when I am in reverse, either to hook up an implement or backing up using an implement. Not while going forward doing something like bushhogging.

I'd say most folks do that to a degree, including me.
To reduce wear and tear, use a low gear and fairly low (1200 or so) engine RPM.
So, if that's the only time you (AND your wife) ride the clutch...then I wouldn't worry too much.

 

[mcnitt]

I have a gear drive L3430. I too was concerned about hydro vs. gear drive. I had a little Massey hydro at first, and found that on my hilly property the tractor lost power when the hydro got hot. I talked to several tractor users and finally decided to go with the gear drive. It has turned out great!. Lots of people will tell you their hydros are great tractors, and I am sure they are. I just didn't want to have to deal with the issue of diminishing power when the tranny was hot. Maybe if the tractor has more horsepower, it doesn't mater. I think the bottom line is to get what you think you will be happiest with and then learn to use it properly.

 

[nybirdman]

The HST/stick debate will go on forever here;but my take;multiple users and ultimate speed control...HST wins hands down.And yes I have owned manual tractors,trucks and cars.Learned to drive three on the tree....that will tell how old I am!

 

[Verticaltrx]

The L3200 should be a fine size for that type of work. One thing to consider is in order to get a live PTO on the L3200, you have to get HST. To me that is worth the price.

The L3800 has live PTO on both the gear and HST.

 

[Ductape]

....that will tell how old I am!

You are so old....... you were around when 'Old Spice' was just called 'Spice' !