Kubota L185DT Start trouble

Splatmaster527 · Nov 6, 2009

Ok so I have a Kubota L185DT and it wont start it self. The glow plugs get hot and it cranks and cranks and cranks with white smoke out the exhaust but never actually gets up and goes. We have resorted to pull starting it with our Yukon or our International 244. Once we pull it and get it going it runs VERY strong and the throttle is responsive. It just seems like it doesn't have enough juice to get going. When its cranking it sounds like it wants to run really bad but its almost like its just not cranking fast enough.

Any help would be AMAZING!!

jimmysisson · Nov 6, 2009

This thing's getting along in years, maybe the starter bushings are worn so the starter draws too much. Or cables or connections are weak, or battery? How much have you checked. Could be compression too, or weak injector pump, but I'd look at the starter circuit first.
Jim

Splatmaster527 · Nov 10, 2009

If it was compression or injector pump wouldnt it not run very good once its started?

KubotaSam · Nov 11, 2009

Are you sure the glo plugs are heating? On my B7100 I crank it till white smoke comes from muffler then heat the glow plugs for about 10 seconds, then crank again. It will always start quickly using this procedure. If the glow plugs did not heat up it would just keep pushing out white smoke and would not start.

sunnyside360 · Nov 11, 2009

Years ago, I had a L245DT (size larger) and had the exact same issue. A new battery fixed it and never had problem again. Apparently the old battery was good enough to crank but not fast enough under load. Try jump starting and if that works then you need a new battery. Also, check all battery connections for good contact.