L39 or L45

[Qapla]

We currently have a Farmtrac 360 DTC with a FEL/BH. The tractor runs just fine and seems quite strong. Though FEL/BH connects with a sub-frame and digs adequately, there are things about this tractor that we are not happy with. The BH digs a bit slow and the FEL has needed some "upgrades" since the original design is less durable than the power of the tractor. It is also getting a bit old to get off the tractor and climb onto the BH attachment each time you want to dig. This become especially tedious when trying to dig a large hole or a ditch.

That being said, the main reason we want a change is the CLUTCH. The FT 360 uses a diaphragm clutch. This does not seem to be a good match with the main purpose we use the tractor for ... Loader operations are a bit hard on this type of clutch, evidently. We have had to replace the clutch TWICE! In order to keep this from happening again, we were told that you have to "completely remove your foot from the clutch pedal when you move forward with the loader."

If we had known the what we know now (Framtrac problems and the "delicate clutch") we would have bought the Kubota we had looked at.

We have decided to trade the Farmtrac in and get the Kubota. That brings me to my question:

Which model would you recommend. The L39 or the L45.

Here are some specifics to help you with your advice


:tractor:The majority of the work done with this tractor will be with the FEL/BH
:tractor:We will, at times, want to use the 3-point hitch and the PTO
:tractor:We have to transport the tractor on a semi-regular basis
:tractor:We have a 21' trailer for the tractor
:tractor:I pull the trailer/tractor with a Nissan Titan (that is one reason we cannot use the M59)
:tractor:The FEL will be used quite a bit to dig and move dirt
:tractor:The BH will be used mostly for digging large holes, though some ditch digging is on the agenda.

I know there are some difference with the transmissions between the two tractors. There are also some differences with the controls.

Any advise you can give will be appreciated.

 

[jlrsn]

The main difference of the two tractors is the transmission as you already mentioned. I have a L39 and I like the GST Transmission. I don't like the HST Transmissions. The backhoes are identical but the FEL has been slightly beefed up and lifts a little more. One of the best features is the SSUQU (Skid Steer Universal Quick Attach). Basically it allows quick changes of what is attached to the FEL. Today I started with Pallet Forks for an hour, then I needed my front bucket for 15 minutes, and then I put my pallet forks back on to move a bundle of 10' long steel. Once you get used to it you can easily change out the FEL Attachment in less than 3 to 5 minutes max!!

Regarding the use of the clutch I never touched my clutch pedal all day, in fact it's been months of almost daily use without touching the clutch pedal!! I only use it when I put my L39 on my trailer but can actually do it without the clutch pedal. Your trailer length is fine!!!

I'd suggest that you drive both models and make a decision.
Good luck,
Jim

 

[art]

I'd go with the L-45 not that the 39 is a bad unit as either will be better performance then what you had.

 

[Trigger]

Looked at an L45 the other day, looks pretty nice, it had the hydraulic thumb.
Now that I am used to the HST on my B21 I would probably go with the L45. However I have been toying with the idea of a used L39, financially better for me. I have never tried a GST, maybe I would like it better, but I am sure the wife would prefer HST.
Question, is the loader on the L45 being slightly different going to be carried over to the new L39? (ie was the change TL1000 or L45 specific). Also do the new L39s have the hardware for the thumb?

The only time I touch the clutch is to start the tractor, after that no need.

 

[Yankee Clipper]

Trig,

The GST (glide shift) in the L39 will do wonders with a Gannon box or other high draft tool is behind it. It is a gear drive that can be shifted on the go and under load. Not that big a deal with a backhoe or loader as your primary mission for the machine.

I would recommend a hydro - specifically the L45 with the HST Plus as it really makes the L45 shine. Dig and carry - back filling - PTO work - the four modes make it efficient and quiet - you can really see a huge difference between it and standard mechanically controlled hydros.

From your list of jobs, I think you will be happier with a L45 - that is what I would recommend you demo before you buy to show the advantages of the HST Plus.

Good luck!