Digging with L3130 loader

[CARNEYM]

Got a question, I recently purchased a L3130 4wd with Bush hog 2045 loader and bus hog 5 ft box blade. I’ve been working this tractor around my pond, I’ve busted the dam and in the process of cleaning it out redoing the dam, general dirt moving. This tractor does this with no problems, digging clay dirt lifting heavy loads of wet clay etc. My question is that in some forums they say not to use the front end loader to dig, especially in 4wd. I’m not pushing my tractor hard at all just easing into loads in lower gears and it does it with ease. Am I risking damaging something by using it this way.

Thanks. Mickey

 

[mjarrels]

It is called a "loader" for a reason.

mark

 

[LaVita]

Don't use the FEL to dig

My Kubota "L" series brochure clearly says that each tractor is required to dig a hole large enough to fully submerge its entire body below ground. They say this effectively tests the impact, force, stress and durability levels of the tractor's main body as well as the loaders.

 

[Bob_Skurka]

The L series loaders can do modest digging down into the ground. Most people advise against newbies using their loaders to do things like dig a pond or dig a long trench because loaders are not designed to do major digging projects, they are generally capable of doing limited digging into the ground, and there is no problem with any brand of loader digging into a pile or a mound.

Now some brands, particularly the Jinma varients from China, are known to break things when they are used for digging. I've only seen people complain of failures of front ends, in 4x4, on Jinmas. Also bear in mind that many tractors have loaders that are not OEM loaders, so if a tractor and a loader are mis-matched then potential for failure is greater. In your case you have a matching tractor and loader.

I think the problem with "digging" is that it means different things to different people. The type of digging you are doing is not an issue, your tractor can easily handle that amount and that type. Most loaders are capable of doing some very limited digging tasks, some are capable of modest digging. The "L" series Kubota is clearly one of the most capable tractors on the market and it is capable of modest digging. But if you asked if you should use your loader to dig a 1/2 acre pond, then I would say that you are going to tear apart your tractor and you should not use a loader for digging.

 

[art]

Mickey, you can dig with it with no problem but if you were to be opening a gravel bed, topsoil business or stone quarry then I'd say we need to talk!

 

[CARNEYM]

Thank you all for the replys. I have run tractors all my life and I knew I was not hurting the maching. But this is the first new machine I ever owned and did not want to damage it.

By the way, I love this tractor, it is amazing.

Mickey

 

[john_bud]

You can dig with that machine. It is a small compact tractor, and not an industrial unit. Respect it's limits and you will have lots of enjoyment.

 

[johnk]

I dig with mine all the time. Common sense along with going slow {More seat time also} and you'll have no problems....Have fun.

 

[Egon]

If one is not supposed to use the FEL why have it??

 

[Timber]

You have got to be kidding me, No disrespect intended I dig all the time with my Fel and in 4 wheel drive. In fact my tooth bar is on it all the time unless I am back scraping ice off my drive. It doesn't even seem difficult for it to do. Dig on the curl just like you would with a hoe. There is a technique to it but you will work it out. Just don't drive the loader into the ground in the full dump position.