tractor hard to start

[papavillars]

I have a kubota m4900. When I tried to start it today it fired right up but sounded like it wanted to run away. Real fast revolutions, then it died and would not start. I tried several times with no luck. Checked the fuel filter and the bowl was full. Finally I cranked it for thirty seconds and it fired up. Started up several times after that with no problems. Oh but I did get a flat on the left rear when I was driving it to the cabin . What a pain in the tail. This is my first diesel tractor but have had two diesel pickups and have driven diesel firetrucks for thirtyfive years.Has this happened to any of you.

 

[Jim62]

Yep. The fuel line had a leak that over time, drained the diesel out of the line from the tank to the engine, leaving a bunch of air that you have to pump through before it'll start again. Worked good as long as it was used every day. If it sat a week or two without being started was when it happened. The dealer acted like it was a pretty common problem. When I described the problem, he seemed to know exactly what to do.

 

[Fred Belknap]

I agree that it is a fuel line leak, probably small. Mine was doing something similar, ended up replacing the sediment bowl assembly. I placed brown paper feed bags under tractor to help find the leak. Just a few drops will show up on the brown paper.

Fred

 

[Jogeephus]

I agree with what's been said but I'd like to offer another potential problem IF this model has a split fuel tank. I had this happen to me this year and it had me scratching my head for quite a while. Symptoms were the same and if this happens when you are at half a tank check your vent hose to the tanks. Vent hose is a great place for dirt dobbers to build a nest and if they do your tractor will act just like it has a line leak but will only happen when its 1/2 tank or less.

 

[papavillars]

jogeephus, I will check the vent line. thanks

 

[Red Bull Breeder]

My 9000 has a shut off at the sedimint bowl only takes a little trash to stop it up. It would run and die set a little while and start and die agin. One little screw holds it together.