Mini tractors: features, models, operating rules
Today, the range of motor vehicles pleases with its diversity. Both large cars and mini-format cars are presented for the choice of consumers. For example, modern mini-tractors are very popular among summer residents, which are very convenient and easy to use in work.
Peculiarities
Caring for a land plot often causes a lot of trouble, takes away the free time and energy of the owners. To simplify the solution of such problems, a huge amount of functional equipment has been developed, designed for plowing the land, and for harvesting, and for removing garbage from the site. Most of these units are powered by a gasoline or diesel engine. They are characterized by high performance, reliability and long service life. However, many models have impressive dimensions, especially when it comes to modern tractors.
If there is no particular eagerness to buy, as well as free space for placing a large tractor, then it is better to give preference to a model in mini format. Such units are designed to work in a small farm. Mini tractors are ideal for solving rather complex and demanding tasks. The main functions of a mini-tractor include the transportation of goods, cleaning the site from snow, digging trenches and holes, watering plantings. Of course, this is not a complete list of functions that such motor vehicles can perform. It is for this reason that many summer residents today prefer mini-tractors. In addition, such equipment can be an excellent assistant in small and medium-sized farms.
Today, small tractors are produced by many well-known companies. The choice is rich, so it will be possible to choose the optimal unit for every taste, color and budget. The main thing is to approach the choice of such a technique consciously and carefully, having decided in advance on the exact purposes for which it is planned to use it.
Advantages and disadvantages
Today the mini-tractor is recognized as a popular and demanded model of motor vehicles. It is chosen for purchase by many summer residents who want to significantly facilitate the care of their land plots. However, before you go to the store for such equipment, it is worth considering its advantages and disadvantages. The advantages of modern compact tractors are presented below.
- First of all, it should be noted the small dimensions of this technique. It is for this reason that it is so convenient to work on it, and you do not have to allocate a lot of free space for its storage. Moving small motor vehicles on the site is quick and easy.
- As a rule, such units are of modest weight. Due to this, they turn out to be more maneuverable - they are much easier to control than heavy units. In addition, their impact on the pedosphere is reduced, which has a positive effect on the greening of agricultural production.
- Many summer residents prefer mini tractors because they are more profitable from an economic point of view. Fuel consumption (gasoline or diesel) for such units is economical.
- This technique is distinguished by its high productivity and efficiency, despite its small size.
- Maintenance of a mini-tractor will not require a lot of free time and money.Such equipment is considered unpretentious.
- It should be noted that there is a wide range of similar agricultural machinery.
- The cost of mini-equipment is much lower than the price of standard large options.
- This is a multifunctional technique that allows you to solve many of the problems that summer residents face on their land plots.
As you can see, such units have a lot of advantages. However, there were some drawbacks here.
- The size of agricultural equipment is both a plus and a minus. For this technique, you do not need to allocate a lot of free space, because it is smaller than standard units, but most models will not fit in a regular garage or shed. Often, mini-tractors exceed motoblocks in size.
- The price of a mini-tractor, which is its advantage, pleases only against the background of full-size agricultural machinery. In fact, these units are not very cheap.
- Often, summer residents are faced with the problem of inaccessibility of many spare parts, especially when it comes to branded devices of foreign production. This applies not only to their cost, but also to distribution in retail outlets.
- Some mini tractor models are not the most convenient to operate. The list of such options includes modern Japanese devices. Included with them, of course, is an instruction manual, but often it is written in the manufacturer's language, which also causes a lot of difficulties.
- There may be some difficulties in transporting this equipment. To do this, you may have to turn to the services of special equipment, a truck, a trailer with an appropriate carrying capacity (for example, a caravan).
Models and their characteristics
There are several subspecies of mini tractors. They differ in their design and immediate purpose.
Rider
This technique can be considered a compact "baby" of the tractor. The rider is focused on solving a narrow range of tasks, which include transporting and holding attachments. It is intended exclusively for lawn work. By removing the mower, you can get self-propelled equipment. Despite the small area of application, such units are produced by many large factories both in China and in Europe. Today riders are presented in a wide range.
Garden
A small garden tractor is very popular among modern summer residents and gardeners. In most cases, this agricultural technique is produced with a capacity that does not exceed 15 liters. with. The design is usually made with two cylinders. Garden options are great for intermittent and short-term use. For example, it is permissible to use them for the purpose of mowing grass on a flat area, as well as for clearing small amounts of snow. A garden tractor is also suitable for transporting various goods.
The design of the garden tractor is simplified as much as possible. Typically, this technique includes a large number of plastic parts. The latter fact can be attributed to the disadvantages, since plastic is not the most wear-resistant and maintainable material. You will have to treat such equipment very carefully and carefully, since the repair can become a real problem. If you work with this technique, not forgetting about its fragility, then it will serve for a long time.
Many models of mini garden tractors are distinguished by the fact that they have a special integrated system for cutting, mulching and cutting grass. These options are inexpensive, maneuverable, easy to operate and economical in terms of fuel consumption. However, it must be borne in mind that these products are not suitable for continuous use, and there are limitations in attachments.
Modern motor units are also distinguished by the type of chassis. Below are some common options for this technique.
- Tracked. Such specimens are chosen by many summer residents.Their relevance is explained by the fact that they can adapt to surfaces of various types without any problems. A good quality mini crawler tractor will perform well and efficiently on uneven country roads. According to experienced users and specialists, tracked models are the optimal solution for the village.
- Wheeled. Wheeled units are especially popular today. They are found in many specialized retail outlets. Such devices are good in that they move much easier than tracked ones and are more pliable in matters of control.
As for the type of fuel to be poured, according to this criterion, agricultural machinery is divided into several types.
- Diesel. Diesel vehicles are more economical in terms of their consumption. In addition, these models show themselves as more wear-resistant. The main disadvantage of diesel tractors lies in the fact that during operation they emit an unpleasant and strong hum.
It is also worth considering that spare parts for these units are quite expensive, as are the repair work themselves. True, in winter, certain difficulties may arise with the operation of this technique. The average power of diesel devices usually reaches 12 liters. with.
- Gasoline. These options are designed to operate at any time of the year. They make a minimum of unnecessary noise, and in terms of repairs they turn out to be more profitable, because such an event will cost several times cheaper. The only nuance that can confuse the consumer is the significant consumption of combustible fuel, because it rises in price every year. The power of gasoline devices can reach 18 liters. with.
Also, mini-tractors are divided according to the type of drive.
- Four-wheel drive. Such units are considered the most maneuverable. They are controlled by four wheels simultaneously.
- Front wheel drive. In these models, only the front wheels are driven.
- Rear wheel drive. Here the rear wheels are driving.
Also on sale you can find a belt mini-tractor (with belt drive wheels). Such models are relatively simple in design and are cheaper. They are also produced by many well-known brands such as Snifeng, Fighter and Scout. We should also mention hydraulic tractors. Many craftsmen make a side rotator with their own hands. Also, some people independently build an efficient unit with a special breakable frame.
Optional equipment
Today, multifunctional small tractors equipped with a variety of additional equipment are especially popular. Usually, such units are designed to solve several problems at once on the site. Some of them are quite expensive, but you can find budget devices with additional components on sale. For example, the following additions for modern mini-tractors are rightfully recognized as the most common, relevant and in demand:
- front loader;
- addition with bucket and blade;
- potato planter (this equipment may have different sizes);
- potato digger;
- spreader of mineral fertilizers;
- baler;
- cultivator-hiller;
- brush;
- seeder;
- excavator;
- mowing machine;
- rake;
- rototiller and many other useful components.
With such additions, of course, there will be more benefits from the mini-tractor. Such equipment has different prices if purchased separately. When choosing them for your small tractor, you need to take into account its weight and dimensions. Additional equipment must match the existing motorcycles.
Selection Tips
As mentioned above, the selection of a suitable mini-tractor that will cope with all the tasks assigned to it should be approached thoroughly. It is important to weigh the pros and cons, as well as pay special attention to a number of the most significant criteria.Before going to a specialized store to buy a tractor, you need to decide in advance for what purposes it will be used. If you plan to work on this unit in a small area, the area of which is less than 5 hectares, then it is better to buy a simple and lightweight unit. It may not be the most powerful. These options are usually inexpensive. If the equipment will work in a more spacious area, then it is better to buy a model that is more powerful and more reliable.
It is also important to consider the type of engine of the device. The choice here is not so wide. It is believed that a diesel engine is the most reliable and durable, but it works very noisy and does not like low temperatures, which cannot be avoided in our country. The gasoline version does not make noise and is not afraid of cold weather, but it consumes more fuel. The choice of the best engine option should be based on these characteristics.
The engine manufacturer must be well-known. For example, units from the Lifan brand are widespread today, as well as high-quality Japanese copies. It is worth paying attention to the quality of the equipment assembly. A tractor (three-wheeled, caterpillar or four-wheeled) must be assembled conscientiously. There should be no looseness, loose or creaky parts. The whole design must inspire confidence. If you have the slightest doubt, it is better to refuse the purchase.
You should also consider the type of drive of the selected equipment. Four-wheel drive mini-tractors, which in most cases are equipped with a diesel engine, are more functional, maneuverable and productive. If the unit is selected exclusively for the transportation of goods, ennobling the lawn grass or caring for plantings, then you can take a closer look at the more affordable rear-wheel drive products.
It is equally important to consider the size and weight of the small tractor you are picking up. It should be borne in mind that the equipment should not only move freely around the site, but also easily enter the garage or a shed allocated for its storage. You also need to remember that the weight of a mini-tractor is associated with the level of its performance. If the volume of the planned work does not differ in a large volume, then it is advisable to buy a model whose weight is less than 1 ton. To calculate the optimal mass of such equipment, you should rely on the following proportion: 1 liter. with. should account for about 50 kg of weight.
It is worth deciding which gearbox is more suitable. Of course, a manual transmission is a one-stop solution. But for solving easy tasks, you can do with automatic. Do not forget about the complete set of the selected equipment. Many brands produce models that are initially equipped with a number of additional components that simplify land work at a summer cottage. You can buy an immediately equipped device, or you can stop at a more affordable option, which you can equip yourself in the future.
It is advisable to buy only branded models of small tractors. Fortunately, today this technique is produced by many well-known companies, so the choice is unlimited. In addition, branded units are covered by a manufacturer's warranty, and the risk of buying a defective product is minimal. It is necessary to purchase tractors at specialized retail outlets. You should not buy such equipment in obscure stores with a dubious reputation. Of course, in the latter, equipment can cost significantly less, but it will not last long, and the warranty may not apply to it.
When choosing the optimal agricultural equipment, it is worth considering all the listed recommendations. Fortunately, today buyers have a lot to choose from, because the range of this technique is large. If you plan to make a small tractor yourself, then it is worth buying branded and high-quality parts for its assembly.This list includes all major structural elements: brakes, gearbox, engine and battery.
How to use?
A mini tractor is a practical and very useful technique. If you want it to last as long as possible and not undergo frequent breakdowns, it should be used correctly. It is also very important to adhere to safety precautions when working with such equipment.
- The first and foremost rule is never to mix gasoline with oil.
- Do not smoke when refueling agricultural machinery.
- It is not recommended to constantly work at high speeds, as this can lead to serious skidding of even the most stable machine.
- It is imperative to adjust the valves when necessary.
- When working on a slope, it is advisable to carefully brake so that the equipment does not tip over.
- Before starting to work on the site using a tractor, be sure to familiarize yourself with the manual that comes with the kit.
- You should always inspect equipment from all sides. It is especially important to pay due attention to the device's brakes, controls and the clutch.
- Before starting or shutting off the device, make sure that the gear lever is in neutral.
- It is advisable to always wear a seat belt during work.
- Care must be taken to ensure that the clothes do not fall into the moving parts of the equipment.
- You need to work on a mini-tractor during the day when it is light.
- You should leave the motorcycle only at the moment when it is completely stopped.
- You need to work on this technique in special polycarbonate glasses to protect your eyes from injury.
- Gloves should be worn to keep your hands from slipping.
- It is better to work on such equipment in comfortable shoes with embossed soles.
The purchased mini-tractor must be treated with care. Do not forget to maintain and repair it in time, if necessary. You should not use the equipment for wear and tear, even if it was produced by a well-known and renowned company.
Owner reviews
Today, many summer residents have mini-tractors from different companies in their arsenal, hence the large number of reviews about such a technique. There are not only positive, but also negative statements. Of the good qualities that can only please, buyers note the following:
- reliability;
- a wide range and high stability of the most popular all-wheel drive units;
- high functionality, especially if the technique is complemented by good attachments;
- optimal dimensions, thanks to which people with small areas often turn to this technique;
- ease of use;
- low fuel consumption;
- good traction and turning radius of most models;
- high cross-country ability.
Buyers noticed a number of disadvantages behind such equipment. Some of them are presented below:
- not the most democratic cost;
- dependence of electrical equipment on electricity;
- some models do not have a roof;
- in Chinese-made models, metal quickly deforms, and the steering system also breaks down;
- laborious assembly;
- lack of a manual in Russian.
Of course, a lot depends on the quality of the equipment and the company that produced it. It is for this reason that for some consumers the mini-tractor has become a solid minus, and for others it is a huge plus, devoid of serious flaws.
For information on how to choose a mini tractor, see the next video.
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