Questions about L48

[k4330]

I was interested in trading from my 4330 to a 5740 but I think the L48 is better suited for me.. My questions are.. I read that the L48 has a continuos pto but I see that it has the same on/off lever as my 4330 how does it work? Does it also have the HST cruise control that my 4330 has? ..Thanks Bill

 

[curtisfarmer]

The L48 is the way to go for heavy duty work, different class than the other L series. No cruise control. The lever activates the PTO but it runs live until the clutch is pushed in. Great for mowing, so when you stop, meaning let off the HST pedal, the mower is still running. Compare what you originally wanted with BH90 and then the L48. Homeowner tractor compared to construction machine. Hope it helps.

 

[MarkV]

Do keep in mind that the L48 is designed for commercial use unlike your present tractor and the 5740 you are considering. This is not a bad thing if your uses lean more towards things that commercial TLB’s are used for. It has great loader capacities, hydraulic capacities and the backhoe is very good. If your needs lean more towards PTO and ground engagement implements there are features that may be more desirable on other models. With the L48 the loader is not removable, there has been criticism of the speed ranges for mowing, it is a heavy tractor if compaction is an issue and the extra hydraulics steal some extra PTO horsepower compared to other 48 hp tractors.

Being the owner of both of the L48’s little brothers, the B21 and the L39, I’ll tell you these are tough tractors that will take a beating. Also the rumor mill has it that an updated model of the L48 is in the works.

MarkV

 

[curtisfarmer]

I want another L48 just the way it is, I hope they don't "L39" the thing and make it look more ergonomically appealling, but loose the heavy, boxy metal construction which defines the machine. Regarding HP, I think it has all it needs since it is so slow. Have not put my 7' brush mower on it yet but suspect 40+/- hp PTO may have problems. I am unloaging lumber trucks last several weeks and the L48 doesn't even twist under a 3k LBS. load. The frame is unbelievable compared to L serries which have no frame at all. The fact that the L48 loader does not attach makes it that much better and stronger. I picked up a Subaru passenger car and a 1927 Fordson with my forks. With some effort for sure, but what other 10K lbs. machine would do that. Bobcat T300 I think would too.

 

[_RaT_]

I want another L48 just the way it is, I hope they don't "L39" the thing and make it look more ergonomically appealling, but loose the heavy, boxy metal construction which defines the machine. Regarding HP, I think it has all it needs since it is so slow. Have not put my 7' brush mower on it yet but suspect 40+/- hp PTO may have problems. I am unloaging lumber trucks last several weeks and the L48 doesn't even twist under a 3k LBS. load. The frame is unbelievable compared to L serries which have no frame at all. The fact that the L48 loader does not attach makes it that much better and stronger. I picked up a Subaru passenger car and a 1927 Fordson with my forks. With some effort for sure, but what other 10K lbs. machine would do that. Bobcat T300 I think would too.

On the flip side of Curtisfarmer, I would not buy another L48 again unless they either add more ranges or change the medium range or even offer GST. I much preferred the ranges on my L3830 HST over the L48's and I used the same 1100 lb 72" boxscraper on both with easily. For a TLB, look at either the B26, L39, L48 or JD 110. The major drawback is the loader must stay on which in my opinion is a lousy way to have to mow. The plus side is the loader being integral will not develop the play at the attachment points. Your needs will help you decide. If mowing is in your future, look at the L39 if you must have a TLB, the L48 is just to slow for mowing. One last point is that even though it is frequently commented that these TLB's are "heavy duty", that is a relative term, they are quite light duty compared to industrial equipment. The most obvious wear point on all compacts that I have found compared to industrial euipment is the relatively small and quick to wear pivot points be it the hoe or laoder. No matter how frequent the greasing, they waer much faster.

 

[curtisfarmer]

Rats's comments are all valid and each owner will need a machine for some specific performance requirements. The L48 loader is unmatched in the TLB class and the hoe is just like a KX121. Mowing and plowing are slow. All in all, the L48, for my measly 2 cents is the most versatile, rugged machine available and still have a 3 point hitch, which for me is a must have. Try picking up a load in a 5030 and feel the tractor twist, and do the same thing in a L48. A frame makes all the difference. I need another L48 because having one on a job site means I have to have at least that strong a machine here at the farm/ yard or at another job. An L39 or under (ie L5030) will not handle rocks and pallets that an L48 will. There is the rub. I did see the R520 (Kubota 4 wheel loader) with cool factory cab and hoe. Impressive. I hear about $50K. We will see what the future brings for the L48, hopefully more speed ranges. They should keep the thick steel and stay away from "Intellepanneling" everything. The L48 is strong, simple, and durable.

 

[Ace Power Equipment]

Curtisfarmer,

Wait to the end of the year and grab an L48. They are going to "L39" it. Curved boom sleeker appearance. More Horsepower though, I expect 55-60 with a minimum 3500lb lift capacity and that were asking for more. Bigger hoe, to reach to twelve feet. Curved boom on hoe. The big improvement will be in the HST transmisson. More HP allows for more HP to be dedicated to the trans. More hydraulic fluid also. I think the gpm is going to be increased by 3-4 gpm. And you northeners we also __might get a cab! Will know more by September. Saw the prototype in Feb and some changes are to be made.

Brian

 

[_RaT_]

Curtisfarmer,

Wait to the end of the year and grab an L48. They are going to "L39" it. Curved boom sleeker appearance. More Horsepower though, I expect 55-60 with a minimum 3500lb lift capacity and that were asking for more. Bigger hoe, to reach to twelve feet. Curved boom on hoe. The big improvement will be in the HST transmisson. More HP allows for more HP to be dedicated to the trans. More hydraulic fluid also. I think the gpm is going to be increased by 3-4 gpm. And you northeners we also __might get a cab! Will know more by September. Saw the prototype in Feb and some changes are to be made.

Brian

Ooooh, inside information.

 

[Kendall69]

Brian

You killing me...

I'm about to get a new tractor now you just came up with my dream tractor. Are you serious, bigger engine, more lift and HST????

Oh, Man now what do I do.

 

[_RaT_]

Brian

You killing me...

I'm about to get a new tractor now you just came up with my dream tractor. Are you serious, bigger engine, more lift and HST????

Oh, Man now what do I do.

Get used to it man, its always gonna be that way. I was inches from buying the 46XX when the 46YY came out. Just as I was thinking 46YY, the L48 came out. I got the L48, sold that a bit later for just a little less then I bought it for, was going to get a L3710 when out pops the L3830. I did get the L3830 but its a vicious cycle, it never ends. I sold the L3830 for a good price. Just keep the tractor looking good and you can resale (something I never thought I would do but have now done twice) at a very good price. I continue to downsize and like it...