Can't get into Neutral

[JMM]

I just bought a Kubota L4400 today. The first time I operated it I left it in High gear when I stopped. Now I can't get it into Neutral to start it again.
What do I need to do?

 

[Grandad4]

JMM, welcome to TBN. Is your new tractor an HST model? If so, maybe it is the same as my older L4610 model, which will start if the clutch is fully depressed, even when it is in H, M or L range. But the clutch must be all the way down; if you have it up even a little bit, an interlock will prevent starting. Maybe one of the L4400 owners will jump in with more specific advice.

Also, the range selector is famous for being tight and if you parked it on a slight grade or in 4wd with the front wheels turned, it will be a bear to get out of gear.

Good luck... you have a great tractor there!

 

[JMM]

Thanks Grandad4,
My L4400 is a gear drive and it is parked on a very slight grade.

 

[Thomas]

Maybe this well help??
Does the L4440 have front end loader,if so push clutch down start the tractor use FEL by bucket to ground roll bucket backwards slowly..than stop try shift,or once again very very slowly roll buck backwards try shift sametime.

 

[JMM]

That's the problem. There must be some safety feature that prevents the engine from starting when it's not in Neutral. So I can't raise the bucket.

 

[KennyV]

That's the problem. There must be some safety feature that prevents the engine from starting when it's not in Neutral.

You can always start an engine by going directly to the starter solenoid...
JUST be sure you know how to shut it off quickly should that need arise... KennyV

 

[Grandad4]

Maybe gravity has the drivetrain bound up because of the slight grade. Kind of like putting your car in "Park" when it's on a hill... it won't want to shift into "Drive" because of the loading on the drivetrain binding the parking mechanism in the tranny. It's even worse with a tractor because you have a lot of gear reduction involved. Is there any way to relieve any bind-up in the drivetrain? Slight tug from another vehicle would probably be all it needs. Please don't give yourself a hernia trying to shove it yourself, though! :thumbsup:

 

[RoyJackson]

That's the problem. There must be some safety feature that prevents the engine from starting when it's not in Neutral. So I can't raise the bucket.

Yes, there are neutral safety switches in many gear tractors, but that should not prevent you from shifting into neutral before cranking the engine. Some also require depressing the clutch too.
Are you sure the PTO is not engaged?

Since it's brand new, I suggest you review the operator's manual...just to ensure you're doing everything "by the book".

If it turns out to be something simply overlooked...well, we all do that so don't be embarassed.

 

[JMM]

I got it unstuck. It was just bound up. Thanks to all

 

[RoyJackson]

I got it unstuck. It was just bound up. Thanks to all

I'm glad you got it squared away...but this type of thing should not happen on a gear transmission...period. You may have a linkage binding somehow. Since it is a new tractor, I suggest you inform your dealer in case the problem happens again or gets worse
Good luck with your new Kubota!