Kubota RTV Spreaders: Salt, Seed, Fertilizer and Drop Spreader Guide
Kubota RTV spreaders provide options for winter treatment, grounds maintenance and selected seed or fertilizer applications. The principal models documented in Kubota’s North American RTV literature are the V5002-A rock salt spreader, V5003-A tailgate spreader, V5004 drop spreader and V5005 cargo-box spreader. They differ in hopper size, spreading pattern, controls and listed vehicle compatibility.kubotausa
Choosing between them involves more than selecting the largest hopper. A broadcast spreader distributes material across an area, while the V5004 is designed around a defined 36-inch spreading width. The larger V5005 has an 11-cu.-ft. hopper, but its advertised material capacity must not be confused with the permitted load on every RTV configuration.kubotausa
This guide compares the documented models, explains the published specifications and outlines the mounting, electrical, loading and material checks needed before buying.
The focus is North American manufacturer information. The specifications come primarily from archived Kubota literature, supported by retained parts-catalogue entries. These sources do not establish that every model is currently available new or compatible with every newer RTV.
And See:
- Kubota RTV Accessories
- Kubota RTV Roofs
- Kubota RTV Windscreens
- Kubota RTV Doors, Cab Sealing
- Kubota RTV Mirrors
- Kubota RTV Lighting
- Kubota RTV Cargo
- Kubota RTV Hydraulic PTO Equip
- Kubota RTV Snowplows
- Kubota RTV Tires Wheels
Kubota RTV Spreader Models at a Glance
| Spreader | Reference | Published hopper volume | Published material capacity | Published spreading width | Main documented purpose |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rock Salt Spreader | V5002-A | 3 cu. ft. | 240 lb. | Up to 25 ft. | Winter salt spreading |
| Tailgate Spreader | V5003-A | 3 cu. ft. | 240 lb. | Up to 20 ft. | Selected seed, fertilizer and bagged ice-melt applications |
| Drop Spreader | V5004 | 6 cu. ft. | 480 lb. | 36 in. | Sidewalk and precision applications |
| Cargo Box Spreader | V5005 | 11 cu. ft. | 800 lb. | Up to 30 ft. | Larger-volume material spreading |
These are Kubota’s published brochure figures. “Up to” describes a maximum advertised spread width, not a guaranteed pattern for every material or operating condition.kubotausa
Documented Vehicle Applications
| Spreader | Vehicle names listed in the reviewed brochure |
|---|---|
| V5002-A | RTV-X900, RTV-X1120, RTV-X1100 |
| V5003-A | RTV-X900, RTV-X1120, RTV-X1100 |
| V5004 | RTV-X900, RTV-X1120, RTV-X1100 |
| V5005 | RTV-X900, RTV-X1120, RTV-X1100, RTV-X1140 |
The table preserves the brochure’s model wording. Have the dealer resolve the complete vehicle designation and serial application, particularly where an advertisement uses an abbreviated name such as “X1100.”kubotausa
Do not automatically transfer these applications to an earlier RTV900, RTV1100, gasoline Sidekick, RTV520, or newer RTV-X CAB, CREW or LONG BED.
Current Availability vs Legacy Documentation
A documented spreader and a currently available complete kit are not necessarily the same thing.
Kubota’s retained parts catalogue includes V5002-A, V5003-A and V5004 applications. It also provides component diagrams for items such as the V5002-A control harness and drive system.kubotausa+2
Those entries help identify and service equipment. They do not guarantee immediate stock of a complete spreader, all mounting components or every replacement part.
Before purchase, confirm:
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Current complete-kit availability.
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Any superseded reference.
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Vehicle-specific mounting requirements.
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Included controls and wiring.
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Replacement wear-part availability.
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Applicable installation and operator’s manuals.
Kubota V5002-A Rock Salt Spreader
The V5002-A is the winter-focused model in the documented range.
Kubota describes a heavy-duty poly hopper, electrically powered motor and transmission, and a variable-speed weatherproof controller. The listed equipment includes a top screen and fitted cover.kubotausa
V5002-A Specifications
| Item | Manufacturer information |
|---|---|
| Product reference | V5002-A |
| Product description | Rock Salt Spreader |
| Catalogue wording | Rear Mounted Salt Spreader |
| Hopper volume | 3 cu. ft. |
| Published material capacity | 240 lb. |
| Maximum advertised spread width | 25 ft. |
| Drive | Electric motor and transmission |
| Control | Variable-speed weatherproof controller |
| Hopper construction | Heavy-duty poly |
| Included equipment | Top screen and fitted cover |
The brochure specifications and rear-mounted catalogue description identify the same documented model reference.kubotausa+1
Where the V5002-A Fits
The V5002-A is the logical model to investigate when the main requirement is the approved application of rock salt.
However, the product name does not approve every de-icing material. Use the spreader manual to establish acceptable material, condition, particle size and operating instructions.
Do not assume that a specification for rock salt also establishes approval for wet sand, bulk salt/sand mixtures or another treatment product.
V5002-A Parts Identification
Kubota’s parts catalogue separates control-harness and drive-component information for this model.kubotausa+1
Use the spreader’s identification as well as the vehicle’s identity when researching repairs. An RTV model number alone may not identify the correct spreader motor, controller or harness.
Relevant supporting articles include Kubota V5002-A Salt Spreader Maintenance Guide and Kubota RTV Salt Spreader Electrical Troubleshooting.
Kubota V5003-A Tailgate Spreader
The V5003-A is documented as a more versatile, year-round spreader.
Kubota describes it as easy to calibrate for various materials, giving seed, fertilizer and bagged ice melt as examples. It uses an electric motor and transmission with a variable-speed weatherproof controller.kubotausa
V5003-A Specifications
| Item | Manufacturer information |
|---|---|
| Product reference | V5003-A |
| Product description | Tailgate Spreader |
| Catalogue wording | Rear Mount Seed and Fertilizer Spreader |
| Hopper volume | 3 cu. ft. |
| Published material capacity | 240 lb. |
| Maximum advertised spread width | 20 ft. |
| Drive | Electric motor and transmission |
| Control | Variable-speed weatherproof controller |
| Hopper construction | Heavy-duty poly |
| Included equipment | Top screen and fitted cover |
These details come from Kubota’s brochure and parts-catalogue naming.kubotausa+1
V5003-A vs V5002-A
The two models have the same published hopper volume and material-weight figure, but their documented purposes and advertised maximum spread widths differ.
| Comparison | V5002-A | V5003-A |
|---|---|---|
| Main brochure description | Rock Salt Spreader | Tailgate Spreader |
| Listed material examples | Rock salt/winter application | Seed, fertilizer and bagged ice melt |
| Hopper volume | 3 cu. ft. | 3 cu. ft. |
| Published material capacity | 240 lb. | 240 lb. |
| Maximum advertised spread width | 25 ft. | 20 ft. |
Do not select between them solely on the number of cubic feet. Match the intended material and operating requirement to the model’s instructions.kubotausa
Shared Parts Do Not Mean Identical Spreaders
Kubota’s catalogue identifies some components as used on both V5002-A and V5003-A, including a listed transmission/worm-gear assembly.kubotausa
That establishes compatibility for the specified component—not proof that every motor, controller, hopper component or complete installation is interchangeable.
Kubota V5004 Drop Spreader
The V5004 is designed for a different distribution pattern from the wider-spreading models.
Kubota positions it for sidewalk and precision applications, with a 36-inch spreading width and a six-cu.-ft. hopper.kubotausa
V5004 Specifications
| Item | Manufacturer information |
|---|---|
| Product reference | V5004 |
| Product description | Drop Spreader |
| Hopper volume | 6 cu. ft. |
| Published material capacity | 480 lb. |
| Spreading width | 36 in. |
| Metering feature | Gateless design |
| Control | Digital, self-diagnosing variable-speed controller |
| Wiring | Loomed harness with moulded plugs |
| Drive | Sealed electric motor and transmission |
| Hopper construction | Heavy-duty poly |
| Included equipment | Top screen and fitted cover |
Kubota states that the gateless design helps minimize waste between applications. That is the manufacturer’s description, not a promise of zero material loss.kubotausa
Drop Spreader vs Broadcast Spreader
The V5004’s defined 36-inch pattern is fundamentally different from the “up to” 20-, 25- or 30-foot figures of the other documented models.kubotausa
For a narrow route, the important comparison is the required placement width—not simply how far a spreader can throw material.
Use the manual to establish approved materials, calibration and application instructions. A precision-oriented design does not remove the need to confirm the correct output.
Digital Controller Diagnosis
The brochure describes a self-diagnosing controller but does not provide a complete fault-code table.kubotausa
Do not invent code meanings or use a code chart from another spreader. Obtain the V5004 documentation and identify the controller fitted to the actual machine.
Kubota V5005 Cargo Box Spreader
The V5005 is the largest hopper model in the reviewed RTV brochure.
Kubota lists 11 cu. ft. of volume, an 800-lb. material-capacity figure and a maximum advertised spreading width of 30 feet. Its dual controller allows independent material and spread-width control.kubotausa
V5005 Specifications
| Item | Manufacturer information |
|---|---|
| Product reference | V5005 |
| Product description | Cargo Box Spreader |
| Hopper volume | 11 cu. ft. |
| Published material capacity | 800 lb. |
| Maximum advertised spread width | 30 ft. |
| Drive | Electric motor and transmission |
| Control | Dual controller for independent material and width adjustment |
| Hopper construction | Heavy-duty poly |
| Included equipment | Top screen, fitted cover and heavy-duty vibrator |
| Listed accessory | V4407 Spreader Control Tube |
These specifications come from Kubota’s snow-implement brochure.kubotausa
Why the Dual Controller Matters
Independent material and spread-width adjustment is a documented distinction between V5005 and the simpler controller descriptions used for V5002-A and V5003-A.kubotausa
It does not remove the need for calibration. A control position is not automatically an application rate for every material.
V5005 and RTV-X1140 Compatibility
The V5005 entry includes RTV-X1140, whereas the other three spreader entries do not.kubotausa
That listing should not be interpreted as permission to load every RTV-X1140 configuration with 800 lb. of material.
The RTV-X1140 has different cargo-bed ratings in its two- and four-person arrangements, documented separately in Kubota’s vehicle brochure. The spreader’s empty weight, occupants and other equipment also need to be considered under the applicable instructions.kubotausa
Obtain the specific installation and loading requirements before using a cargo-box spreader on a convertible vehicle.
Hopper Volume, Material Weight and Vehicle Load
These figures answer different questions.
| Measurement | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Hopper volume | Space available inside the hopper |
| Published material capacity | The spreader’s stated material-weight figure |
| Empty spreader weight | Weight of the equipment before filling |
| Installed accessory weight | Spreader plus mounts, controls and other fitted equipment |
| Vehicle payload | Applicable total load limit for the RTV |
| Cargo-bed load | Limit applying to the bed and configuration |
The brochure’s paired figures—such as three cu. ft. and 240 lb.—must not be treated as a universal density conversion for all approved materials.kubotausa
Likewise, an 800-lb. hopper figure is not an instruction to add that amount to every vehicle named in the product heading.
Loading Check Before Operation
Establish:
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The exact RTV configuration.
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The spreader’s empty weight.
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The complete mounting equipment.
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The permitted vehicle and mounting loads.
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Occupant and other accessory loads.
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The intended material quantity.
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The spreader’s own limits.
If the documentation does not resolve the combination, obtain written application guidance before loading.
Mounting a Spreader to a Kubota RTV
The reviewed brochure identifies applications but does not provide a complete mounting bill of materials for every vehicle and spreader combination.kubotausa
Do not fill those gaps with assumptions.
Mounting Compatibility Checklist
| Check | What to establish |
|---|---|
| Vehicle identity | Full model and serial information |
| Spreader identity | Complete model and identification details |
| Mounting system | Correct brackets, frame, fasteners and supports |
| Bed configuration | Fixed or convertible, with the required operating arrangement |
| Existing accessories | Toolbox, liner, mat, rails or other equipment |
| Clearance | Tailgate, bed movement, lights and vehicle access |
| Electrical equipment | Correct harness and controller |
| Loading | Complete installed and material loads |
| Instructions | Current installation and operator’s manuals |
A bracket that can be physically attached is not necessarily an approved mount.
Do not assume the vehicle’s trailer hitch or an existing cargo rack is a suitable spreader support without specific documentation.
Electrical Controls and Wiring
All four documented spreaders use electric motors and transmission components, but their controller descriptions differ.kubotausa
Control-System Comparison
| Model | Documented controller |
|---|---|
| V5002-A | Variable-speed weatherproof controller |
| V5003-A | Variable-speed weatherproof controller |
| V5004 | Digital, self-diagnosing variable-speed controller |
| V5005 | Dual controller for independent material and spread-width control |
Do not assume a controller or wiring harness fits every model.
Kubota provides a dedicated V5002-A spreader control-harness diagram, supporting identification by spreader model rather than by the RTV alone.kubotausa
Electrical Information That Must Come From the Manual
Use the applicable documentation for:
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Supply connections.
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Fuse requirements.
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Wire specifications.
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Connector assignments.
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Controller installation.
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Cable routing.
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Electrical testing.
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Replacement components.
Do not borrow fuse values or pinouts from the RTV’s roof-light or accessory-audio system.
Calibration and Material Selection
The V5003-A brochure explicitly highlights calibration for different materials. The other models also have adjustable controls or patterns, but the reviewed brochure does not supply universal application settings.kubotausa
Calibration Planning
| Item | Information to obtain |
|---|---|
| Material | Approval for the spreader and intended use |
| Target application | Product-label and operating requirements |
| Controller setting | Model-specific calibration procedure |
| Travel conditions | Approved speed and route instructions |
| Spread pattern | Actual calibrated width, not merely the brochure maximum |
| Output | Measurement method specified by the manual |
| Records | Material, settings and operating conditions used |
Do not publish one setting as suitable for all salt, fertilizer or seed products.
For fertilizer and seed, follow the material’s label as well as the spreader instructions. Do not derive an application rate solely from hopper size or maximum spreading width.
Maintenance and Seasonal Storage
Use the spreader manual for cleaning, lubrication, corrosion protection and storage procedures.
Kubota’s attachment-safety guidance instructs operators to shut off the engine, set the parking brake, remove the key and ensure implement motion has stopped before checks, adjustments or maintenance. Required guards and safety devices must remain in working order.kubotausa
Maintenance Areas
| Area | What to check using the correct procedure |
|---|---|
| Hopper | Condition, approved cleaning and retained material |
| Screen and cover | Correct fit and condition |
| Feed and distribution equipment | Wear, obstruction and secure assembly |
| Motor and transmission | Condition and model-specific servicing requirements |
| Wiring | Routing, connectors and visible damage |
| Controller | Mounting, operation and applicable diagnostic information |
| Mounting hardware | Correct installation and security |
| V5005 vibrator | Approved condition and operation |
| Storage | Cleaning, protection and supporting arrangement specified by the manual |
Do not assume that a poly hopper makes the entire spreader corrosion-proof or suitable for unrestricted pressure washing.
Troubleshooting Kubota RTV Spreaders
These are diagnostic routes, not claims that the problems are widespread.
Spreader Does Not Operate
Identify the spreader, controller and wiring system before testing.
Use the correct diagram and procedure. Do not increase a fuse rating, bypass protection or substitute an unrelated controller to make the motor run.
The V5002-A catalogue includes separate control-harness and drive diagrams that can help establish the correct parts route.kubotausa+1
Motor Runs but Material Does Not Feed
Stop the equipment and follow the manual’s inspection procedure.
Establish whether the material is approved and whether the feed system is obstructed or incomplete. Do not reach into moving equipment or use the controller to force a blockage through.
Application Is Uneven
Check the material, calibration, approved operating conditions and equipment condition against the manual.
A maximum advertised spreading width is not proof that every material should produce that pattern.kubotausa
V5004 Displays a Fault
Use the controller-specific diagnostic information.
The brochure identifies self-diagnosis but does not establish code meanings or a universal reset procedure.kubotausa
V5005 Feed and Width Controls Behave Differently
The V5005 is documented with independent material and width control. Confirm the correct controller and operating procedure before assuming that one function has failed.kubotausa
Use Kubota RTV Spreader Electrical and Feed-System Troubleshooting for detailed, model-specific coverage.
Buying a Used Kubota RTV Spreader
A useful inspection starts with the identity and completeness of the entire installation.
| Used equipment | What to establish |
|---|---|
| Spreader | Exact reference and identification |
| Hopper | Condition and complete cover/screen |
| Controller | Correct model and readable identification |
| Wiring | Complete harness and unmodified connections |
| Mount | Approved vehicle application and full hardware |
| Drive system | Correct components and service history |
| V5005 vibrator | Presence and condition |
| Documentation | Applicable installation and operating manuals |
| Parts | Current availability of required replacements |
A used spreader with no controller or mounting frame may be difficult to reconstruct economically. Confirm the missing components before purchase.
A retained catalogue listing does not guarantee that a complete replacement assembly is immediately available.
Kubota RTV Spreader FAQs
What are the main documented Kubota RTV spreaders?
The reviewed manufacturer brochure lists V5002-A rock salt, V5003-A tailgate, V5004 drop and V5005 cargo-box spreaders.kubotausa
Which model is designed for rock salt?
The V5002-A is described as the Rock Salt Spreader, with a three-cu.-ft. hopper and up to 25-ft. spreading width. Follow the manual for approved material requirements.kubotausa
Which model is listed for seed and fertilizer?
Kubota’s V5003-A is described for year-round use, with seed, fertilizer and bagged ice melt given as examples. Its catalogue description is Rear Mount Seed and Fertilizer Spreader.kubotausa+1
Which spreader has a 36-inch pattern?
The V5004 drop spreader has a documented 36-inch spreading width and six-cu.-ft. hopper.kubotausa
Which has the largest hopper?
Among these four models, the V5005 has the largest published hopper at 11 cu. ft., with an 800-lb. material-capacity figure.kubotausa
Is V5005 listed for RTV-X1140?
Yes, but the brochure listing is not a complete configuration-specific loading instruction. Confirm the actual seating arrangement, installed weight and permitted load.kubotausa+1
Can these spreaders be fitted to an RTV520 or Sidekick?
The reviewed spreader entries do not establish those applications. Do not assume compatibility without separate documentation.kubotausa
Are they PTO-driven?
The four reviewed entries describe electric motors and transmission systems, not a K-Connect PTO requirement.kubotausa
Are the parts still catalogued?
Kubota retains catalogue entries for V5002-A, V5003-A and V5004, including some detailed component diagrams. That does not guarantee every part or complete kit is available.kubotausa+1
Does a larger spreader increase the RTV’s load rating?
No. The spreader’s capacity and the vehicle’s permitted load are separate limits. Confirm the complete installation and loading requirements.