The best engines for a walk-behind tractor: Japanese, American, Chinese or European?

Today, almost every owner of a summer cottage buys a walk-behind tractor. Because it is a convenient and practical technique that will last a long period and guarantees quick completion of work. But even this device breaks down from time to time. Mostly all faults are related to the motor. Since not all owners maintain it correctly or operate it to its maximum capabilities. Replacing it is easy, the main thing is to choose the right option.

The editors of the YaNashla website have prepared for you a rating of the best engines for walk-behind tractors for 2022.

Device Features

You can buy a walk-behind tractor in almost any store for your garden or garden. It is no longer something unique. It is used not only for working in the fields, the product also shows excellent results when cleaning the area.

But it is important to understand that the walk-behind tractor will not last even a season if the engine is not maintained or used incorrectly. In addition, it is important to pay attention to the company that produced the motor, since not all of them produce high-quality models.

Description

We invite you to take a closer look at the products of the famous Danish manufacturer Texas, which has been specializing in the production of garden tools and motorcycle equipment for almost 60 years.

Multifunctional Texas cultivators, lawn mowers, wood splitters, sweepers, trimmers, and other highly specialized units have replaced primitive tools such as shovels and hoees.

Mini motor-cultivator TEXAS Muldvarp ES 300

One of these machines is the electric mini cultivator TEXAS Muldvarp ES 300, weighing only 4.6 kg, with which you can weed the rows efficiently in a short time, without putting any strain on your back and arms.

Choosing the right engine

Before buying a motor, it is important to know some technical points that will help you quickly find a high-quality option that will last for a long period. It is important to understand that this element is one of the main ones, as it ensures safe and long-term operation of the entire device. The reliability and quality of performing various tasks depends on the parameters.

Practical and efficient models are those that run on gasoline or diesel. Of course, you can also use electrical products, but there is practically no benefit from them, especially if you buy a cheap option.

In addition, we must not forget about weight and dimensions. Moreover, today some options, despite their size, are distinguished by good power. The next point is build quality. When choosing a cheap unit, you should prepare in advance for the fact that it may constantly fail.

How to choose a walk-behind tractor?

The choice of walk-behind tractor directly depends on the area of ​​the area being processed, the type and volume of work.
If you know the power of the walk-behind tractor and the area of ​​the plot, it is easy to calculate the number of hours of work required to process this plot. Based on the data in the table below, you can determine the required power of the walk-behind tractor.

In addition, you should take into account the fact that more powerful walk-behind tractors are usually more reliable.

When thinking about how to choose a walk-behind tractor, pay attention to user reviews. And reviews say that domestic walk-behind tractors are less reliable and durable than imported ones. Although this rule covers all mechanical engineering.

Therefore, when choosing a domestic walk-behind tractor, you should clarify the data on the maintainability of the selected agricultural machine.

Chinese models

Not all engines manufactured in China are poorly built. On the contrary, some options can surprise users with their effectiveness. It is also important to understand that most finished devices have a Chinese motor. There are several reasons for this popularity:

• Good reliability;
• Low price;
• Attractive appearance;
• Some models are versatile;
• If any minor part breaks, it can always be replaced.

Therefore, if a person is on a limited budget, you can buy a similar option, there is nothing wrong with that.

Champion

Champion engines have nothing to do with the well-known manufacturer of automotive components - this company is located in St. Petersburg, and any Champion engine for a walk-behind tractor is made in China.

Like other Chinese engines, these are clones of Honda engines.

The model taken to follow is directly indicated in the marking: for example, the Champion G200HK motor is a copy of the Honda GX200. However, there are also engines that are “intermediate” in terms of performance, like the G180HK; there is no direct analogue in the Honda line; it is something intermediate between the Chinese 168F and 168F-2 engines.

The G210HT engine is a version of the base engine with the output shaft seating reduced from 19 to 16 mm. The most powerful G390HK engine is equipped with an electric starter (HKE). This engine is installed on the Champion walk-behind tractor.

Top quality petrol options

ELECTROLITE LT 170F (7 hp, 19mm shaft)

A reliable 4-stroke model that starts quickly and without problems. The product is of high-quality assembly and is suitable for installation on almost any walk-behind tractor. The capacity of the fuel tank is 3.6 liters, which is a good indicator, since the level of gasoline consumption is low. Device power – 7 hp.

Also, the product is small in size and weight, so there will be no problems with installation, even if a person carries it out at home. In addition to being used in walk-behind tractors, the motor is actively used in haymowers, cultivators, etc. Therefore, the product can be called universal. The body is made of reliable metal that does not overheat and does not deteriorate due to exposure to rain.

Sold at a price: from 6,700 rubles.

ELECTROLITE LT 170F (7 hp, 19mm shaft)

Advantages:

• Low cost;
• Versatility;
• Professional assembly;
• Reliability;
• With periodic maintenance it will last a long time.

Flaws:

• There are no significant ones.

Lifan (Piran) 168F on MB-1 (Cascade), MB-2 (Neva)

A reliable model that has high-quality air cooling and an affordable price. The shaft location is horizontal. The design feature of this option is the favorable location of the fuel valve and the presence of a cast iron cylinder liner. Thanks to the latter, it increases the service life of the motor.

Also, most users like the low noise level and the ability to work even on low-quality fuel. The product is small in size and light in weight. The starter is completely manual, but there are no problems with this, since the device starts with half a turn. The product is easy to maintain and if you do not forget about it, the model will last for a long period.

The average cost is 8,050 rubles.

Lifan (Piran) 168F on MB-1 (Cascade), MB-2 (Neva)

Advantages:

• Cost-effective;
• Stable operation on fuel of any quality;
• Small dimensions;
• Minimal noise;
• Practicality;
• Easy to use;
• Does not require complex maintenance.

Flaws:

• Not found.

Agromotor 190 F

A good option that impresses with its technical characteristics. The assembly is done level, so nothing will fall off during operation. The capacity of the fuel tank is 6.5 liters, while fuel consumption is only 380 grams per hour, which is an excellent indicator. Shaft – 25 mm keyed. Crankcase volume – 1.1. l.

In the manufacture of the case, durable metal was used, which does not deteriorate over time and ensures a long service life. No corrosion is harmful to the equipment if it is used and not left in one place for several months. There is forced air cooling, which has good efficiency.

Sold at a price: from 15,500 rubles.

Agromotor 190 F

Advantages:

• Quiet operation;
• Dry weight – 34 kg;
• High power;
• Low consumption;
• Fuel tank capacity;
• High-quality cooling;
• Durable housing.

Flaws:

• Not found.

CHAMPION G270-1HK

A universal option that can be used in walk-behind tractors, and is also suitable for motor pumps, vibrating saws, etc. The case is made of reliable and durable material that can withstand constant load and does not break. The product is characterized by low consumption and impressive convenience. A person does not have to spend a lot of time on maintenance, especially if he constantly takes care of the condition of the motor.

The shaft fit is keyed, since the diameter is 25.4 mm. The starter type is manual, but, like the previous copy, starting does not take time. The motor location is horizontal, which is a classic option. The cooling system is air, and the device cools down quickly, so no overheating will occur.

The average price is 14,300 rubles.

CHAMPION G270-1HK

Advantages:

• Convenient accommodation;
• Maximum number of revolutions – 3600;
• The sound pressure level is 80 dB, which is a good indicator for such equipment;
• Ease of maintenance;
• High reliability;
• Performance.

Flaws:

• Not detected.

GreenField

The “GreenField” trademark belongs to the Russian TechnoGroup LLC. Since 2005, under it, a variety of garden equipment, gas-powered tools, and power electrical equipment have been supplied to the Russian market.

When buying a motor for a Greenfield walk-behind tractor, you need to understand that the Russian brand in this case is simply applied to a Chinese product, the selling company only carries out quality control on the products supplied to it from China.

Naturally, Greenfield engines, like other Chinese products, are either completely copied from Honda GX engines (GreenField GF series), or based on their design with minor changes (GreenField PRO). However, PRO engines do not have options with an electric starter or reduction gearbox.

The company also supplies diesel engines with power from 2.8 hp. (GF170F) up to 11 hp (GF188FDE). Prices vary quite a lot between stores, but in general they are comparable to Lifan motors.

GF series motors:

GF motors with reduction gear:

PRO series motors:

Greenfield diesel engines:

Rating of popular powerful models

UNION 170F 7.0 HP

One of the best and most powerful options that every user will like, as the device will help you quickly complete a number of tasks. The shaft location is standard, there are no innovations here. All valves are located at the top. Cooling is airy, but effective. Ignition is transistorized. The fuel tank capacity is 3.6 liters, which is quite enough for continuous three-hour operation.

The cylinder liner is made of cast iron, which is a good solution. Rated power – 4.8 kW, output – 5.1 kW. The product is suitable for various belt driven devices, making it a universal solution. Weight – 13 kg, this is a separate advantage, as it will not cause any problems with moving or controlling the walk-behind tractor.

Sold at a price: from 7500 rubles.

UNION 170F 7.0 HP

Advantages:

• Reliable performance;
• Does not require maintenance;
• Long service life;
• Strength;
• Appearance;
• Good cooling.

Flaws:

• Not found.

Dinking DK 170 F

A good option that has a slightly lower power rating: 6.5 hp. Engine displacement – ​​212 cubic meters. see. Fuel tank volume is 3.6 liters, which is a standard solution for this series.

It is recommended to change the oil after 20 hours of operation if the product has just been purchased. After break-in, the replacement interval is every six months or 100 hours, whichever occurs faster.

Cooling system - forced air. The starter is manual, but this will not cause any problems. The crankshaft rotates counterclockwise. There is a primer that will help you start the engine quickly even at low temperatures. The kit includes a key for spark plugs, as well as instructions for proper use.

The average cost is 10,000 rubles.

Dinking DK 170 F

Advantages:

• Quick start even in sub-zero temperatures;
• Durable housing;
• Convenient use;
• Capacious fuel tank;
• Efficiency;
• High quality build.

Flaws:

• Not detected.

Briggs&Stratton RS950 Model 130000

This model can be considered semi-professional, as it has good technical characteristics. For work, it is recommended to use AI92 motor gasoline; it is desirable that it be unleaded or at least have a minimum content of this substance. Because if it is exceeded, problems are possible. The capacity here is slightly smaller and is 3.1 liters. Starting the engine takes no time even at sub-zero temperatures.

The case is made of durable material, which is reliable and of high quality assembly. No temperature changes or high humidity are scary for him if a person constantly uses the equipment and it does not sit in the garage for several months. The fuel supply to the engine is stable, since the product is equipped with a float carburetor.

The average cost is 12,700 rubles.

Briggs&Stratton RS950 Model 130000

Advantages:

• Production - USA;
• Reliability;
• High-quality assembly;
• Good cooling;
• Doesn't make loud noise;
• Efficiency.

Flaws:

• Not found.

Honda GX200 6.5 hp

A professional model, which is manufactured in Japan and has the best assembly. Most buyers remain satisfied with the purchase for the entire period of operation, since there are no problems with the engine. Power – 6.5 hp This is enough to perform a number of operations. The device is able to operate normally even at subzero temperatures; the only requirement for the user is to monitor the oil, otherwise the motor will deteriorate and it will be impossible to repair it.

The engine starts in a second and requires no effort, which is an advantage. Working volume – 196 cubic meters. see. Automotive fuel is used for operation. The ignition system is a transistor magneto. Recommended oil at positive temperatures is SAE 10W-30. Brand warranty – 1 year.

The average cost is 21,500 rubles.

Honda GX200 6.5 hp

Advantages:

• High-quality assembly;
• Good producer;
• Professional unit;
• Optimal power;
• Convenience;
• The user is only required to monitor gasoline and oil.

Flaws:

• Price.

Advantages and disadvantages

The list of advantages of the company's engines is presented:

• electronic contactless ignition system;
• installed automatic decompressor;
• large fuel tank;
• sleeved engines with an increased service life of 3.5 thousand m/h;
• compliance with the declared characteristics.

There are practically no disadvantages noted by users; the only serious disadvantage is the cost.

Gasoline models with winter preparation have their own advantages. Reasons why they are chosen:

• the presence of a protective impact-resistant casing;
• reinforced parts with increased frost resistance;
• compact design due to the horizontal shaft;
• stable operation in all weather conditions;
• easy starting due to the decompression system;
• electronic ignition.

Lifan 177F-R engine with lighting coil

Top diesel engines for walk-behind tractors

WEIMA WM 178 F

A popular option that is popular among motorcycle enthusiasts. Some install it in many devices, as they consider the product one of the best in its segment. The device is characterized by minimal emissions of harmful substances and efficiency, which is typical for diesel models. The product can work with both gardening equipment and construction units, and no problems will arise.

The outer part is made of durable metal, which does not deteriorate from mechanical shock and is comfortable. The engine also has good wear resistance and high service life.

The average cost is 31,900 rubles.

WEIMA WM 178 F

Advantages:

• Universal application;
• Cost-effective;
• Reliability;
• No installation problems;
• Does not require complex care;
• Quality.

Flaws:

• Price.

GROST 186F (G1 type cone 105.3mm)

An excellent option that stands out with power. The product is suitable for various equipment. Fuel consumption is minimal, but it is important to understand that the noise level is high. This is due to the features of the design itself.

The drive is suitable for both walk-behind tractors and mini tractors. The weight of the product is 58 kg, so if maneuverability is important to a person, it is better to find a simpler model. This device is best used in the professional field. The launch is carried out manually.

Sold at a price: from 25,000 rubles.

GROST 186F (G1 type cone 105.3mm)

Advantages:

• Durable housing;
• Reliability;
• Convenient engine location;
• Cost-effective;
• Universal application.

Flaws:

• Weight.

"LIFAN" C192FD

A high-quality option that has a power rating of 15 hp, which is an excellent result and helps to cope with almost any task. Cylinder displacement – ​​499 cubic meters. cm. The model combines durability and efficiency. At the same time, it is easy to use; any user can handle it. The capacity of the fuel tank is 5.5 liters.

Sold at a price: from 35,000 rubles.

"LIFAN" C192FD

Advantages:

• Coil - 6 A;
• High power;
• Easy start;
• Not demanding care;
• Fuel consumption.

Flaws:

• Price.

What kind of work can a walk-behind tractor perform? Attachments

Those who have never used a walk-behind tractor assume that its functions are limited to soil cultivation. But this is far from the case, and the happy owners of this “mini-tractor” can use it to perform the following work:

Plowing the land

With the help of a special small plow, which is an attachment for a walk-behind tractor, they actually plow the land. The greater the power of the walk-behind tractor, the more efficient the plowing. So the most powerful models can be safely sent to raise virgin soil.

A walk-behind tractor can significantly save energy and time for summer residents and owners of small farms. It allows you to plow the land quickly and with sufficient quality. In this case, you can forget about the pain of using a shovel or hiring a tractor that will shovel the entire area, leaving behind many huge clods.

In addition, the quality of soil cultivated with a walk-behind tractor is much higher than when plowed with a shovel or even a motor-cultivator. The reason for this is the opening of the deep layers of the soil and thorough mixing of the soil. This allows you to properly saturate the soil layer with oxygen, and as a result, increase the productivity of the land.

Harrowing

The walk-behind tractor can be equipped with another type of attachment - a harrow. A harrow is a special attachment with teeth.

When harrowing with a walk-behind tractor, the top dry earth crust, which is formed when the soil dries out under the influence of the sun, is crushed.

Harrowing is one of the most effective methods of weed removal.

The importance of harrowing is to create the opportunity for oxygen to reach the plant roots. In addition, without this procedure, moisture saturation of the plant root system is disrupted.

Hilling

Any gardener who grows potatoes or, say, strawberries will certainly appreciate such a function of the walk-behind tractor as hilling. With the help of a mounted hiller, the walk-behind tractor is able to raise furrows to ventilate the tubers.

Planting and harvesting

Potato lovers will not be able to contain their emotions from two more attachments for the walk-behind tractor. This is a potato planter and potato digger. Planting and harvesting potatoes with a walk-behind tractor is much faster.

In addition, there are special seeders on the market for sowing seeds of almost any garden plants.

Shipping

By connecting a walk-behind tractor with a trailer, you can get a kind of motor scooter. Yes, its speed will not be great. But it will transport loads like a real mini-tractor - you will be amazed at what this little guy is capable of.

He is not afraid of bags of cement, bales of fertilizer, or mountains of your harvest. And you yourself will be able to move around almost in complete comfort - sitting on your “heel” and imagining yourself as either a tractor driver or a coachman.

Winter work of the walk-behind tractor

In winter, the walk-behind tractor can be easily equipped into a snow removal machine. In this case, you can use a whole set of attachments.

For example, after a heavy snowfall, a snow blower is suitable for clearing walkways. A walk-behind tractor equipped with this tool can easily shovel even deep snow and throw it on the side of the road.

If the snowfall was light and the snow has not yet compacted, snow brushes are suitable and will help clean all the footpaths.

To remove hardened, compacted snow, you can use a special snow shovel. It is equipped with knives to remove compacted snow.

Motoblock device

A walk-behind tractor is actually a fairly simple mechanical tool. It consists of several main components: engine, transmission, clutch, gearbox and power take-off shaft.

Let's look at them in more detail.

Motoblock engine. Modern walk-behind tractors are equipped with three types of engines: gasoline, diesel or electric.

Electric walk-behind tractors are rare. This is due to the fact that their power is low, and therefore their functionality is limited.

Diesel walk-behind tractors are the most powerful, but also the most expensive. Although they are more economical than gasoline ones, they are also more reliable. But everything is determined by the high price - that’s why you don’t often see them in ordinary Russian households.

But walk-behind tractors with a gasoline engine are the most common.

Walk-behind tractor transmission. It is a system of components that is designed to transmit torque from the engine to the wheels and working body of the walk-behind tractor. There are several types of transmissions that are installed on different types of walk-behind tractors.

Lightweight walk-behind tractors are usually equipped with a worm-gear transmission. It includes two gearboxes: gear (upper) and worm (lower). Sometimes such transmissions are equipped with a power take-off shaft.

A belt-tooth-chain transmission is most often installed on medium-power walk-behind tractors. In it, the rotation of the engine is transmitted to the gearbox shaft via a belt. At the same time, the gearbox shaft supplies torque to the attachment or wheels through the chain. And finally, a gear transmission is installed on heavy walk-behind tractors. Its design is in many ways similar to a tractor transmission. Thanks to the gear transmission, walk-behind tractors have several speeds (both forward and reverse).

Gearbox. This is a detail that you should pay attention to when choosing and purchasing a walk-behind tractor. The gearbox directly affects the reliability and service life of the “mini-tractor”. It serves to transfer power from the engine shaft to the working part of the walk-behind tractor.

Models with a collapsible gearbox are preferable. Such gearboxes are repairable. In addition, if only part of the unit fails, it can be easily replaced rather than buying a new walk-behind tractor.

PTO. This mechanism is inherited by the walk-behind tractor from the tractor. This unit is necessary for the operation of attachments.

What is the power of the walk-behind tractor, and how to choose it?

It is based on the power factor that all walk-behind tractors are divided into three types.

Types of walk-behind tractors depending on power

So, as we have already indicated earlier, all walk-behind tractors according to power parameters are divided into:

• lungs;
• average;
• heavy;

Light Motoblocks

This type of walk-behind tractor has engines with a power of up to 5 horsepower. Due to their low power, they are practically incapable of performing heavy work with a plow on hard ground, as they quickly overheat and cannot drag the plow.

Light walk-behind tractors are also suitable for light work on small private farms - loosening and cultivating light soil.

Medium Motoblocks

This is a more serious technique with an average engine power of up to 8 horsepower. They are often equipped with a multi-speed transmission and reverse gear.

Equipping with a power take-off shaft allows medium walk-behind tractors to use attachments. Diesel models are already appearing in this line of walk-behind tractors.

Heavy Motoblocks

These machines are already more like a mini-tractor. And no wonder - their weight often exceeds 100 kg, and the engine develops power of over 10 horsepower.

All heavy walk-behind tractors are equipped with a power take-off shaft and are ready to work with any attachments.

Large walk-behind tractors have advanced characteristics that undoubtedly exceed the capabilities of light or medium-sized walk-behind tractors. In addition, they are more reliable due to the use of components with higher wear resistance.

The performance of such machines is also impressive - some models are capable of working for days in the literal sense of the word.

Of course, all these advantages are significantly reflected in the price of a heavy walk-behind tractor. Although, if the size of your farm is large enough, and the list of necessary work is constantly growing, then buying a heavy walk-behind tractor can significantly save you effort, time, and subsequently money.

Top 3 popular options

Kepler 170F

A good and practical option that is suitable for installation in a home walk-behind tractor. The device has good technical characteristics and guarantees a long service life. Can be used with a walk-behind tractor, a seam cutter or a motor pump. Maximum power – 7 hp. Dry motor weight – 14.5 kg.

The average cost is 6,900 rubles.

Kepler 170F

Advantages:

• Small dimensions;
• Suitable for light-duty walk-behind tractors;
• Long service life;
• Good cooling system;
• Effective work;
• High-quality assembly;
• Low cost;
• Durable housing.

Flaws:

• Not found.

LIFAN 170F D20 (00619)

A popular option from a Chinese manufacturer, which is suitable for every person who wants to get a high-quality walk-behind tractor. Rated power is 5.2 kW, which is a high figure. The product is easy to operate since the engine is lightweight. There is a one-year warranty. The outer part is made of durable material that can withstand high loads.

The average cost is 9,300 rubles.

LIFAN 170F D20 (00619)

Advantages:

• Specifications;
• Popular manufacturer;
• Power – 5.2 kW;
• High-quality cooling;
• Universal application.

Flaws:

• Not found.

GREEN FIELD GF168-1R

A good Chinese model that impresses with its quiet operation. The product is suitable for various light-duty walk-behind tractors, even those produced in Russia. The peculiarity of the engine is that it is equipped with an oil level sensor, which makes operation convenient. The case itself is made of durable material that does not deteriorate from external influences.

The average cost is 13,900 rubles.

GREEN FIELD GF168-1R

Advantages:

• Value for money;
• Relatively low consumption;
• Strength;
• Quiet operation;
• Small mass.

Flaws:

• Not found.

Subaru

Subaru (more precisely, a subsidiary of Subaru-Robin) is one of the most famous manufacturers of engines for a variety of motorized vehicles. When purchasing a Subaru motor for a walk-behind tractor, you can be sure of the long service life and reliability of the power unit.

There are several series of engines, labeled as follows:

• EC – light two-stroke engines, not used on walk-behind tractors;
• EY – lower valve engines;
• EH – overhead valve (OHV) engines;
• EX – overhead (OHC) motors. Subaru is one of the few suppliers of engines of this type for garden equipment;
• DY – diesel engines.

The following Subaru engines are most often used on walk-behind tractors:

Replacing the engine on a Neva MB1 or MB2 walk-behind tractor - options

Thanks to the engine that will be installed on the Neva walk-behind tractor, the service life of the unit will be extended. In addition, the list of agricultural work will increase. Maintenance and repair will be facilitated by free access to the main mechanisms of the engines.

To install a new engine on the Neva walk-behind tractor, you need to select a replacement. There are several options, but popular ones:

• Robin-Subaru products;
• the “heart” of Chinese-made gardening equipment;
• Honda products.

The choice in favor of replacing engines for the Neva MB-2 walk-behind tractor must be made taking into account the price-quality parameters, the climate of the region where the unit will be used, and the possibility of repair, etc. For the Neva MB-1 walk-behind tractor, replacement is carried out using a power device whose characteristics will resemble the “native” engine. To do this, you should choose:

1. Forte F200G.Sadko GE200.
2. Damask steel BT170F-L.
3. Weima WM170F.
4. Iron Angel E200 (Z).
5. Centaur ICE-200D.
6. Vityaz 178F and others.

Each of these facilities will extend the life of the machine and allow it to perform more tasks in agriculture. Free access to the main mechanisms makes their maintenance and repair simple. As for the Neva MB-2 walk-behind tractor, the heart can also be replaced with an imported or Russian one. If you choose the first option, the costs will not be much more than purchasing Russian-made units.

Attention!

Not just any power device is suitable for installation on the Neva MB2, so you need to choose the right one.

This model fits:

1. Vityaz 168F.
2. Damask steel BT170F-L.
3. Iron Angel E200 (Z).
4. Centaur DVS-200B.
5. Sadko GE 200.
6. Sadko GE 210.
7. Forte F200G, etc.

Each of the engines is characterized by increased efficiency, power and minimal fuel consumption. Each listed motor includes working cylinders, the walls inside of which are coated with an anti-corrosion compound. Therefore, the service life of the product is increased.