Mini tractors are a vehicle that has always been popular among farmers, as well as among rural residents and summer residents. Some people prefer to purchase such equipment in a store, while others make such units with their own hands. By the way, the abundance of manufacturers and variety of models today is truly impressive. In this article we will give a brief overview of tracked mini tractors and talk about their features and advantages.
Tractor AGROMASH-90TG
Agromash-90TG is a traction class 3 machine.
The tractor was created on the basis of the Soviet tractor DT-75. It is in high demand among farmers and construction companies. At construction sites, Agromash-90TG is used as a bulldozer. The tractor has the following technical characteristics:
- Machine weight – 7100 kilograms;
- Length with raised attachment – 4700 mm;
- Width - depends on the configuration, and is 1850 mm without swamp equipment, with used equipment - 2600 mm;
- Height from the ground to the top edge of the exhaust pipe – 3100 mm;
- Base – 1612 mm;
- The track in the center of the tracks is 1330 mm;
- Ground clearance – 370 mm;
- Track width – regular 390 mm, swamp – 670 mm;
- Engine – four-cylinder diesel;
- The volume of the power plant is 7.43 liters;
- Power – 94 hp;
- Crankshaft rotation speed – 1750 rpm;
- Gearbox – seven-speed;
The Agromash-90TG attachment is universal. There is the possibility of two-point and three-point adjustment. Thanks to this, the tractor is used with various agricultural equipment.
The Agromash-90TG cabin meets modern requirements. The design of the cabin makes it airtight, which prevents dust from entering the cabin during operation. The noise level in the cabin does not exceed permissible standards, this reduces the degree of fatigue of the tractor driver during long-term work.
Minitractor from the Zubr walk-behind tractor
Motoblocks of this brand have a reliable and fairly powerful motor, the presence of which allows you to convert the unit into an all-wheel drive mini tractor. Before work, be sure to study the detailed drawings, and also buy steel sheets, pipes and angles. The procedure for making a mini tractor is as follows:
- When arranging the frame, you will need to expand the existing frame of the walk-behind tractor. This is necessary in order to install additional wheels. Cut the corners and pipes into suitable pieces, then weld them to each other;
- The front beam is mounted on a mini tractor using a ready-made hub equipped with brakes. The wheels in the front part of the unit must correspond to the size of the rear wheels, or be slightly larger than the latter - this will prevent the mini-tractor from “burrowing” when driving over rough terrain;
- Then install the walk-behind tractor motor. It is best to install it in the front to achieve the best balance of the entire structure;
- Weld a tow bar to the back of the finished mini tractor - it will be needed for mounting the trailer.
Drawings of various modifications
Homemade all-terrain vehicles are assembled according to the drawings of kit kit manufacturers. But in Russia there are many masters who offer their own schemes.
They post detailed descriptions with calculations and diagrams on social networks.
There are special sites on the Internet that host various homemade devices. The following types of drawings can be used:
- Schemes for all-terrain vehicles on tracks or wheels.
- Description of individual components and assemblies.
- Layout options and exact dimensions for wheeled and tracked models.
- The design of the frame, axles, wheel alignment units, steering knuckle, etc.
When designing and constructing, the car owner can take advantage of the suggestions of the masters, make his own adjustments and get a transport convenient for himself.
All-terrain vehicle tracks
As a rule, tracks for homemade all-terrain vehicles are made from high-strength conveyor belt, which lends itself well to various types of deformation while driving. It does not require special care; all you need is to clean it from dirt from time to time.
So, let's now talk more about creating caterpillars. For work you will need the following materials:
- Bolts and nuts of various shapes and sizes.
- Profiled pipe with cross-section.
- Massive fittings.
- Conveyer belt.
You should also have the following tools in your arsenal:
- Powerful drill.
- Welding machine.
- Big hammer.
- Universal set of wrenches.
- Track pressing machine.
Based on the size of the track, you need to prepare the appropriate bolts and nuts. Next, take the reinforcement and start shaping it into a rounded shape using a crimping machine. Then, using a welding machine, you need to weld the letter V at the top of the reinforcement.
For a more detailed understanding of the steps, we recommend watching a video on how to make caterpillars with your own hands.
After the work has been done, you will have a homemade track that needs to be attached to another track, etc. The result of the work will be a reliable track for an all-terrain vehicle.
Required Tools
In the instructions for assembling all-terrain vehicles, manufacturers provide recommendations for working on the installation of the product, detailed drawings, and the sequence of operations. They include a list of tools that can be used to make homemade vehicles:
- Set of auto tools.
- Mechanical gripper for small parts.
- Set of chisels.
- Mini portable flexible LED lamp.
- Screwdriver.
- Drill.
- Bulgarian.
- Gas soldering iron.
- Household welding machine.
- Compressor.
- Spray gun, etc.
Design Features
A mini-tractor only at first glance seems like a complex mechanism. However, in practice, this is a well-assembled device with a functional arrangement of components. The main components are the frame - 2 spars and 2 traverses (read the article on how to make a homemade mini tractor and everything for it).
Power unit
For a mini-tractor, a motor that meets the torque parameters required to perform its functions and tasks is quite important. The optimal parameters in this regard would be a four-cylinder water-cooled diesel engine with 40 hp of power (for example, Xintai 220).
Bridge
In this case, the manufacturer guarantees the reliability and quality of this element. Although, if you analyze the situations with installing a bridge on homemade crawler tractors, then you won’t have to make any adjustments to the design.
Caterpillar
There are several options to consider here. First of all, these are high-torque steel tracks, like the standard option that most are accustomed to. The second option is rubber. They are in no way inferior in reliability and quality and do their job perfectly.
Mini tractor caterpillar
The simplest option in this case is a design with rollers - wheels. Size – depending on the mini-tractor itself.
Advantages and disadvantages of using a mini tractor on the farm
The advantages of this type of agricultural machinery include:
- A wide range of tasks carried out: loosening, cultivation, plowing, hilling up plots of land, harvesting and sowing crops, garbage removal, leaf removal, snow removal capabilities and much more.
- Increased traction achieved through a tracked travel system.
- It is difficult not to note the smooth running of the minitractor thanks to its specific feature - the caterpillar drive, capable of not only overcoming the most difficult sections of the terrain, but also a smooth ride.
- Low pressure on the soil due to the large area of the tractor compared to the wheels. It is because of this that the earth is not pressed, which is quite important when plowing.
- Small number of track tracks.
Advantages of a mini tractor
The following points are considered to be the disadvantages of such technical devices:
- Low speed: often a mini tractor is not capable of reaching speeds of more than 10 km/h.
- Significant fuel consumption. The motor is high-torque, powerful, and, therefore, voracious.
- Lack of sound insulation. A high-quality mitractor, but the noise insulation is quite low, almost equal to zero.
- The inability to operate a caterpillar mini tractor as a wheeled vehicle on public roads and highways, unlike Kubota, Bulat, Yanmar, Belarus 132n, Scout
One way or another, these aspects are important when choosing, and they should be taken into account as accurately as possible. Depending on the purpose, the specifics of the work and the location where it is carried out, one or another unit is chosen.
Caterpillar for UAZ
Next we will tell you how to make tracks on an UAZ with your own hands. For this model, a caterpillar made from ordinary car tires is suitable. Select a massive truck tire in advance.
Be sure to pay attention to the characteristic tread pattern. If it has triangular cutouts, then the tire will fit.
To make it, you need to carefully cut out the sides and, most importantly, do not forget to leave space for the treadmill. Then start connecting the resulting tires using car belts.
The result of the work will be a ready-made caterpillar for operation by the UAZ all-terrain vehicle.
List of sources
- TractorReview.ru
- o-motoblokah.ru
- SpecMahina.ru
- mastertraktor.ru
- labuda.blog
- fermerteh.ru
- vsesvoimirykami.ru
- sadovij-pomoshnik.ru
- stroy-podskazka.ru
Nuances and characteristics
Tracked homemade mini tractors have a speed limit. You won’t be able to reach more than 40 kilometers per hour on them, which makes them similar to walk-behind tractors - they can also be used as vehicles only in cases of extreme need.
It is worth saying that at one time the owners of the vineyards were very happy with the invention of the caterpillar mini tractor. The thing is that when a tracked machine passes through the soil, due to the uniform distribution of the weight of the unit, the soil is not compacted as it would happen with a wheeled tractor. The grapevine really does not like dense soil, so the winegrowers could not use wheeled “machinery”. If you own a vineyard, then you might be interested in one of the modern mini crawler tractors.
You can take a closer look at the Zemlyak brand or the Um 400 model. If you are not considering purchasing a tractor in a store, but are planning to create it yourself, then we can give some advice on this matter.
Application area
Any small tracked tractor can boast a significant amount of spare traction than the wheeled version of the mini-device. For a special tracked version, there are no obstacles, due to the fact that they are able to cross any type of terrain, regardless of its specifics and cross-country ability.
Application area
At the same time, tractors on tracks do not have the ability to move on asphalt, which means their effectiveness in city conditions is limited.
Today's manufacturers of units are going two steps forward, because they decided to correct the annoying lack of ability to move on asphalt by introducing tractors with rubber tracks into production. This made it possible to significantly expand functionality, without worrying about damage (see walk-behind tractor pro).
The speed limit for this type of tractor is 40 km/h, but the tractor does not have any effect on the ground due to the large area of contact with its loose surface.
The mini crawler tractor is an ideal device for agricultural purposes and industry.
This also affects the popularity of caterpillar-type equipment as an assistant in the field of grape harvesting. It is worth noting that the grapevine does not at all welcome the compacted type of soil, therefore the wheeled units during the work process leave very dense ruts on the ground after digging.
Without a doubt, in this matter the greatest success will be achieved with the help of a tracked device rather than a wheeled one.
Good maneuverability
The mini tracked vehicle is characterized by good maneuverability, despite impassable areas, such as marshy areas and mud. This vehicle model remains the most popular for work in the field.
Tarpan are Russian cultivators that are used in gardens and summer cottages. The Tarpan cultivator is a simple, unpretentious and reliable technique.
Currently, a large number of world-famous manufacturers of snow removal machines are represented in Russia. Here you can get acquainted with the excellent German snow blower Huter.
The KamAZ brand can be safely attributed to the heritage of the Soviet Union. By following the link you will find the technical characteristics of the Kamaz 5320 tractor.
At the same time, purchasing a mini-tractor is carried out in two ways: purchasing from agricultural machinery suppliers or doing everything yourself with your own hands. As available models, you can look at inexpensive versions of Chinese tractors, which are slightly inferior to foreign originals.
Kirovets K744
The model is produced at the St. Petersburg Tractor Plant. The basic modification is made on wheels with low-pressure tires. Additionally, it is possible to replace the wheels with specialized tracked modules. The tracks of the K744 tractor are made of reinforced rubber, thanks to which the machine can move on asphalt surfaces without damaging it.
Kirovets K744 has 4 modifications, the main difference of which is the power of the power plant. The manufacturer installs an automated gearbox with leverless control on the tractor. Switching is carried out by the joystick and the buttons located on it. The gearbox has 16 forward gears and 8 reverse gears.
The tractor cabin is distinguished by a high degree of comfort and functionality. An on-board computer is installed in the K 744 cockpit. It informs the operator about the operation of all systems and mechanisms. The controls are located in close proximity to the operator's seat. This arrangement allows the tractor driver to easily operate a multi-ton machine. T744 has proven itself well when performing any type of agricultural work in various climatic conditions.
From the above it follows that since the times of the Soviet Union, the domestic tractor industry has been developing. Regardless of the fact that tracked vehicles are less in demand than wheeled vehicles, they are constantly being modernized, and in many technical indicators they are not inferior to foreign analogues of the corresponding class.
Uralets 404
Uralets 404 Pv is the latest generation special equipment from Traktor LLC. The machine has a large number of advantages:
- Economical fuel consumption.
- High power.
- Four-wheel drive.
- Reinforced frame.
- Multifunctionality.
- Quick payback due to compatibility and a large selection of mounted and trailed equipment.
- Two-year manufacturer's warranty.
The advantages of the model include high-quality manual assembly, which used Russian-made parts. This model of the Ural was created taking into account the climatic characteristics of Russia.
When purchasing, it is important to decide in advance what range of tasks the machine will perform and purchase the appropriate additional equipment. Uralets mini-tractors are designed in such a way that they can work with mounted and trailed equipment not only of the same brand, but also of other manufacturers
The design of the Uralets mini tractor is as simple as that of previous models. But a more powerful 4-stroke naturally aspirated diesel engine is installed. It consists of 4 cylinders arranged in a row. Engine displacement is 2.54 l, rated power is 29.4 kW. The cooling system is water with forced circulation. Fuel consumption 247 g/kW/h.
The tractor is equipped with a 16-speed gearbox: 8 forward speeds and the same number in reverse. The car is all-wheel drive, with the ability to steer each rear wheel. The brake system is disc, there is a backup parking brake. The ability to brake the rear wheels separately increases the ease of use of the mini-tractor.
The machine is small-sized and maneuverable, the large fuel tank (29 l) allows you to work without interruption for several hours. High cross-country ability is ensured by wide ground clearance (313 cm) and profile tire tread.
Making a clutch for a mini tractor
The clutch basket housing is connected to the motor through an adapter with coaxial mounting holes. The device itself is used from a GAZ-51, the mechanism is turned off by a hydraulic drive.
Features of the mini tractor:
- components and parts are used from used cars and agricultural machinery;
- The break-type frame is assembled from two half-frames and a cross from a MAZ truck. Provides high cross-country ability and maneuverability of the vehicle, following the terrain with pneumatic wheels, and directional control of movement;
- a cardan shaft with a pair of end crosspieces transmits the power moment from the gearbox to the bridge, regardless of the “break” of the frame;
- a drum-type service brake is mounted on the box shaft;
- the drive axle is used from an electric car, rigidly fixed to the semi-frame;
- The front axle suspension is independent. Shock absorbers, springs, levers are used from ZAZ;
- The vehicle can be converted into tracked and all-wheel drive versions.
The “Volchok” unit can be converted into an all-wheel drive mini tractor with your own hands in the following order:
- A transfer case from GAZ-69 is installed behind the gearbox through an intermediate driveshaft, which transmits power torque to the drive axles; the presence of a reduction gear in the device allows, if necessary, to increase traction force.
- An axle is mounted on the front half-frame - an analogue of the rear axle of a mini tractor.
- The main drive of the front axle is connected to the transfer case through a cardan drive.
Converting the “Top” into a mini tracked tractor with your own hands:
- Make a caterpillar type mover. For this purpose, a large diameter tire with cut sides is used. We use solid rubber wheels from transport carts as rollers.
- We fix the half-frames relative to each other rigidly (the power hinge does not work).
- We dismantle the front suspension, and attach the roller units with the track tensioning mechanism to the front half-frame.
- We dismantle the rear axle, in its place we install a shortened axle from a GAZ-21 with a main gear and a differential, we connect the hydraulic control of the drum brakes separately for each side. We install rollers in place of the wheel rims.
- Two pedals for controlling the drum brakes of the rear axle, due to the operation of the differential, provide a change in direction of movement.
- We put on and tension the caterpillar belt.
Power unit
Early models of tracked vehicles were equipped with internal combustion engines running on tractor kerosene or gasoline. Purely gasoline tractors have not become widespread due to low engine torque. By the beginning of World War II, the first production tracked vehicles with diesel engines appeared. In the USSR, the first diesel vehicle was the S-65 “Stalinets”, which was produced in Chelyabinsk from 1937 to 1941.
Further development of tracked vehicles followed the path of improving engine design. In 1949, the DT-54 tractor, equipped with a vortex-chamber diesel engine, entered the production line. The machine remained in production for 30 years and was sold to many countries around the world with a circulation of 960 thousand units.
Imported tracked vehicles use diesel engines equipped with a turbocharger and electronic control of pump injectors. The use of electronics makes it possible to optimize the fuel injection process depending on the load and ambient temperature. Due to this, fuel consumption is reduced and the environmental performance of engines is improved.
Domestic equipment is equipped with diesel engines with turbochargers and mechanical fuel pumps. Imported power units are manufactured upon special order.
The transmission of a crawler tractor is designed to transmit torque from the engine to the drive wheels, as well as for turning. Tractors are equipped with range manual gearboxes with up to 24 forward gears. Within ranges, switching is carried out without interrupting the power flow. For this purpose, special couplings are included in the design.
Imported equipment is equipped with automatic transmissions that simplify the operator’s work. The disadvantage of an automatic transmission is its complexity and the need for regular maintenance.
The rear drive axle is located in the same housing with the gearbox. To transmit torque from the secondary shaft of the box to the bridge, a gearbox with bevel gears is used. Gearbox blocking systems are not used; on-board clutches and band brakes act as blocking devices.
Crawler tractors of the USSR
Since the mid-60s of the last century, research has been actively carried out in Russia on the effectiveness of using wheeled tractors in agriculture.
Unlike wheeled ones, they do not cause significant soil compaction, leading to a 25% reduction in yield. Tracked models also have other advantages:
- higher cross-country ability on loose and viscous soils;
- reduced risk of slipping;
- higher traction characteristics.
In this regard, a decision was made to transition the country's largest tractor manufacturing plants to the production of track-based vehicles. By the 80s of the 20th century, collective and state farms in Russia were fully equipped with equipment of this type.
This type of equipment is represented by the following models.
Kommunard
Kommunar is the first model of a caterpillar tractor, the production of which was carried out by KhTZ (Kharkov Tractor Plant) from 1924 to 1931. During the Great Patriotic War, this technique was used as traction for artillery guns. A total of 3 modifications of the basic model were developed:
- G-50;
- G-75;
- Z-90.
Technical characteristics of the Kommunar tractor:
- weight - 8.5 t;
- power - 50 l. With.;
- maximum speed - 7 km/h;
- three-speed gearbox (2 forward and 1 reverse).
Dt-54
In the 50s of the last century, production of the first diesel tracked tractor D-54 was launched. Its production was carried out by the three largest factories in the country: Stalingrad, Kharkov and Altai. This powerful machine was used for all types of work that required endurance, maneuverability, and high traction force.
The D-54 was equipped with a 5-speed manual transmission, reached speeds of up to 5.7 km/h, and had a traction power of 2000 kgf.
T-100 - the famous “weaving”
From 1963 to 1977, the caterpillar tractor was produced by the Chelyabinsk Tractor Plant and had a large model range. It was equipped with a 4-stroke D-108 engine running on diesel fuel. The cabin was distinguished by increased comfort due to the soft seat and interior ventilation.
The first model was designed for use as part of the DZ-53 bulldozer, which had a rope system for controlling attachments. In further modifications, the system was replaced by hydraulics. The industrial tractor was used on construction sites as a chassis for a crane, pipe layer, and pile driver; It was not popular in the agricultural industry due to its low speed.
Dt-75 - the most popular tracked tractor in the USSR
D-75 is a general-purpose special equipment produced in Russia since 1973. The first cars were equipped with 75 hp diesel engines. With. The tractor has a frame design; in its original version it was equipped with a car-type cab with a height-adjustable seat.
Starting with the modification of the D-75M, the height and equipment of the cabin regularly underwent changes in the direction of increasing comfort.
For operation in regions with harsh climatic conditions, the engine can be cold started. The design of the machine allows you to attach side-mounted semi-mounted equipment to it. This makes it possible to use the tractor as a concrete paver and loader. Thus, the range of tasks performed by special equipment has been expanded. It included drilling, road and construction work. To this day, tractors of this model are in demand in agriculture and industry and are actively used in a variety of conditions.
Description of specific small models
The tracked version of the tractor has become an indispensable assistant on the farm, and in particular on private farms for individual use. It easily copes with its immediate tasks, performing cultivation tasks, and in some cases it will even perform the functions of a snow blower and much more.
It is worth paying special attention to the fact that the caterpillar mini-tractor has adapted perfectly to our environment in a short time. Their numbers are constantly growing day by day, suggesting that their popularity is not based on any marketing program.
However, the problem is that their variety is so great that the average consumer, when choosing, can get lost in the number of brands, models and brands.
Let's look at Russian-made tracked mini tractors using a specific example.
Countryman technique
Minitractor “Countryman”
First of all, it is worth noting the wide range of advantages or why you should pay attention to it as a potential purchase:
- reliability,
- ease of operation with the tractor,
- availability of components and spare parts,
- ease of delivery and transportation,
- versatility,
- multitasking,
- build quality,
- high cross-country ability,
- affordable price,
- convenience.
If we look at the technical parameters of the tracked mini-tractor Countryman S1100. First of all, it is worth noting:
- Diesel engine 1100, capable of delivering power of 15 l/s.
- A fairly good option for a powerful engine for standard “personal” tasks. At the same time, the engine is quite economical, which is confirmed by the declared parameters of 0.4 l/h.
- The rated rotation speed reaches 2300 m2/h, and the productivity is 700 m2/h.
- The engine is driven by 2 belts and is air cooled.
- The tractor ground clearance is 130mm, loosening depth is 250mm.
- The weight of the tractor is 438 kg, the wheelbase is wheels/caterpillars.
The cost of the tracked mini-tractor Countryman, as everyone is already accustomed to, is quite small. The price for Countryman is about 105 thousand Russian. rub.
The Countryman competes with a no less powerful and certainly no less reliable version of the Uralets tracked type.
Russian-made Uralets
Minitractor “Uralets”
The specifics of the Uralets are as follows:
- The power of the Uralets is 12 hp.
- Its nominal weight is 1030 kg.
- It is also necessary to note the specific nature of this design of this mini-tractor model, which consists in the use of a standard wheel-track base.
- The model is equipped with a first-class independent shaft and also has a 3-point type device.
Obtaining more efficient use of the mini-machine has become possible through the use of a stepped type of track adjustment. This function was implemented through the extension of the tips of the front axle, as well as the conversion of the wheeled mover to a tracked one and the rearrangement of the rear wheel hubs.
A relatively large engine is suitable for a tractor.
Engine
Uralets is ideal as a tracked representative of your farmstead, providing good traction and traction properties, while you can guarantee a more than 2-fold reduction in the level of impact on the soil.
It can also perform special-purpose work without any difficulty. It acts as a front-end and grab loader, as an excavator, and even as a good rotary snow blower.
The price for a Uralets mini track tractor is on average 190,000 rubles.
For more information about the Uralets mini tractor, see the video below:
Dimensions and manufacturers
If you analyze the request frequency of browser search engines, the topic “Which mini-tractor for farmsteading is better to choose?” will occupy one of the leading positions. Usually, by this question, users understand the manufacturer of compact equipment.
Let's try to figure out this problem. On the domestic market there are mini-tractors of domestic, European, Chinese and Japanese production.
“Japanese” are considered the standard of quality and reliability, however, the price of such models is quite high. In addition, only original equipment is suitable for Japanese equipment; standardized spare parts are also not provided.
- Russian mini-tractors are largely copied from their Chinese counterparts, so it makes no sense to consider them as a separate category.
- “Chinese” are cheap and versatile cars that have been occupying their market segment for a long time. The equipment can work with attachments from any manufacturer, however, problems arise with starting the engine in the cold season.
We conclude: for beginning farmers it is preferable to choose Chinese technology.
Let's talk about sizes
Here you need to focus on the scope of application of the tractor. For example, bulky modifications will be useless in limited spaces (gardens and greenhouses), compact models are inappropriate for use in medium and large areas, and the equipment simply does not have enough power.
Small-sized machines can be divided into three groups. Let's look at each one separately.
- Rider. Essentially, this is a lawn mower that works with only one type of attachment. This determines the area of application of the equipment: lawn and lawn care. Such machines are often used by landscaping services and golf club technicians.
- Garden tractor. This is a fairly compact and maneuverable technique that works great in confined spaces. 15-horsepower power units are usually installed here, which makes it possible to use the equipment for clearing snow, mowing grass, cultivating small areas of land, and transporting goods over short distances. The design of such models is simplified as much as possible; plastic sheathing is used to reduce weight.
- Mini tractor. The power of such equipment varies between 18-40 hp. With. A hydraulic attachment is installed here, which can work with any attachment. This significantly expands the scope of application of the machines.
Considering these features, it is better to purchase machines from the third category for subsidiary farming. They are suitable for landscaping, fodder preparation, sowing and harvesting work.
How to assemble a homemade tractor
Mini tractor made from a walk-behind tractor
The main structure of a homemade crawler mini tractor with your own hands, which bears the entire load, is the frame. The stable operation of the entire structure will depend on its strength. The material for making the frame is channel.
Important! The frame for the tractor, according to the drawing, must be made of three stages. Increased rigidity can be achieved using side members
The front traverse is made shorter than the rear one.
An equally important step in constructing a small mini tractor on tracks with your own hands is choosing a reliable engine. It can be anything, the main thing is that it fully matches the torque. Ideally, you can get a diesel engine with a power of about 12 horsepower, with 4 cylinders and a water cooling system. Also good options would be motors from Zemlyak tractors and old automotive equipment.
Interesting. Some farmers recommend installing motors from Sadko and Murashka walk-behind tractors on caterpillar tractors. The resulting design will have performance and great durability.
The bridge can be picked up from any car. It is recommended to leave the choice on the GAZ car. Sometimes the bridge may need to be shortened slightly.
It is very easy to make tracks for a tractor at home. They are made from a cart, an old tire. The dimensions of the tracks are selected based on the dimensions of the tractor. The sides of the tire are cut off and placed on the mounted wheels.
It is extremely important that the dimensions of the components match each other
Do-it-yourself caterpillar mini tractor
The principle of operation of a homemade product made at home is as follows:
- transmission of torque to the gearbox;
- supply of torque to the differential system;
- the beginning of the motor process of the wheels;
- rotation occurs when the axle shaft is braked, at which time the torque transfers to the second axle shaft.
The sequence of actions when constructing a homemade mini-tractor on tracks is as follows:
- assembling all frame elements into one structure, installing drive rollers and supporting parts;
- mounting the motor, connecting it to the tractor gearbox;
- installation of brake system components, differential;
- connecting these important elements to the gearbox;
- equipment of the control unit and arrangement of the driver’s workplace;
- collection, installation of tracked vehicles, auxiliary elements;
- checking the unit, the working condition of all components, and, if necessary, modifications;
- first run-in of the tractor.
Additional tips and warnings for operating a mini track tractor at home
Often, consumers and craftsmen have a desire to make a mini tracked tractor with their own hands. At the same time, you should not dissuade anyone, because the idea really has the right to life. If someone has the desire and opportunity, then you can try it yourself.
DIY mini tractor
The only thing that is required is that homemade units are folded in accordance with a certain algorithm. Spare parts play an important role, which in some cases will have to be adjusted to fit other parts. However, without a clear plan of action, assembly and installation can be difficult.
The first thing you need to do is make all the calculations on paper, and only then get down to business. Important! Only the correct technical data will allow you to assemble a working unit.
It is also important to remember about the care and operating rules of this miracle of agricultural machinery.
It is necessary to carefully select oils, replace them regularly, and also monitor the general condition of the machine to avoid breakdowns. Otherwise, repairs may be too expensive.
Step-by-step production
The process of making a homemade mini tractor on caterpillar tracks is not complicated. Often craftsmen make it based on an old walk-behind tractor by installing a special adapter. There are also designs whose components are completely assembled with your own hands.
To improve theoretical skills and knowledge in engineering mechanics, experts recommend reading technical literature, using the Internet, and reading the operating manual for welding equipment.
The performance indicators of a homemade caterpillar mini tractor differ little from factory models, the costs of their creation are minimal, especially in cases of using ready-made components, hydraulic connectors and adapters from faulty equipment.
The set of mechanisms, materials and necessary tools is as follows:
- welding machine;
- consumables - electrodes, wire, gas, oxygen;
- electric drill with drills;
- wrenches and screwdriver;
- Bulgarian;
- discs for cutting metal;
- fasteners;
- rolled metal for the frame;
- lubricants;
- primer and paint.
Working units are made separately and assembled. When assembling, the drawings of each part must be checked against the manufactured mechanisms.
Frame and cab
The stability of the entire structure depends on the strength and rigidity of the frame, because All mechanisms and components are installed on the base.
The frame is a welded base consisting of transverse cross members and longitudinal spars. Professionals make 3-stage spars and weld them from sections of lightweight steel channel No. 10. The front traverses are made from channels No. 12, the rear ones - No. 16.
To increase stability, 5 mm gussets made of “troika” steel are installed at the inner corners of the front axle brackets. 8 mm steel plates are attached to the side members at the front, securing the structure to the rear axle and the hitch bracket, and steel running boards are welded to the sides. 15 M12 mounting holes are drilled on the frame at the location where parts and assemblies are installed according to the drawings, and the possibility of mounting the engine and seat is provided.
2 welded bushings made of 20 mm St3 are mounted in the front traverse, and a steering column bracket made of steel strip with a cross-section of 8x70 mm is installed in the rear cross-beam.
Then the road wheels and wheelsets are attached to the base.
If desired, a homemade tracked vehicle can be made with a stainless steel body, which will protect the driver and machine mechanisms from dirt and external mechanical factors.
Engine and electrical equipment
For a mini tractor, an engine is selected that meets the requirements for power and torque. A diesel 4-cylinder power unit of at least 12 liters is most suitable. With. with water cooling. To increase technical performance, you can use a more powerful motor.
Electrical equipment is connected according to the electrical diagram. The battery is built under the seat of the car in a special box. Headlights, side lights, and brake lights are optional and are installed to the extent possible and if desired by the technician.
Chassis and brakes
The movers are installed on both sides of the frame. The tractor frame is connected to the road wheels using a suspension that transmits gravity and ensures a smooth ride when turning and driving on uneven surfaces. The role of rollers is played by wheels that can be removed from a garden cart; tires with deep tread are suitable instead of tracks.
The module can be equipped with disc brakes, while the car is equipped with 2 axles; the presence of clutches and planetary gears is optional. Experts also install band brakes on tractors. They are distinguished by their simplicity and excellent compatibility with all mechanisms.
Steering and transmission
A homemade crawler tractor is controlled by the rotation mechanism of the transmission-motor unit. The standard steering wheel should be attached after installing the driver's seat to adjust the angle and height.
Caterpillars
Caterpillars are made from simple tires. For this purpose, they are cut in half, joined and riveted with metal plates. This type of caterpillar track has low ground pressure and high maneuverability. For better traction with the ground, lugs made of metal pipes welded to the canvas are mounted on the outside.
Other mechanisms
Masters often use a device from a GAZ-53 truck as a gearbox; the clutch is removed from a GAZ-52.
Installation of the chassis will be facilitated by the use of a ready-made Volga GAZ-21 rear axle, but it will have to be shortened to 800 mm and the rivets on the fixing stockings removed.
How to choose?
For a miniature unit, you will need a special blade - a special device, with its help the snow mass can be moved in the desired direction, for example, to the edge of the roadway. To work with such equipment, you need to remember that this kind of equipment must completely fit the machine, be a little wider than it, and have the correct weight ratio. You can also choose a special brush for high-quality cleaning of stuck snow. Using it, you can easily clean the surface of the road or your site if the snow cover is not more than 3-5 cm.
In winter, it is recommended to install a snow blower on the unit. This equipment can help remove compacted snow in any place. At the same time, the height of the cover cannot be higher than the parameters of the ground clearance and rotor of the unit used; most often, this type of equipment copes with a layer of snow of 45-50 cm. A special spreader for sand or reagents can be a good purchase. In a short period of time and a minimum of effort, you can sprinkle the area and the road next to it, saving them from ice.
When buying a miniature tractor, it is better to opt for a unit that has all-wheel drive, because it will allow you to overcome any high or difficult climbs in winter. All-wheel drive is also useful in the summer. In addition, when purchasing, it is worth checking the presence of a lot of other interesting things - a heated cabin, the presence of lighting devices for working in the dark.
If in winter such a machine can be actively used for cleaning snowdrifts, then in summer it will be even more useful. When planting crops, caring for them and harvesting, you can easily unleash the potential of this universal assistant, which can work with special attachments. When purchasing units for home use, you need to clearly understand for what purposes they will be useful to you.
If you want to use them to get rid of snow debris, if you need to dig trenches or transport building materials, then you need a unit with a capacity of 20 horsepower or more
Particular attention should be paid to the dimensions of special equipment. The mini-tractor should move around the site without any problems, not touch bushes and trees, and easily drive into the garage
A technical feature such as the radius of a possible turn is also extremely important. Remember that when operating a tractor you must be as careful as possible for the safety of others, buildings and existing plantings.
Test drive Ford Explorer
The Ford Explorer was tested in urban conditions in the Limited configuration with the Limited Plus package. The first thing I would like to note is the exceptional ease of landing and the practical location of all the necessary controls. There is no manual parking brake on the central panel - in this modification it is presented in the form of a foot brake (pedal). The steering wheel features buttons for the optional MyFord Touch system, allowing you to control various functions without taking your eyes off the road. The pedal assembly is equipped with electrical adjustment and position memory - this function is useful on long trips. The pedal angle change button is located under the steering wheel.
The car has excellent visibility, despite its impressive dimensions (length 5006 mm, width with mirrors 2291 mm, height 1803 mm), no mirror enlargement is required. However, there are indicators in the rearview mirrors that monitor blind spots and warn the driver in case of danger. Thanks to the high seating position (we must pay tribute to the geometric ground clearance of 221 mm), not only the car in front is clearly visible, but also the one in front of it.
Thanks to the intelligent all-wheel drive system, traction is reliable, regardless of the features or conditions of the track. This system is complemented by the road adaptation function, which makes it possible to configure the car to the desired conditions by selecting one of four modes (“Standard”, “Grass/Gravel/Snow”, “Sand”, “Mud/Ruts”), while completely eliminating wheel slip. You don't need to stop the car to switch modes.
The dynamic characteristics are quite high - the Explorer is really fast and maneuverable. The 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine is quite economical: on the highway the SUV consumes 9.4 liters per 100 km, in mixed mode - 12.3 liters, while the car is filled with 92 gasoline. The car's noise insulation is ideal, the engine's operation is quite pleasant to the ear, and there are no extraneous sounds.
Table and description of individual traction classes of industrial equipment
Below is a diagram of the classification of industrial, logging and forestry tractors, taking into account engine power and the calculated rated traction class.
The peculiarity of forestry equipment is not the advisability of using for this task equipment below 0.6 traction class, but for industrial work tractors below 2 class.
Another feature of these units is the use of a full-wheel drive wheelbase with equal-sized wheels, or a tracked base. A “full-fledged” industrial tractor appears in the 4th traction class, this is due primarily to the severity of the work performed and, not least, to the unevenness of the loads and their different alternating values. Industrial and forestry tractors are used for:
- logging operations
- transportation
- preparing lands freed from forests for plowing
- soil preparation for construction work
- trench digging
- drilling
- laying water supply systems, communication systems, power supply systems
- development of soils containing minerals
- technological processes in metallurgical and chemical industries, nuclear energy
- carrying out work in urban utilities, and to eliminate major problems
Domestic manufacturers of equipment of this class include OJSC Alttrak - Altai Tractor, OJSC Promtractor, LLC ChTZ - Uraltrak.
Caterpillar
The track can be equipped with open and closed hinges. In an open circuit, the links are connected to each other by fingers inserted into the holes. The links are not machined and are lightweight. The finger is thermally treated and has increased surface hardness. On one side, it is equipped with a head that prevents it from falling into the hole made in the link. The other side is equipped with a groove or hole for installing a retainer (spring washer or cotter pin).
An alternative solution is a track with a closed-type hinge. The links of such a device are made by casting followed by machining. It is possible to use composite links assembled from several elements. The closed hinge is wear-resistant, but special equipment is required to disassemble the assembly.
The engagement of the caterpillar and the drive sprocket is carried out using a lantern, which is served by an eye or a special bushing. When moving, the sprocket tooth rests on them.
Steel tracks destroy the road surface, which contributes to the appearance of rubber-metal structures. The strength of such a caterpillar is lower, so they are used to equip wheeled tractors.