Kubota B5100 Specs
| Production | |
| Manufacturer: | Kubota |
| Type: | Sub-Compact Utility tractor |
| Factory: | Japan |
| Engine Detail | |
| Kubota Z500-1A | |
| diesel | |
| 2-cylinder | |
| liquid-cooled | |
| Displacement: | 31 ci 0.5 L |
| Bore/Stroke: | 2.625×2.75 inches 67 x 70 mm |
| Power: | 12 hp 8.9 kW |
| Pre-heating: | glow plugs |
| Rated RPM: | 3000 |
| Starter volts: | 12 |
| Starter power: | 1.1 hp 0.8 kW |
| Coolant capacity: | 3.2 qts 3.0 L |
| Kubota B5100 Power | |
| Engine: | 12 hp 8.9 kW |
| PTO (claimed): | 10 hp 7.5 kW |
| Transmission | |
| Type: | unsynchronized gear |
| Gears: | 6 forward and 2 reverse |
| Clutch: | dry disc |
| Oil capacity: | 9.0 qts 8.5 L |
| Three gears, plus reverse, in two ranges. | |
| Mechanical | |
| Chassis: | 4×2 2WD |
| 4×4 MFWD 4WD | |
| Differential lock: | mechanical rear |
| Steering: | manual |
| Brakes: | mechanical wet disc |
| Cab: | Open operator station. Two-post fixed ROPS available. |
| Transmission: | 6-speed unsynchronized gear |
| Hydraulics | |
| Type: | open center |
| Pump flow: | 3.17 gpm 12.0 lpm |
| Power Take-off (PTO) | |
| Rear PTO: | transmission |
| Rear RPM: | 540/1000 |
| Front RPM: | 3000 |
| Electrical | |
| Ground: | negative |
| Battery volts: | 12 |
| Battery AH: | 35 |
| Tractor hitch | |
| Rear Type: | I |
| Rear lift: | 300 lbs 136 kg |
| Kubota B5100 Tires | |
| Ag front: | 4.00-9 (2WD) |
| 4.50-10 (4WD) | |
| Ag rear: | 7.00-16 |
| Lawn/turf front: | 18×6.50-8 |
| Lawn/turf rear: | 27×8.50-15 |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase: | 46.5 inches 118 cm |
| Length: | 71.6 inches 181 cm |
| Width: | 36.25 inches 92 cm |
| Height (steering wheel): | 44.1 inches 112 cm |
| 2WD Weight: | 805 lbs 365 kg |
| 4WD Weight: | 893 lbs 405 kg |
| 4WD Clearance (front axle): | 8.625 inches 21 cm |
| 2WD Clearance (rear axle): | 10.25 inches 26 cm |
| 2WD Front tread: | 26 inches 66 cm |
| 4WD Front tread: | 26.4 inches 67 cm |
| Rear tread: | 25/29 inches 63/73 cm |
Kubota B5100 Problems
The Kubota B5100 is a versatile compact tractor, but like any machine, it comes with its share of common issues. Here’s a breakdown of the primary problems reported by owners and some tips on how to handle them:
Starting Difficulties
- Cold Weather Start Issues: Many users find that the B5100 struggles to start in cold weather, especially when temperatures drop below 40°F. This difficulty is often due to the glow plugs needing more time to warm up. Additionally, older diesel engines, particularly those without a thermostat, may emit smoke on startup. Ensuring that the glow plugs are properly warmed up before starting can help mitigate these issues.
Electrical Problems
- Headlights and Flashers: Electrical issues are frequently reported, including problems with headlights and flashers not working. Weak alternators can also cause starting difficulties if the battery isn’t sufficiently charged. It’s advisable to use a larger battery than what’s typically used for garden tractors to ensure reliable starting and better electrical performance.
Hydraulic and Lift System Issues
- Rear Lift System Problems: Some users encounter issues with the rear lift system, which can be caused by hydraulic fluid leaks or failures in the lift mechanism. Regular inspection and maintenance of the hydraulic system are crucial to prevent these problems and keep the lift functioning correctly.
Overheating and Coolant Loss
- Overheating Concerns: Overheating can be an issue, especially after prolonged use at higher RPMs. Users have reported coolant loss leading to overheating. Regularly monitoring coolant levels and maintaining the cooling system can help prevent overheating and potential damage.
Maintenance Recommendations
- Regular Maintenance: To keep the B5100 running smoothly, regular maintenance is essential. This includes checking and cleaning air and fuel filters, monitoring the battery condition, and ensuring hydraulic fluid levels are correct. Following the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule will help extend the life of the tractor and reduce the likelihood of encountering these common issues.
Kubota B5100 Review
The Kubota B5100 is a compact tractor known for its efficiency and versatility, making it a popular choice for small-scale agricultural tasks and property maintenance. Here’s a detailed look at what users and specifications reveal about this model.
Features
- Engine: The B5100 is equipped with a reliable 12 horsepower (hp) Kubota diesel engine, delivering approximately 10 hp at the Power Take-Off (PTO). This engine is praised for its durability and fuel efficiency, consuming around 0.25 gallons per hour when mowing at three-quarters throttle.
- Weight: Weighing in at about 893 pounds, the B5100 offers solid stability and performance when working with various attachments.
- Drive Type: It comes in both two-wheel drive (2WD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) configurations. The “E” model denotes the economy version, typically available as a 2WD.
- Transmission: The tractor features a high/low range transmission, which enhances control and adaptability across different tasks.
Performance and Usability
The B5100 is lauded for its compact size and maneuverability, which makes it well-suited for mowing, towing small trailers, and light tilling. Its fuel efficiency and low operational costs are significant advantages, with users noting it burns only about a quarter of a gallon of fuel per hour during mowing.
Despite its small footprint, the B5100 is considered quite powerful for its class, handling light-duty implements effectively. However, it is not ideal for heavy PTO-driven equipment due to its limited horsepower. Users have found it effective for pulling trailers and operating small mowers, though caution is advised when using larger implements.
Maintenance and Reliability
The B5100 is generally seen as a low-maintenance machine with few significant issues reported by users over the years. Regular maintenance, including preheating the engine in colder weather, is important for reliable starting. The availability of parts and support from Kubota is also a plus, making it easier for owners to maintain their tractors with minimal hassle.
Conclusion
In summary, the Kubota B5100 is a well-regarded compact tractor ideal for those needing a reliable, efficient machine for light agricultural work or property maintenance. Its fuel efficiency, manageable size, and ease of use make it a favored choice among small-scale farmers and hobbyists.