🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kubota

Model:

L Series

Model Variant:

L-185, L-235, L-245, L-275, L-285, L-295, L-305, L-345, L-355

Product Type:

Service Manual

Covered Generations:

Specific to the L-185 through L-355 series tractors, covering a period generally from the late 1970s into the 1980s and early 1990s, depending on specific model introductions and updates within this range.

👋 Introduction

Category:

Compact Utility Tractors

Target User:

Farm owners, property maintenance, landscape contractors, and hobby farmers requiring robust and reliable machinery for various tasks.

Competitors:

Models from John Deere (e.g., 750/850 series), Iseki, Yanmar, and Massey Ferguson from the same era.

Durability:

Kubota is renowned for the robust construction and longevity of its tractors, making them a popular choice for demanding applications.

Versatility:

These L-series tractors typically offer a wide range of capabilities including mowing, tilling, loader work, and powering implements via the PTO.

Manual Utility:

This service manual provides essential DIY repair and maintenance information, significantly reducing reliance on costly professional service and extending the tractor's lifespan.

Ease Of Use:

The PDF format allows for easy navigation, searching, and printing of specific pages, making it a practical tool for field repairs or workshop use.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered:

Body and Exterior, Electrical and Electronic (including Audio/Video, Charging System, Electrical Supply System, Gauges and Meters, Ignition System, Lighting and Signalling Systems, Sensors, Starting System, Switches, Wiring Harnesses), Power Train and Chassis (including Engine Components and Parts, Engine Cooling System, Engine Oil System, Exhaust System, Fuel Supply System, Fuel System, Suspension and Steering Systems), Drivetrain (e.g., clutch, transmission, axles, differentials), Hydraulics (e.g., pump, valves, cylinders, PTO), Brakes, PTO, 3-Point Hitch, Front Axle, Rear Axle, Steering.

Total Pages:

63

Type:

Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Comprehensive coverage including engine disassembly, assembly, component testing, troubleshooting, and specifications for the various diesel engines powering these L-series tractors.

Transmission:

Detailed procedures for clutch inspection and replacement, transmission disassembly and reassembly, gear shifting mechanisms, and related components.

Electrical System:

In-depth information on the charging system (alternator/generator), starting system (starter motor), battery maintenance, lighting circuits, ignition system (if applicable to diesel variants), sensor testing, and detailed wiring diagrams.

Hydraulic System:

Coverage of hydraulic pump operation, control valve adjustments, cylinder repair, fluid flow, and troubleshooting for the tractor's hydraulic lift and auxiliary systems.

Chassis And Drivetrain:

Includes front and rear axle assemblies, differential lock operation, steering system overhaul, brake system maintenance, and PTO (Power Take-Off) unit service.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance intervals, lubrication points, fluid change procedures (engine oil, transmission oil, hydraulic fluid, coolant), filter replacement, and general upkeep.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts and step-by-step procedures for identifying and resolving common operational issues across all major systems.

Repair And Overhaul:

Detailed instructions for disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of engine components, transmission, hydraulic systems, axles, brakes, and electrical systems.

Technical Data:

Specifications for critical components, torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical system voltages, and performance data.

Engine Overhaul:

Detailed procedures for engine teardown, cleaning, inspection of wear parts (pistons, rings, bearings, cylinder liners), crankshaft inspection, cylinder head service, and engine reassembly with specified clearances and torque values.

Hydraulic System Repair:

Instructions for diagnosing and repairing hydraulic pump failures, control valve adjustments and seal replacement, hydraulic cylinder resealing, and troubleshooting hydraulic system pressure issues.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Includes testing of starter motor, alternator, voltage regulator, battery, ignition switch, warning lights, and fuses. Wiring diagrams are crucial for tracing faults.

Transmission And Drivetrain Repair:

Guidance on clutch adjustment and replacement, transmission gear inspection, bearing replacement, driveshaft and U-joint service, differential and final drive maintenance.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance, routine service, in-depth diagnostics, component overhaul, and complete system repairs. Suitable for both DIY owners and professional mechanics.

Illustrations And Diagrams:

The manual contains numerous illustrations, diagrams, and exploded views to aid in identifying parts and understanding assembly sequences.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

File Size:

32.7 MB

Searchable:

Yes, the PDF format allows for keyword searching.

Printable:

Yes, individual pages or sections can be printed.

Quality:

High quality, with clear text and illustrations.

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF Download)

Paper:

N/A (Digital PDF Download)

Scope:

This service manual is designed to be a comprehensive resource for maintaining and repairing the specified Kubota L-series tractor models, offering detailed instructions for most operational and mechanical aspects.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Type:

Diesel

Configurations:

Likely 2-cylinder and 3-cylinder diesel engines, specific models vary across the L-185 to L-355 range.

Cooling System:

Water-cooled (liquid-cooled)

Horsepower Range:

Estimated range of approximately 18 HP (L-185) to 35 HP (L-355) at the crankshaft, actual PTO horsepower will be lower.

Injection Type:

Indirect Injection (IDI) typically, common in this era of diesel tractor engines.

Fuel Type:

Diesel Fuel

🔧 Transmission

Type:

Likely a combination of gear-driven transmissions, including constant mesh, sliding gear, and potentially creeper gears on some models. Options may include 8-speed, 12-speed, or 16-speed configurations.

Features:

Some models may feature a high-low range selector or a shuttle shift lever for forward/reverse without clutching.

Drive Type:

Typically 2WD (Rear Wheel Drive), with 4WD (4x4) as a common option on many L-series models.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Varies by specific model, generally in the range of 60-70 inches (approx. 152-178 cm).

Operating Weight:

Estimated 1,500 - 3,000 lbs (approx. 680 - 1360 kg) depending on configuration and loader attachment.

🛡️ Safety Features

Rollover Protection:

ROPS (Roll Over Protective Structure) may be standard or optional depending on the specific tractor and its manufacturing date. The manual will detail installation and inspection if equipped.

Parking Brake:

Mechanical parking brake system.

Seatbelt:

Seatbelt installation and inspection procedures will be covered if equipped with a seat or roll cage.

💡 Technology Features

Features:

Basic operator controls. Some models might have provision for a basic radio or auxiliary power outlet, but advanced infotainment is not a feature of these older models.

Features:

Limited to functional operator aids like power steering (if equipped), differential lock, and PTO engagement controls. No electronic driver assistance systems are present.

Features:

N/A. These tractors predate modern connectivity standards.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil And Filter:

Typically every 50-100 operating hours or annually, whichever comes first. Refer to specific tractor model sections within the manual for exact intervals.

Air Filter:

Service as needed based on operating conditions (dusty environments require more frequent cleaning/replacement), with a recommended interval for replacement typically between 200-500 hours.

Transmission And Hydraulic Fluid:

Usually every 200-400 operating hours or annually. Filter replacement is also critical during fluid changes.

Engine Oil:

Kubota recommends specific API CE or CF rated diesel engine oils. Common viscosity grades include 10W-30 or 15W-40 depending on ambient operating temperature. Consult the manual for precise API classifications and OEM recommendations.

Hydraulic Fluid:

Kubota UDT (Universal Transmission Drive) fluid or equivalent is often specified. Alternatively, certain hydraulic oils meeting ISO VG 32 or ISO VG 46 may be used. Exact specification is critical and detailed in the manual.

Coolant:

A mixture of permanent antifreeze and water (typically 50/50 ratio) for freeze protection and corrosion inhibition. Ethylene glycol-based coolant is common.

Transmission Fluid:

Often shares the same specification as hydraulic fluid (e.g., Kubota UDT). Check manual for precise details and capacity.

Common Problems:

Potential issues may include wear on PTO clutch splines, hydraulic system leaks due to aging seals, starter motor failures, and corrosion on electrical connections. Engine specific issues like injector pump wear or glow plug reliability can also occur.

Diagnostic Challenges:

Troubleshooting hydraulic or transmission issues can be complex without proper diagnostic tools and detailed manual guidance.

📚 Vehicle History

Foundation:

Kubota Corporation, founded in 1890 in Osaka, Japan, has a long history of manufacturing agricultural machinery, industrial engines, and construction equipment.

L Series Development:

The L-series represents Kubota's commitment to the compact tractor market, offering models that balance power, maneuverability, and affordability for a wide range of users. The L-185 through L-355 models are part of the earlier generations of this successful line.

Manufacturing:

These tractors were primarily manufactured in Japan by Kubota Corporation and distributed globally.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Standing:

Kubota tractors of this era are widely recognized for their reliability, durability, and value, consistently earning high marks among compact utility tractor owners.

Customer Satisfaction:

Generally very high due to their robust build and ease of maintenance with readily available service information.