HYDROSTATIC VS MANUAL TRANSMISSION? CLEAR WINNER?

Four more years on tractors warrants a new Hydro vs Manual Transmission video (at least in our eyes). So we'll cover the basics and give our likes and dislikes with both transmission types in today's video.
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This video is for entertainment purposes only. Good Works Tractors (Good Works Lawn & Power, LLC) cannot be held responsible for content found in any video. Always reference your owners manuals, use extreme caution, and proceed at your own risk.

[@GoodWorksTractors]

So, which is the better transmission? LOOK AT OUR MOST POPULAR ATTACHMENTS! Speeco Quick Hitch: bit.ly/3NFC0yl Stump Wrecker: bit.ly/3WYa6Tf VersaBracket Combo: bit.ly/3wUPrnl Snow Pusher: bit.ly/3NB4BVw Tillers: bit.ly/3GT1kk1 Core Plug Aerators: bit.ly/3W0R25q Pallet Forks: bit.ly/38wRztu Grapples: bit.ly/3PNNYaZ Dethatcher: bit.ly/3GT9Zmk Tractor Canopy: bit.ly/3IHcvNU WANT TO SAVE MONEY? CHECK OUT THE GWT DISCOUNT CLUB! Use code GWT at any of the vendors below and you will save cold hard cash :) I will also get a commission for the sale, so it's a win-win-win! USE CODE "GWT" TO SAVE BIG WITH: BUCKET BRACKETS @ www.jufabworks.com CUSTOM GRILL GUARDS @ www.5elevendesignz.com PTO QUICK ATTACH @ tractorptolink.com DIY HYDRAULIC SOLUTIONS @ www.summit-hydraulics.com GAME CHANGING GREASING SYSTEMS @ www.lube-shuttle.us/store TIRE CHAINS @ www.tirechainsonline.com PREVENT FLAT TIRES @ www.multiseal.us CULTIPACKERS & CRIMPERS @ www.packermaxx.com ALL OEM JOHN DEERE PARTS @ www.247parts.com ACCESSORIES AND BACKHOE BUCKETS @ www.muddscustoms.com CUSTOM TRACTOR FLOORMATS @ www.tractormat.com PROTECT, ORGANIZE, IDENTIFY HOSES @ www.outbackwrap.com BOX BLADES FOR ATV'S @ www.northwoodsfabrication.com HYDRAULIC SYSTEM PROTECTION @ www.hoseendchamer.com DUMP FROM THE SEAT MATERIAL COLLECTION SYSTEMS @ www.proteroinc.com POWERED SWEEPERS SWEEP UP ANYTHING @ www.sweep-all.com EASY WHEEL TOP LINK HANDLE @ www.tractoraftermarket.com TIRES, WHEELS, AND DUAL ADAPTERS @ www.millertire.com AMERICAN MADE CARRY ALL ON STEROIDS @ http:www.bigtoolrack.com THE BEST TOOTHBAR AND MORE @ www.heavyhitch.com 5% OFF WITH CODE GWT AT TRAC SEATS! www.tracseats.com SHOP: www.goodworkstractors.com AMAZON: www.amazon.com/shop/goodworkstractors SUBSCRIBE: kzbin.info LIKE: facebook.com/goodworkstrac... FOLLOW: instagram.com/goodworkstra... MERCHANDISE: stores.inksoft.com/good_works_tractors_merch/shop/home *Discount codes cannot be combined with any other promotions, offers, or deals! **I choose to sell some products through 3rd parties instead of stocking items myself. Know that I will receive a commission if you choose to purchase through certain links. Thank you very much for your support! This video is for entertainment purposes only. Good Works Tractors (Good Works Lawn & Power, LLC) cannot be held responsible for content found in any video. Always reference your owners manuals, use extreme caution, and proceed at your own risk.

[@JB-cy7ey]

I have a 4044M with the power reverser. It becomes surprisingly natural after a while. The biggest issue I’ve had is when I get off the tractor and into my truck, I instinctively try to use the blinker to change direction. 😂

[@ryanshea7728]

Lol

[@kylerayk]

I feel your pain

[@court2379]

Say you spent a lot of hours in the tractor without saying you spend a lot of hours in the tractor😉.

[@williamgaines9784]

I keep reaching for the loader joystick when I want to shift the tractor. #MuscleMemory is an actual thing.😊

[@jamesb2291]

I did that a lot when I drove forklifts 12 hours a day

[@BarryHull]

I have both, manual and hydro, and like you said, both have their strengths. One thing I have noticed however, is that a LOT of power is sucked up in that hydrostatic transmission. All things being equal, my experience is that the manual has more HP available for work.

[@joedon1706]

And more comfortable to run when doing extended tasks. Like mowing.

[@simpleman4196]

I went from two hydro tractors to a utility tractor with the power shuttle. Honestly I was a little worried how the geared trans would work for me but I honestly like it more. I do a lot of loader work and back and forth as well and I still prefer the geared trans.

[@markellis6727]

You know, most if not all your older viewers learned on a gear driven tractor, I never thought I wanted a hydrostatic one until I borrowed my neighbors a few years ago, and feel on love with it, so, I now have 1 gear driven, 1 hydro, both have their place

[@bryangill7736]

The crazy transmission you showed was on John Deeres in the 70s. We had 4020s with that. The gears were set up so you didn't need a range selector.

[@henrycarlson7514]

I agree ,

[@lucashunt2674]

"You grew up on farm tractors and are used to that". This is exactly right, and I love my Kubota L3901 with gear drive, even for loader work. As always, good video.

[@wolfgang_h3t]

Hell, the first tractor I ever drove and the one I had the most hours on was a hydro, and I still generally prefer gear, especially a power reverser like the JD

[@earlyriser8998]

I think this was a good summary. I mainly do loader work, not plowing, and there is a big advantage to a hydro when using a pallet forks, work basket, for careful moving, or surging into a pile of rock, over and over again.

[@court2379]

While I agree there is an advantage, it isn't hard to feather the clutch and on tight work you put it in the slowest gear at idle. It moves pretty slow even with the clutch out. Everything is a compromise, so just matters how much field work or other constant rate things are going to be done to tip the balance gear or hydro.

[@BigCool95]

I got my kubota l4701 in a gear drive and am so glad i did. I didnt want to listen to the whine of the hydro transmission and i like that the gear drive puts out more pto hp. What really sold me on the gear drive was a video messicks did comparing the pulling force of the two on an identical tractor and the hydro was extremely weak. My l4701 gear drive feels way stronger than the “47” hp its rated for. And i have a hi and lo range and 4 gears in each to choose from so i have plenty of a selection for whatever i need to do. I ran a flail mower for 6 hours straight with absolutely 0 issues.

[@derekdreke4990]

What a great explanation of the benefits of the different set ups. Hydro is super handy but also having a Manuel makes a big difference as well. This is such a good thing to help those trying to figure out what works for them

[@carolinafirewood]

Good News! I got an email from Summit Tractors yesterday announcing new distribution locations to soon be offering their product. When I searched out where in SC they will be available, they will be Home Depots (4 within 25 miles from me) the closest only 6 miles from home! I'm still a little concerned about any support/service. But at least they are on the way! Wo-Hoo..

[@pfe3883]

I grew up with older gear drive tractors long before loader and buckets were a standard option. Just bought my new massey ferguson 1825e with the gear drive and loader. Plan to use the loader to clean out the barn. Using the clutch and gears still beats the pitchfork!

[@MJADoingStuff]

Kubota B2601 has 3 range hydrostatic trans too. Thanks for the video Guys 😁👍🚜💨🍳

[@badgerlandturf]

I “thought” I wanted the 3D series, but my dealer talked me through all the pro/cons of them during the buying process. Now I’m glad to own a 3E series…only regret was going with the 25HP, but in honesty has only been a 5% need for the more HP when I was stump removal. If I would have only had a stump wrecker…😅

[@foonus406]

Still own one with the early 60's John Deere Syncro-Range transmission. 8 forward and 3 reverse gears all with a dry disc clutch and manual shift. The one tractor I know nobody will steal from my yard because with the markings worn off the shifter good luck to the thief. Folks are sure spoiled with the controls on these new machines. Thanks for the video!

[@JosephPiette1]

I like the addition of the verses at the end.

[@TomKD0QKK]

Good job with the pros and cons. The most important parts of my tractor are the three point and the PTO. The loader mostly replaces my wheel barrow. It's useful but not central to the way I use my tractor. I don't find running a gear tractor to be any less intuitive or more difficult than driving my stick shift car. And the gains in weight and power and, as you mentioned, the fact that it runs cooler all day long under heavy loads are important to me. I guess it really all comes down to experience and how one uses a tractor. They both have strengths and weaknesses. Anyway, once again, good video!

[@glfnrtrvr]

Thank you. Very good information. I have Kubota B2401. We have always had manual transmission tractors. No problem.

[@Frontpagefab]

I have owned or rented and used all variations and there are use cases for every one, however, if I had to choose one, it would be a 3 range power reverser with both hand and foot throttles as it gives the best of both worlds. The big TLB's that we rented for large jobs had this feature and I really preferred it.

[@reload280]

John Deere has a hydrostatic transmission available in its large ag tractors. It is called an IVT transmission or infinitely variable transmission. It’s sorta the same but different than the small compact transmission. Works really well.

[@jestillwell1964]

I've been driving stick shift for 41 years. When I became the caretaker at a camp, all they had was a Kabota L2500. Using the loader bucket is easy when scooping up rock when working on the road. A guy told me that I might have to spin the tires starting in 8th by revving it up and popping the clutch. Never had to do that to get it going in 8th. I like driving by the seat of my pants and have what I'm operating let me know what I need to do as well as reading the gauges. A stick shift gives me that. I have recently been using a friend's commercial John Deere. It is at least 3-4 times the size of the Kabota. It only has a forward/backwards lever. They must have had to keep it simple for the user. What makes it fun are all the levers to operate the backhoe.

[@jaybarnacles4846]

My grandpa has got a kioti with i believe manual that one im rather comfortable with and then today i got on the small toro with hydrostat i gotta say i like both and this is coming from a new guy its real simple just pulling a lever without having to brake or clutch

[@dave.lawrence.3894]

Good video, information you need to know.... 😅. You didn't miss anything... I like the Summit tractor 🚜. .... 😊

[@SF-fm7ov]

I grew up on the farm and farmed for 26 years. That John Deere Synchromesh trans that has the 1-3-R, 2-5-R, 4-7-R, and 6-8 had it's purpose. Typically you would turn in 2nd, backup and drop the implement , place in 5th and go. So there was an 8 speed trans with limited shifting. The Quad Range came out later and had it's place as you now had 16 different ranges with some non clutch shifting possibilities. If your were really trying to get the most out of your tractor you could find a suitable gear in the Quad range. My favorite was the 8 speed Power Shift. You could now shift with/without using the clutch. My Dad used to plant our potatoes with a 4430 Quad Range. When I replaced it with a 4430 Power Shift he was super pleased because we had short rows and a lot of turning. We used these all day every day and never had a transmission problem.

[@tylercruit6261]

The Yanmar I-HMT is the best of both worlds. John Deere really needs to license the tech for 4 and 5 series.

[@nathanngann1019]

From experience as a heavy equipment mechanic, I would say that hydros are excellent for use in tight spaces and small properties for obvious reasons. However in larger fields and work spaces that require running material or using implements for extended intervals, I would would suggest gear driven. In my shop, I use a hydro L3830 to move pallets and equipment around that I would never use my gear driven JD 5400.

[@dougwilliams1741]

You address this early in your video, but when talking about the gear drive manual transmission, perhaps good to reiterate that operation on hills and steeper terrain requires a good balance and advanced planning to safely coordinate gear, clutch, throttle, and sometimes the implement. Appreciate your videos😊

[@danvanhefty4689]

grew up on the John Deere 4020, 2530, so that gear shift you showed isn't confusing its second nature..

[@tommybounds3220]

Thank you for the video.

[@patrickgermain3278]

B series Kubota’s have 3 ranges. I have a 2012 B2320 w/a 3 range hydrostatic, absolutely love it!!

[@hugostiglitz8465]

I have the same exact tractor. Never had issue with tranny overheating even when cutting 6 acres of grass nonstop.

[@PawPaws_Place]

I love my JD 3025e for just about everything, but I am looking at a JD 5100m for baling. Hydro just doesn’t really work for that. The 3025e did great raking, but to run a Tedder or a baler none of the compact series has the power or weight needed. Also baling is much nicer in a big cab with a set gear and rpm to keep the PTO at the right RPM.

[@ProductiveRecreation]

Hydros are noisier and don’t have as much pull as gear. For most, hydro is the way to go, but if you’re used to clutch and gears it isn’t bad. The only time it bothers me is loader work into a pile, and it doesn’t bother me that much… that’s probably less than 10% of what I do anyway. I like the gear drive for plowing and mowing 5 miles of trails plus an acre field. Constant speed, strong pull. With 25hp and about 4000lb of ballasted machine, I run out of traction before I’m out of power. I will say, I have a 12 speed and wouldn’t be happy with 8 speeds like many gear drives have.

[@briannelson4493]

If you’re looking for convenience with loader work get the hydro, If you’re looking to do field work all day get a manual transmission. The hydro has issues with long hard pulling day’s.

[@nathanngann1019]

Agreed. I would choose my hydro L3830 for loading any day over my larger Deere 5400 that's gear driven.

[@evanmedlar7536]

Hydrostatic is definitely a safer choice, I spun the tires on my 1940 9N once pulling a log and then it gained traction and in the process almost bucked me off and continued to roll forward. I have a kubota lx2610 now and it is nice knowing that if you want to come to a stop all you have to do is let go of the pedal

[@artillerybuff2000]

I like your insight. I grew up driving manual transmission vehicles, from three on the tree to three & four on the floor. Also grew up using an old Ford 8N tractor. Even today I prefer a manual in my cars & trucks. On the few occasions I did buy trucks with autos I seemed to burn most of them up when towing heavy loads. I've never worn out a clutch or had a manual transmission break. So when I recently ordered a 45hp compact tractor it was a no brainer for me (manual please!). Plus I do not like the whine those hydro tractors make. But I get it, if I was a newbie, or had to share the tractor with my wife or kids I'd for sure get a hydro setup; practically zero learning curve...

[@chazznone7389]

Can you do a similar video on the different types of PTO options?

[@SimonASNG]

I nearly bought a 790 with manual trans. My big concern was that I might stall it. With a hydro, you can push it as hard into that dirt pile as you like. You may hear the hydro whine if you overload it, but it won't stall the engine.

[@VBCJesusSaves]

I've got both types (Kioti Ck2610 HST and RX7320 Power Shuttle) and they both definitely have application advantages/disadvantages. Loader work - hydro is hands down the best. Easy forward and reverse and ultimate speed control without touching a lever or clutch. But for consistent speed and power on the rear end, gear drive is the best. Example: you cannot beat a gear drive for field sprayer work. You have to have a consistent speed to apply chemical evenly. It's all about the implement you're using and the application.

[@sgtaaronp]

I have a massy 1825E and I did opt to get a manual, with the shuttle shift I love it, and wanted the extra power with the pto, however after using my buddies hydro, that it what I shoud have got!

[@donaldstrishock3923]

You got a "Good-One"; PLUS you have TWO BRAKE-PEDALS == So Handy.

[@brianpoi5117]

I have a larger Massey with a hydro. It's like driving a Cadillac. Love it.

[@gearhead366]

I know it was mentioned that the hydrostat was easier to learn, but the side benefit to this, not mentioned, is that it becomes much easier to get help with your tractor work from, say, a spouse, son, daughter, brother-in-law, nephew, etc. If the transmission is complex, and hard to operate, it's likely that only one person will be able to use it.

[@loranstaley1119]

Bingo! That’s why we going with the HST, so my mom in law and wife can run it too, they wanted the ease and simplicity, which is awesome cuz when I’m at work all day they can still get things done and I can go straight to the couch lol

[@howardgarney8808]

Kubota GST and the PowerShift transmission are my favorite

[@normangyoungdmd]

Yes!

[@markellyfarm]

Manual transmission scares my wife and she won't drive them. She loves the hydro and I can get her to help me now because she is comfortable with it.

[@donaldstrishock3923]

Anbody can "Drive a Twack-tor" with a hydro-slack-o-matic; because there is "NO Work" involved What-so-ever!

[@itguy1560]

I've got a Kioti NX4510 HST Cab and would be hard pressed to go back to a manual. I've driven manual autos for most of my life and several manual tractors, but once I got used to the Hydro tranny it just seemed so easy to work with.

[@lilbigrigw9904]

I’ve driven a kuboter Mx 6000 utility with a hydro static trans and I liked it. Pretty easy. I aim to learn manual because I wanna be well rounded but for a beginner, hydro static is where it’s at

[@richardkent9621]

I have a kubota L 3130 with GST I think it is called a glide shift. I love it. The gears are all in a row just slide the selector to the gear you want and you are in that gear. No clutch needed. It has a reverser which is wonderful. The only time I would want a hydro is doing loader work. Its good at it but hydro would be better.

[@lawsonlandry3877]

long term gear tractor lover, but hydro will be my next machine probably, but having bull low on a geared machine is the best. I hardly ever use the throttle peddle just the lever. just bought one geared due to the price difference

[@FalconLX-nf9uz]

What are your thoughts on the Yanmar YT359 transmission? Seems like a cross between a CVT and a hydrostatic transmission. Thanks for all the great videos!!

[@tylercruit6261]

I have YT-347 no regrets after 60 hrs. Was wondering if anyone else would mention it.

[@guystuff7942]

Have a yt359 and love the hydromechanial transmission. Yanmar needs more exposure...awesome tractors.

[@jimmcknight3021]

If you are working with your front, I think manual your transmission would be difficult unless you use shuttle/power reverser selector. We have the small Grand L 3560 that is hydrostatic and a totally manual transmission Kubota that is seventeen horsepower and about forty years old. I enjoy using the little one for certain jobs, but I would hate to use it front end loader work. Also, the little one has to use the clutch to engage the PTO and one of three speeds.

[@1958johndeere620]

I have both, each has there place. Never been afraid of equipment that needs the operator to actually operate it.

[@dirtbeard108]

ideally, 3 or 4 of each is optimal.

[@pyroman6000]

Just to add MORE complication, there's also partial and full powershift. You simply move the shifter. No clutch or declutch button needed. I consider a hi-lo switch a form of partial powershift. A lot of power shuttle transmissions have that option. Makes a 12x12 into a 24x24! VERY nice to have when doing things like haying in hilly terrain- or in fields where yield varies widely from place to place. And then there are some funky ones, unique to certain brands. Like John Deere's Direct Drive- which is a full gear trans, that acts like a CVT. Kubota used to have one called Glide Shift, I think, that was unique to them.

[@brianfarrell5240]

Never heard it said that a hydro was safer than a gear drive, but you're right. A gear drive can be jumpy if you are in the wrong range or speed while doing loader work. My gear drive is second nature to me, but I couldn't really expect my wife or kid or even buddy to jump on and use it safely. Besides the safety aspect, it's gear drive for the win. There are no tasks that a hydro does better in my opinion. Gear drive is way more powerful, runs cooler, simpler, cheaper to fix, less likely to break, and you don't need cruise control.

[@justanotherviewer52]

Manual has it's place but hydrostatic works for me.

[@kendallriebel3515]

Well there’s still power directors and such where you pick a gear go from low to high without shifting and there’s some others you can go low medium and high. All without clutching after gear selection. You have the shuttle clutches like allis chalmers had where you select gear with clutch and then go fwd and reverse kinda like ya mentioned

[@timking1283]

My dealer and mechanics at the dealer said to get the HST. They repaired more clutches as people tend to burn them up faster.

[@davefabrizio141]

AN OLD FARMER ONCE TOLD "LOOK AT THE BIGGEST TRACTOR YOU CAN AFFORD THEN BUY THE NEXT ONE BIGGER"....IF by any means your new to this and are really torn on hydro/ manual your already in way over your head.. This guy did excellent job of explaining differences but if you really need the power and your not sure yet your already in for a huge learning curve for anything you want to do with any serious attachment. I have a 1023e jd that the wife uses cuz I'm nervous about her running anything with a clutch....that Lil machine has racked more hours in a year then anything else because she comfortable with it

[@demonadarius]

I purchased the b2401 (manual trans) and man this little guy pulls hard. I rented the b2601 (hydrostat) before I purchased the b2401 and the difference was night and day. The manual pulls harder, no comparison (it feels twice as strong). However I wish the trans had synchro's. Changing gears sometimes requires you to double clutch ( a must in some cases). I could totally use the Hydrostat and would find it easier for Loader work especially. But for pulling, whether with PTO implements (such as a rotary cutter etc) or a rake, box blade, disc harrow etc I like the manual trans. It lets me do bigger implements without the size of the larger tractor. I do love the feel of it basically being cruise control on long distances in the manual trans also. There are tons of advantages to the hydrostat but truthfully once you have the manual you get very used to it very quickly.

[@melvinmorgan1092]

Almost 70 yes. Old been using manual all these yrs. And went with john deere 3043d and don't regret it. Nothing against hydro but can't take the whine it makes. Think both transmissions would last longer than me.

[@markziegler3551]

You badmouthed one of the best transmissions that John Deere has ever created!!! The John Deere 4020 Syncro transmission is almost perfect for a farm application. Put a loader on it and go from 5th forward to 5th reverse and jump up to 2nd forward for pushing into a pile. Just kidding. For those who have never run one in the field it might look awkward. I purchased a New Holland TC29D with a hydrostatic over the gear because I knew I was going to be mowing with it and wanted the convenience and simplicity of hydrostatic. I know I can put my wife and son on it and they will be able to make it go and stop because it is just like our Cub Cadet LT1022. I also knew I would not be doing heavy draft so gear drive didn't appeal to me for that reason either.

[@HarrisPropertyMaintenance]

I work for a farm that uses a L3901 kubota hydro for heavy use in poultry operations, hydro is convenient but it produces a lot of heat that you notice in static air and I run a 9540 kubota for loading and scraping the poultry barns and if you can run a standard trans use, cheaper, more reliable, and simpler repair when it breaks, can’t have sensors give you trouble if their are none, the L3901 hydro is a great tractor but they do not like being used to max capacity/ power for hours on end and i truly feel like that’s purely for the hydro transmission

[@heterosapien69]

9:01 "Boy, they don't really know how to fly straight". Lol this one just cracked me up. Just the context of stopping a video dead in its tracks to film some random cranes flying, criticizing their shit formation, and then jumping right back into the video is just hilarious.

[@GoodWorksTractors]

😂

[@thehuntsmenoutdoors]

I have both gear drive and hydro. Love the hydro but if I get ambitious after a rain storm the gear drive is definitely good at getting the hydro unstuck. Also when you get a heavy load the hydro will just bog down, whereas the gear drive just keeps pulling. Still think the hydro is better for loader work.

[@chiefkyle1098]

Courtney: I might be looking at it morbidly or something. You are looking at it realistically. 1. A new tractor owner hits a rut/rock, panics and instead of putting it back into neutral or pressing the clutch it runs into something. 2. You are going through a wooded or brushy area. A sticker bush or limb hits you in the face. You are distracted by pain and can't see the clutch or shifter lever to stop the tractor and it smash into something. 3. You have the RPMs up, put it into too high of a gear, the tractor jerks, you panic and runs into something. 4. You overload the loader, it start to flip or roll and you panic. 5. You fall off, hurt yourself, and the tractor keeps going. 6. You have a medical condition and tractor keeps going. These are real world condition that are avoided with a hydrostatic transmission.

[@conanpower]

While you are working, especially mowing grass, you have to stop several times stop and blow the grass clippings out radiator and oil cooler system.

[@Veritas1992]

I drive a manual transmission car for my daily and love it because I want to have fun while driving. That being said I would never want one on a tractor while I’m trying to do work.

[@kellywilson8440]

If you have a compact tractor with a loader go with a hydro just my opinion !

[@stevenstreet4711]

I am looking at a Branson 2515R because of the shuttel gear I was told that there was less trouble compared to the hydrostat transmission. What do you think

[@hugostiglitz8465]

I have a Kubota 2320 with hydro and 1000 hrs with no troubles at all...doesnt overheat when cutting 6 acres of grass. Rock solid.

[@pennylessplantation]

Well you have 2 kinds of manuals, non synchro and synchro. I would at minimum suggest the synchro for a lot better ease of use where you can stop flip a lever and switch direction. Non synchro you have to come to a stop and actually shift the gear. Strictly for budget reasons I got a non synchro to get the 35 pto hp minimum I needed. I will say it takes forever to get chores done, like moving gravel, using pallet forks etc but the price was right for what I was needing in power. I hope to move up to a synchro at the very least but yes a hydro would be awesome in my opinion. All can be costly, manuals have to be split to replace clutches but hydros seem to last but I have seen some that have been destroyed and the pumps can be costly, especially the models that have 2 pumps, one for trans and one for all other hydraulics. If you are simply working just on your own place a manual will get it done but much slower, if you are working commercially and time is a factor you’re gonna need that hydro or at the least a synchro.

[@danielherber995]

I won a farmtrac 26h its a hydrostatic with a frontloader i sometimes have the problem that it keeps hanging. And that you have to be at a specific rpm to drive.

[@Bigsoot7393]

Hydro if using PTO because you can slow down and pto stays the same speed, manual if pulling something from draw bar so you can set and forget

[@DesertHomesteader]

My Massey Fergason 1840e (40hp) has a 3-range (8 speeds) hydro trans but I've personally found that the highest range is WAY too fast for most practical applications other than maybe driving down a flat, paved road. I have no doubt that I would flip my tractor if I went tooling around my farm at high speed. If I'm doing heavy dirt work, I'm working in the lowest range so I can get the most power.

[@donaldstrishock3923]

A 3range (8 speed) hydro? Must be time to FINALLY Read the "Operator's Manual ".

[@edwardkeaton4972]

Whats the model of the Kubota and thanks in advance

[@user-fv8nv4bc2p]

I lost my left leg 10 years ago. I looked all over for a compact tractor with no pedal on left side. I found Yanmar sa 424 has no pedal on the left and hydrostatic transmission

[@peteverrelli5797]

Shuttle shift is the way to go. I wish it was available on compact tractors.

[@guystuff7942]

Have you checked out the yanmar yt ihmt hydromechanical transmission...pretty awesome. My opinion is you get best of both.

[@Noah_E]

My dad has a shuttle shift New Holland Boomer 40. My Yanmar YT347 has the I-HMT and is a substantially more pleasant machine to operate and uses the same 2.2L as a JD 4044M/R.

[@ericcrockett479]

The power reverse on the utility tractors is about as close as you get to what i wish tractors had which is a backhoe transmission, standard shift with gears and F&R lever but has a torque converter so you have your differnt gear ranges but you can come to a stop with the machine still in gear and no clutch

[@dalemciver7118]

I Like The Manual Transmission My Self EZ Too Work On

[@wizzle0979]

I'm looking at buying the mx5400 with a gear tractor. How do these stand up over time?

[@court2379]

That tractor looks like a spider with its four round eyes and fangs on the front.😁 Good pretty balanced discussion. I went gear due to mowing, baling and field work. With the better transmissions it is still fine for loader work and pallets too. Definitely get the easy to reverse and shift models. I think gear got a bad wrap due to unsychronized transmissions that are hard to operate. I wouldn't change my decision after using it for ten years.

[@NoLimitsCommemorativ]

I always prefer how engaging a manual feels vs. an automatic, so much so that I wish I could buy a new 1500 or 2500 series pickup with a manual and an N/A V8 still. Currently In the market for a compact tractor and this has been a debate of mine on which way to go as far as maintaining and availability of parts go. I just sold my 2004 SRT10 with a Tremec T56 specifically built for the single cab Ram 1500 and I was just lucky enough to find the ONE and only transmission on Ebay to swap out the blown one in it. This has me leaning towards a hydrostatic from that experience alone.

[@matthewward631]

My riding mower has a hydrostatic transmission. It makes mowing around stuff much easier. My work horse tractor has a gear drive. I do loader work, skid logs, you name the job, it gets used for it. Why did I go for the gear drive? Well…. I grew up with gear drives and just feel more comfortable with it. As for ease of use… muscle memory! Don’t even have to think about it, control just feels natural. But for a new operator hydrostatic is the way to go.

[@donaldlehmiller5195]

Can you do a video showing old tractors 80’s to mid 90’s to there current gen tractors. Not in depth but I have a jd750 and can’t tell what tractor jd or otherwise would be sized the same or as closely if I was to upgrad

[@coroycalloway6179]

BadBoy say they have separate pumps for transmission vs pto on the 4035. I’m still concerned it will rob pto power.

[@redneck5356]

I have heard of people stepping on the wrong pedal with a hydro transmission. Call me old school. I grew up with a 8n . My kubota is gear drive

[@madmountain5072]

Amount of power to the ground is another difference worth considering. A gear drive will have much more power at relative speeds. Relevant if your plowing, pulling, or otherwise engaging with the ground in a way that pushes the tractor to it’s limits. I have a ford 1100, 13hp little guy, that I used to pull a 400lb 4’ box blade through the woods to create trails. No way that could happen if it was a hydro.

[@joejessicaholmes4980]

Hello from under Downunder. That is Tasmania, the southern island state of Australia. Your videos are always well informed & helpful in my research but can I ask you & your audience a more specific question to help with my first tractor purchase which is now at the pointy end? I need to make a decision in the coming week to meet the June 30 (EOFY) deadline. The comments seem to confirm that geared transmission for the familiar is better suited to field work (PTO power to the ground - cutting/pulling) while hydro is safer, more comfortable for the inexperienced operator & easier on the clutch for loader work. To maintain our 30acre property I am likely to be using a 5' slasher (bush hog) 60% of the time, loader work with a fork 20% & loader work with a 4in1 bucket 20%. I have looked closely at the JD 4066R which is fully optioned with hydro trans but out of my price range (AUD$82K), JD 5055E which is manual with Power Reverser which is within price range (AUD$55K) but can't take a backhoe and the Kubota L4600D (geared AUD$48K) & L4600 HST (hydro AUD$49K) which takes the Kubota BH92 backhoe (AUD$16k). I have first option on a tidy 2021 model Kubota L4600D (geared) with Kubota LA714 loader (skid steer hitch), Kubota 60" 4in1 bucket & fitted with the Kubota BH 92 backhoe. One careful owner with 137hrs on it and the package includes Kubota 1.8m sun canopy, 1500kg pallet forks and a rock sieve rake bucket (package deal is AUD$46.5k, cost new exceeds AUD$70K). The Kubota dealer is warning me that the geared/manual dry clutch will burn out in less than two years & a replacement is in the order of AUD$5-7K. To save me future heartache he would prefer I purchase a new Kubota L4600 HST tractor & have the dealership swap the loader & backhoe over to the HST tractor at a changeover cost to me of AUD$13k. I would retain the rock sieve rake bucket (AUD$4.5K) & pallet forks AUD$2k). Should I go for the geared AUD$46.5k "good package deal" & take a risk on the longevity of the clutch or fork out the additional AUD$13k for a new hydro L4600? Bearing in mind the rated 46.3hp engine & reduced PTO power if I went with the hydro. I only want to buy a tractor once, love using it & have it for the long term. I would greatly appreciate your considered thoughts as I need to make a decision in the coming week. Sincerely, Joe

[@Mrmizilplix]

My L2501 is a manual and I specifically asked for it

[@RockinRack]

Anyone know the cost to replace a hst trans vs a gear drive?

[@gordonclark7632]

This showed that there is a lot m,ore to consider than just saying 'oh this is easier to use'.

[@kennethbell3737]

I'm cheap. I like the manual shift, but for my wife and grandson to use for mowing we have hydostatic.

[@SunsetWingman]

Only thing that sounded weird to me was when you said hydrostatic transmissions steal power away from the engine so theres less for the PTO. Moving the tractor requires power through the transmission whether its manual or hydro. I can't see how theres a difference there.

[@kayceehoagland5426]

When you are at full throttle and you hit the wrong pedal, you lunge in the direction that you are not looking. We almost lost a guy at work as a tractor operator was trying to back up for a passing vehicle to clear, then ran forward into his vehicle. Serious injuries. The rocking pedal might be safer in this regard compared to the side by side.

[@GreyMassey]

I'm old school I prefer manual transmission.

[@kevinpieper3454]

How much horsepower is lost on the PTO on a hydrostatic transmission?

[@robertmatthews4285]

Most kubota hydros have a cruise control that locks the hydro at the speed you want. Just sit and steer. Pretty sure most do, so that’s not a huge difference than manuals. Little different to use, but will just go.

[@rcclassiccrawlers4368]

Hydro is sooo much better than a manual trans in sooo many aspects. I’ve operated both for years each and hydros are way more user friendly. But if I had to choose a manual trans or the Kubota treadle pedal it would be the manual hands down. Just saying.

[@LTVoyager]

Neither is best. It depends on what you are doing as your video says. For field work, I will take manual all day long. For loader or fork or grapple work, hydro is hard to beat. Personally, I prefer the best of both with a power shuttle transmission, but don’t see those on compact tractors. 😁. Given how most compact tractors are used, it is easy to see why hydro is the most popular choice.

[@mtozzy11]

There's one area where i think a hydrostatic transmission isnt great and can be dangerous is working on steep slopes specifically going down hill. A hydro will over run which can be dangerous like pulling a heavy trailer. Used a few kubotas (mx5200, L4400, L5740) and my 4066r JD all will over run in Medium or high range on steep hills. My Iseki TA550F manual 4 x 4 syncro reverser wont if your i a low gear even in high range.

[@Stepside906]

i think kubota has a "cheaper" small tractor thats full old school manual transmission. its a bare bones basic tractor i think it might only be 26hp or so. messicks i think did a video on it awhile back. but all in all i used to love manual trans tractors but now that im older im all about the hydro trans now.

[@kylerayk]

Hydraulic shuttle me likey!

[@Elkmonger]

When I graduated college and got a job I bought my Pops a manual B1750. I have a B2320 TLB that's hydrostatic. I haven't used the B1750 in over 10 years and got on it last weekend. All I can tell you is there is a definite difference in how the tractor feels. The gear drive feels a lot more positive. Like the tractor is 100% committed to moving forward no matter what and you better pay attention and keep your head on a swivel because if sh!t gets real you'll need to be all over the clutch, brake, gear shifter, and throttle like a spider monkey. The hydro all you need to do is lift your foot. The PTO on the B1750 isn't live so that's something else you need to pay attention to when your mowing around stuff and changing direction. Loader work with a clutch sucks.