Glide Shift Problems?

[Anonymous Poster]

Sorry Posted this on the wrong forum. Let's try again on this one. I did a search for glide shift but all I found was discussions on GST versus HST. OK read all the post on GST verses HST they all make sense. But my question is dependability, and service particularly on the GST's. I know how to work on HST's. Would like to hear if anyone has had problems with GST's. By the way for general info they are coming out with new GST in Jan. 12 speeds, electronic shifted, supposedly smoother. I am looking at a L2900 GST with 1000 hrs. very clean. First time I drove a Kubota GST. Is it supposed to have a defenite slip between gears or is it supposed jerk a little. Would really like to know if this slippage is normal before I go buy this one for $9000.

 

[Charliebrn]

My Pa had a GST, and that slip you are talking about is normal. I thought it was strange too, but my Pa like his better than an HST for some reason. I think he liked it because he could set the engine at a certain RPM and gear and he knew EXACTLY how much seed he was putting on the ground with his seeder. He never had any problem with it at all....

 

[ragman]

My neighbor has a L4200GST he bought used a couple years ago. I use it with his tiller, as my BX2200 is a little on the light side for his size tiller. I noticed a couple gears seemed to be "missing" when shifting. Asked him when the last time the UDT was changed. He didn't know. The site glass looked kind a brownish/black, and I didn't think that was right. I changed the filter and fluid and bingo, we now have all the gears. We now have an agreement. I maintain the tractor in exchange for getting to use it when I need to. I do notice a little "bump" inbetween gears, but the local dealer said thats normal.

 

[GregH]

I have had a 4310 GST for about 3 years with no problem. THey have created a reliable transmission. It is also used on the L35. It uses a hydraulic clutch pack. Nothing high tech. There is a small lag between gears as the unit does its thing. It is no problem to me but could be a little disconcerting to the first time user. I would suggest trying HST and GST to see which suits your use. If the primary use is a FEL or grading, the HST is the best in my opinion. But if you do plowing alot such as I do to me the GST is best. It certainly doesn't create so much heat in the summer which is a byproduct of the fluid conversion etc. Also if I need a higher speed with the GST I have it without having to change ranges.
Constant direction change is the HST's best selling point to me. Each has it's supporters. It is ultimately your choice.
Greg H