How to choose a walk-behind tractor: overview of the Russian market

With the arrival of spring, agricultural work begins, as well as work on summer cottages. Motoblocks for the garden and vegetable garden provide serious assistance in this. With their help, you can cope with planting, harvesting and plowing much faster.

Manufacturers offer a fairly wide range of equipment that is universal. This article will help you understand which walk-behind tractors are the best and most reliable. If you have chosen cultivators, read the article: Which cultivator should you choose for your garden? We will help you choose

Motoblock Salute

The Salyut walk-behind tractor is a multifunctional integrated agricultural technology. There are walk-behind tractors, there are very good walk-behind tractors, and then there is the legendary “Salyut”. If you are reading this article, it means that you are faced with the question of choosing self-propelled agricultural machinery, a universal assistant. Indeed, it is not easy to choose a specific sample from many different brands.

Brand history

For a quarter of a century, Salyut walk-behind tractors have been delighting their owners. Their production was organized at the Salyut MMPP, the history of which began in 1912 with the assembly of aircraft engines at a plant founded by the French.

Today, what was once a small factory has turned into a joint-stock enterprise, the Gas Turbine Research and Production Center Salyut, whose main profile is the production of turbojet aircraft engines and gas turbine units. The assembly of walk-behind tractors is an auxiliary production.

Motoblocks "Salut" are rightfully considered specialized equipment designed to perform household work of high complexity.

Over the entire period, the design of walk-behind tractors has been repeatedly improved, as a result of which the machines have risen from the level of household appliances to an impeccable professional level in terms of efficiency and quality of work.

For ten years (2002-2012), the assembly of Salyut 5 models was carried out at, which was part of the Federal Scientific and Production Center Salyut. After internal contradictions and structural separation of enterprises, the production of walk-behind tractors at Agata ceased, the supply of components and assemblies for its assembly ended, including the specific Omsk gearbox. And Agata began producing walk-behind tractors under its own brand.

Currently, Salyut walk-behind tractors are assembled at Chinese factories under the technical supervision of experts from JSC NPCG.

Therefore, in order not to purchase a Salyut Agat clone instead of a certified walk-behind tractor from the manufacturer, you should carefully read the product data sheet when purchasing. Naturally, NPCG JSC does not bear warranty obligations in relation to such counterfeits.

Line of models

The main task in developing the Salyut was to create a reliable, durable machine capable of performing many agricultural, economic, and construction tasks on farms and personal farms.

The Salyut 5 walk-behind tractor is distinguished by a well-thought-out design solution. Various modifications differ in the type of engine and its power.

Advantages of the “fifth” model:

• Use of engines from world famous manufacturers.
• Durable gear reducer.
• V-belt drive with two belts - comfortable operation due to less belt slippage.
• 2 forward speeds and 1 reverse.
• Possibility of convenient switching to a lower speed range.
• The presence of a power take-off shaft for connecting active-type trailed units.
• Excellent stability due to the forward and downward center of gravity.
• Steering column adjustable in two planes.
• Excellent aggregation with standardized mounted implements from different manufacturers.

In 2013, a modernized modification of the Salyut 100 was released, named in honor of the centenary anniversary of the enterprise. The “hundredth” model is a logical improvement of its predecessor. The designers have worked on improved design and ergonomics of the walk-behind tractor, which in our time is an important factor in promoting products on the market.

Features of the “100” model of the Salute walk-behind tractor:

• The gear selector is moved to the steering wheel, the clutch handle is equipped with a special lock, and the steering wheel is conveniently adjustable in all directions.
• A powerful gearbox with a service life of 3000 hours is installed.
• Front and rear hitches have significantly expanded the capabilities of the walk-behind tractor when working with mounted implements.
• The walk-behind tractor package includes pneumatic wheels with an expressive tread, expansion bushings, a specific dipstick for checking the oil in the gearbox, and an additional bracket for attaching the hitch.
• A special advantage is the three-row soil tillers with knives made of high-quality spring steel.

Pay attention to how, thanks to the specific crescent shape of the knives, the cultivation of any soil is carried out efficiently.

Video review of the work of the Salyut 100 walk-behind tractor with a Lifan 6.5 engine

Top models

You should choose a walk-behind tractor rationally, based on the required performance. Due to lack of power, the walk-behind tractor may fail earlier. On the other hand, it should be taken into account that equipment with excessive power reserves is more expensive.

Therefore, for plots up to 50 acres, walk-behind tractors with a power of 5.0-5.5 hp are the ideal option:

• Salute 5P Robin Subaru EY-20,
• Salute 5X Honda GC 160 OHV.

For areas of 40 acres and above, choose solid 6.0-6.5 hp models:

It is impossible to work steadily with a low-quality motor for a long time. Therefore, the best gasoline engines designed for work in medium and small areas are installed on Salyut walk-behind tractors.

Despite the fact that diesel has greater efficiency, gasoline engines start better in cold weather and operate stably at higher speeds.

Motoblock Salute Honda GX-200

Walk-behind tractors with Japanese Honda engines are considered the recognized leaders. Salute Honda GX-200 with 6.5 hp. – reliable high-class agricultural machinery. Since Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. (Japan) has stopped producing engines; mini-equipment with a Subaru engine is now almost impossible to purchase.

Motoblock Salyut 100 BS-V

Walk-behind tractors with American engines from the Briggs & Stratton and Vanguard brands (Japan) have proven excellent - truly multi-tasking machines that can successfully replace other special equipment.

Motoblock Salute 100 L 6.5

Thanks to the continuous improvement of technology and quality improvement, Chinese Lifan engines are gaining more and more popularity. Their main advantage is reasonable price with decent quality. Salyut 100 L-6.5 is an excellent combination of reasonable price and high technical characteristics.

Oka or Ugra - which walk-behind tractor to choose?

In the store, customers often find walk-behind tractors from the same manufacturer on sale at different prices.
The first question that arises for the seller is how the two models differ, and which walk-behind tractor is better to buy? Typically, walk-behind tractors differ in the type of engine, but for the Oka and Ugra walk-behind tractors, produced in Kaluga by Kaluga Engine OJSC, the differences are more significant. Let's figure out how the Kaluga walk-behind tractors Oka and Ugra differ. Let us immediately note that the manufacturer warns that you need to beware of counterfeits; there are probably reasons for this, since imitation or copying of well-known brands is quite a profitable business. So what is the difference between the Oka and Ugra walk-behind tractors? For clarity, we have collected some data in a table.

Features of Kaluga walk-behind tractors Oka and Ugra

1. A disc clutch, compared to a V-belt drive, looks more reliable, technologically advanced, and modern.

2. The gear reducer is superior to the chain reducer in terms of reliability, service life, and resistance to shock loads.

3. Two power take-off shafts: one with a rotation speed that does not depend on the speed of the walk-behind tractor, the other with a dependent speed. This allows the use of a wider range of attachments. At the moment there is a wide range of attachments for Ugra and Oka walk-behind tractors

4. Less weight during transportation makes it easier to transport the walk-behind tractor, and if necessary, you can use weighting agents to increase the weight.

5. An expanded speed range will help you more optimally select soil cultivation modes and travel speed.

6. The engine is perhaps the only thing that the Oka and Ugra walk-behind tractors have in common.

The Ugra walk-behind tractor is a lightweight model in the Kadvi line of walk-behind tractors - a modernized, modern machine. The gear reducer and clutch in an oil bath with metal-ceramic discs are elements of professional equipment, ensuring smooth and silent operation, resistance to shock loads, and high reliability of the walk-behind tractor, especially on heavy soils. The price of the Ugra walk-behind tractor is slightly higher than that of the Oka, but this is a higher level of technological excellence inherent in the design, and this costs more.

You will find more detailed information on the Pahalka website about Kadvi Oka and Ugra walk-behind tractors.

Advantages

When asked which walk-behind tractor is best to choose, the most correct advice would be: choose from trusted brands such as Salyut.

Today's quality of the Salute walk-behind tractor fully complies with high international standards.

This brand has been popular for decades. Many interesting recommendations have been developed for converting Salyut walk-behind tractors; ready-made kits for converting them into mini tractors are on sale. No problems with attachments, spare parts and service.

Throughout history, the design of motor vehicles has been improved 5 times. Ergonomics have been significantly improved. The walk-behind tractor base was replaced with a frame. 8 modifications with different engines have passed the test of time - from household to professional.

When purchasing walk-behind tractors from little-known companies, after some time their owners inevitably face problems with maintenance, searching for spare parts, and special attachments.

JSC NPCG Salyut is different:

• powerful potential for many types of own production and unique technologies,
• high-precision equipment,
• high-performance tool machines from the world's best manufacturers.

An innovative approach allows us to produce more and more advanced models. Technological production capabilities are being actively improved, new systems are being developed and licenses are being obtained.

General characteristics of the Neva and Ugra

Motor cultivators of both brands have the following similar characteristics:

• Intended for private use, not designed for industrial use.
• Produced in Russia.
• They are equipped with reliable imported engines from well-known Japanese and American manufacturers.
• Both manufacturers have models for different soil types and universal solutions.
• Possibility of use with mounted and trailed equipment.
• Motors of approximately the same power are used.
• Possibility of installing milling cutters for tillage instead of wheels.
• Small sizes. If necessary, the walk-behind tractor can be partially disassembled and transported even in the trunk of a car.

Comparison with other brands

Brief characteristics of these series of walk-behind tractors are collected here. On the Internet you can find a variety of opinions and real reviews from fellow owners.

Salyut and Neva

When compared with other models, the Salute walk-behind tractor is undoubtedly as popular as the well-known Neva. During development, Moscow designers abandoned blind copying of the St. Petersburg Neva and created a more advanced design.

Brand Features:

• Fireworks are much more stable. Its control handles are narrowed and rotate 180°. The weight is significantly reduced, and when performing heavy work, the weight of the Salyut, on the contrary, is increased with weights.
• The Salute has two drive belts and three power take-off pulleys (the Neva has one). The gearbox chain drive has been replaced with a more reliable gear drive. Changing the speed ranges is done not only by changing the stream, as on the Neva, but also by removing the power take-off shaft and reinstalling it according to the instructions. The choice is clear - in favor of Salyut.

Salyut and MTZ

Compared to Salyuts, Belarusian MTZ walk-behind tractors are heavy machines. Owners unanimously note their reliability, good build quality, and durability.

Brand Features:

• The powerful MTZ 9N walk-behind tractor provides a processing width of only 330-610 mm with a depth of 200 mm. The Salyut walk-behind tractor has an adjustable processing width of 350 mm, 600 mm, 800 mm, but the weight of the MTZ is almost 2 times the weight of the Salyut.
• The MTZ-0.5 is equipped with an engine similar to the MEMZ-966 model, as in the Zaporozhets car, which is characterized by difficult starting. The gas regulator is located inconveniently for the operator; the walk-behind tractor has no balance, although it becomes more stable with a trailed trolley.
• In the Salyut 100, the speed switch has been moved to the steering wheel, the clutch handle has a special lock, and the steering wheel is very conveniently adjustable in all directions.
• The owners of MTZ note that difficulties arise when setting up attachments. The high cost and low level of service of older MTZ models is another significant drawback.

For work in medium and small areas, it is more advisable to use Salyuts, and MTZ for large areas of more than 1 hectare.

Attachment options for the Neva walk-behind tractor

The basic functions for any version of the walk-behind tractor include preparing the soil for sowing and plowing it. Thanks to the various types of cutters installed on the unit, it is possible to loosen the soil to a depth of several centimeters, but cutters also have disadvantages. They can only handle regularly cultivated soil, but do not cope well with frozen or simply hard soil. In addition, cutters do not allow you to remove debris or snow or use the walk-behind tractor for other purposes. You can solve this problem if you buy attachments for the Neva walk-behind tractor.

The following varieties are distinguished:

• A plow is a good option for additional equipment if you need to work with heavy soil. Weighing 7.8 kg, the P1 20/3 model is capable of plowing even very hard soil to a depth of 215 mm with a working width of 220 mm;
• Hiller is the second most popular equipment option for the Neva walk-behind tractor after the plow. A mounted hiller is used to add soil to the roots of plants. Different models of hillers are distinguished by the depth of entry into the soil and the width of the soil, as well as by weight;

Attachments for the Neva walk-behind tractor - hiller and plow.

• A potato digger is a good choice if you're tired of having to fiddle with a shovel every time you harvest your potatoes. The KNM model is capable of entering the ground to a depth of 220 mm, while capturing 250 mm in width. This option will be very useful if you need to process a large area of ​​​​a potato field as efficiently as possible, quickly and without much effort in terms of effort. Models of potato diggers are distinguished by weight, width of soil coverage and depth of penetration into the soil. Please note that to install this and other equipment described above on a walk-behind tractor, you will need special couplings, individual for each model;
• lugs - are installed as the wheels of a walk-behind tractor and are used to drive the unit deeper into the ground. They vary in diameter, width and weight, and can be used for hilling an area;
• cart or trailer - equipment designed to transform a walk-behind tractor into a transport vehicle. The dimensions of the trailer are selected depending on the engine power of the unit, and the maximum speed at which a walk-behind tractor with a trolley can move usually does not exceed 10 km/h;
• mower – allows you to use a walk-behind tractor for mowing the lawn or cutting grass for animal feed. Different mower options differ in the maximum height of grass cut, operating speed and coverage width;

The potato digger and lugs can be selected according to size, weight and plowing depth.

• potato planter - special equipment that is suitable for all types of walk-behind tractors and greatly facilitates the process of planting potatoes;
• reversible plow - characterized by a large soil coverage, due to which there are no missed areas when plowing. When installing this equipment option, it should be taken into account that it requires a counterweight. If the walk-behind tractor model weighs less than 100 kg, then it is recommended to install a weighting agent on it;
• rake - equipment for removing leaves and various debris from the site. You can buy such a spare part for the Neva MB 2 walk-behind tractor and other models or make it yourself, provided you have a welding machine;
• snow removal equipment - makes the Neva walk-behind tractor useful in the cold season. There are several options for snow blowers for the Neva walk-behind tractor, each of which performs its own functions.

Special equipment that facilitates excavation work is a reversible plow and a potato planter. On a note! When purchasing any type of attachment for the Neva walk-behind tractor, make sure that it is suitable for the specific model of the unit, and also take care in advance of purchasing all the necessary fasteners and couplings.

Main disadvantages

The design of the walk-behind tractor is elementary simple, so it is not difficult to work.

• If there are doubts about the engine, then, of course, in terms of reliability and perfection, Lifan is inferior to Honda, Briggs & Stratton, Subaru, Vanguard. As for the gearbox, according to the declared motor life, it will be able to work with more than one engine.
• The design of the belt drive is quite reliable, however, according to many reviews, it is precisely because of the quality of the belts that they have to be changed quite often. Consequently, the only significant flaw can be considered the quality of the drive belts.

Which walk-behind tractor is better to buy, Neva or Ugra?

A walk-behind tractor is a motorized agricultural machinery of relatively compact dimensions, used for mechanized processing of garden plots. As a rule, it is used in private households , since due to limited functionality and performance it is not suitable for industrial volumes.

When choosing a walk-behind tractor, owners of agricultural plots focus primarily on quality and affordable cost. These criteria are ideally met by Russian-made gasoline models, among which are the Neva and Ugra vehicles.

Operating rules

Motoblocks do not require any professional knowledge or complex specific care from the owners. All recommendations, starting from the features of running-in, are clearly described by the manufacturer.

The main condition for reliable operation is:

• compliance with permissible engine loads,
• operation within the recommended operating speed range,
• preventive maintenance,
• routine maintenance in accordance with the user instructions.

The wide use of various attachments turns the walk-behind tractor into a multifunctional machine. At our own enterprise, many auxiliary devices are produced, which differ in the connection method.

Options for connecting attachments:

• mounting on the gearbox axle;
• mounting on a hitch or bracket;
• connection using PWM.

In addition to the standard ones, there are many specialized attachments with which the Salyut walk-behind tractor can be easily aggregated: seeders, electric generators, hay turners, motor pumps, combined equipment for simultaneously performing several operations.

Distinctive features

Motoblocks from the manufacturers in question differ primarily in their design features . Most Neva walk-behind tractors are equipped with a belt drive, which is somewhat inferior in reliability and performance to its gear counterpart. The popular motorized units produced by Ugra use a gear motor.

Neva models have a relatively small loosening depth - up to 20 cm. For Ugra equipment, this figure is 32 cm, which expands the possibilities of use. However, Neva devices have a fairly large coverage width - up to 170 cm . For Ugra units this parameter is much lower – about 90 cm .

Equipment from both brands can be used with almost any type of attachment . But, Ugra devices have wider capabilities in this regard due to being equipped with two BOMs. This allows you to use more tillage equipment at the same time. Almost all models produced by Neva have only one BOM.

Neva walk-behind tractors are considered more universal equipment . For example, the MB-23 model can even be used for milling hard soil, including virgin soil. A wide range of spare parts are available for the equipment, which eliminates problems with repairs.

Devices produced by Ugra are lightweight, maneuverable and cost-effective . Allows you to adjust the steering column, which increases ease of use. They have expanded functionality thanks to being equipped with two BOMs.

Owner reviews

There are a lot of positive reviews about these walk-behind tractors on the Internet.
Pavlovsky Oleg, Krivoy Rog
“If anyone still doubts the Salyuts with the Chinese Lifan engine, I can say with confidence that it is in vain.
The Chinese, just like ours, know how to make anything - both high-quality goods and disposable junk. I have had my assistant for four years now. The only problem is the belt. The neighbor advised me to immediately change it, but not with the original one, but to pick up a similar one, otherwise it will simply start to slip off over time.” Alex Stroev, Voronezh
“I’ve been working with a Salyut 5 walk-behind tractor since 2006, still an Agatov one. We got used to each other and worked together. I don’t advise you to think too long about choosing a walk-behind tractor. Over time, new models will appear, and perhaps they will have some shortcomings. Just choose a model whose shortcomings will not bother you too much and work for your health.”

Help me decide on a walk-behind tractor (NEVA or SALYUT)

The walk-behind tractor is needed for: Planting potatoes, hilling, digging. And also cutting the grass. Thanks in advance everyone.

Take a closer look at the NMB-1M3 "Kadvi". The topic of choosing a walk-behind tractor was raised a week ago. Search.

For heavy work (digging maps, plowing), the motorcycle must be made heavier. Neva allows you to do this - there is a special bracket, on the manufacturer’s website they allow you to load up to 60-80 kg, which means the gearbox can withstand it. Take it with an imp engine. The technology for potatoes has been worked out, see the logbook. Or for an experiment Zirku 105, maybe with a diesel engine. It looks like it's strong. Tell us later.

Attachments for Neva walk-behind tractors

Like Caiman walk-behind tractors, the Neva line is designed for use with various attachments:

— milling cutters for soil cultivation. Their number depends on the type of soil: the basic kit comes with 4 pieces, a maximum of 8 can be installed;

— a plow and a special hitch-mount, as well as metal wheels with lugs that provide better traction with the soil, will be needed for deep plowing of the soil;

- single-row and double-row hillers, the choice of which depends on the quality and composition of the soil. With hillers, metal wheels of increased diameter with lugs are used to increase agricultural clearance;

— a potato planter will not only make it easier to plant potatoes, but will also create favorable conditions for subsequent hilling and harvesting using attachments, since the same row spacing is set;

— fan or vibrating potato diggers. The first ones are equipped with an all-metal knife, from which metal rods fan out. The layer of earth is lifted with a knife and sifted through the rods, and the potatoes are retained and rise to the surface. Vibrating (screening) potato diggers work as follows: a ploughshare lifts soil with potatoes onto a grate, and a belt-driven grate from a walk-behind tractor sifts the soil, leaving clean potatoes on the surface;

— mowers can be segmental or rotary. The former perform better on flat surfaces, since the shearing knives made of hardened steel progressively move horizontally. Rotary units mow using knives mounted on a rotating disk and are suitable for working on uneven surfaces; they can easily cope with bushes and thick grass;

— the SMB-1 auger snow blower allows you to clear the area of ​​snow;

— a communal rotary brush is used to remove debris;

— cart-trailer for transporting goods over short distances. The load capacity can reach 400 kg, which allows you to easily transport crops.

Thus, Neva walk-behind tractors have decent technical equipment and a wide range of attachments for performing a wide range of tasks not only for cultivating the land, but also for making hay, transporting goods, clearing the site of debris, snow, etc. The obvious advantages of the units are their adaptability to climatic conditions Russia, availability of spare parts and attachments.

Walk-behind tractor "Salute": models, functions

Its developer is an aviation industry enterprise - the Moscow Scientific and Production Center for gas turbine construction "Salyut". In 2002-2011, the assembly of this equipment took place at the Agat subsidiary, and from 2012 to the present - at factories in China under the control of the developer.

The Salyut walk-behind tractor is intended for:

1. Soil cultivation.
2. Laying and hilling beds.
3. Digging potatoes.
4. Planting agricultural crops.
5. Transportation of goods, hay.
6. Clearing the area of ​​snow and debris.

There are two models of walk-behind tractor on sale: Salyut 5 and Salyut 100. They are equipped with engines from the following manufacturers:

• American I/C, Vanguard, Japanese Honda - Salyut 5 walk-behind tractor.
• American B&S Vanguard, Chinese Lifan168F-2, Japanese Honda and Subaru - Salyut 100 walk-behind tractor.

Salyut 5 is available in several modifications that differ in size, weight, engine power and displacement, oil tank capacity, and soil plowing depth.

The walk-behind tractor is equipped with attachments that allow it to be used for various jobs: snow blower, potato planter, hiller, lawn mower, blade shovel, brush, plow, cutters, trailer.

Differences between both walk-behind tractors

Up to 6.5

Motoblock "Neva": models, functions

located in St. Petersburg. In 1984, the first Neva walk-behind tractor was produced here. In the 90s of the twentieth century, the range of equipment was expanded. Modern products are represented by 5 models (MB-1, MB-2, MB-23, MB-23SD, MB-compact), which run on gasoline or diesel fuel. They differ in size, weight, cutter immersion depth, fuel tank volume, number of gears, and power.

The assembly of walk-behind tractors is done in Russia. They are equipped with foreign-made engines: Subaru, Briggs&Stratton, Honda.

The Neva walk-behind tractor is used for the following types of work:

1. Plowing, loosening the soil.
2. Planting and harvesting potatoes.
3. Planting vegetable and fruit crops.
4. Hilling up beds, controlling weeds.
5. Harvesting hay.
6. Snow and debris removal.

The following types of attachments are used for this work: hiller, harrow, lugs, potato digger, cutters, potato planter, snow blower, trailer.

Attachments for walk-behind tractors "Neva"

To cultivate the soil, cutters are installed on the Neva walk-behind tractor instead of wheels. Their number, depending on the type of soil, can reach eight pieces. The basic kit includes 4 cutters, additional cutters are purchased separately.

To plow with a walk-behind tractor, you will have to purchase a plow and a special hitch-mount. You will also need metal wheels with lugs for better traction with the soil.

For hilling, single-row and double-row hillers are used, which can also be divided into unregulated and adjustable. It is necessary to choose a hiller based on the quality and composition of the soil. Metal wheels of increased diameter with lugs are used with hillers; this allows increasing the agrotechnical clearance.

To mechanize planting potatoes using the Neva walk-behind tractor, it is recommended to use potato planters KS-1, KS-1A, KST-. This not only facilitates the planting process itself, but also creates the necessary conditions for further inter-row processing and harvesting using attachments. This is facilitated by an even planting and fixed row spacing. The average productivity of such planters is 0.2-0.25 hectares per hour, the distance between tubers is maintained at 25-30 cm, and the width between the rows is adjusted by the track of the unit within 60-70 cm.

There are two types of potato diggers for the walk-behind tractor we are considering:

• Fan diggers for deepening and cutting the soil have a solid metal knife at the base, and metal rods fan out from the knife. The layer of earth raised with a knife is sifted through the rods, and the potatoes are retained and rise to the surface. The productivity of this type of digger is approximately 0.15 hectares per hour.
• Vibrating or screening potato diggers. The main working elements of such a mounted machine are: a ploughshare and a vibrating grid for sifting the soil. The ploughshare lifts the soil with potatoes onto the grid, and the grid with a belt drive from the walk-behind tractor sifts the soil, leaving clean potatoes on the surface. For the Neva, it is recommended to use models KKM-1, KMU-3, KK-6 and others. The average productivity of such equipment is approximately 0.2 hectares per hour.

Mowers for the Neva walk-behind tractor also come in two types:

• Segmental, with cutting knives made of hardened durable steel, moving forward in a horizontal plane. They work best on flat surfaces, with cereals and evenly standing grasses. For example, the KN-1.1 mower, the cutting width reaches 110 cm, and the productivity is approximately 0.35 hectares per hour.
• Rotary mowers have recently become increasingly popular, displacing segmented mowers from the market. The working elements here are knives mounted on a rotating disk. Such mowers are not afraid of small uneven surfaces, and thick grass and small bushes are also not an obstacle. The Kaluga mower "Zarya" and "Neva-KR-05" produced are prime examples of this family.

Especially for the Neva, the SMB-1 auger snow blower is produced at the plant that is native to the walk-behind tractor. The auger is designed in such a way that snow moves from the edges to the middle, to the nozzle. The direction of snow ejection is adjusted by turning the snow blower screen, and the skids on the body adjust the cleaning height.

The utility rotary brush is used primarily for removing debris. The 90 cm wide gripper can be installed at an angle of up to 90 degrees. Maximum productivity up to 2200 m/2.

Cart trailer – the load capacity of such a cart reaches 400 kg. Equipped with a driver's seat, brakes and a reliable hitch.

Similarities between Salyut and Neva

• Versatility of use . By installing suitable attachments, they are used for cultivating the soil, planting, hilling and digging up vegetable crops, making hay, removing garbage and snow, transporting goods, and pumping out water.
• Suitable for any soil : chernozem, loamy, turfy sandy. They cope with plowing virgin lands.
• They have approximately the same transport speed .
• The clutch switch and gas handle are located on the steering wheel . Its height and lateral angle can be changed to suit operating conditions.
• They have a gear-chain type gearbox , which is reliable in operation and has a reasonable price.

"Neva"

"Neva" takes an honorable first place. The equipment produced by this brand is “Red October”. Reliable gasoline engines of the reduction type with forced cooling are not afraid of overheating. A fairly low cost, combined with adaptation to Russian conditions, makes this brand in demand on the agricultural machinery market.

The walk-behind tractor is suitable for soils of different densities. The following models have proven themselves best:

• MB-2N-5.5 (This prototype has a Japanese engine, which allows it to transport heavier loads and plow dense, hard soil. The clutch and gas are located like on a motorcycle. This makes it easier to control.)
• MB-1B-6.0 FS (Has a light weight of 75 kg combined with high engine power. There is an electric starter - starting the walk-behind tractor with a button, and a light headlight. This model is superior to its analogues in control, which does not require much effort and the ability to work in the dark .)
• MB-23N-9.0 PRO (This walk-behind tractor is most suitable of all Neva models for processing large areas. This is possible due to the ability to install eight cutters. The working width can reach up to 1.7 meters. Six liters of gasoline in a fully filled fuel tank the tank is enough for long-term maintenance of the 9 hp engine)
• MB-23B-10.0 (One of the most powerful with great traction force. Ten horsepower and six gears allow you to plow virgin soil or load 700 kilograms and move over rough terrain.)

Recommendations for selection

Motoblock "Salute"

A multifunctional device that is distinguished by the quality of its work and the reliability of its components. It is equipped with an engine from renowned manufacturers. Due to frequent breakdowns, the Chinese Lifan engine causes complaints among users

The undoubted advantage of the Salyut is its stability , thanks to the center of gravity shifted down and forward. It is equipped with a reliable front step, so it does not “burrow” into the soil when working.

A gear-chain reducer with a toothed connection ensures a long service life and smooth operation of the entire mechanism. The belt drive wears out quickly. The belts have to be changed to better quality ones than those that are installed; the belt has low weight and dimensions, giving it good maneuverability in small and medium-sized areas. For deep plowing, a weighting agent is needed, with which you can cultivate the soil to a depth of up to 30 cm, for example, for black soil or for planting potatoes.

The presence of 4 forward and 2 rear speeds is useful when cultivating soil of different densities, removing snow, and transporting goods.

“Salute” is a good unit for summer cottages and land plots up to 100 acres , for narrow beds with light soil, for removing garbage and snow. They are maneuverable and lightweight.

Motoblock "Neva"

It is not inferior to Salyut in terms of the quality of work performed. Has advantages:

1. The model range is represented by units with a power of more than 6.5 hp. which can easily cope with heavy virgin soil. They have a large fuel tank, which makes it possible to process areas larger than 1 hectare.
2. Diesel walk-behind tractors are very durable , have good traction at low speeds, consume less fuel than gasoline engines, and are suitable for commercial use (earth work, transporting goods, sowing large areas).
3. Wide-width models are used for fields and commercial tillage.

The large dimensions of the Neva make plowing narrow plots of land inconvenient. Powerful units are adapted for long-term operation over large areas, for transporting heavy loads, and developing virgin soil.

They have the following disadvantages:

• Less plowing depth than Salyut.
• If you do not hold it with your hands while working, it may fall to the side or forward.

What and for whom?

For personal gardens, small vegetable gardens or summer cottages, “Oka” will perform well. The completeness will allow you not to take up a lot of space, which means that in order to bring the equipment to the desired location, if it is required at all, you can use a small car. The large weight is due to the strength and reliability of the entire structure. A device purchased once will serve perfectly and will not require replacement. Excess weight due to small areas does not seem to be a significant drawback. The work won't take much time. As with everything else, you need to get used to the equipment and break it in, and once this happens, the shortcomings will no longer be noticeable, because the unit successfully performs its function.

We can say that walk-behind tractors produced by Neva are more versatile, which is why they take first place. But despite this, the Oka is also in demand, because why take a tank to go mushroom picking? An ordinary Niva will suffice. For large areas, the second candidate is preferably suitable. With it, plowing several hectares of dense soil will not require relatively much effort, and the increased power will allow you to transport heavy loads over long distances over rough terrain, which was already mentioned in the characteristics of one of the models.

Electronics and technologyComment

Top 5 walk-behind tractors in the Russian Federation according to the editor

I decided to create a kind of top list following the example of many publicists.

The transfer will go in ascending order. There will be no Chinese walk-behind tractors in the top, because... had no experience in selling such units and their operation.

Fifth place.

The walk-behind tractor has won its love because for less than 80 thousand rubles people get a home harvester (9 hp +, 160 kg), which can easily lift any virgin soil without any additional tricks.

The snow blower and cutter of this walk-behind tractor will give odds to any belt hitch. A simple transmission perfectly transmits torque to the wheels and PTO without loss. I am sure that you will be the envy of your “neighbor” with such a walk-behind tractor.

But he only has fifth place. All because of the price. A bare walk-behind tractor costs 80 thousand rubles, a normal cutter costs 25 thousand rubles, a snow blower or mower costs 25 thousand rubles. Unfortunately, not everyone can afford this.

Fourth place.

Once popular Kaluga walk-behind tractors from the large KADVI plant. They have a reliable gearbox with a housing made of steel plates and rods, instead of cables on older versions. For many gardeners, these two factors were priorities in choosing a walk-behind tractor, having read reviews about the shortcomings of the Neva and Salyut.

The average walk-behind tractor with a reliable gearbox sold in huge quantities throughout our country and won love for its simplicity and unpretentiousness. A separate plus is its low price and high weight. Some models start from only 28,000 rubles!

Third place.

Motoblocks Salute. Here I want to note that the third place is occupied by Salyut-5 (until 2014). Neither Agat with a new gearbox, nor the Chinese Salyut-100 can compare with it in reliability.

These walk-behind tractors were equipped with fully gear reducers from the Omsk Aviation Plant. It is still interesting on what aircraft and what function these gearboxes performed.

The walk-behind tractor had a low center of gravity and the most reliable gearbox made of aircraft steel. If you have a model with an American Vanguard engine, then this is one of the best walk-behind tractors, don’t look for anything better, upgrade this one.

Second place.

Frankly speaking, I worked very closely with this plant and know all the nuances associated with it. As a result, I took one for myself at the dacha. Maybe I'm brainwashed, but the walk-behind tractor is really great. The developers took into account all the wishes of customers and removed the jambs of previous models. We installed a new gearbox and did not skimp on wheels, accessories (belts, cables, handles, housing) and trailers.

It’s a pleasure to work on it; in my personal opinion, this walk-behind tractor has the best price/quality ratio.

Review of the Ugra NMB-1 walk-behind tractor. Seller and user opinion: 4 out of 10 ★

I know all the walk-behind tractors that are made in Russia from our components (with some reservations) like the back of my hand.
I sincerely love these tractors and respect the people who create them. But I must admit that among our products there are frankly unsuccessful ones. Below is my personal opinion about the NMB-1 Ugra walk-behind tractor manufactured by KADVI (Kaluga Engine).

I'll start with the positives:

1. This is a strong frame and a good silumin gearbox housing.
With a stretch, Ugra can be mistaken for a mini tractor with an APM NMB-1 mounted adapter.
You can rely on the walk-behind tractor when overcoming various obstacles, off-road conditions, and difficult hillocks on trailed sleds/carts. The frame is welded well, the design is well thought out, I have never seen this model with complaints about the iron of the body. Could it rust? Maybe. But it will take 10 years before it breaks down. The same goes for the steering column, wings and other body kit.

2. Weight - the bare walk-behind tractor weighs 100 kg.
This is enough to lift any virgin soil with a plow without weights.
This is also due to the center of gravity of the walk-behind tractor, which is moved forward towards the engine. As a conclusion, plowing and harrowing is a pleasure!

3. A large number of attachments.
KADVI believes in its child and never ceases to create new mounted ones for the power take-off shaft (hereinafter referred to as “PTO”) of its walk-behind tractor.
The active hitch includes: 4. Price. This is one of the most affordable non-Chinese walk-behind tractors with a PTO.