Kubota L185
Power
17 hp
Production
1977-1982
Engine
Diesel, 2-cylinder
Transmission
Gear
Drive
2WD/4WD
Introduction
Kubota L185 Compact Utility Tractor
The Kubota L185 is a compact utility tractor produced in Japan between 1977 and 1982. Designed for versatility in small-scale agricultural and property maintenance applications, this model features a robust diesel drivetrain and a range of configuration options to suit various terrains and tasks.
Engine and Performance
The tractor is powered by the Kubota Z751, a two-cylinder liquid-cooled diesel engine with a displacement of 45.3 cubic inches (0.7 liters). It delivers 17 horsepower (12.7 kW) at a rated engine speed of 2800 RPM. This power unit is designed for consistent operation in light-duty agricultural environments.
Transmission and Drivetrain
The L185 offers two transmission configurations: a standard 8-speed gear transmission (8 forward and 2 reverse) or an optional creeper transmission providing 16 forward and 4 reverse gears for low-speed precision work. The machine is available in either two-wheel or four-wheel drive, featuring manual steering and an open operator station.
Hydraulics and PTO
The rear power take-off (PTO) supports three speeds—540, 700, and 1000 RPM—at a rated engine speed of 2430 RPM, providing flexibility for various implements. The rear Category I hitch includes position control as standard, with optional draft control, and possesses a lift capacity of 2200 lbs (997 kg) at the hitch ends.
Dimensions and Tires
With a wheelbase of 60 inches (152 cm) and a ground clearance of 10 inches (25 cm), the L185 is built for maneuverability. It supports multiple tire configurations, including agricultural tires for both 2WD and 4WD setups, as well as lawn/turf tire options for applications requiring reduced soil disturbance.
Conclusion
The Kubota L185 is a reliable, entry-level utility tractor suitable for hobby farming, landscaping, and light field work. Its combination of a liquid-cooled diesel engine and flexible transmission options makes it a durable choice for operators seeking a compact and manageable machine.
Production Information of Kubota, L185
- Original price was $6,400 in 1982
- Compact Utility tractor
- Built in Japan
| Manufacturer | Kubota |
|---|
Dimension and Tires Information of Kubota, L185
| Front tread | 39.375 inches [100 cm] |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase | 60 inches [152 cm] |
| Height (exhaust) | 76.1 inches [193 cm] |
| Height (steering wheel) | 53 inches [134 cm] |
| Length | 100 inches [254 cm] |
| Rear tread | 40.5 inches [102 cm] |
| Ground clearance | 10 inches [25 cm] |
| Width | 54 inches [137 cm] |
| 2WD Standard tires (ag) | Front: 4.00-15. Rear: 9.5-24 |
|---|---|
| Lawn/turf rear | 13.6-16 |
| 4WD Standard tires (ag) | Front: 6-14. Rear: 9.5/9-24 |
| Lawn/turf front | 20x8.00-10 |
Engine Specifications of Kubota, L185
- Kubota Z751
- Liquid-cooled
- Diesel
- 2-cylinder
| Power | 17 hp [12.7 kW] |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 45.3 ci [0.7 L] |
| Rated RPM | 2800 |
| Bore/Stroke | 2.99x3.23 inches [76 x 82 mm] |
| Starter volts | 12 |
Transmission Information of Kubota, L185
Transmission variants 1
| Type | Gear |
|---|---|
| Gears | 8 forward and 2 reverse |
Transmission variants 2
| Type | Creeper |
|---|---|
| Gears | 16 forward and 4 reverse |
- 8-speed gear
- 16-speed creeper
Mechanical Specs of Kubota, L185
- Two- or four-wheel drive
- Manual steering
- Open operator station.
Power Information of Kubota, L185
| Rear PTO | Transmission |
|---|---|
| Rear PTO(optional) | 1007@2430 |
| Rear PTO(optional) | 702@2430 |
| Rear PTO Type | 540/700/1000 (1.375) |
| Front PTO Type | 2430 |
| Engine RPM | 540@2430 |
Three-Point Hitch of Kubota, L185
| Rear Type | I |
|---|---|
| Rear lift (at ends) | 2200 lbs [997 kg] |
| Control | Position control |
| Control(optional) | Draft control |
Electrical System of Kubota, L185
| Ground | Negative |
|---|---|
| Battery volts | 12 |
Where it sits
With 17 HP, the Kubota L185 sits between KB17X (16 HP) and A-19 (18 HP) in Kubota's range. Its power puts it in the 7th percentile of 1970s models in our database (1259 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the Kubota L185 have?
The Kubota L185 delivers 17 HP.
What years was the Kubota L185 produced?
The Kubota L185 was produced in 1977-1982.
What engine does the Kubota L185 have?
The Kubota L185 is powered by a Diesel, 2-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the Kubota L185 use?
The Kubota L185 uses a Gear transmission.
Is the Kubota L185 4WD?
The Kubota L185 is available in 2WD/4WD.