1995 Kubota L35 Estate Auction
- Thread starter tdfontaine
- Start date
- Views: 8758
-
- Tags
- kubota l35
OP
tdfontaine
New member
Inspected the tractor and it's generally in ok condition for a 20 year old machine. There are a few minor things that could use fixing. Cold starting was difficult because it seemed the glow plugs weren't working. The glow plug light didn't come on when the ignition was in 'run' position. Backhoe stabilizer cylinders are leaking and need repacking.
Three major concerns are: the front hub is worn and wobbly. On the same side there is a slight grinding noise when making a tight turn. Those two things might be related. The main steering kingpin (not sure if that's the right term) is wobbly and needs a new bearing.
I've done a lot of shade tree mechanic work so think I can fix all of those issues. Does anyone think these are major issues that a handy guy couldn't fix?
On the good side, all of the major mechanicals, transmission, hydraulics seem to be working.
Three major concerns are: the front hub is worn and wobbly. On the same side there is a slight grinding noise when making a tight turn. Those two things might be related. The main steering kingpin (not sure if that's the right term) is wobbly and needs a new bearing.
I've done a lot of shade tree mechanic work so think I can fix all of those issues. Does anyone think these are major issues that a handy guy couldn't fix?
On the good side, all of the major mechanicals, transmission, hydraulics seem to be working.
varmint
Elite Member
- Joined
- Mar 17, 2003
- Messages
- 2,572
- Location
- Northern Maryland
- Tractor
- Kubota B8200, then a Kubota L3130 HST, now a Kubota L3400 HST
Maybe the glow plugs require the key to be counterclockwise one click, like on several of the Kubotas I've had? If you are lucky, the only things wrong will be what you already know about... Not insignificant, but if the price is right, a few hundred bucks worth of parts might git 'er done. Hydraulic pumps are pricey repairs, so that's good. If the hub problem is a worn axle, not just bearings, you could have some work ahead. Keep us informed, please!
OP
tdfontaine
New member
That probably explains the glow plugs. I didn't realize that's how they work .....
The glow plug light should come on when turning key to 'on'. Mine does.
As for fixing things yourself, There is a lot of sharp people on this forum that I'm sure will help, along with a good manual and parts book.
I have a parts list on Adobe for the tractor, loader and backhoe. If you end up getting it let me know and I'll send you it.
As for fixing things yourself, There is a lot of sharp people on this forum that I'm sure will help, along with a good manual and parts book.
I have a parts list on Adobe for the tractor, loader and backhoe. If you end up getting it let me know and I'll send you it.
varmint
Elite Member
- Joined
- Mar 17, 2003
- Messages
- 2,572
- Location
- Northern Maryland
- Tractor
- Kubota B8200, then a Kubota L3130 HST, now a Kubota L3400 HST
RMK- that reminded me, my L3130's glow plug light did come on when you turned the key to "run", and then went off after a varying short interval, I suppose when its temp. sensor decided it was ready to start... nice feature. Once started, it remained off, of course. The lesser Kubotas require you to turn the key to the left for however long for glow plugging.
OP
tdfontaine
New member
Well, I didn't buy it. After looking at the front end in more detail I got concerned because it there are three bolts missing from the steering knuckle (or whatever it's called) cover which was probably causing the grinding noise. It was more than I was willing to fix unless it was a smoking deal. Final bid was $11,750 and I set my limit was $10,000. Someone got a decent tractor but it is going to need some love before it's ready to work. Or, more than likely, they won't notice the problem and the front end will get completely screwed up.
Thanks everyone for all of the pointers and encouragement!
Thanks everyone for all of the pointers and encouragement!
varmint
Elite Member
- Joined
- Mar 17, 2003
- Messages
- 2,572
- Location
- Northern Maryland
- Tractor
- Kubota B8200, then a Kubota L3130 HST, now a Kubota L3400 HST
It would have been an interesting thread- you could have posted photos as you progressed tearing into it, discovering shocking damage, and moaning over costs of needed parts. Good luck in finding something that makes you smile!
Fallon
Super Member
This the one up in Loveland CO this weekend? I have a friend with a $9k budget for a small hoe or mini ex. We were planning on going, but couldn't at the last minute. Was wondering what it went for. Assumed it would bust her budget, but you never know.
Fallon
Super Member
Never mind, looked at this on my PC & can see the photos now... definitely the same one. Glad we missed the auction then, wouldn't have gotten it anyway.
If it were me getting a hoe, I'd be looking at some older industrial hoes. There are a good pile around here in Colorado under $15k that seem to be in good shape. Not really an option for my friend as she's not up for much mechanical work at all. But if you are willing to mess with hoses, repacking cylinders & some other work, you can get a hoe with 3x the capability of the L35 in your price range. You do need to be able to haul a 10-13k lbs machine around though, although that can be hired out pretty cheap if you only need to move it once.
