Kubota SVL95-2S Skid Steers – Problems, Durability, Repairs

Are you looking for the best skid steer? The Kubota SVL95-2S is a well-built skid loader with exceptional features. The machine can do right about any heavy lifting or digging you throw at it.

Powered by a 96.5-horsepower 4-cylinder engine, the Kubota SVL95-2S can lift a maximum of 4766 lbs. and features a maximum bucket breakout force of 7065 lbs. Thanks to the Common Rail System, the water-cooled diesel engine is exceptionally powerful and highly efficient on fuel.

The Best Features of the Kubota SVL95-2S Skid Steer

These are the most important features of the SVL95-2S Skid loader.

1) Engine Stall Guard

The Kubota SVL95-2S features an engine stall guard, a performance feature that ensures your engine does not stall when facing forward-drive resistance. This makes this skid loader one of the best compact track loaders on the market. Additionally, the stall guard also increases the lifespan of the SVL95-2S.

2) Self-Leveling System

Another exceptional feature of the Kubota SVL95-2S is the Self-Leveling System. This feature enhances your work efficiency by leveling your load bucket automatically during lifting. The loading bucket automatically remains horizontal, enabling you to place your loads accurately every time.

3) Optional 2-Speed Functionality

Your Kubota SVL95-2S has an optional two-speed functionality that allows you to choose between two speeds using a switch on the steering wheel. This electric overdrive switch lets you choose between 4.9 and 7.3 mph. The SVL95-2S also has an added feature, a Shuttle Piston-Lubrication system that sends hydraulic fluid directly into the pump.

This eliminates the side-by-side motion that could keep your skid steer from moving straight. The skid loader also has a pilot valve with a shuttle piston that allows for a consistent flow of oil, enhancing the vehicle's stability as it travels straight.

4) Exceptional Clearance (293mm)

The Kubota SVL95-2S has an exceptional clearance of 293mm, which enables you to see obstacles from a safe distance. Having a full view of your environment helps you stay safe since nothing can surprise you.  

Additionally, this skid loader features advanced ground penetration, which proves quite helpful when you require some extra force to get your work done.

5) Comfortable Cabin

According to Kubota, the SVL95-2S has one of the most comfortable cabins on the market. The cabin features a spacious interior with wider doors. The high-back seat with suspension ensures you are comfortable throughout your work session, even when working extra hours or lifting heavy loads.

The SVL95-2S also has ergonomic armrests on each side to ensure you do not suffer fatigue after long hours of work. The armrests are adequately designed to make the cabin spacious. There is also enough legroom to reduce fatigue after work.

Moreover, the Kubota SVL95-2S does not only care about your body's comfort but also your spirit. The skid loader comes with pre-installed speakers and a stereo-mounting bracket. You only need to purchase the radio and enjoy your favorite playlist as you work.

To ice the cake on comfort, the SVL95-2S features a pressurized cabin to keep dirt and debris away from the operator. Thanks to the minimized noise, you can comfortably work long hours without suffering developing mind fatigue.

6) Exceptional AC Performance

The Kubota SVL95-2S has an air conditioning system that works exceptionally well. The enhanced vents and climate control system provide enhanced airflow for excellent cooling and heating of your cabin. The advanced demisting and defrosting functions ensure that your windows do not fog during the cold seasons.

7) Automatic DPF Regen System

Your Kubota SVL95-2S features an automatic DEF regeneration system that burns accumulated soot in the DPF muffler. This ensures the DPF muffler remains clean and your skid loader operates smoothly for long hours.

The skid steer has an inhibit switch that lets you deactivate the automatic regen when working around areas with humans, wildlife, or near flammable materials.

8) Enhanced Control Valve System

The Kubota SVL95-2S has an Enhanced Control Valve System that increases its driving and pushing force. The machine offers enough power to operate on sloppy terrain and handle attachment work, translating to quicker completion of your projects.

Moreover, the Kubota SVL95-2S features an Electronic Travel Torque Management system that allows you to work faster with plenty of power. The Engine Control Unit monitors your load to control the output of the hydraulic pump. This prevents engine stalling and lets you operate smoothly even under adverse conditions.  

Kubota SVL95-2S - Common Problems

Although the SVL95-2S is among the best skid steers on the market, it can still exhibit some problems, as explained below.

1) Engine-Related Issues

One of the common problematic areas of your Kubota SVL95-2S skid steer is the engine. Your engine may develop overheating and hard start problems. One of the causes of engine problems in your skid loader is faulty wiring.

When the engine control unit detects a problem with the wiring, it sends a warning and an error code to your dashboard. This means you should check and fix the problem immediately. Your dashboard can receive various warning signals related to engine problems. You should read your skid loader owner manual to understand what every error signal and code means.

However, most error codes you will receive will be due to loose or wrongly done wiring. If the problem affects the engine directly, the "check engine" light will also illuminate. For example, the error code 9302 means you have a fuel-related problem. Your engine could be running low on diesel, or your skid loader has a faulty fuel system.

If Your Engine Won't Start, Check the Battery

If you encounter a problem with your engine, check the battery first, especially if the vehicle refuses to start. You should check every aspect related to the battery, from the battery itself to the terminals and cables. You may have a perfectly healthy battery, yet rodents have destroyed your wires. If you realize that your cables are faulty, secure them in place or replace them altogether.

If you notice that your wires are in good condition, check the health of the battery. You can do this by charging and measuring the battery's voltage. A fully charged battery reads around 12.6 volts. If it reads below this, your battery is dead and needs a replacement. If the battery reads 12.6 volts, let it sit for at least 12 hours and test it again. If it maintains 12.6 volts, your battery's health is good.

If there is nothing wrong with the battery and cables, check the charging system. If the charging system is faulty, replacing the battery or the wires will not cure your "engine not starting" problem.

If Your Engine Overheats, Check the Radiator

Another common issue with the Kubota SVL95-2S is an overheating engine. If the cooling system or the radiator fails, hot air remains trapped within the engine and engine compartment. To fix this problem, check the cooling system and the radiator. You may need to replace the radiator fan or the whole unit.

The Kubota SVL95-2S features a water-cooling system, which uses a hose to transfer coolant from the reservoir to the engine. If your cooling system has a clogged hose, your engine will not cool down effectively.

You can fix this problem by cleaning or replacing the clogged hose.

2) Emission Problems

Another issue you may encounter with your Kubota SVL95-2S skid loader is with the emission system. If your engine has an emission-related issue, you will experience a jerking motion as you operate your skid steer. You may also experience power loss when accelerating. Other symptoms of emission-related problems are when your engine refuses to fire or goes off when driving up a slope.

You can fix emission-related problems by repairing the fuel system and the NOX sensors.

3) Problems with the Air Conditioning

As mentioned earlier, the Kubota SVL95-2S features a high-performance air conditioning system that ensures operator comfort throughout the day. If the AC fails, you can have a difficult and uncomfortable time working. One of the most outspoken signs of a faulty air conditioning system is abnormal noises.

The common causes of AC failure include a blocked condenser, dusty air filters, or a burned fuse. Your skid steer works in adverse conditions, which could harm the condenser and the air filter. To fix this problem, clean the condenser and the air filter, or look for burned fuses. Check the condition of these parts regularly to keep your engine running smoothly.

Conclusion

The Kubota SVL95-2S is an excellent skid loader with exceptional lifting capacity and bucket breakdown force. It is important to understand how this machine works, common problems, and how to fix them.