Types of walk-behind tractors
A walk-behind tractor is a universal type of technical tool for cultivating a plot of land. Its design has a single-axle chassis. The equipment resembles a scaled-down tractor. The walk-behind tractor is used not only in agriculture, but also for cleaning the area.
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By what parameters are walk-behind tractors classified?
Such equipment is divided into 2 main categories. This is the weight of the unit and the type of engine used. These parameters are interconnected. So, engine, running on gasoline, weighs less than diesel. Accordingly, such a model of technology will be lighter. Most gasoline units are light or medium weight.
Walk-behind tractor models are divided into lightness classes. This influences the choice of equipment that can be attached to the unit for additional functions. By weight, equipment can be light, medium and heavy.
For heavy models, a wide range of additional equipment is available that can be attached to the equipment. Thanks to this, the unit becomes multifunctional. With its help, you can not only cultivate the land, but also clear the area of snow, move various loads, mow the grass, etc.
Types of walk-behind tractors with descriptions of features
To choose the right walk-behind tractor, you need to understand its types and features.It is necessary to take into account the type of land and soil on it, the nature of the work. It is worth remembering that when using a walk-behind tractor, physical stress increases due to the design features, so a person must take into account the weight of the unit in order to work with it comfortably.
Light type
This includes walk-behind tractors whose weight is a maximum of 80 kg. Can be used on plots with an area of up to 40 acres. It is important to prevent the engine from overheating, so you should take breaks during operation.
The power of most light models is no more than 4 hp. They can cultivate the ground to a maximum depth of 20 cm.
Due to its light weight, the walk-behind tractor becomes more maneuverable and easier to control. But if you need to ensure stability of the unit, you will have to use special attachments. The advantages of this type include good speed, economical fuel consumption and efficient processing of the site. This option is suitable for owners of small areas.
Medium type
As the name suggests, this is an intermediate model between the light and heavy types. A medium-weight walk-behind tractor acts as a kind of compromise. Most models are equipped with a gasoline engine, but there are also diesel options. The weight of such a unit is a maximum of 120 kg. It is suitable for processing an area whose area does not exceed 1 hectare. To expand the number of functions, you can connect attachments.
Medium weight models are also called semi-professional. Moving may be a problem due to the weight. A distinctive feature of such walk-behind tractors is their ability to dig up root crops.
The power of the unit is 5-6 hp, so it is suitable for use even in the cold season.The equipment will effectively cope with snow removal from the territory. The advantages include good operating speed, reliable structural components, and the presence of a power take-off shaft.
Compared to the previous model, it is more expensive. Not suitable for all attachments. The technique also plows the soil shallowly.
Heavy type
It is a scaled-down model of a tractor. The weight of the equipment reaches 350 kg. Can be used over large areas - up to 5 hectares.
Due to the engine power - maximum 16 hp. — the unit works without stopping. There is no need to take breaks to cool the engine. Excellent for farming and areas where continuous and regular cultivation of the land is required.
A heavy walk-behind tractor is also capable of transporting cargo, clearing the area of snow, etc. It belongs to the professional class. Able to withstand serious loads and cope even with heavy soil. But it is worth considering that such equipment, as well as consumables for it, are expensive.
Gas engine
It was noted that walk-behind tractors are classified according to the type of motor used in the design. The gasoline model differs in that the fuel is ignited by a spark from a candle.
Most of these walk-behind tractors have a budget price and are used for processing small areas. The motor creates a low noise level. The unit is easy to operate due to its light weight. Weather conditions do not affect the operation of the equipment. Vibrations from the steering wheel are practically not felt. Among the advantages are ease of maintenance and care.
Diesel engine
Ignition in such models occurs thanks to glow plugs.Such a walk-behind tractor costs much more than its gasoline counterpart, even if the power, speed and other indicators are the same. This is due to the better maneuverability of the equipment, its ability to work without interruption for a long time, even in areas of increased complexity.
This type consumes less fuel than the gasoline type. Diesel walk-behind tractors have better traction with the ground. Also, motor cooling can be either air or water.
It is worth noting that there are models equipped with a power take-off shaft. The main advantage is versatility. The units are equipped with a large selection of different functions. Can replace the garbage disposal.
Diesel models are preferred by owners of farm fields, as this unit is more professional. Gasoline is suitable for ordinary summer cottages.
Walk-behind tractors are divided mainly by weight and type of motor used. The heavier the model, the more suitable it is for large areas where continuous work is required. It is recommended to take into account the characteristics of each variety in order to choose the most suitable option.
