Selection and installation of tracks for a walk-behind tractor

Modern models of motoblocks, produced by both foreign and domestic manufacturers, are quite powerful equipment. Its characteristics and the ability to use additional equipment, in particular, the installation of tracks, provide a wide range of tasks. At the same time, functionality depends on the correct choice of ready-made or competent manufacture of homemade tracked units.

The effectiveness of walk-behind tractors cannot be overestimated. This can be confirmed by any farmer who owns such a technique. These multifunctional units are used year-round by re-configuring the drive and installing crawler-mounted modules. As a result, the walk-behind tractor can be operated in almost any conditions. Now many manufacturing companies offer their products in this segment. In addition, there are many drawings and detailed instructions, according to which, with minimal costs and with the necessary skills, the owner of the described equipment will be able to make tracks for the walk-behind tractor on his own. Regardless of which option you choose, the following factors must be considered:

• track chains can be made from a wide variety of materials;
• attachments must correspond in weight to the power of the power unit;
• in most cases, the tracks are fitted to four wheels, so two-wheeled models need to be modified accordingly.

In many respects, the caterpillar track compares favorably with the wheeled version. Taking into account the fact that the owners of farms are trying to maximize the use of walk-behind tractors to perform a wide range of tasks, the purchase or manufacture of tracks will be a rational solution. Naturally, like any other technique, these machines have their undeniable advantages and equally significant disadvantages. As for the merits, several points can be highlighted here.

• By efficiently distributing the load, the pressure on the bearing surface is minimized.
• Thanks to these elements, the permeability of the device is increased.
• The caterpillar track is highly maneuverable.
• Caring for the module does not require special knowledge and skills from the owner. During operation, it is only necessary to monitor the state of the rubbing parts, which must be periodically lubricated, as well as to control the tension of the track chains and their solidity.
• Self-construction of a caterpillar track can significantly reduce financial costs.

Motoblocks equipped with caterpillar attachments can be safely called a universal technique. They are successfully used not only for agricultural work in various, even the most difficult operating conditions. The owners of the units focus on the ability of the modernized units to easily overcome any, including snow-covered areas. Motoblocks equipped with tracked platforms can be used all year round for:

• performance of work of any complexity in swampy and hard-to-reach areas;
• clearing territories.
• transportation of goods.

In addition, such units are a convenient means of transportation for hunters and fishermen. It is the scope of application and the tasks set for the technology that determine the features of consoles and modules, which are most often equipped with rubber tracks. These elements of the modernization of equipment have many modifications that differ from each other:

• shape (there are rectangular axial and triangular gear);
• installation principle;
• the materials used.

The components of the axle modules are the following:

• main platform;
• axles;
• rollers (4 pcs.);
• gears (2 pcs.);
• caterpillars (2 pcs.).

When analyzing the types of additional attachments, the installation methods should also be taken into account. So, rectangular models are fastened by means of a bolted connection. The rollers installed at the bottom of the axle are responsible for the tension of the track chains. And the platform is driven by two gears located on both sides. A gear-type attachment with a triangular track tension consists of:

• large gears;
• a frame with a rigid structure;
• rollers (8 pcs.);
• caterpillar belts.

Both domestic and foreign companies specialize in the production of tracked platforms. Of the first, one can single out models "Buran", "Lynx", "Ant", "Cool"... Imported modules include products Talon brand... At the same time, both universal modifications and platforms developed for specific models of walk-behind tractors are presented on the market. The most popular products on the territory of the Russian Federation are now CAM brands... This manufacturer presents on the market several model series of SP MB set-top boxes. It should be noted that these platforms are not universal and are created for a specific technique.

Triangular modules deserve special attention. Due to the technical characteristics, the demand among domestic farmers and summer residents for the GP-N1 tracked platforms is growing today. The main advantages of these models include an increase in longitudinal stability in the process of using plowmen. This is because the triangular track chain arrangement minimizes the risk of front end lifting when traction is increased.

The uniqueness of the track attachments lies in the fact that their installation instead of the basic wheel drive in a matter of minutes turns an ordinary walk-behind tractor into an effective towing vehicle, all-terrain vehicle or a snowmobile. Such modernization is most relevant for equipment belonging to the category of small-sized agricultural units with a shaft with a diameter of 30 mm. The tracked module can be purchased ready-made or assembled independently. To implement the second option in the vastness of the World Wide Web, you can easily find drawings and video instructions for assembly and installation.

High-quality purchased and competently hand-made devices are characterized by increased strength and durability. Do not forget about the simplicity of installation, operation and maintenance. To install a purchased platform of any configuration and complexity, no special knowledge and technical means are required. Basic skills and a minimum set of tools will be enough. The installation of homemade units has a number of nuances. It should be borne in mind that a platform that is too high shifts the center of gravity of the entire machine, which in itself negatively affects its stability. As a result, the risk of the walk-behind tractor overturning on the off-road and when performing maneuvers is significantly increased. To increase stability during the installation of tracks, an additional axle must be placed higher.

In addition, the width of the axles must be taken into account. Experienced owners advise increasing the wheelbase if necessary. If a differential is not available, a pivoting jib can be used as an effective alternative. This triangular device will have a positive effect on the maneuverability of the tracked walk-behind tractor. When choosing, purchasing, manufacturing and installing a tracked drive, it should be borne in mind that such an upgrade is not relevant for air-cooled models. This is due to the excessive load on the power unit.

Competent use of any device is the key to its durability and maintaining a high level of technical performance. Naturally, the tracked walk-behind tractor is no exception, so the owners of such equipment must take into account some important points.

• The optimal speed is in the range of 18-20 km / h.
• Take into account the load capacity of the platform. According to the current statistics, 200 kg models are in the greatest demand.
• The maximum allowable snow depth, limited by the location of the power plant, is also an important indicator. Modern modifications of the modules allow tracked walk-behind tractors to move in snow up to 50 cm deep.
• The maximum depth of liquid mud is 45-50 cm. As in the previous case, the determining factor is the height of the engine.

To maximize the life of the track assembly and the walk-behind tractor as a whole will allow compliance with several simple rules for operating equipment. Before and after each trip, it is strongly recommended that you:

• carry out a thorough inspection of track chains and other elements of the module;
• control the degree of tension;
• check the quality of fastening of all parts;
• pay great attention to the condition of the tracks.

As already mentioned, the key to long-term and stable operation of the walk-behind tractor is a careful attitude towards it. In particular, we are talking about the inadmissibility of overloads. In addition, proper maintenance of tracked platforms is also important. Experienced owners and manufacturers advise periodic maintenance. Such activities do not require significant time and financial costs, but allow you to ensure the maximum service life of the equipment.

For information on how to install a track on a walk-behind tractor, see the next video.