Using the clutch with a Kubota HST tractor...

[dstig1]

L5740. I use the clutch to:


- 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.

I just never switch ranges. I don't road the tractor, so no need for high. The 2 speed HST switch covers everything I need in Med range, so Low is also basically never used. I've tried them out of curiosity, but that's about it... I think I have used low for some loader work long ago, but not much.

 

[bdhsfz6]

Do You depress the clutch to start the engine?

Not on some Kubota HST models. My old L3430HST would start without depressing the clutch as long as the HST pedal was in the neutral position.

 

[ptsg]

I just never switch ranges. I don't road the tractor, so no need for high. The 2 speed HST switch covers everything I need in Med range, so Low is also basically never used. I've tried them out of curiosity, but that's about it... I think I have used low for some loader work long ago, but not much.

It still may be a good practice to move that lever every once in a while and lube it, just so it doesn't rust and seize in the future.

 

[dstig1]

Yeah I was thinking the same thing as I wrote that....

 

[BigIz]

Read through this thread last week and, I gotta hand it to you guys (and slap my palm against my forehead). Worked most of the weekend on my TC33D and that is so much easier not thinking I had to use the clutch to change ranges (just come to a complete stop).

 

[dbritt]

Kubota M9000 with dashboard lever operated hydraulic shuttle. TC-33D with pedal HST. Both have clutch pedals. I have had the Kubota since buying it new in 2003. I use the loader for something every day. If I didn't use the clutch I couldn't use the loader efficiantly, especially in tight places or doing delicate work. So, I use the clutch all the time for loader work. It has a synchronized transmission, so can shift with the clutch while moving, just like a truck or car. The TC-33D could be used for loader work without the clutch, but since I have gotten used to using it on the Kubota, I find myself using it on the 33D for loader work as well. Both tractors still running original clutches with around 2400 hrs on the Kubota, and around 1600 on the 33D. Kubota 95% loader work. TC-33D about 50% loader, 50% rear finish mower work.

 

[Henro]

Aside from a relatively smooth start if using my rotary cutter, the most useful feature of the foot clutch that I noticed, is the ability to stop the post hole auger at the bottom of the hole, raise it, and then engage the clutch again, spinning the spoils away from the hole, resulting in a pretty clean hole.