To buy a walk-behind tractor, you need to contact the store directly, where it is possible to visually evaluate appearance unit and consult with experts about specifications the model you like. To have an idea of what criteria to pay attention to when choosing a unit, we recommend that you read this article.
What is a motoblock? Principle of operation, functions
Motoblock is a self-propelled single-axle unit, which belongs to a variety of small-sized tractors. Designed to replace manual labor in the farm. The walk-behind tractor has a large number of functions that are limited only by the attachments that are in service.Traction force, which is created by wheels or caterpillars, is the main condition for the operation of a walk-behind tractor.
Use walk-behind tractor for plowing and hilling small areas agricultural land, lawn mowing, snow removal, transportation of goods in towed trailers.
Most walk-behind tractors have different schemes aggregate functioning and can be equipped with the following tools (they are purchased separately):
- heavy - with fixed wheels, a plow, a harrow, a cultivator, a cutter driven by a power take-off shaft, a mower, a snow plow, a rake, a bulldozer blade, a semi-trailer;
- medium - with removable wheels and a cutter, a plow, a harrow, a hiller, a mower, a semi-trailer;
- light walk-behind tractor - cutter, hiller.
What is the difference between a walk-behind tractor and a cultivator?
The difference lies primarily in the capacities and functionality of these units. The motoblock occupies an intermediate link between a motorized cultivator and a mini-tractor.At the very beginning of the chain stands, which, as a rule, is used for preparing and loosening the soil. In addition to mechanized models equipped with a motor, there are also manual varieties of cultivators. They are mainly used for loosening and weeding small areas (beds, etc.). For a cultivator, the tool (grouser, cutter, etc.) is the driving axle, which is installed instead of the wheels.
Then comes a more powerful unit - cultivator. Previously, it was called a soil cutter, since the unit is poorly equipped with attachments, there are practically none with the exception of one cutter. In terms of strength and mass, it is inferior to the walk-behind tractor, which occupies the next link in this chain.
It can be equipped with a variety of attachments - this is its main difference from previous units. At the same time, it should be noted that some motor cultivators can be close in functionality to motor blocks.
Types of walk-behind tractors, their advantages and disadvantages
The table below shows the types of walk-behind tractors with their main pros and cons.| Unit type | Advantages | Flaws | general characteristics |
| Motoblock light | Good speed data, effectively cultivates the soil, requires relatively little fuel. | Carries out not very deep plowing of the soil. | Optimal solution for those who work in summer cottages and household plots. Can control a plow, hiller, other tools and devices. |
| Motoblock average | Power take-off shaft, differential, speed, reliability of nodes. | Relatively high cost, shallow plowing, small working width, lack of power for some attachments. | The most successful balance of cost and functionality. Recommended for small farms. Can be used with many attachments. |
| Motoblock heavy | Efficient and fast work on the processing of areas, uses a wide range of mounted, there are diesel modifications. | Enough high prices not only for the unit itself, but also the costs of expendable materials(fuel, etc.). | It is successfully used both in medium and large farms. |
Motoblocks are also classified according to the type of engine:
- Petrol. The main difference is that the fuel is ignited by a spark of a candle. As a rule, such a unit is bought for processing small plots of land. Its main advantage is low price. It is lightweight, easy to operate, starts freely in any weather, does not require high costs for maintenance and repair. The power is quite high - 6-9 hp. Less noisy than a diesel unit, and more environmentally friendly in terms of the amount of gas emissions into the atmosphere. Among the shortcomings can be called the use of 92 gasoline.
- Diesel. Glow plugs are used for ignition. The price significantly exceeds its counterparts - and this is with the same power, indicators of tillage, engine rotation speed. This is explained by the fact that such a walk-behind tractor has a high cross-country ability, is able to “work hard” continuously in large and difficult areas, using less fuel, besides, diesel fuel is inferior in cost to AI-92 gasoline. It is no coincidence that a diesel unit is chosen by professionals for working on farm fields, and a ginless unit is chosen by summer residents.
- With a power take-off shaft (PTO). The difference is versatility. Features a wide range of features that help mechanize manual labor. Such units are involved in planting lawns, various crops, can act as a garbage collector, and perform other communal functions. Most models have 4-stroke single-cylinder engines, as well as PTO mechanisms that allow the use of active attachments through a splined shaft.
Popular manufacturers, as a rule, have launched the production of both gasoline and diesel units.
What to look for when choosing a walk-behind tractor?
When buying a unit, you need to focus on the main parameters: type of work and area land plot. Someone needs to plow a garden on three acres, and someone needs to cultivate 1-2 hectares, loosen, plant, hill up. Accordingly, requests should pay attention to the characteristics of the walk-behind tractor.
Reducer
The service life and efficiency of the equipment as a whole will depend on its quality. This device facilitates the transfer of power from the motor shaft to the working units of the unit. Lightweight and inexpensive models may not have a collapsible gearbox, which means it cannot be repaired.Engine
There is a conditional division of engines into classes:- pro;
- semi-professional;
- household.
PTO
Helps to increase the range of possibilities, makes the unit multifunctional. Thanks to the shaft, equipment is installed that, due to the engine, performs functions in the active mode. For example, it not only throws out potatoes, but also cleans them from the ground and delivers them to a special storage facility via a conveyor.The range of attachments is wide:
- sweeps;
- sows;
- watering;
- cuts;
- grinds;
- mows, etc.
Trailer
Some models have the ability to hook carts, thereby turning the unit into a kind of mini-tractor. This requires good gear ratios in the gearbox - without them, an improvised unit will move no more than 2 km / h. It will be good if the manufacturer of the unit also produces carts.The best models of walk-behind tractors
We offer the top ten units in terms of reliability of domestic and foreign manufacturers, different cost, modification and design possibilities.No. 10. KaDvi Oka MB-1D1M10
The unit is primarily attracted by the presence of a power take-off shaft, a strong body and a powerful gearbox.Other distinctive features:
- excellent running, speed - 9 km / h;
- reliable gasoline engine, gas tank - 3.6 liters (several hours of operation);
- width of the treated area - 0.72-1.13 m, milling cutters - 3.6 m;
- manual transmission, 4 gears (2 - forward);
- power 6.5 hp;
- weight - 100 kg.
- the unit is quite noisy - 92 dB;
- not strong enough belt clutch;
- limited choice of attachments.
Watch the video review of this unit:
No. 9. Neva MB-23B-10.0
Domestic licensed brand. Middle class unit. Very reliable gearbox, gear drive, which is installed in the SU, 6 gears.Other features:
- processing width - 0.86-1.27 m, depth - 0.2 m;
- 6 cutters, rotation speed - 20-160 rpm;
- Briggs and Stratton gasoline engine - 10.6 hp;
- weight - 105 kg.
- the high price for this type of unit, which is 778 USD, but judging by the reviews, it justifies itself;
- the walk-behind tractor is noisy and a bit heavy.
No. 8. CAIMAN Vario 60S
Lightweight version of the motoblock. The presence of a PTO is immediately evident, which is atypical for this class.Other technical data:
- 6 straight cutters;
- tillage width - 0.3-0.9 m;
- petrol engine Sudaru-Robin EP 17 OHC, four-stroke, single-cylinder, chain reducer;
- gas tank - 3.4 l;
- reverse movement;
- weight - 57 kg.
- makes a lot of noise;
- is not cheap for this class (802 c.u.)
Watch the promo video with an overview of the main advantages of this walk-behind tractor:
No. 7. Belarus 09N-01
This unit has a full-fledged power take-off shaft, which is directly connected to the engine and gives significant potential to the equipment.The walk-behind tractor is equipped with:
- gasoline engine "Honda", with a capacity of 9.38 hp;
- mechanical transmission;
- 6 (4 forward) speeds;
- pneumatic wheels.
Flaws:
- great noise;
- belt clutch;
- high price - 1050 USD
No. 6. Scout GS 81D
Motoblock heavy class. The main feature is diesel and PTO direct connection, 8 speeds. The walk-behind tractor is equipped with headlights on a corrosion-resistant body and has a reliable air suspension.Technical specifications:
- power - 8.8 hp;
- mechanical transmission;
- friction clutch;
- gear reducer;
- weight - 213 kg.
Flaws:
- heavy weight;
- price - 1010 USD, which is offset by a solid set of features.
No. 5. PRORAB GT 80 RDKe
The popularity of this heavy walk-behind tractor was brought by excellent interchangeability of elements. In addition to a sturdy body with headlights and air suspension, the unit is equipped with:- electric starter;
- manual transmission, chain reducer, 8 speeds;
- four-stroke diesel 402 cc;
- gas tank - 5.5 liters.
The unit is capable of processing a plot in width - 0.7 m, at a depth - 0.25 m. The diameter of the cutter is 3 m, power - 8 hp, weight - 190 kg.
Among the shortcomings, in addition to noise and high cost (1300 USD), there are problems with starting in the cold.
No. 4. Celina MB-600
Motoblock middle class. In terms of price and production indicators, it is ahead of competitors. Equipped with pneumatic wheels, automatic transmission, PTO, gearbox provides 4 gears.Other Features:
- Lifan engine - 196 cc;
- power - 6.5 hp
- light for this class weight - 98 kg.
- well thought out management;
- low gasoline consumption - 395 g / h.
- 3.6 l fuel tank provides 4 hours of operation;
- processing width - 0.7-1.1 m, depth - 0.30 m.
Minuses:
- is not completed with a cutter;
- noise during operation (92 dB);
- the gearbox needs more control.
Number 3. Mobile K Ghepard CH395
Medium unit with air suspension and corrosion resistant housing. The main feature is in the direct connection of the PTO with the power mechanism.Other options:
- 4-stroke gasoline engine Kohler Command 277 cc;
- power - 24 hp;
- mechanical transmission, 7 gears;
- fuel tank with a volume of 7.3 liters;
- weight - 129 kg.
Disadvantages - the cost of the unit itself (2650 USD) and its maintenance.
Watch the video with the main characteristics of this walk-behind tractor:
No. 2. Agate BS-6.5
Medium unit. It has a pulley clutch of the shaft with a power device. The main advantage is the gear reducer.Other indicators:
- transmission - mechanical;
- three-speed;
- gas tank - 3.75 liters (with a moderate load, it lasts an average of 10 hours of operation);
- weight - 87.5 kg;
- speed - 7 km / h;
- capture along the width of the cultivated area - 0.6 m, depth - 0.30 m;
- 4 cutters;
- 4-stroke petrol engine.
Minuses:
- like all units of a similar class, it emits a high rumble during operation;
- there is a weakness in the clutch, so control is needed.
No. 1. ZiD Favorite (WY 170F)
Optimally balanced, requiring no modifications, the walk-behind tractor is the leader of the Top 10. It belongs to the light type of units, but has a lot of advantages:25.12.2015
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How to choose a walk-behind tractor for a summer residence and a garden, inexpensive and reliable?
Many farming enthusiasts are wondering how to choose a walk-behind tractor to facilitate their work on the site? Specialized stores have a large number of equipment with various equipment and capabilities that will be useful not only in a small summer cottage, but also cope with complex tasks on large farms ...
What is the difference between a cultivator and a walk-behind tractor and which is better?
If you don’t know how to choose a walk-behind tractor or a cultivator, then read on ... The main purpose of the cultivator is to till the soil before sowing. This unit cultivates the soil without turning the earth plates inside out. The use of a cultivator allows not only to loosen the earth, but also to eliminate weeds, crush coarse soil, mix fertilizer. 
On the garden plot, a small mechanism easily copes with tillage in greenhouses, greenhouses, flowerbeds and beds. The cultivator is very convenient to use, even a woman can handle it. Where deep tillage is not required, a cultivator is suitable. Loosening to a shallow depth will be enough to enrich the earth with oxygen and destroy weeds.
in the photo - walk-behind tractor and nozzles for it
Motoblock is a more complex and universal technique, in addition to loosening the earth, it is used for plowing, cutting furrows and beds, hilling. Attached equipment, which is additionally installed on the walk-behind tractor, allows you to perform work not related to soil cultivation (mowing grass, transporting goods, etc.)
Motoblock capabilities
When purchasing a walk-behind tractor for a garden, gardeners often use it to cultivate the land, not knowing that the equipment has a large number additional features. The main purpose of the walk-behind tractor is, of course, land development, which includes plowing, inter-row and continuous cultivation, hilling, harrowing, etc.:
Plowing. It is carried out with the help of a plow, which is installed on the machine, in addition, the most powerful units are used for plowing virgin land. Unlike a cultivator, a walk-behind tractor plows to a great depth, raising the deep layers of the earth, and mixes them. The soil is saturated with oxygen, air permeability increases. Such functionality of the machine will be necessary for farmers and summer residents who have large plots of land in order to develop uncultivated and unplowed lands;
in the photo - a walk-behind tractor with a plow for plowing
Hilling. The hiller nozzle allows, which saves time. The benefits of such a process are great, the soil rises from the lower layers, the potatoes are saturated with oxygen and evaporate excess moisture. Hilling will also be useful for strawberries if it grows on lands where groundwater passes close;
Harrowing. To perform this function, a special nozzle with teeth is used. The harrowing process with the help of a walk-behind tractor allows you to break the earthen crust formed as a result of weather conditions. With the help of this nozzle, weeds are removed;
Planting and digging. Potato planter and potato digger will facilitate processes in large and small areas. About two large buckets are placed in a special compartment for potatoes, and with the help of a seeder you can sow onions and garlic;
Maintenance of lawns and flower beds. A special rotary mower, which is included with the walk-behind tractor, perfectly cuts the grass at a distance of one meter. It is also possible to install an aerator, which allows you to enrich the lawn with oxygen, which makes it better to grow thicker. An additional chopper will allow you to grind grass and tops into compost, and a motor pump will perfectly cope with watering flower beds and a vegetable garden;
Winter hustle and bustle. If you think that the walk-behind tractor can only be used in the autumn-spring season, then you are mistaken. A snow shovel, brushes and a snow blower will save you from having to clear everything afterwards;
in the photo - a walk-behind tractor with a nozzle for snow removal
Transportation of goods. The owner of a complete set of attachments for a walk-behind tractor can only buy a trailer and, proudly sitting on a car, drive around the garden space, removing debris, cut tree branches or delivering compost with manure. If there is a need to bring a heavy load from a hardware store or collect stones to create a landscape on the site, then a walk-behind tractor with a trailer will cope with this task.
All nozzles that were mentioned above must be purchased separately, since only wheels and a cultivator are included in the package of the walk-behind tractor. The greater the power of the walk-behind tractor, the more functions it will be able to perform.
Which is better to buy a walk-behind tractor and what to look for?
When buying a walk-behind tractor, it is necessary to take into account not only the manufacturer, but also important related factors, in which there will be good results in work and ease of work:
- the area of the site for processing with a walk-behind tractor;
- composition and type of cultivated soil;
- the amount of work that will need to be done with the machine.
The minimum and maximum power of motoblocks are 3.5-10 Horse power. There are more powerful machines, but they are not often found on sale. To choose the right walk-behind tractor of sufficient power, you need to take into account the amount of land that will be cultivated:
- A walk-behind tractor for a small garden (up to 13-15 acres) must be taken with a power of 3.5-4 hp, in this case the plow width of the machine is selected up to 60 centimeters;
on the photo - Grillo g110 walk-behind tractor, power 11 l / s, with a large selection of attachments
- For cultivating land with an area of 15-30 acres, it is better to choose a unit with a capacity of 4.5-5 horsepower with a plow width of 80 centimeters;
- For owners of wide courtyards with an area of 30-50 acres, a machine with a capacity of 5-7 horsepower with a grip of 90 centimeters is suitable;
- For large farms occupying up to 3-4 hectares of agricultural land, a walk-behind tractor with 10 hp is suitable. and a plow width of one meter;
- For agricultural land occupying vast spatial territories, it is better to change the walk-behind tractor to a tractor, since the work performed is voluminous and much more effort is required.
The type of soil on the site has special meaning when choosing a walk-behind tractor. Heavy clay soils cannot be processed with a walk-behind tractor with low power. The machine will work with overloads, because of which the engine will quickly fail. The light weight of low-power equipment will not allow plowing heavy land to the proper depth, it will work idle (slip).
Before you buy a walk-behind tractor for the garden, make sure that this machine allows you to work with the necessary attachments so that later you will not be disappointed with the purchase. To transport heavy equipment, the equipment must have large wheels (from 400 mm). A power take-off shaft will be required for a mower, a water pump, as well as a snow thrower, since not all models can be equipped with these nozzles.
If you are going to use the walk-behind tractor in winter time, choose a walk-behind tractor with a gasoline engine and an electric starter so that there are no problems starting the unit. Adjustable handles and the ability to lock the differential will be a good addition to the machine.
The question of how to choose a walk-behind tractor for processing a summer cottage is quite complex and responsible. Properly selected equipment will allow you to perform a large amount of work on the ground without significant expenditure of effort and money. In addition, the quality of mechanical processing of the earth significantly exceeds the result obtained when digging with a shovel. Modern market agricultural equipment is saturated with motor blocks and motor cultivators, which differ in various trademarks, features and capabilities. To know how to choose the right walk-behind tractor for ennobling a garden, yard and vegetable garden, you need to familiarize yourself with the main characteristics of these products and the specifics of the tasks they perform.
Consider the similarities and differences between a cultivator and a walk-behind tractor. Products of the first category are distinguished by their small size, weight and limited functionality. With their help, you can loosen upper layer soil, provided there are no plant roots in it. The choice of a walk-behind tractor for a summer residence allows you to perform a wide range of work that is not limited to loosening or digging.
Having bought a walk-behind tractor for a summer residence, you can use it for such actions:
- Plowing a summer cottage for planting flowers, berries or vegetables. Processing is carried out with a mounted plow. Heavy equipment is capable of lifting virgin soil, processing heavy clay and stony soil. An inexpensive and reliable unit makes trenches up to 40 cm deep for laying various communications, building fences, laying curbs, creating a foundation pit.
- Processing plowed soil. To improve access to horticultural crops of moisture and oxygen, harrowing, cultivation and hilling of beds are carried out. Along the way, weeds and large debris are removed.
- Landscaping and cleanup. With the help of special nozzles, snow removal, lawn mowing, grass cuttings and associated loosening of the top layer of soil are carried out.
- Boarding and collection vegetable crops. Special attachments make it possible to plant and dig up potatoes, onions, garlic and cereals. The trailed hopper is convenient to use for uniform application of fertilizers to the ground.
- Transportation of various property. To do this, you need to choose a walk-behind tractor that has the possibility of attaching front and rear adapters, carts or winter sledges. To transport a heavy trailer (up to 500 kg), the unit must have sufficient power and weight.
It is necessary to take into account all these aspects before deciding which walk-behind tractor to purchase for the garden. Consider the nuances that you need to pay attention to in order to choose the most suitable model unit, what indicators are necessary to perform a variety of work on the site.
How to determine power and weight
Power is the determining factor in the performance of a machine. The higher it is, the heavier the soil can be lifted and the larger area can be processed. The degree of adhesion to the ground directly depends on the weight of the equipment.
We choose the unit from the 3 categories available today for sale:
- Lungs. Such machines weigh in the range of 55-75 kg, the engine has a power of 3-5 hp. Choose devices of this class for processing a plot of up to 10 acres. Functionality light equipment small, it is used for loosening the soil, mowing and collecting grass. In the presence of well-groomed gardens, light machines are used for hilling and harrowing rows.
- Medium. The middle class of walk-behind tractors has a wider scope. They have a power of 5-8 hp. and weigh 80-125 kg. Almost all types of auxiliary equipment can be suspended on such machines. They can easily lift heavy soil, make trenches up to 20 cm deep, hill beds, collect snow and mowed grass.
- Heavy. This equipment in terms of its capabilities, it approaches a light wheeled tractor. The heavy walk-behind tractor is durable and reliable. Weight without equipment is 150-300 kg, power - 8-12 hp. Equipment of this class can perform the entire range of agricultural work, including raising virgin soil, planning the territory and transporting goods up to 500 kg on trailers and sledges. With the help of adapters, a two-axle machine turns into a full-fledged tractor with headlights and rear-view mirrors. For 1 call, a heavy unit is able to process a plot of up to 3 hectares.
Before choosing a walk-behind tractor for a garden, you need to weigh your financial capabilities in relation to fuel costs. If light machines consume 2-2.5 liters per hour of work, then for heavy machines this figure can reach up to 8-10 liters.
At first glance, it may seem that this question is not fundamental. But it is not so, functionality diesel and gasoline engines vary greatly, as evidenced by user reviews.
Let's take a look at the pros and cons various types power plants.
- Petrol engines. Differ simple and robust design to which most motorists are accustomed. Have a compact size, sufficient power, easy to maintain. Work in a wide temperature range. The undoubted advantage is the affordable cost of even foreign models. The disadvantages include low productivity, high fuel consumption and limited motor resources.
- Diesel engines. Differ in high reliability, durability and profitability. As a rule, they are installed on machines of medium and heavy class, as they are heavy. The disadvantages of a diesel power plant include its high cost and high cost of maintenance. In addition, for operation at sub-zero temperatures, it is necessary to use special arctic fuel, which is not always available for sale.
For processing small plots it is advisable to purchase light and medium gasoline models. Heavy diesel units irreplaceable for work in difficult conditions and on the big areas.
Choice of launch system
To some, this nuance may seem secondary and not worthy. special attention. However, user reviews indicate that the very possibility of using the unit for its intended purpose depends on the correct choice of the type of starter.
Consider the features of motoblock engine start systems:
- Manual. It is a flywheel on which a cord with a handle is wound. The cord can be detachable or attached to the starter. The advantage of such a system is autonomy and independence from external power sources. The disadvantage is that it takes a lot of effort to start the engine, especially in winter.
- Electric. The electric starter makes the process of starting the power plant an easy and fast process. The downside is the need for a charged battery. If the unit has been idle for a long time, then the energy source is discharged, and it may take several hours to bring it to working condition.
- Combined. This system is installed on modern models motoblocks. To prevent battery discharge, generators are installed on them, which also provide lighting at night. Such equipment has a rather high cost.
Do right choice an assessment of your physical abilities and the state of your wallet will help.
Package contents and additional functions
When choosing a walk-behind tractor, it is advisable to inquire about the presence additional options, which expand its functionality, increase the level of security and simplify management.
These options include:
- sockets for attaching adapters - allow you to turn the unit into a full-fledged mini-tractor with a seat for the operator;
- adjustment of the steering rods - makes it possible to install them in a convenient position for the worker's complexion;
- suspension under steering - reduces vibration from the engine and the load on the operator;
- emergency stop system - blocks and turns off the engine in case of overheating, critical fuel and oil levels;
- the presence of protective covers - stop flying from under working area stones, branches and other hard objects.
When buying a walk-behind tractor, you should immediately purchase auxiliary equipment. This decision is justified both from a practical and financial point of view.
To work in the garden you may need:
- replaceable steel wheels with blades;
- dump for territory planning and snow removal;
- rotary snow blower for cleaning paths;
- lawn mower for cultivating the recreation area;
- potato digger for harvesting root crops.
For transporting goods over a short distance, a wheeled cart and sled will be an indispensable device.
Domestic or imported units
It is believed that foreign-made equipment is better than domestic units in all respects. In many ways, this opinion is justified, since the experience of operating foreign products speaks in their favor. However, today Russian manufacturers produce equipment that is practically not inferior in all respects to imported analogues. This applies not only performance characteristics but also external design. At the same time, the prices of domestically produced products are several times lower than imported units.
Some models are equipped with power plants from world famous manufacturers (Mitsubishi, Honda, Robin-Subaru, Briggs & Stratton, Lombardini, Minsel).
As for imported models, you should pay attention to:
- Chinese Zirka, KDT, Forester, Aurora, Bison, Centaur;
- Italian Meccanica Benassi, Oleo-Mac, Goldoni, Grillo, Bertolini;
- German Solo, Gardena, MTD, Huter;
- Swedish Stiga, Husqvarna.
It is advisable to buy this product as a promising investment. Despite the high cost, the units of these brands serve for decades without breakdowns and repairs.
Motoblock user reviews
Vyacheslav, 37 years old, Voronezh.
As soon as purchased country cottage area 30 acres, immediately decided to buy a walk-behind tractor. I opted for the Neva with a Japanese 6 hp engine. Scored a full set of attachments, including trailer. The equipment is excellent, digs, mows, plants and cleans. Fuel consumption is also pleasing: a 20-liter canister is enough to process the site in spring and autumn. There was a problem associated with slippage when processing heavy and wet soil. I solved it simply: I installed iron wheels and crushed the unit with a weighting agent.
Egor, 44 years old, Raychikhinsk.
After several years of digging with a shovel and waving a scythe, I decided to mechanize work in the country. He supported a domestic manufacturer and bought a Forza 150 with a 9 hp engine. The car met all expectations - powerful, heavy and productive. In addition to an earth-moving unit, it is used as a vehicle for transporting goods over short distances. The disadvantages inherent in all Russian technology are poor fitting of parts, strong vibration and leakage.
Andrey, 51 years old, Volgograd.
I studied the issue for a long time and came to the conclusion - it is better to buy a domestic-made walk-behind tractor. The reason for this decision was the arguments in favor of affordable cost and the availability of cheap spare parts. Acquired a heavy unit Rusich with complete set mounted and trailed equipment. In general, I am satisfied with the purchase, despite the fact that the unit is angular, it makes a lot of noise and vibrates. However, the unit is reliable, performs any tasks in the most difficult weather conditions. All maintenance consists of periodic oil changes and tightening of bolted joints.
Which is better to buy a walk-behind tractor?
Summer residents who are seriously engaged in gardening and gardening cannot do without certain equipment, because you cannot cultivate the land with your hands, and your health will suffer from this. The first and main assistant can be a walk-behind tractor. This is an expensive technique, but the number of functions that it is capable of performing in a year more than justify the purchase. It remains to find out how to choose a walk-behind tractor, and what qualities to pay attention to in the first place.
In some stores, all equipment for working with the earth is presented as walk-behind tractors different power and weight. Therefore, motor cultivators, which are called ultralight motor blocks, often come across in this category. In fact, these are two different units, and when choosing equipment for your own garden, you should decide what is more profitable for you.
A motor cultivator is a mechanized tool, which has a milling cutter on the driving axle, capable of processing only the top layer of the earth. We considered this technique in more detail in a separate article "". The function of the cultivator is limited only to the processing of the top layer of the earth, while the walk-behind tractor can replace most of the garden equipment.
Thus, a walk-behind tractor is a kind of mini-tractor. Its nozzles work due to wheel traction, and a person only controls the equipment, following it. Both in terms of power and abilities, motor blocks are much stronger than motor cultivators and are equipped with a large number of attachments. It is these units that we will analyze in more detail.
What can a walk-behind tractor: the capabilities of a mini-tractor
Dreaming of a walk-behind tractor, summer residents mainly expect to cultivate the land with its help. But this technique has many more functions.
earthworks
Naturally, the main functions of the walk-behind tractor are earthworks, and more specifically, plowing, harrowing, hilling, cutting rows, etc.:
- Plowing. They plow the land with a plow, which is hung on the unit, and powerful models are able to lift virgin soil. This feature is especially useful for novice gardeners and gardeners who need to first bring the ground to a normal state in order to plant something on it later. The walk-behind tractor, unlike a motor-cultivator, raises the deep layers of the soil, shoveling and mixing the soil, and thereby saturates the earth with oxygen, making it more airy. In such soil, both the level of moisture and air circulation are much better than in dug under a shovel.
- Harrowing. Harrowing is carried out with a separate nozzle with teeth. The purpose of this work is to break up the crust on the surface of the soil, which is formed as a result of the drying of the upper part of the soil under the sun. Due to the crust, oxygen access to the root system is disturbed horticultural crops and moisture is not retained in the soil. In addition, weeds are effectively removed with the help of harrowing.
- Hilling. For owners who plant potatoes in their dachas (weaving 4-5), the walk-behind tractor will be useful as. Special nozzle will help raise the furrows to give the tubers a chance to ventilate better and rid them of excess moisture. Hilling is also useful for strawberries, especially if it is grown in a lowland, where increased moisture causes damage to the berries by gray rot.
- Digging and planting garden crops. With the help of attachments such as a potato planter and a potato digger, the walk-behind tractor will make it easier for you to plant and harvest your "second bread". The volume of the bunker includes about three buckets of planting potatoes, which can be filled either by the plowman himself or by his assistant. A seeder is used to plant seeds, garlic cloves and onions.
Harrowing is carried out while the potatoes have barely appeared on the surface of the earth to help them break through the dried topsoil.
Potato planters contain different amount planting material, but the most common option, which is filled with about 3 buckets
With a seeder it is convenient to plant crops in the fall, which usually fertilize the soil and rid it of weeds. In spring, green sprouts plow
Lawn and flower garden care
In addition to earthworks, the walk-behind tractor is capable of performing lawn care. To do this, it comes with a rotary mower, which cuts the grass no worse than a trimmer, capturing about a meter of lawn at once. And if you also buy an aerator nozzle, then your lawn will receive additional oxygen supply and will grow thicker.
With the “lawn rake” attachment, you can collect grass clippings and at the same time move the soil to give more oxygen to the roots
A useful addition is a grinder that grinds all garden debris for composting.
The grinder can be used to create green compost from vegetable waste, as well as grind cut branches of trees and shrubs
For watering the garden and flower beds, a motor pump is connected to the walk-behind tractor.
Winter chores
In winter, the walk-behind tractor will also not be idle. It turns into, thanks to special devices:
- brushes that clean the paths from soft, just fallen snow;
- a snow shovel with knives that cuts and removes packed snow;
- snow thrower, which rakes snow with blades to a depth of about 20 cm and throws it out of the track.
Cargo transportation
For complete happiness, the owner of a walk-behind tractor also needs to buy a trailer. Then you can proudly sit on your own equipment and drive around the garden, collecting garbage, cut branches or delivering manure, fertilizers, bags of potatoes, etc. Using a trailer, you can even bring bags of cement from the nearest hardware store or collect stones on roadside fields for building a fence. Thus, you will reduce the load on your own back and arms by entrusting the transportation of goods to technology.
The trailer makes a full-fledged mini-tractor out of a walk-behind tractor, on which you can sit and transport various heavy loads around the site
All of the above nozzles, except for the cultivator and wheels, do not come with the walk-behind tractor. They are purchased separately, taking into account the power of the equipment. And the more "horsepower" in the unit, the more functions it can perform.
By what criteria is the power of a walk-behind tractor selected?
When deciding which walk-behind tractor to choose, three aspects are taken into account:
- how much land he will have to cultivate;
- type of soil on the site;
- the amount of work that the technician has to do.
Unit performance calculation
The power of motoblocks starts from 3.5 hp, and ends with 10 hp. Stronger aggregates are rare. When selecting power, you should focus on the amount of land that will have to be cultivated.
- If the plot is up to 15 acres, then 3.5-4 "strength" is enough. In this case, the capture width is about 60 cm.
- For processing plots of 20-30 acres, they take equipment with a power of 4.5-5 hp. and a working width of 80 cm.
- For a land plot of half a hectare, it is worth purchasing a model of 6-7 hp. and a working width of 90 cm.
- For a hectare and more - up to 10 hp. and working width - meter.
- From four hectares, it is better to cultivate the land with a tractor, since such a volume is too heavy for both the walk-behind tractor and its owner.
At the same time, keep in mind that fuel consumption will increase in proportion to performance.
The dependence of the mass of the walk-behind tractor on the type of soil
The soil on the site plays a significant role in the selection of equipment. For heavy clay soils and the development of virgin lands, low-power units are not suitable. Firstly, their capacities will not be enough to shovel such land, and the engine will work with high overloads. Accordingly, and fly out quickly. Secondly, low-power equipment weighs less, which means it will not provide deep soil capture and will slip when plowing.
Oriented as follows:
- if the soil is light, worked out, you can buy a model up to 70 kg in weight. Such walk-behind tractors come with 3, 5 - 6 hp;
- on clay soils, aggregates from 95 kg in weight work effectively;
- to develop virgin lands, you will need a mini-tractor of 120-150 kg. Moreover, it should come with metal wheels, which are called lugs.
Diesel walk-behind tractors are famous for their faster rotational speed and thus crush the soil more efficiently, but the repair of gasoline engines is easier, and even at sub-zero temperatures you can’t go on diesel fuel.
Also, material on how to make a walk-behind tractor with your own hands using the example of a design from Valentin Arkhipov will also be useful:
Grousers, or metal wheels, due to the blades, bite tightly into the soil and prevent the walk-behind tractor from slipping when plowing virgin and heavy lands
On what elements does the functionality of the walk-behind tractor depend?
Before choosing a walk-behind tractor for a garden, you need to study its design to make sure that you can hang all the desired equipment on this model.
- So, if you use a walk-behind tractor for transporting goods, then the equipment must have large pneumatic wheels (from 450 mm).
- Power attachments (water pump, snow thrower, mower) require a PTO. There are models in which such nozzles simply have nowhere to cling to.
- For winter use, there must be a gasoline engine, and a well-known company, so that it starts the first time.
- A useful element is an electric starter, thanks to which the walk-behind tractor is easier to start.
Desirable elements:
- handle adjustment;
- unlocking differential;
- emergency handle for emergency stop.
If there is a choice between domestic and foreign equipment, then “native” units will cost less. In addition, they are not so sensitive to fuel quality. But due to poor-quality assembly, components often require repair. For foreign manufacturers, such problems are rare.
Three decades ago, the question posed in the title of the article simply did not exist. In those years, the industry did not mass-produce motoblocks.
Collective farms did not need small-scale mechanization and cultivated the land with powerful wheeled and caterpillar equipment.
Rare craftsmen adapted tractor starter engines to makeshift chassis, which caused surprise and envy among non-mechanized summer residents.
Today the "golden age" of motoblocks has come. These universal machines are actively used in peasant farmsteads and small farms, replacing two or three types of conventional equipment.
Anyone who saw a walk-behind tractor in operation probably highly appreciated its capabilities and is not averse to acquiring such a “humpbacked horse” for their site.
Before buying such a mechanism, you need to understand, which will give you the use of a walk-behind tractor, since it is often confused with a walk-behind tractor. Compared to it, the walk-behind tractor can perform many more work operations.
In addition to cultivation and hilling, they can plow the land, use it for transporting goods, cleaning snow and mowing grass. Harvesting potatoes and watering the garden are two more popular functions of this mechanism, implemented when purchasing additional equipment.
Structurally, the walk-behind tractor differs from the cultivator in that that the traction force is created by the wheels. The cultivator "pulls" a cutter mounted on the drive shaft along the ground. In addition, the walk-behind tractor differs from the cultivator plant in more powerful engine(from 4 hp), and solid weight (from 70 kg).
Some models of walk-behind tractors have a hitch for towing a trailer and a power take-off shaft, which allows them to be aggregated with attachments.
Varieties of walk-behind tractors
The classifying features that affect the choice of walk-behind tractor are their weight and engine power.
There are three types of these units.- light, medium and heavy. The first two categories are for domestic use. The weight of such machines is in the range from 50 to 100 kilograms, and the engine power does not exceed 8 hp. Many of them are equipped with a gearbox with two forward and one reverse speed.
Heavy walk-behind tractors are designed for farming. They weigh more than 100 kilograms, have a gearbox and an engine with more than 8 hp. Such machines can be retrofitted with attachments that significantly expand their capabilities.
Let us consider in more detail the process of choosing a walk-behind tractor, based on the conditions of its operation: the type of soil, the area of processing and the number of functions.
soil type
When answering the question of how to choose a walk-behind tractor, the first thing you need to pay attention to is the density of the soil that you have to cultivate. The heavier the earth, the more powerful and heavy machinery will be required. A walk-behind tractor weighing up to 70 kg without slipping will pull a hiller or plow only on light ground. For virgin and heavy soils, its weight should start at 95 kg.
Speaking about the power plant of a walk-behind tractor, it should be noted that a diesel engine for processing heavy land is better than a gasoline one. It has a higher traction force, a long service life and low fuel consumption. The disadvantage of such a motor is difficult starting at air temperatures below + 2C.
Motoblocks weighing less than 150 kg when working with a hiller, plow or potato digger must be equipped with lugs - metal wheels.
Processing area
This indicator affects the power of the selected mechanism and the width of its processing of the soil in one pass. If the plot area does not exceed 15 acres, it is enough to buy an average walk-behind tractor with an engine from 3.5 to 4 hp. and processing width up to 800 mm.
If the arable allotment is from 15 to 40 acres, a walk-behind tractor with an engine of at least 7 hp is required. and tillage width of 900 mm.
To work on a large area (from 40 acres to 1 ha), you will need a unit with a capacity of 9 hp or more. and working width up to 1000 mm.
Processing depth
In accordance with the requirements of agricultural technology, the optimal depth of soil cultivation with a walk-behind tractor should be in the range from 20 to 30 cm.
Additional functions
The list of additional equipment for equipping walk-behind tractors is quite wide, but you need to choose only those devices that you will most often need.
Without a power take-off shaft, the functions of a walk-behind tractor are reduced only to cultivating the soil and plowing the site. A rotary lawn mower, snow thrower, motor pump, potato digger and other attachments can be connected to the power take-off shaft.
If there is a need to use a walk-behind tractor for transporting goods, you need to choose a model equipped with a tow hitch and large pneumatic wheels (at least 45 cm in diameter).
Best for clearing snow buy a unit with a branded carburetor engine, as it starts better and works stably at low temperatures. To drive the snow thrower, not only the power take-off shaft is equally well suited, but also a conventional pulley.
The ability to adjust the handles in height is a useful option that increases comfort when working. To transport cargo, a prerequisite is the ability to turn the handles of the walk-behind tractor by 180 degrees.
Engine, gearbox and clutch
The engine is the most expensive and critical unit of the walk-behind tractor. Therefore, saving on it means doing repairs every season instead of productive work.
The highest quality and economical motors for these units are produced by Greenfield, Subaru, Honda, Forza and BRIGGS & STRATTON. The Chinese Lifan power units, manufactured under license from Honda, have proven themselves well.
Almost all manufacturers of walk-behind tractors today complete their machines with engines of the listed companies. Therefore, it makes no sense to buy a “clean” Honda, which will cost several times more than the unit on which the Honda engine is located.
Regarding the number of engine cycles, it can be confidently stated that four-stroke engines are preferable to two-stroke ones, both in terms of economy and in terms of reliability.
Motoblock clutch can have a multi-disk or single-disk design, and is also implemented as a belt drive. The first two types of clutch are more reliable, therefore they are used for installation on heavy machines.
Motoblock reducer It has great value for its trouble-free operation, so you must definitely pay attention to it when choosing. Non-separable gearboxes are installed on cheap units, which in the event of a breakdown have to be completely changed.
A collapsible serviced gearbox is more profitable in this regard, especially if it is made of cast iron rather than aluminum.
the best design options reducers are gear and gear-chain. The worm gear gets very hot when running at full load. This leads to the need to stop the walk-behind tractor every 20-30 minutes.
Manufacturers and estimated prices
Having got an idea about the technical parameters and capabilities of these units, it is much easier to answer the question of which walk-behind tractor is better to buy. In this case, we can only compare prices in the selected class of these machines.
Among light walk-behind tractors, the Russian brand Salyut is in demand today..Users of this technique in their reviews write that the most best walk-behind tractor this company is the one on which there is a 4-stroke Japanese gasoline engine with a power of 5 hp, a gear reducer and a V-belt clutch. Its price is from 31 thousand rubles.
Its competitor is the Neva MB 3C walk-behind tractor(weight 70 kg) equipped with a 5.7 hp Subaru engine. At a cost of 34 thousand rubles. this unit is optimal for work on personal and farm plots.
The cost of medium motoblocks of the French brand Caiman (Caiman) starts from 46 thousand rubles. You will have to pay this amount for a 6-horsepower unit with a Robin-Subaru engine. It is equipped with 2 forward and one reverse gear. Its maximum tillage depth is 32 cm with a working width of up to 90 cm.
Domestic medium motoblocks Neva, Cascade with the same performance and reliable American motors Briqqs & Stratton will cost a more modest amount - from 34 to 39 thousand rubles. The price tag for a Chinese gasoline Centaur (7 hp), capable of plowing the soil to a depth of 30 cm with a passage width of 100 cm, does not exceed 26 thousand rubles.
In the category of heavy diesel walk-behind tractors in terms of price-quality ratio, the Scout technique is a confident middle peasant. Motoblocks with a tiller from this manufacturer with a capacity of 8 liters. With. (such as 81 D) can be purchased from 59 thousand rubles, more powerful models (101 DE, 15 DE) will cost about 80-85 thousand rubles.
Scout 15 DE
You can get acquainted with the Scout brand line in Russia in more detail at the official dealer - at the Gardenshop company.
You should also pay attention to the MTZ Belarus brand and the Chinese Bison. These machines are equipped with Honda and Briqqs & Stratton diesel engines with a power of 9-10 hp, have a disc clutch and a gear reducer.
Four forward and two reverse speeds allow not only high-quality plowing of heavy soil, but also transporting goods on a trailer cart. The price of such walk-behind tractors starts at 70 thousand rubles.
In the reviews of the Zubr heavy walk-behind tractors, one can find complaints about the low workmanship, the need to tighten the connections before starting operation, and the noise in operation. This unit is inferior to the MTZ brand, but at the same time much cheaper than the Belarusian counterpart (the price of a 12 hp unit is in the range of 42-46 thousand rubles)
