Yanmar YT235: Problems, Durability, Repairs

When it comes to compact tractors, you may be prepared for a poor range of available models. At least, 20 years ago, there were just a couple of compact machines that could help you with business needs. But things have changed greatly and now a large number of companies offer models in this niche. For example, the Yanmar YT235 is a really capable all-purpose compact tractor with hundreds of possible ways to apply it.

Today, we'll tell you about the YT235 model from Yanmar and also outline its most common problems, advantages, and key facts you should know. We'll see if this is the machine that you should pay your money for. We have to say that the low price and great quality make this model one of the best in its class, so it will be hard to find really important problems and disadvantages in the machine.

Here's what we are going to cover today:

• Some key facts about the YT235 compact tractor from Yanmar.
• The durability of the model given pretty harsh conditions it usually works in.
• The common problems you will most likely encounter with this tractor.
• The ways to prolong its life and spend less money on maintenance.

Let's get started!

What should you know about the Yanmar YT235?

Yanmar is a Japanese company that has been working to create great heavy machinery and agricultural machinery for more than a hundred years. Now, this manufacturer supplies many other heavy equipment brands with engines. Yanmar engines are used by more or less any well-known brand. They are mainly diesel engines that are specially designed for heavy machinery and are very tough and long-lasting.

But the company also makes its own tractors and other machines for businesses. One of the prominent models is the compact tractor YT235. This is an all-purpose tractor that features all the practical technologies Yanmar has right now. The model was presented in 2016 and is still being manufactured.

Here are some facts you should know about it:

• a lot of attention was paid to the comfort of operators, so the handling and operation are smooth and pretty easy to master;
• dual hydraulic pumps are super reliable and can even work without any problems with overloading;
• the easy-open one-piece hood makes it really easy to access the engine and other parts for quick maintenance of checkups;
• the skid-steer type bucket attachment is standard, but a lot of other attachments, both OEM and aftermarket, are available;
• ROPS platform adds a lot to the safety of the operator, so the tractor is protected from rollovers which is super important for this configuration;
• the tractor may come as an open platform or with the cabin (YT235C);
• also, the 34-horsepower diesel engine by Yanmar powers the machine and it's quite enough for its size and possible tasks;
• the hydrostatic transmission allows you to easily set the needed speed, no need to worry about shifting or anything else.

It's worth saying that the YT235 tractor has this famous Performance Link Technology by Yanmar. It means that all its components were made by Yanmar including the transmission, engine, and hydraulics. And the company makes sure that all these parts work perfectly with each other and deliver the maximum power and torque to the operator.

Well, so far only good things, but be patient - we have a pinch of salt to add to this review. Although we know that the YT235 compact tractor is one of the best in its class, it still has some problems and issues to mention. But when reading about its problems, you should also keep in mind that this is one of the most affordable new machines you can buy now in this class.

What about the durability of the Yanmar YT235?

This model proves to be really durable. It comes with a 10-year limited warranty. Also, within 3,000 hours of work, after you buy this tractor, you'll get free repairs under the standard warranty. Of course, any warranty details should be clarified with the dealer before you pay for the tractor.

The overall durability of this compact tractor is estimated at 8,000 hours with no major problems. This is the average figure and you should understand that it can live much longer if maintained and stored well. We'll cover all tips for the longer use of the YT235 tractor later in this article.

So, according to the longevity, this is one of the best compact tractors in the market. It comes with a great warranty which you will not need to pay for and it also comes with a very cool engine and transmission that won't let you down. At least, within the warranty period.

What are the common problems with the Yanmar YT235?

Although this is a really reliable and tough machine, it comes with its share of problems. We'll tell you about the most common problems that are discussed in specialized forums and also privately among owners. We'll cover some ways to avoid these problems and to make sure you can prevent them or at least reduce the risk of occurring.

Here are some of the most commonly reported issues with the Yanmar YT235:

1. Regen cycles are too often

The YT235 is powered by a diesel engine with all the modern eco-friendly equipment. This leads to problems with the filters that need regeneration from time to time. If your Yanmar launches regeneration every 4 or 5 hours, you shouldn't just let this happen. Go to the dealer immediately and have the machine diagnosed.

In most cases, the problem is with the DPF or other related equipment. Sometimes, it's all about sensors or software. But the issue should be addressed as soon as possible.

2. Warning lights on the dash

Unfortunately, the self-diagnosis system is not that good in the Yanmar YT235. A lot of owners report different error lights flashing on the dashes of their tractors and then vanishing without any codes saved or something. After this, you should go to the dealer and check the ECU to make sure everything is OK.

Also, sometimes, these dash errors launch other problems like limp mode. It means you'll have very limited power and torque and the machine will not be able to do the job. It will just be able to travel at a reduced speed.

3. Diesel in oil issue

Although Yanmar engines are pretty durable and hard to break, sometimes, they can throw surprises. The engine in the YT235 model may have a problem with the water separator, lift pumps, or fuel pumps. It means that liquids in the engine will mix and form a deadly solution. In some cases, diesel can get into the oil and dissolve it. If you keep driving like that, the engine will soon need repair or even replacement.

If you see any errors on the dash, never ignore them. Sometimes, they can be just empty warnings, but in most cases, they are telling you about a serious issue with the machine.

4. Parts and specialists

This problem has nothing to do with the quality of the machine, but it can be very painful for tractor owners. If you own the YT235, you are likely to hate waiting for parts for a week or two, or even for a month. There aren't many parts available in the US, so most parts will have to be ordered by dealers from Japan. It will take some time and your tractor will have to rest.

For businesses, it means that they need to buy at least two times more tractors than they actually need to substitute those ones that are gone to the dealership.

Another issue is that it's really hard to find a mechanic outside the dealership who can maintain and repair your Yanmar YT235. And this problem leads to pretty painful bills after the warranty period is over.

What should you do to use the YT235 tractor longer?

This tractor is not going to frustrate you with some major problems, at least in the first 10 years of its life. But minor issues are always there and you should address them immediately. If not addressed, these issues will quickly develop and your compact tractor will go to a month of rest in the dealership while they will try to get the needed parts delivered.

Also, always maintain and repair the YT235 tractor in the dealership. Otherwise, an inexperienced mechanic may lead to big problems with Yanmar equipment.

Final thoughts

Be careful when choosing a model of a compact tractor. You need to make sure the model you are buying will cover all your needs. The YT235 model offered by Yanmar is really great. This is an all-purpose tractor that has a lot of advantages. But please remember about its problems.

We still can't see anything better than that for roughly $30K new. You won't get into trouble if you thoroughly plan all maintenance and repair before the machine needs to wait for parts. Also, we should say that this is one of the most durable compact tractors that you can find available for sale now.