Owners of the Kubota SSV65 often deal with a wide variety of problems. While some are relatively minor, others can be pretty serious.
The most common Kubota SSV65 problems are faulty fuel injectors, constant power loss related to engine problems, hydraulic fluid leaks, and debris getting stuck in the fuel line.
In this article, we will look at the most common Kubota SSV65 problems and offer some potential solutions. Hopefully, this information will help you keep your skid steer running smoothly!
Contents
Faulty Fuel Injectors
One of the most common Kubota SSV65 problems is faulty fuel injectors. Over time, these injectors can become clogged or damaged, preventing them from adequately delivering fuel to the engine.
They can also be affected by poor engine design; the vibrations from the machine gradually wear down the fuel injectors, eventually leading to an issue.
If you suspect your fuel injectors are the culprit, you can either replace them with new ones or take your skid steer to a qualified technician for service. They will be able to clean or replace your injectors properly, getting your Kubota running like new again.
The SSV65 is one of the more complex engines I’ve worked on in the past, so there’s no shame in taking it to a local dealer. Just be aware it could be 2-4 weeks until you get your skid steer back again.
Engine Problems, Usually Power Loss
A Kubota SSV65 engine can have difficulty starting up, losing power while running, or stalling. Power loss is the most common symptom of any engine problem.
If you notice that your skid steer seems to be losing power or isn’t running as smoothly as it used to, there’s a good chance that something is wrong with the engine.
Firstly, I’d suggest you check the parts that are easier to get to! Check the DPF and the fuel filters; either of these can be the reason you’re suffering power loss.
Unfortunately, the other checks will involve getting quite deep into the engine.
Check the turbo to gauge if it’s building any boost; the turbo can become worn and get covered in debris, so ensure that it’s working.
A major design flaw on the SSV65 is the brackets manufactured to hold everything in place. They’re made of relatively thin metal and overly engineered. The brackets and bolts have been known to come loose over time with constant vibrations; you can imagine the damage that can be done.
I’ve seen holes blown on the intake manifold before where the bolt came loose, and the top of the bracket holding the manifold in place broke off, resulting in a hole in the intake.
To get stuck into the engine, you’ll first have to remove the radiator and fan, but be warned, working on the engine isn’t for beginners. If you’re not confident, take it to a dealer.
Ergonomic Design Isn’t The Best
The Kubota SSV65 wasn’t designed with the operator in mind, and it shows. The main problem is the location of the controls.
They’re all placed on the right-hand side of the skid steer, within easy reach of the operator. However, this can be a problem when you’re trying to operate the machine with your left hand.
It’s not impossible, but it can be awkward and take some time. Another issue is the lack of a vice grip on the control stick. This can make it challenging to keep the skid steer going in a straight line or make precise movements.
And I’m always banging my knee on the instrument pod, but the pilot controls are an excellent feature, I must say.
You’d expect a lot of noise with a heavy-duty machine like this, but the noise is excessive. I can wear high-quality ear protectors and still finish a job with ringing in my ears!
Leaking Hydro Ports
A common issue with the Kubota SSV65 is leaking hydro ports. The O-rings that seal the high-pressure hydraulic lines to the ports can degrade over time and cause leaks.
If you notice any leaks, getting them fixed as soon as possible is important. If left unchecked, hydraulic fluid can leak onto hot engine components and cause a fire.
To fix the issue, you’ll need to replace the O-rings. This is a pretty simple job that anyone can do; just make sure you get the right size O-rings. You can find them at any Kubota dealer or online.
Fuel Line Clogging
Fuel line clogging is another common issue with the Kubota SSV65. The problem is caused by a build-up of debris in the fuel tank, which can eventually make its way into the fuel lines and clog them.
If your skid steer starts to experience power loss or stalls frequently, it’s a good idea to check the fuel lines for clogs. Precisely where the fuel line makes a 90-degree turn, just before it goes into the filter.
To clean the fuel lines, you’ll need to remove them from the fuel tank and flush them out with a cleaning solution. I recommend using a product like Sea Foam, which is specifically designed for cleaning fuel lines.
You can also disconnect the fuel line near the fuel bowl and blow powerful air through; you wouldn’t believe the trash that will get blown out of here!
To fix this, you’ll need to install an inline fuel filter; the purpose of that would be to keep all the debris that builds upstream of the 90-degree bend in the fuel line.
Don’t forget to check the fit at the strainer; grime, debris, and all sorts can find their way past the fuel line and get stuck in the strainer; it’s got quite a large opening that will be susceptible to debris.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is Kubota SSV65 high flow?
Yes, the Kubota SSV65 does have high-flow hydraulics. The high-flow hydraulic system increases the gpm from 18.0 to 28.0.
How much can a SSV65 lift?
The SSV65 can lift up to 1,950 lbs.
What is the capacity of the hydraulic oil tank of the SSV65 series?
The capacity of the hydraulic oil tank on the Kubota SSV65 is 4.2 gallons.
Conclusion
Heavy-duty machines like the SSV65 are going to have a few problems; the complex engineering that goes into them is incredible, but the more complicated it is, the more problems we’re going to have to deal with.
Overall, the Kubota SSV65 is a great skid steer, if you can avoid engine problems by keeping your machine well-maintained and undergoing regular servicing, you’ll love this machine, and you should be able to get thousands of hours out of it!
