Anyone have some insight on the L30 series vs the L40 series?

[_RaT_]

My association is going ot purchase a used compact tractor. I once owned a L3830 HST that was superb. I sold it because I downsized in property. I am now looking at a used (harvest tractor), a L3830 HST or possibly a John Deere 3520 that is available in HST or shuttle. My question is this, is the new HST on the Kubota considerably better than that on the L30 series? I loved everything about the L3830 HST from the power, to the speed ranges to the ease of using it. I now own a Kubota L4850 shuttle so I know all about how that works. Any comments on the Kubota L40 series hydro would be appreciated. Thanks, RaT...

 

[mark2610d]

I have owned both, a 3430hstc and a 3240hstc. I can tell you the 40 series tractors are even better than the 30 series for a number of reasons. The hyd plus is flat out amazing with how well it works and allows you to (fine tune it). I love the auto throttle on the 40 series and would now feel lost without that feature. I also use the auto down shift when doing loader work. I also like the high-low range within each selected range(it's kinda like a 6 speed hydro). Also, the 40 series comes with the factory front loader control valve already installed even if you just buy the bare tractor (you still get the valve).

If your going for a cab the 40 series cabs are much nicer due to the increased cab height and more clear view out the front windshield as well as the new right side console for your controls. The cab on the 40 series is much quieter as well coming in at 78db vrs the 30 series at 85db. I did the test myself with a db meter. If you liked you 30 series you will love the 40 series.

 

[_RaT_]

Now your making me drool! I must get over and try it. I saw the hydro plus presentation and was quite surprised out how well they considered all my wishes for a future hydro despite the fact that I never told them. You know I had 3 fellas from Japan I think it was come to my old house and quiz me on my Kubota. They gave me a $100 dollar bill for my trouble. I think they were with Yanmar.

I have owned both, a 3430hstc and a 3240hstc. I can tell you the 40 series tractors are even better than the 30 series for a number of reasons. The hyd plus is flat out amazing with how well it works and allows you to (fine tune it). I love the auto throttle on the 40 series and would now feel lost without that feature. I also use the auto down shift when doing loader work. I also like the high-low range within each selected range(it's kinda like a 6 speed hydro). Also, the 40 series comes with the factory front loader control valve already installed even if you just buy the bare tractor (you still get the valve).

If your going for a cab the 40 series cabs are much nicer due to the increased cab height and more clear view out the front windshield as well as the new right side console for your controls. The cab on the 40 series is much quieter as well coming in at 78db vrs the 30 series at 85db. I did the test myself with a db meter. If you liked you 30 series you will love the 40 series.

 

[lawn_king]

i just turned 300 hours on my 3540. I love the hst+ and the cab is wonderful place to be, Im core aerating a 15 acre site tomorrow and gonna love every minute of it!

 

[art]

It's hard to beat the features of the 40 series hydro transmission.

For some the simplicity of the thirty series hydro is still complex enough to baffle.

 

[Yankee Clipper]

The HST plus with the Auto Throttle is so nice for doing loader work - you just set the low idle with enough RPMs so the loader responds and push with your right foot. You push harder to load the bucket and then take your foot off. No engine noise like with a 30 series. Heel it and back out as fast or slow as you want - again the engine responds to how hard you push the pedal.

Even a fair tractor driver can consistently load the bucket and make time when doing loader work.

 

[razor]

I have a L5030 and a L5740. They both have their advantages and disadvantages. As stated above the 40 series cabs are nicer and a bit more comfortable and the auto throttle and other features are nice as well. One thing that scares me with the 40 series is all the electronics compared to the 30 series, but maybe it is just me. I also prefer the feel the the HST pedal on the 30 series, it is not as jerky. With that being said I'm considering trading in my 5030 for another 5740 because of the extra power.

 

[slan]

I also prefer the feel the the HST pedal on the 30 series, it is not as jerky. .

Even with the response dial set to mid point or lower? I find that feature one of the best ones of the hst+

 

[razor]

I honestly don't notice much of a difference with the dial. Maybe my dial is broken.

 

[lawn_king]

There is a big difference from slow to fast on the hst responce switch, yours must be broken or perhaps never wired?