L3130 GST or HST

JATO_RaT · Apr 6, 2003

"HST has both a clutch pedal and gear shift selector"

This is true. Of course the shift from L to M to H feels different and one thing for sure, I don't think you will ever wear the clutch and especially the brakes out on a HST tractor. If one truly loves the feel of a manual stick and using the clutch to shift I would suggest the FST transmission. This is the same way most shuttle transmissions work from other manufactuers and might be my choice over GST.

cisco · Apr 7, 2003

You want to shift? Consider a DT/FST. Anyhow, the GST offers more pto power, so what do you need to turn (pto)? The push/pull difference in power between GST and HST is irrelevant - most folks run out of traction long before they run out of power, and I'm talking R-1 or R-4 tires . BUT, pto can be a different matter - if you're going for a bit of a "reach" as far as brush cutter width or similar, get all the pto power you can. If you've got a bunch of forward/reverse tasks, like the dirt moving I recently endured, and you don't intend to push the limits of your pto, get HST. Otherwise, get whatever suits your style.

JATO_RaT · Apr 7, 2003

This is exactly my dilema. I am looking at a L3130 HST. The L3430 has a little more HP, but the torque is only 4 ft lbs more (75.9 vs 79.9). The difference in price is anywhere from $1600 to $2000 more. Stepping up to a L3830 you get 89 ft lbs of torque but at over $3000 plus a few extras on the L3830 like 3pt lift power, tire size, length etc. I am using a 84" finish mower. I am hoping the L3130 will run it in moderate growth, otherwise it will be the L3830 HST or more for me. I want the smaller size for manueverability and price. Rat...

Mainah · Apr 9, 2003

I bought a L3710 about a year ago, and opted for the GST. I test drove the HST and GST at two different dealers before deciding.
I'm a big/tall guy and found it very uncomfortable, to the point of leg-cramp, to have my right foot up at a different level than the left (on the GST pedal). I'm sure I would have gotten used to it...but this being my first tractor purchase I went with what was most comfortable.
I don't regret the GST choice at all...find it a joy to use. Only complaint/drawback I've found is the momentary hesitation (in neutral) when you shift the main transmission. This can be un-nerving when on a hill, especially with a load, as the tractor can actually slip downhill some until the hydrolics do their thing and engage the new gear. Obvious solution, don't shift on hills, which is probably good practice with any drive system that disengages the drivetrain to change gears...manual clutch or hydrolic.
I'm sure you will be happy with either choice.