Cold climate

[Leef]

Thanks for everyone's advice re: my new B2910.

This tractor was originally bought in the Dallas Texas area and I've moved it to central Iowa. I am wondering if I should change any of the additives such as oil or hydraulic fluid here in a colder climate? I'm assuming all tractors have the same glow plug and cold start capabilities, but maybe the tractors in the south get a thicker viscosity in the crank case etc.?

Also, since there are now almost 30 hours on the machine, I wondered about changing the oil and hydraulic filters to remove any captured metal shavings from the break in process - or should I just wait til the 50 hour routine maintence time? This would be an equivalent to a poor man's oil change if none of the fluids need to be changed.

One more question. I did not get an owners manual, but I did get a kubota booklet re: Federal and California control emission systems limited warranty for the Diesel engine. Do some tractors have California emissions (like cars) systems and does this mean that I have CA emissions? I hope not b/c I would generally avoid them in cars/trucks and I wouldn't want them on my tractor either.

It can get pretty cold here ( usually single digit temps but can go to minus 15 degrees once in a while ) so I want to be prepared and take care of my investment.

 

[rja]

I have a L3000dt with around 15hrs on it. The dealer told me that he would change the engine oil at 25hrs and again at 50hrs. Since he is the pro here, that is what I will do. At 50hrs, I will probably change the trans and front axle also.(mabey I will replace these with synthetic, I will wait for 100hrs for going with synthetic in the engine).

 

[art]

I would believe it would be your choice as to the oil change. I would say that you might like a block heater just in case. As for the emissions Califonia is the worst and we don't get those books here in NY.

 

[hayden]

Personally, I'd go ahead and do the full engine and trans/hydro oil/filter change for the following reasons.

1) Kubota does recommend different oil grades for warm climates when using straight grade oils. Without knowing exactly what's in your machine now, you could be running too heavy an grade oil. Changing it will ensure you have the right stuff in there.

2) Although there is much myth, legend, and wive's tales on the subject of oil changes, engine warm up etc, I think early/more frequent oil/filter changes can help remove contaminants early, and unless you botch the service procedure, they can do no harm. You'll have to decide if it's worth the $70-$90 in parts and fluids.

3) With the few reports of hydraulic issues with 2710 and 2910 machines, I'd err on the side of caution. Personally, I changed all oils and filters at 15hrs on my 2910 largely because of these reports.

Two other things I'd suggest. Get the owners manual. It's part number 6C170-6311-1. You can't service the tractor properly without it. Last, be sure you have "winter" fuel. Just run it low and then buy fuel locally and fill her up. Otherwise you will likely gel up when it gets cold.

Good luck

Peter

 

[Boondox]

Leef -- It gets pretty cold here in Northern Vermont, and since my nearest neighbor is a ski resort my Kubota sees a lot of winter use. I (and all my farmer friends) have always used the same lubricants year 'round. My only concession to winter (as low as minus 40) besides more layers of clothing is to give the glow plug a full minute to heat, and after starting the tractor idles for ten minutes at 1500RPM before moving an inch. Pete

 

[Rowski]

Pete

Where abouts in northern VT are you from? Which ski area? Jay Peak, Burke Mtn.

Derek