Kubota L3800 Price, Specs, Weight, Problems, Reviews

  • Manufacturer: Kubota
  • Original price: $14,185 (2WD gear) 16,908 (4WD hydro)
  • Horsepower: 37.4 hp
  • Lift Capacity: 1,998 lbs
  • Oil capacity: 7.1 liters
  • Weight: 2480 to 2668 pounds

Kubota L3800 Specs

Production
Manufacturer:Kubota
Type:Compact Utility tractor
Original price:$14,185 (2011 2WD gear)
 16,908 (2011 4WD hydro)
Variants
L3800F:2WD gear
L3800DT:4WD gear
L3800HST:4WD hydro
Engine Detail
Kubota D1803
diesel
3-cylinder
liquid-cooled
Displacement:111.4 ci
1.8 L
Bore/Stroke:3.4×4.0 inches
86 x 102 mm
Emissions:Interim Tier IV
Power (gross):37.4 hp
27.9 kW
Rated RPM:2700
Starter volts:12
Transmissions overview
8-speed constant mesh gear
hydrostatic
Transmission
Type:constant mesh gear
Gears:8 forward and 4 reverse
Clutch:dry
Transmission
Type:hydrostatic
Gears:infinite (3-range) forward and reverse
Oil capacity:24.8 qts
23.5 L
Kubota L3800 Tires
Standard tires (ag):Front: 5.00-15. Rear: 11.2-24 (2WD)
 Front: 7.2-16. Rear: 11.2-24 (4WD)
Lawn/turf front:23×8.50-12 (2WD)
 25×8.50-14 (4WD)
Lawn/turf rear:13.6-16
Industrial front:27×8.50-15 (4WD)
Industrial rear:15-19.5
Hydraulics
Type:open center
Capacity:7.1 gal
26.9 L (gear)
 6.2 gal
23.5 L (hydro)
Pump flow:6.3 gpm
23.8 lpm
Total flow:10.1 gpm
38.2 lpm
Steering flow:3.8 gpm
14.4 lpm
Dimensions
Wheelbase:63.3 inches
160 cm
Length:110.6 inches
280 cm (2WD)
 106.3 inches
270 cm (4WD)
Width:55.1 inches
139 cm
Height (ROPS):91.7 inches
232 cm
Ground clearance:13.6 inches
34 cm (2WD)
 13.4 inches
34 cm (4WD)
Front tread:41.3 inches
104 cm (2WD)
Front tread:43.1 inches
109 cm (4WD)
Rear tread:43.8 to 50.8 inches
111 to 129 cm
Electrical
Ground:negative
Charging system:alternator
Charging amps:40
Charging volts:12
Battery CCA:490
Battery volts:12
Kubota L3800 Power
Engine (gross):37.4 hp
27.9 kW
Engine (net):30.3 hp
22.6 kW
PTO (claimed):31.5 hp
23.5 kW (gear)
 30.3 hp
22.6 kW (hydro)
Mechanical
Chassis:4×2 2WD
 4×4 MFWD 4WD (optional)
Differential lock:rear standard
Steering:hydrostatic power
Brakes:wet disc
Cab:Foldable two-post ROPS.
Transmissions:8-speed constant mesh gear
 hydrostatic
Tractor hitch
Rear Type:I
Rear lift (at ends):1,998 lbs
906 kg
Rear lift (at 24″/610mm):1,435 lbs
650 kg
Kubota L3800 Weight
 2,480 lbs
1124 kg (2WD gear)
 2,657 lbs
1205 kg (4WD gear)
 2,668 lbs
1210 kg (4WD hydro)

Kubota L3800 Attachments

Kubota LA524 Loader
Height (to pin):94.3 inches
239 cm
Clearance, dumped bucket:76.2 inches
193 cm
Dump reach:20.2 inches
51 cm
Dump angle:40°
Reach at ground:63.7 inches
161 cm
Rollback angle:31°
Breakout force (at pin):2,462 lbs
1116 kg
Breakout force (at 500mm):1,874 lbs
850 kg
Breakout force (bucket):2,215 lbs
1004 kg
Lift to full height (at pin):1,131 lbs
513 kg
Lift to full height (at 500mm):855 lbs
387 kg
Lift to 1.5m (at pin):1,490 lbs
675 kg
Lift to 1.5m (at 500mm):1,182 lbs
536 kg
Raise time to height:3.5 s
Bucket dump time:1.7 s
Lowering time:2.3 s
Rollback time:2.2 s
Kubota BH77 Backhoe
Backhoe type:Kubota BH77 Backhoe
2-Foot flat digging depth:92.5 inches
234 cm
Reach from pivot:124.3 inches
315 cm
Loading height:66.1 inches
167 cm
Bucket force:3,421 lbs
1551 kg
Dipperstick force:2,190 lbs
993 kg

Kubota L3800 Problems

The Kubota L3800 is a popular compact utility tractor, but users have reported several common issues based on their experiences. Here’s an overview of the notable problems:

Starting Issues

  • Wiring Harness Problems: One frequent issue involves the wiring harness, specifically a wire under the instrument bezel that is reportedly under-gauged for load. This can lead to intermittent starting power to the starter relay, making it difficult to start the tractor. Users have noted that this problem may not be covered under the drivetrain warranty, raising concerns about component quality.

Hydraulic Performance

  • Lifting Capacity Concerns: Some users have found the hydraulic system lacking, particularly when it comes to lifting heavy weights. Even with added ballast like water in the tires, the tractor may struggle with substantial loads. There are questions about whether adjusting the hydraulic pressure could enhance lifting capabilities, suggesting potential design or configuration limitations.

Overheating

  • Mowing Operations: Reports indicate that the L3800 may overheat, especially during prolonged mowing sessions. This can lead to operational inefficiencies and may require troubleshooting, such as checking coolant levels and radiator conditions.

PTO Engagement Problems

  • Engagement Issues: Users have experienced difficulties with the Power Take-Off (PTO) not engaging properly, often accompanied by grinding noises. While adjustments to the PTO cable may help, the solutions are sometimes only temporary.

Stalling Issues

  • Idle Stalling: Some owners have reported stalling issues, particularly when the tractor is idling. Troubleshooting recommendations include checking the forward/reverse switch wiring harness, as well as the seat and PTO switches, as these components may contribute to the problem.

These issues highlight some of the challenges faced by L3800 owners. While the tractor is generally well-regarded, addressing these specific problems with attention and maintenance can help ensure better performance and reliability.

Kubota L3800 Review

The Kubota L3800 is a compact utility tractor that has earned positive reviews for its performance, versatility, and user-friendly features. Here’s a detailed overview of its specifications, performance, and user feedback:

Features:

  • Engine: The L3800 is powered by a 37.4-horsepower, three-cylinder diesel engine, delivering 30.3 PTO horsepower at 2700 RPM. It has a displacement of 111.4 cubic inches.
  • Transmission: It offers a choice between a hydrostatic transmission (HST) and a mechanical shuttle shift. The HST version includes three ranges, allowing for precise control of power and speed.
  • Hydraulics: Equipped with a tandem hydraulic pump, the L3800 provides a total output of 10.1 gallons per minute (gpm), with 6.3 gpm allocated for implement use and 3.8 gpm for power steering. The three-point hitch has a lift capacity of 1,435 lbs.
  • Loader: The tractor can be fitted with the LA524 loader, which has a lift capacity of 1,130 lbs and a maximum lift height of 94.3 inches.

Performance

  • The L3800 is praised for its robust hydraulic system, which allows for the simultaneous operation of multiple functions. Users report quick response times, with full lift and dump cycles taking just a few seconds, enhancing productivity during tasks such as lifting and dumping.

User Experiences

Positive Feedback

  • Power and Reliability: The L3800 is lauded for its power and reliability. Users find it capable of handling a range of tasks effectively, from mowing to heavy lifting. One user described it as “powerful enough for my needs,” and it performs well even in challenging conditions like muddy trails.
  • Comfort and Ease of Use: The tractor’s design includes a simple and intuitive dashboard, making it easy to operate. The power steering and hydrostatic transmission contribute to a comfortable and user-friendly experience, particularly beneficial for those new to operating tractors.
  • Versatility: The L3800’s versatility is a major highlight. It’s used for various applications such as mowing, landscaping, bush hogging, snow removal, and managing woodlots, demonstrating its adaptability to different tasks.

Critiques

  • Dealer Support: Some users have noted inconsistent dealer support. While the tractor itself is highly regarded, experiences with dealership service can vary, impacting overall satisfaction.
  • Weight and Size: A few operators have expressed concerns about the tractor’s weight, particularly regarding its suitability for tasks like lawn mowing. However, most users find it manageable, even in wet conditions.

Conclusion

Overall, the Kubota L3800 is well-regarded for its strong performance, reliability, and versatility. It stands out for its hydrostatic transmission, powerful hydraulics, and comfortable operation. Despite some concerns about dealer support and its weight, the L3800 remains a solid choice for those in need of a dependable compact utility tractor.

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