New Kubota with DPF Filter

[sunnyside360]

Looking to buy a new Kubota which has a DPF diesel particulate filter. I know it is there to meet tier 4 EPA emission requirements. This is all new to me so I have zero experience and knowledge. Does it have any detrimental effects on engine performance and/or maintenance?

 

[RjCorazza]

The only Kubota model I have read about having dpf problems is the B3350. I have no idea if current production 3350's are working properly, but they do not seem to be able to fix the defective ones.
My L4060 has been problem free so far, but it has only gone through regeneration twice. If the manufacturer projections are correct, the dpf should be good for about 3000 hours before requiring cleaning. I don't think there is a performance penalty because of the dpf, and you can usually continue working the tractor while its doing a burn.

 

[tor]

Got at MX5200 with a DPF. As long as you keep the rpm up on a decent level while working your tractor, you should be fine. have not had any issue with mine.

 

[Jeff F.]

L4060 with 200 hours. No issues at all

 

[jeff9366]

L3560 with 700 hours. I have to stop every sixty engine hours and regen for approximately sixteen minutes @ 2,200 rpm.

The Tier iV Kubotas generally have 3-5 horsepower MORE than their Tier III predecessors. Tier IV engines produce no smoke nor diesel exhaust smell.

 

[brain55]

The majority of the DPF problems we see are operator induced. Operators that don't understand the regeneration process and continually cancel regens and/or won't run the machine at sufficient RPM so the exhaust will get hot enough to passively regen, causing the need to regen more often or to do park regens.

 

[sandyc]

My 3350 has been upgraded and now I hardly notice regens

 

[kuboman]

Why do you want the 1511? I have the 1211 and it has all the power needed. Unless you need the horsepower for something other than mowing grass why complicate your life with the extra emissions garbage? Its a guarantee that at some point it is going to cause you trouble and money.

 

[sunnyside360]

Like mentioned above, the only Kubota model with DPF that had notorious DPF issues that I could find was the B3350. Those issues seem to be fixed by changes found in Kubota Technical Bulletins. The main reasons for getting the 1511 Z-turn are the air ride seat (for my bad back) and I've got a very good quote on a 1511-72.

Thanks to all for your replies.

 

[ericm979]

My new DPF equipped tractor's exhaust smells like unicorn farts.

Seriously, it's nice to not have to breathe diesel smoke or smell diesel stink in the barn when changing implements.