Kubota 'L' Series Thermostats

[Jay4200]

Kubota \'L\' Series Thermostats

I haven't run my L4200 much, but I noticed that the temperature gauge has yet to move more than about an 1/8" past the cold mark. Granted, it was only ~30 degrees, but I figure it should've heated up more than that. The gauge might not be accurate, or maybe the thermostat is stuck open. I figure I'd try a new thermostat, but I'd rather spend $3 at the auto parts store vs. $20 for a Kubota-branded one.

Question: Does my Kubota 'L' series tractor use a standard-size/shape thermostat (like a car), and if so, what is the stock thermostat temperature?

Thanks - Jay

 

[thcri]

Re: Kubota \'L\' Series Thermostats

My New Holland is the about the same in the colder weather until I run the RPM's up and start working her. Then the temperature will go up to normal. But a diesel just idling around won't raise the temp. So my question is, are you working her or babying her?


murph

 

[Jay4200]

Re: Kubota \'L\' Series Thermostats

</font><font color="blue" class="small">( So my question is, are you working her or babying her?)</font>

At this point, neither - pretty much just driving around trying to figure out how everything works. I'm still in the process of going through the machine and gathering information. If the temperature characteristics of my machine are normal, great - I figured I'd find out what I needed before I actually needed it.

I just got the machine, which is well used, so I don't dare do much until I check all systems and check/replace all fluids and filters. I also have a couple of hydraulic lines on my backhoe that I want to replace, then I can beat the crap out of it in good conscience.

Jay

 

[ronjhall]

Re: Kubota \'L\' Series Thermostats

What you describe is normal for a <font color="orange"> Kubota </font>temperature gage. Moves up about 1/8 to 1/4 when engine is warmed up. The gage on my tractor will move up beyond that when screen in front of radiator needs cleaning.

 

[kevincook]

Re: Kubota \'L\' Series Thermostats

Jay,

That sounds perfectly normal for your tractor. This has been discussed many times before and I think everyone experiences the same thing.

My tractor won't get up to the middle of the range unless I'm running the tiller in 95 degrees.

Have Fun,
Kevin

 

[slowzuki]

Re: Kubota \'L\' Series Thermostats

A diesel is basically aircooled at idle, so much air is going through for the amount of fuel due to no throttle on a diesel. Due to this it won't heat up as the others have said.

I have gotten my L5030 to 5/8 while baling on a hot day or mowing with the haybine. Also has happen bushhogging when the rad got clogged.

Ken

 

[N80]

Re: Kubota \'L\' Series Thermostats

I got my L4400 in August. Even mowing in 90+ degree heat the temp gauge moves up about 1/8. Never seen it higher under any conditions.

 

[Jay4200]

Re: Kubota \'L\' Series Thermostats

</font><font color="blue" class="small">( I got my L4400 in August. Even mowing in 90+ degree heat the temp gauge moves up about 1/8. Never seen it higher under any conditions. )</font>

Still seems weird to me. I wonder if these tractors come from the factory w/o a thermostat installed. The function of a thermostat is not to keep a motor cool, after all, but instead to allow the motor to heat up when it is not W/C conditions - like under full load on a 100 degree day. I've seen several on the board say that they've opened their machines and found none - wouldn't suprise me if this is the typical case.

Jay

 

[ronjhall]

Re: Kubota \'L\' Series Thermostats

<font color="blue">I've seen several on the board say that they've opened their machines and found none - wouldn't surprise me if this is the typical case.</font>
I do not think you will find it is typical that the Thermostat is missing. Everyone has told you that your gage is reading what theirs reads. /forums/images/graemlins/confused.gif

 

[cp1969]

Re: Kubota \'L\' Series Thermostats

Something you might consider is replacing the screen in front of the radiator with cardboard. I just did this to my L3000 but I haven't had a chance to use it since. I did cut about a 4" square hole in the middle of it. I don't think you want to block it off completely.