lifetimes for various brands of small 3cyl diesels

jonbt · Feb 14, 2006

I'm wondering if certain brands of the smaller 3 cyl diesels typically found in compact tractors (15-30 HP) have better reputations for repair and lifetimes before overhauls than others, assuming that all are serviced properly and operated about the same. My own prejudice puts Yanmar and Kubota at the top, Iseki and Shibauru somewhere in the middle (average), and some other brands below average. But this is more personal prejudice based on relatively little experience, and I would like to hear some other opinions. Thanks

Farmwithjunk · Feb 14, 2006

I'm not aware of any compacts using the Perkins 3-cylinder, but from real world use, I know it is as good of an engine as any. Stone reliable, long lasting, cheap to operate, cheap to repair. If it's NOT used in any compacts, it SHOULD be. I'm referring to the 153 cu. in 3 banger that was used for years in Massey Ferguson tractors. (in various configurations, it was sold at HP's ranging from 34 on up to 47. )

Soundguy · Feb 14, 2006

While i do agree that the yanmar engines are excelent quality.. I see no problem with the shib. engines in the compact NH's either.. both seem very high quality.

Soundguy

DK35vince · Feb 14, 2006

</font><font color="blue" class="small">( But this is more personal prejudice based on relatively little experience )</font>

In other words a quess.

I am currently using a Yanmar engine in 1 machine and a DaeDong engine in the other. Can't say yet which motor will last more hours or will be cheaper to maintain. May need another 20 years to get a better idea..

johan3400 · Feb 14, 2006

I think most of the small diesels will last a long time with proper maintenance. I have spent years on the maintenance side of golf courses. I have had the honor to see the Yanmar, Shibauru, and Kubota engines run for many many hours, well past 5000. I have also seen them poorly taken care of and watch them fail at 1500 hours. The care WE give our tractors determines how well they last. Clean oil, clean air and clean fuel is the road to a long relationship with our tractors.