Viking walk-behind tractors and cultivators are reliable and productive small agricultural equipment. Produced since the early 80s. last century in Austria. For the last twenty years, this brand has been part of the Shtil corporation, which became the impetus for subsequent innovative discoveries and expansion of the range.
Viking walk-behind tractors are units of various power levels, adapted for performing various technological operations with soil. Depending on the technical features, they are distinguished:
- walk-behind tractors themselves are wheeled self-propelled and non-self-propelled devices that functionally replace a mini tractor. Most have a power take-off shaft (pulley), which ensures aggregation with auxiliary attachments;
- cultivators are small-sized and easy-to-use devices designed for loosening and cultivating soil with a milling cutter. They are characterized by limited functionality, but are attractive due to their low cost and ease of maintenance.
Features of Viking motor cultivators:
- durable Austrian-made gasoline engines, trouble-free in hot and cold weather;
- simplified “Smart-Choke” starting system;
- reversible gearbox with a service life of up to 3 thousand hours;
- tool-free adjustment of the handles, which can be performed without special technical training;
- effective vibration-noise absorption system;
- modified cutters for plowing on any substrate;
- compatibility with all kinds of auxiliary equipment, allowing the walk-behind tractor to perform a dozen tasks.
The capabilities of Viking walk-behind tractors depend on attachment adapters, which can be:
- disc or switch hillers;
- plows;
- potato and garlic planters;
- seeders of various rows and purposes;
- harvesting attachments;
- adapters with seat;
- trailers;
- lugs and weights;
- rakes;
- mowers;
- utility and snow removal equipment.
A short overview of Viking walk-behind tractors is presented in the video.
The difference between the Viking line of small equipment
Viking cultivators are designed for work on small private properties.
The professional class of models has great opportunities. The Viking brand is respected and in demand among Russian users. The company's policy is encapsulated in the motto: the worker must plow the equipment, but not be plowed. When creating new models, manufacturers refused to use two-stroke engines with their disadvantages. All medium and light models are equipped with American Briggs, powerful ones, the latest models are equipped with Kohler. Starting occurs with an electronic ignition system. Cooling is air, there is a filter on the intake pipe. The transmission of torque in the Viking cultivator is belt, the gearbox is a worm gear, reversible. The layout allows you to create stability of the model, eliminating tipping over on uneven terrain. Vibration absorbers installed between the engine frame and the handle reduce hand fatigue. All rotating parts are guarded, but the mechanisms and grip can be adjusted manually. Easy installation and thoughtful fastening are provided everywhere.
The prices of the Viking cultivator differ little from domestic models with significantly greater reliability and functionality. We present several of the most typical examples of equipment from a well-known manufacturer.
Any cultivator must include instructions for servicing the model. Please study it before turning on the engine. You will find a lot of interesting things in it, even if you have used a similar unit before.
Disadvantages of Viking motorcycles
Experience in operating motor vehicles from this manufacturer has not revealed any shortcomings. Minor inconveniences, compensated by the high resource and reliability of all models that the Viking pre-sowing cultivator has, include:
- Zero maintainability of the gearbox - the unit cannot be disassembled, refilling the oil is enough to last its life, repairs cost about a third of the cost of the cultivator, so it is necessary to follow the storage instructions (dry, warm room), and install safety valves.
- Low weight of budget models - they do not provide for hanging loads, which makes loosening dry hard soils difficult.
- Low belt life is a consequence of combined torque transmission.
Attachments for the Viking cultivator must be purchased separately, since they are not intended to perform the main function. In addition, not every owner uses a plow or snow blower, therefore, the manufacturer rightly believes that to increase functionality, it will not be difficult for users to purchase it according to their needs. For example, the Viking cultivator in the video is equipped with a ripper, cutters, plow wheels, and a plow.
Thus, every owner of a summer house, country house, or garden plot will find in the Viking manufacturer’s assortment a model that is completely suitable for cultivating the land. By purchasing additional equipment, he can significantly expand the capabilities of motorcycle equipment, practically eliminating its downtime. This will ensure a high return on investment, a minimum purchase budget, and savings on repairs.
Models of Viking motor cultivators
The Viking 440 cultivator is equipped with a Briggs&Stratton 475 series engine with a power of 3.5 liters.
with., easy start system. The unit belongs to a series of lightweight machines used for working in confined spaces. It has compact cutters with a working width of 42 cm. The maximum working depth is 32 cm, adjustable with a coulter. The density of the soil is not an obstacle; the cutters will fluff up the trampled area. Forward and reverse travel will allow you to go through compacted soil several times; the reverse switch control is located on the handle. The handle is height adjustable for easy grip and folds flat for transport. The cutters are equipped with knives with a lifetime guarantee against destruction. Protective cutters are mounted along the edges of the cutting mechanism. For transportation at the front there is a folding wheel. The cultivator is an improved HB 400 and performs the same functions.
The model weighs 39 kg and can be easily transported in the trunk of a car.
The Viking 445 cultivator is available in 2 modifications. The HB 45 and HB 45 R cultivators are distinguished by the presence of reverse gear in the modernized model. Users note the smooth entry of the cutters into the ground, because they first go deep and then gain momentum. The handle has three height levels, so you can easily choose a comfortable position. You can also unscrew the handle so as not to step on the arable land, and the mechanism will go straight.
The robust body is made of aluminum, the worm shaft is made of special steel, and the worm is made of bronze. The video shows how the Viking cultivator works easily:
A variety of trailed equipment can be used with this unit. When plowing dense soil, you can hang loads, use a harrow, grousers, hiller and other standard equipment.
- engine - B&S I/C 450 Series (USA);
- total power -3.5, effective - 1.9 liters. With.;
- processing strip width - 25-60 cm:
- gearbox – worm with belt drive
- plowing depth – 30 cm;
- weight 40 kg;
- price - 35990 rub.
Viking 540, the cultivator is equipped with a 5.5 liter engine.
With. The unit looks powerful and aggressive, but is easy to operate. Transport wheels have a diameter of 20 cm and are moved across the field on cutters. The device is designed to work over a large area with a grip of up to 90 cm. At the same time, it has forward and reverse movement and the ability to work with various trailed implements. The Viking 540 cultivator is distinguished by easy starting of the powerful B&S 800 Series OHV engine with a combustion chamber volume of 205 cm 3 . The four-stroke engine runs on AI92 and AI95 gasoline. A combined lever for rear and forward movement is installed on the handle. The chain drive is covered by a removable bolted aluminum housing.
The cutters have a lifetime warranty from the manufacturer. The set includes 6 cutters, with easy mounting units without additional keys.
The product weighs 56 kg and has a folding handle.
The Viking 560, cultivator and heavier models of such equipment are equipped with a Kohler Courtage XT6 OHV engine. The effective shaft power is 2.4 kW, with a speed of 3000 rpm. At the same time, the service life of equipment increases by 26%. The working width has changed. It is not adjustable and is 60 cm. The front wheel was removed as unnecessary, the unit moves easily on knives. The auxiliary wheels are mounted behind, closer to the operator. Torque is transmitted through a belt transmission to a reversible gearbox. This is how the movement of the cultivator’s working units changes. The case, made of metal, will withstand any load. With all its power, the unit is lighter than the HB 540, weighing 46 kg. A set of attachments will expand the scope of use of the equipment. The price of the device from the manufacturer is 38,990 rubles.
The Viking 585 cultivator is also equipped with a new Kohler engine. The powerful machine easily cultivates fallow soil, with a grip of 85 cm. It is important to equip the cultivator with mounted implements so that its power serves not only during the spring harvest. The entire Viking line is designed to perform the toughest jobs. The choice depends on the conditions in which the equipment will be operated.
The more attachments included in the set, the more efficiently the unit is used.
- effective power – 2.4 kW;
- processing strip width – 85 cm;
- handle adjustment – 3 positions;
- drive – 2 speeds, forward and reverse;
- gearbox – worm with belt drive;
- plowing depth – 32 cm;
- weight – 49 kg.
The model costs 39,990 rubles.
The Viking 685 cultivator is the most powerful unit supplied from Russia. It is equipped with a new power unit and is suitable for processing large areas. It differs only in its power; the plowing width has not increased and the owner is left to decide for himself where to use such power.
In conclusion, it is necessary to warn owners of Viking cultivators about one feature. The vulnerable link of expensive equipment is the gearbox. Therefore, even at the purchase stage, you must ask to disassemble the gearbox, open the cover, and make sure that it is kept dry. In the future, you yourself need to take care of sealing the valves. The tool should be stored in a dry, heated room, at least the gearbox.
Video about attachments for the Viking cultivator
Cultivator "Viking" 560
An amateur unit powered by a small-displacement gasoline engine. The presence of a forged crankshaft and cylinder liner extends its service life for decades. The design is designed for any operating conditions: for transportation between fields there are small pneumatic tires that are enough to lift to start cultivation. Instead of a rototiller, you can install a single-furrow plow on a cultivator, which will ensure not only loosening, but also turnover of the soil layer.
Advantages:
- durable power plant;
- brake spur, simplifying the operation process;
- gasoline and air filter with pre-cleaning system;
- U-shaped steering wheel with independent adjustment of the right and left sides;
- worm transmission with forward and reverse speeds;
- minimized noise level, which does not exceed 93 dBA.
Performance characteristics:
- Thrust – 2.4 kW;
- Cylinder – 140 cm3;
- Gas tank – 1.1 l;
- Cultivation depth/width – 32/60 cm;
- Weight – 46 kg.
Viking walk-behind tractor
The Austrian company Viking has existed since 1981. Since 1992, this motorcycle manufacturer has teamed up with the STIHL corporation. Viking walk-behind tractors are known for their build quality, high reliability and first-class service. All units are tested in production workshops, and then, under working conditions in the fields.
Motor vehicles from the Austrian manufacturer Viking are designed for country and garden work; they are popular in many countries around the world.
Model range overview
Next, we will take a closer look at the engine type and power of the most popular and sought-after models from Viking.
Viking HB 585
The petrol Viking HB 585 has a power of 3.3 hp (2.3 kW). Engine model: Kohler Courage - XT-675 OHV SC.
Engine parameters: four-stroke, overhead valve, 149 cc, cast iron liner, forged crankshaft. The engine is protected by a casing and side covers made of polymer material. The weight of this modification is 49 kg. There is a manual start.
Viking HB 560
The petrol Viking HB 560 is equipped with a 2.4 hp engine. Engine model: Kohler Courage XT-675 OHV SC.
Engine parameters: four-stroke, air cooling, cast iron cylinder liner, volume - 149 cm3. The weight of the unit is 47 kg. There is a manual start.
Viking HB 685
Viking HB 685 - gasoline Kohler Courage XT-800 OHV SC, with an engine capacity of 149 cc.
Engine parameters: power 3.9 hp, overhead valve placement, protective casing. Walk-behind tractor weight: 49 kg. Starting the engine manually.
Viking HB 445 R
Viking HB 445 R - power 2.5 hp. Briggs&Stratton Series 450 petrol engine with a cast iron cylinder liner, protected by a casing, engine capacity 158 cm3.
Machine weight 41 kg. The main purpose of the walk-behind tractor: cultivation, hilling. The launch is done manually.
Viking VH 540
Viking VH 540 - petrol. Engine Briggs & Stratton Series 450, with a power of 4.9 hp. The engine is four-stroke, its volume is 205 cm3. The walk-behind tractor weighs 56 kg and has a manual start function.
Viking VH 660
Viking VH 660 - gasoline, with a Briggs&Stratton Series 800 engine, power 4.9 hp, engine capacity 205 cm3. There is a manual start. The weight of the walk-behind tractor is 71 kg.
Viking VH 440
Viking VH 440 - 3.5 hp model. Engine Briggs&Stratton 475 Series, four-stroke, with a displacement of 148 cm3. and air cooling. Starting the engine manually. Unit weight 39 kg.
Viking VH 400
Viking VH 400 - power 3.5 hp, engine capacity 148 cm3, cooling type - air blowing. Four-stroke engine Briggs&Stratton 475 Series, model weight 39 kg.
Cultivator "Viking" 445
Lightweight amateur motorized cultivator “Viking”, suitable for work in a summer cottage or small garden (less than 10 acres). It is characterized by comfort and simple controls that even a woman can do. It has a classic design for this type of walk-behind tractor in black and green color, with stable wheels located at the back. 2 handles, which can be folded or rotated to the sides, allow you to set the trajectory of movement.
Advantages:
- easy start functionality that allows you to turn on the device in a minute;
- 2-speed transmission with reverse gear;
- a separable set of rototillers, by hanging which the required plowing width is set;
- built-in anti-vibration dampers that absorb mechanical vibrations before they are transmitted to the handles;
- a decompression valve that preserves the starter cable from premature breakage;
- minimal care that does not require special skills.
Operating properties of the Viking HB 445 R cultivator:
- Force – 1.9 kW;
- Cylinder – 149 cm3;
- Fuel tank – 900 ml;
- Plowing (width/depth) – 0.46/0.3 m;
- Weight – 41 kg.
Attachments
Viking walk-behind tractors, despite their low weight and average power, are in demand and popular. Attachments can significantly expand the functionality of the units, and good build quality and engine parameters make this equipment a reliable assistant at any time of the year. The manufacturer offers a wide selection of tools for this type of motorcycle.
Milling cutter
Viking are equipped with 4 or 6 cutters (depending on the walk-behind tractor model). Additionally, you can purchase cutters in sets: Viking ABS 400, Viking AHV 600, Viking AEM 500 and others.
The assembly and installation of cutters on these units is similar to the installation of cutters on other light and medium weight walk-behind tractors. Figure 1 shows the cutter assembly diagram.
Hiller
The manufacturer offers the following models of hillers for working with the Viking walk-behind tractor: Viking ABU 440 (for models VH 400, 440), Viking ABU 500 (for models VH 540, 660), Viking AHK 701 (for walk-behind tractor models from the HB series - 560, 585, 685).
The main purpose of this equipment: cutting furrows, loosening, hilling rows.
Adapter, trailer
It is not recommended to connect heavy trailers or adapters to light models of walk-behind tractors.
Recommended model for all representatives of the Viking model range: Pick-up 300 dump trailer from Viking. The unit can be used with light trolleys with a load capacity of up to 300 kg.
Mower
Viking lawn mowers are a separate type of equipment that the manufacturer sells along with walk-behind tractors. To mow grass with a Viking walk-behind tractor, it is not recommended to use large, heavy mowers.
Types of plows recommended by the manufacturer: Viking reversible and semi-reversible, type ADP 600 or AWP 600.
Lugs
Grouser models: Viking premium 34 cm, 340x110, WM-500. You can use lugs from Pubert, Husqvarna, Glendale, Robix, Solo.
Potato digger
Potato digger model suitable for all Viking modifications: AKP 600. It is allowed to use potato diggers from the manufacturers Pubert, Husqvarna, Glendale, Robix, Solo.
Potato planter
Model of potato planter for Viking walk-behind tractor: any, designed for light walk-behind tractors, for example, a single-row walk-behind potato planter, with a hopper capacity of 20 liters and for tuber diameters of 50-100 mm.
Additional equipment from the manufacturer, which may be required less frequently than listed above: kits for plowing soft soil, universal hitches, creepers, wheel sets, rippers, moss removal kits.
What general characteristics do the units have?
- Models have a 4-stroke Austrian Kohler engine, which is located at the bottom of the frame, thereby providing reliable balancing, or an American engine from the time-tested Briggs & Stratton brand;
- Thanks to the special Smart-Choke system, the starting process is greatly simplified;
- Fuel and air filters contribute to the long-term operation of the Viking walk-behind tractor;
- Thanks to the 3-position brake, maximum safety during control is guaranteed;
- With the help of a reversible gearbox, maneuverability is ensured, but company representatives do not recommend working in reverse;
- The gearbox has incredible potential, so it will probably last at least 10 years;
- For lubrication, you should purchase special Klüber synthetic oil;
- The handles can be adjusted without the use of special tools;
- The handles themselves should be carefully folded for better transportation of the walk-behind tractor.
Despite the fact that the “filling” of the units itself has been improved over the years, some things have remained unchanged. We are talking about the classic green body, cutter design and V-shaped handle.
User manual
The operating instructions for the Viking walk-behind tractor are a document that the owner receives complete with the device and a warranty card. The manufacturer also does not recommend using attachments from heavy walk-behind tractors from other companies. It is prohibited to operate a walk-behind tractor without the appropriate skills and to violate the operating rules.
Service
Engine oil is selected based on the season. Oil type: high quality oils for gasoline four-stroke engines. Fuel: 92 or 95 gasoline.
Safety and proper storage rules:
- store the walk-behind tractor in a dry room with low dust levels;
- Before long-term storage, thoroughly clean the engine cooling fins;
- Empty the fuel tank and carburetor before winter storage by idling;
- You can also use a syringe to empty the gas tank (if there is no time to idle);
- Operate the walk-behind tractor wearing closed clothing and closed shoes with thick soles.
First launch and run-in
The first start of the walk-behind tractor is allowed only after assembly and checking the correct connection of all components. The walk-behind tractor is started outdoors or in a room with good ventilation (open doors, working hood).
Running in the walk-behind tractor is carried out in 1/3 or 2/3 load mode: in each gear, the walk-behind tractor is started in 1/3 engine load mode, and then at 2/3 load.
After such a start-up and operation, the walk-behind tractor is considered to have been run-in. Remember that Vikings are designed for use in soft soils, greenhouses and gardens. To cultivate virgin lands, use heavier and more powerful equipment.
Basic malfunctions and their elimination
Basic malfunctions of Viking walk-behind tractors and solutions.
Main malfunctions and ways to prevent them
As numerous owners of Viking walk-behind tractors have noticed, the weakest point of the device is the gearbox. Despite the fact that it is reliably protected by a metal case, after wet processing or washing, moisture remains in the form of condensation, which has a detrimental effect on the parts.
The following video provides an overview of the Viking HB 560 walk-behind tractor:
Do not get upset prematurely, since manufacturers have provided this option and supply the gearbox with high-quality lubricant, the amount of which is designed for a long operating period. But over time, the lubricant wears off, careless handling also makes its own adjustments, so the gearbox becomes unusable. Unfortunately, this part of the mechanism cannot be repaired and will have to be completely replaced.
Important! Do not leave fuel in the tank after completing all work on the walk-behind tractor, as after a few days condensation may form in it, which will render the entire fuel system unusable.
If the engine does not start, it is necessary to: check the presence of fuel and sparks in the spark plug, clean the air filter and fuel tank.
If the engine gets very hot, the reason for this may be a lack of oil, clogging of the ventilation, engine or muffler. In this case, it is necessary to clean the parts and refill with oil.
Owners taking care of their equipment will prevent premature breakdowns.
Adhering to the following rules will increase the service life of the walk-behind tractor:
- When buying a walk-behind tractor, ask the seller to check the operation of the gearbox and make sure there is no moisture in it.
- Protect valves.
- It is advisable to store the walk-behind tractor in a dry, warm place at times when the equipment is not expected to be used for a long time.
- Check air filters regularly to ensure they are clean.
Viking walk-behind tractors, model range
Proper soil preparation is the key to a good harvest. Previously, people cultivated the soil manually and with the help of animals. Today, all this has been taken over by agricultural machinery. Even if you have a small plot, you can easily buy a walk-behind tractor or a walk-behind cultivator.
You can find a huge selection of similar equipment on sale. Viking walk-behind tractors occupy their significant position in the entire range. They have established themselves in the market as a reliable and responsible manufacturer of walk-behind tractors and cultivators at an affordable price and with good technical characteristics. As reviews from owners show, such machines are reliable, durable and easy to operate.
It makes no sense to compare the Viking walk-behind tractor with Chinese analogues, since this is professional equipment of the highest quality. Breakdowns are extremely rare, but you can find any spare parts in specialized stores.
Motoblocks "Viking": model range
There is a wide selection of Viking walk-behind tractors on sale, among which you can easily choose the right model for yourself. It is important to carefully read the machine’s instructions before purchasing and take into account such points as the size of your plot of land and the type of soil.
The company was founded more than 80 years ago in Austria, but today it has branches in France and Latvia. Although the motor cultivators of this brand are small in size, they are equipped with fairly powerful gasoline engines. With the help of auxiliary wheels you can easily move the machine, and the anti-vibration system will ensure comfortable working conditions. It should also be noted that the operator has special protection from rotating elements - this is extremely important and necessary for human safety.
The scope of application of Viking walk-behind tractors is very wide:
- loosening the earth. The important point here is the engine power of the Viking walk-behind tractor. Taking into account this parameter and the type of soil on your site, you can choose the appropriate model for yourself;
- creating furrows for tuber crops;
- mixing fertilizers with soil;
- grinding dry soil knocked into blocks, and much more.
Description of walk-behind tractor brand 585
The Viking 585 walk-behind tractor is a fairly compact model, the working width of which is equivalent to 850 mm. Using the equipment, you can process fairly wide areas. You can adjust the width from 350 to 600 mm. To do this, the operator will have to install the walk-behind tractor in the service position, and then open the cotter pins and remove the plowing kit.
It is shortened by the required number of cutting elements. Among the advantages of the described equipment, one should highlight the presence of protection against simultaneous pressing of the control handle. The rowing knife is quite powerful, this increases the productivity of the device. A metal hard casing protects the working person, which is also ensured by the presence of polymer protective wings.
Motor cultivator Viking VH 540
Auto mechanic, specializes in agricultural equipment
Today, Viking units are the most popular equipment for light-duty agricultural work. The machines of this manufacturer have a wide range of models. Separately, it is worth noting the Viking motor-cultivator model VH 540. With their help, you can carry out various works not only in the field, but also in the garden, spending a minimum of time and effort.
Why else is it worth buying Viking?
If you want to transport the walk-behind tractor from place to place or preserve it for a storage season, the handles can be folded; this, according to buyers, is very convenient. The handles are connected to the unit through a vibration-absorbing system, thanks to which the operator will not experience hand fatigue, even if he works for a long time.
Consumers today quite often choose equipment from the Viking brand; the walk-behind tractor from this manufacturer has a plowing kit that can be used to adjust the working width. Buyers like that the cutters cut into the ground evenly and are bent along their entire length. This design makes it easier to work in heavy soil.
General description of the technique
The Viking manufacturer is constantly improving its models, thanks to which the walk-behind tractors are distinguished by good performance and high efficiency. Before going on sale, all equipment from this company undergoes strict quality control. The equipment is checked, documents are checked, units undergo computer diagnostics and bench tests.
Such machines are distinguished by a special arrangement of components and mechanisms. The center of gravity in the device is shifted down, which ensures good stability when turning and tilting. All Viking models are equipped with a button for adjusting the processing width. There is a bracket on the frame, which makes it possible to carry out processing not only in the field, but also to carry out cultivation and planting work in vegetable gardens.
VH 440: technical characteristics
The Viking 440 motor-cultivator is specially designed for people with disabilities. According to numerous reviews from owners, this unit is easy to use, reliable and durable.
In this video you will learn the pros and cons of the viking cultivator: The machine is equipped with an engine with a power of 3.5 horsepower. The unit is economical, since fuel consumption is on average 0.6 liters per hour. The cylinder volume of the Viking walk-behind tractor model VH 440 is 175 cubic centimeters, and the tank is 1.8 liters. The number of revolutions is 3800 per minute.
The unit is equipped with two speeds, one of which is forward and the second is reverse. You can accelerate such a car up to 12 kilometers per hour. The working width of the motor cultivator is 34-68 centimeters, the depth is 24 centimeters.
Specifications
The gasoline engine is the heart of the Viking cultivator. The developers install Briggs-and-Stratton engines on their models, recognized as one of the best in the world.
Late models are equipped with the new generation of Kohler engines.
Pre-sowing cultivators cope with the following tasks:
- leveling (a leveling bar is intended for this);
- loosening and cultivation (S-shaped racks are placed in five rows);
- rolling (the kits include a string shaft).
Here are the key parameters of the new Vikings:
- tandem wheel system (copies the curves of the terrain);
- stability of the processed depth (varies within 4-15 cm);
- working width - 5-8 meters;
- speed - 15 km/h;
- plant residues do not clog the racks;
- paw service life - 120 thousand blows;
- frame material - Swedish special steel;
- hydraulic folding;
- transport width - up to 3 meters;
- hydraulic cylinder system.