Kubota L185, L235, L245, L275, L285, L295, L305, L345, L355 Compact Tractors - Comprehensive Shop Manual - Maintenance, Diagnostics & Repair (1976-1985)

Kubota L185 to L355 Compact Tractor - Comprehensive Shop Manual (1976-1985)

Master every mechanical detail of your vintage Kubota L-Series tractor with this professional-grade Shop Manual. Covering nearly a decade of production (1976-1985), this manual is the definitive resource for owners of the L185, L235, L245, L275, L285, L295, L305, L345, and L355 models. Whether you are maintaining a classic L185 with its 2-cylinder Z751A engine or a high-performance L355 with the 4-cylinder V1702A, this guide provides the specific technical data required for precise results.

This manual is uniquely structured to cover the distinct evolution of the L-Series, from natural circulation cooling systems in the early L185 to the advanced hydraulically actuated shuttle transmissions found in the L355.

Technical Model Focus & Specifications

Get specific data tailored to your engine and chassis configuration:

• Engine Mastery: Complete overhaul data for Kubota-built diesel engines, including the Z751A (L185), D1102A (L235), D1302A (L275), and the V1501A/V1702A series (L285-L355). Includes critical clearances for crankshaft main journals (51.921-51.940 mm) and injection timing specs (25° BTDC).
• Serial Number Specifics: Guidance on components that vary by production run, such as the idler gear assemblies used specifically on L305, L345, and L355 models.
• Transmission Variations: Detailed service for the 8-speed sliding gear systems, including the mechanical shuttle on L235/L275 and the hydraulic shuttle clutches exclusive to the L355.
• Front-Wheel Drive (4WD): Comprehensive sections on 4WD differential and bevel gear assemblies, including backlash adjustments (0.15-0.30 mm) for outer drive units.

Professional Features

• Condensed Service Data: Quick-reference tables for capacities (crankcase, cooling system, and transmission) and tune-up specs (compression pressure, firing orders, and valve clearances).
• Precision Adjustments: Step-by-step instructions for the decompression mechanism (0.750-1.125 mm opening), steering wheel free play (20-50 mm), and hydraulic relief valve settings (10000-10700 kPa).
• Exploded Views & Schematics: Hundreds of detailed illustrations, from internal wet-disc brake assemblies to complex hydraulic pump drive trains.
• Electrical Diagnostics: Full wiring diagrams for every model, including specific layouts for the L285, L355, and the dual-model diagrams for L235/L275.

What is Covered

• Engine & Components: Cylinder head removal, dry-type sleeve replacement, piston ring staggering, and camshaft timing.
• Fuel System: Injection pump timing (shim adjustment), nozzle testing (13730-14700 kPa), and governor linkage calibration.
• Hydraulic System: Troubleshooting the 3-point hitch, pump overhaul, and priority flow divider testing for power steering models.
• Clutch & Brakes: Procedures for both single-plate and dual-stage clutches, plus internal wet disc and external dry drum brake service.
• Steering: Complete breakdown of manual recirculating ball nut, integral power steering, and booster-type systems.

This Shop Manual is designed for both the dedicated DIY enthusiast and the professional technician. It provides the exact torque values—such as the critical 73.5-78.4 N-m for cylinder heads—and specialized tool references (like the clutch alignment tool 07916-90050) needed to keep these legendary Kubota tractors in peak operating condition.