The Kubota SVL75 series compact track loaders are praised for reliability, comfort, and hydraulic power. However, like all heavy machinery, they’re not immune to issues. Whether you’re operating an SVL75-2 or the newer SVL75-3, problems can arise in fuel delivery, hydraulics, electronics, emissions, or general wear-and-tear.
Below is a categorized list of common problems reported across the SVL75 series—with causes, fixes, and tips for operators and mechanics.
Here’s a Kubota SVL75 Series comparison chart showing key differences between the SVL75-1, SVL75-2, and the latest SVL75-3 models. This chart is designed for easy comparison on performance, features, and upgrades across the models.
🟧 Kubota SVL75 Series Comparison Chart
| Feature / Spec | SVL75-1 | SVL75-2 | SVL75-3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Launch Year | ~2010 | 2014 | 2023 |
| Rated Operating Capacity | 2,300 lbs | 2,300 lbs | 2,490 lbs |
| Tipping Load | ~6,570 lbs | 6,570 lbs | 7,128 lbs |
| Engine | Kubota V3307-CR-Turbo | Kubota V3307-CR-Turbo | Kubota V3307-CR-Turbo |
| Horsepower (Gross) | 74.3 HP | 74.3 HP | 74.3 HP |
| Fuel System | Common Rail | Common Rail | Common Rail |
| Emission Compliance | Interim Tier 4 | Tier 4 Final (DPF) | Tier 4 Final (DPF + SCR) |
| DPF/Regeneration System | No | Yes | Yes (Improved) |
| Hydraulic Flow – Standard | ~17.4 GPM | 17.4 GPM | 20.9 GPM |
| High Flow Option | No | Yes (27.0 GPM) | Yes (27.0 GPM) |
| Hydraulic Pressure | 3,248 psi | 3,248 psi | 3,485 psi |
| Joystick Control | Pilot (Mechanical) | Pilot (Electronic Optional) | Pilot (Electronic Standard) |
| Display Panel | Basic LCD | Upgraded LCD (with regen alerts) | Full-color LCD, touch capable |
| Cab Comfort | Basic | Pressurized (optional A/C) | Quiet, HVAC standard |
| Cab Entry Door | Sliding | Sliding | Sliding |
| Telematics (KubotaNOW) | No | Optional | Standard |
| Aux Hydraulic Couplers | Flat Face | Flat Face | Flat Face with pressure release |
| Battery Location | Rear (hard to access) | Rear (better access) | Side-mounted (easier access) |
| Track System | Steel-embedded rubber | Improved durability | Redesigned undercarriage |
| Weight (Operating) | ~9,000 lbs | 9,315 lbs | 9,750 lbs |
🔍 Notes on Improvements:
- SVL75-2 introduced Tier 4 Final emission compliance and a more comfortable cab.
- SVL75-3 brought:
- Improved hydraulic flow and pressure
- Enhanced cab visibility and comfort
- Standard telematics and diagnostics
- Simpler maintenance access points
- Optional rearview camera and automatic DEF priming
⚠️ 1. Power Loss Under Load / Weak Engine Performance
Common in:
- SVL75-2 and SVL75-3
Causes:
- Clogged fuel filters
- Air in fuel lines
- Dirty air filters
- Failing turbocharger (SVL75-3)
- EGR/DPF restrictions (Tier 4 compliance)
- Weak fuel pump
Fixes:
- Replace both primary and secondary fuel filters every 400 hours
- Check fuel tank pickup tube for blockage or algae
- Clean or replace air filters; check intake hoses for collapse
- Run diagnostics on DPF and EGR system; perform a regen
- Verify fuel pump pressure (typically 4–6 PSI for mechanical, 50+ PSI for common-rail systems)
🔄 2. DPF and Regeneration Issues (Emissions Problems)
Common in:
- SVL75-2 and SVL75-3 (Tier 4 engines)
Symptoms:
- Frequent derating (power reduction)
- Exhaust warning lights
- Failed regen cycles
- Machine enters limp mode
Causes:
- Operator idling too often (not triggering auto regen)
- Faulty DPF temperature/differential pressure sensor
- Dirty diesel or low-quality DEF fluid
- Software glitches in ECU
Fixes:
- Manually force regen via control panel
- Clean or replace DPF sensors
- Use only fresh, non-expired DEF fluid
- Perform ECU software update (Kubota dealer)
- Avoid excessive idling or light-load operation
🧯 3. Hydraulic System Issues (Slow Lift, No Power, Jerky Motion)
Common in:
- SVL75-2 and SVL75-3
Causes:
- Low or old hydraulic oil
- Clogged hydraulic filters or screens
- Internal leak in a cylinder or valve
- Weak hydraulic pump
- Faulty proportional solenoids or joystick sensor
Fixes:
- Check hydraulic fluid level and condition
- Replace hydraulic filter every 500 hours
- Test hydraulic pressure (normal ~3,000 PSI)
- Isolate circuits to identify internal leaks
- Test solenoids and joystick potentiometers for proper resistance/output
🔋 4. Electrical and ECU Sensor Failures
Common in:
- SVL75-2
Symptoms:
- Error codes (check engine light)
- Poor throttle response
- Machine won’t start or dies randomly
- Random limp mode engagement
Causes:
- Faulty throttle position sensor (TPS)
- Bad ground or corroded connectors
- Weak battery or alternator
- Crankshaft or camshaft position sensor failure
Fixes:
- Clean all electrical grounds (especially frame grounds)
- Replace TPS if voltage sweep is inconsistent
- Load test battery and check charging voltage (13.8–14.5V)
- Use a scan tool to retrieve codes and replace affected sensor
🛑 5. Machine Won’t Start (Cranks but No Fire / No Crank)
Common in:
- SVL75-2 (frequent complaint)
- SVL75-3 (fewer cases)
Causes:
- Air in fuel lines
- Bad fuel shut-off solenoid
- Blown fuses or relays
- Weak or dead battery
- Faulty starter relay or ignition switch
- Immobilizer (in SVL75-3) glitch
Fixes:
- Prime fuel system manually via hand pump or auto-primer
- Test and replace fuel shut-off solenoid (click test during key-on)
- Check fuse block and starter relay
- Inspect ignition switch for continuity
- Use diagnostic tool to reset immobilizer or ECU
🧰 6. Excessive Track Wear or Tension Problems
Common in:
- SVL75-2 (more often)
- SVL75-3
Causes:
- Over-tensioned tracks
- Misaligned sprockets or idlers
- Undercarriage wear
- Not cleaning track system daily (especially in clay)
Fixes:
- Check and adjust track tension (spec in manual)
- Grease track adjusters as needed
- Replace worn sprockets and idlers
- Clean undercarriage daily to reduce debris buildup
🌡️ 7. Overheating or Cooling System Problems
Common in:
- SVL75-2
Symptoms:
- Overheat warning after 30–60 minutes
- Fan not engaging
- Loss of coolant
- Dirty radiator
Causes:
- Plugged radiator or oil cooler
- Bad thermostat
- Electric fan failure
- Coolant leaks or low level
Fixes:
- Blow out radiator/cooler fins with compressed air
- Replace faulty thermostat or temperature sensor
- Test electric fan motor and relays
- Top off coolant and pressure test system
🪛 8. Joystick or Control Malfunctions
Common in:
- SVL75-2
- Less in SVL75-3 (newer, refined controls)
Causes:
- Joystick position sensor failure
- Bad harness wiring
- Hydraulic pilot pressure loss
- ECU calibration fault
Fixes:
- Replace or recalibrate joystick sensors
- Check all harness connections for continuity
- Perform system pressure check
- Update firmware via dealer diagnostic tool
📋 Kubota SVL75 Series Maintenance Tips
| Task | Interval |
|---|---|
| Engine oil + filter | Every 250 hours |
| Fuel filters (both) | Every 400 hours |
| Hydraulic filters | Every 500 hours |
| Air filter | Check every 50h, replace 200h |
| DEF/DPF Inspection | Weekly |
| Grease pivot points | Daily |
| Track tension inspection | Weekly |
🧠 Tips to Avoid Common SVL75 Issues
- Always perform a warm-up cycle before working under load
- Use only Kubota OEM filters and fluids for longevity
- Manually force regen if operating at idle or light load frequently
- Store DEF fluid properly to avoid contamination
- Clean radiator and undercarriage daily in dirty environments
- Keep an eye on error codes and address them promptly—don’t ignore check engine lights
📌 Final Thoughts
The Kubota SVL75-2 and SVL75-3 are workhorses, but they demand routine care—especially as emissions systems and electronics become more complex. Staying ahead of common problems through scheduled maintenance, proper diagnostics, and quality parts will ensure you get the most uptime and productivity out of your machine.
I’m David man behind Lawn Mowerly; I’ve been dealing with lawnmowers and Tractors with my father since I was a kid. I know every make and model and what each one is capable of and love helping people find the perfect equipment for their needs.