Using the clutch with a Kubota HST tractor...

[Drstrangeglove]

Depending on what you are doing it might not matter. A live PTO -might or might not be clutched, and it also might/might not have an independent PTO clutch.

A switched live PTO can put a large instantaneous load on the PTO. With a PTO clutch, the operator can keep the motor running and still engage the implement under no load. Large implements like balers put quite a load on the PTO & also need a clutch because the load varies, making it handy to use the PTO clutch to avoid problems like a tough spot slugging the feeder.
Bottom line is it's just good practice not to engage/disengage the PTO instantly when it is under a load.

rScotty

That's why I idle down to engage. But on my hst tractor or the m-5, the clutch just disconnects to wheels from the motor. It has nothing to do with the pto. It spins no matter what you do with the clutch. On the m-5 at idle, I can't just engage the bushhog. It will stall the engine. I must be rolling and in gear to start it turning.

 

[Fallon]

The 60 series grand Ls don't even have a clutch pedal. Sometimes it won't go into gear when shifting. Just leave it in neutral, tap the go pedal either direction for a microsecond & it then it will usually shift in fine. PTO is a button with its own electronically operated hydraulic clutch. On the economy Ls, at least my former L3200 you clutched to engage the PTO & starting. Presumably it was cheaper with a clutch & HST than going to a live PTO.

 

[Paystar]

I find it's easier to shift hi-med-low range using the clutch

I have found the opposite, LOL My B2620 shifts between ranges (when fully stopped) far easier without the clutch.

 

[cmyoung2]

L3600, glideshift I think. I use the clutch a lot, more habit than needed I guess. But I do have to use it when engaging the PTO with my chipper or I will shear a pin every time. Really have to ease into with a low throttle.

 

[rScotty]

L3600, glideshift I think. I use the clutch a lot, more habit than needed I guess. But I do have to use it when engaging the PTO with my chipper or I will shear a pin every time. Really have to ease into with a low throttle.

That's exactly why I like a clutchable PTO. Best of all is a fully independent PTO that has a clutch for the drive wheels and another clutch just for the PTO. That is a common feature on ag tractors, but maybe not so much so on compacts.

 

[hayden]

L5740. I use the clutch to:

- Start the engine

- Shift ranges. It's not necessary, but sometimes makes it easier to shift. So I use the clutch when the range shift isn't otherwise easy.

- Engaging PTO with a heavy load like a big mower. For lighter loads I just engage the lever, but for my field mower I clutch, engage the PTO, then use the clutch to bring the mower up to speed. I just checked and the manual says you can feather the clutch control lever for a gradual engagement. I've never tried that, and have always figured the main clutch is bigger and more capable than the PTO clutch, but I could be completely wrong about that.

Anyway, 18 years later and everything is still working great.

 

[shirleyujest]

In my opinion.
Read Owners Manual. Also Ask the Service Manager at a dealer. A buddy had Owners Manual that said Clutch was NOT necessary to engage PTO. When the PTO quit Service Manager stated the updated manual said to Push Down Clutch.
He currently has the tractor split to replace PTO clutch.

Tractor Time With TIM has an older episode explaining different PTO types

2022 Compact Tractor Buyers Guide #3 PTO Differences. Independent vs. Live PTO, Mid PTO

 

[BruceMyers48]

What do you use your clutch for...on your HST tractor...just for engaging the PTO? Or do you use the clutch for other operations?

I own a L3901 HST and The only time I used the clutch was for the PTO engagement for my rotary mower

 

[Robin Veerman]

Do You depress the clutch to start the engine?

 

[4570Man]

Do You depress the clutch to start the engine?

The clutch safety switch is still intact so yes.