How to choose a replacement engine for a walk-behind tractor: reviews and descriptions

The engine for a walk-behind tractor is an important and integral unit of agricultural equipment. The technical characteristics of the motor determine the functionality, ease of use, reliability, compatibility with attachments and the ability of the device to perform the assigned tasks. The power unit must have the required performance, good engine life and the necessary power reserve. A device equipped with a high-quality power unit makes life easier for summer residents, gardeners and farmers.

Motor cultivator device

The Mole motor-cultivator, as well as the Cayman, Patriot, Texas, Foreman, Crosser, Viking, Forza motor-blocks, is quite popular in the post-Soviet space, which is explained by the simplicity of its design and fairly good performance indicators.

There is absolutely nothing superfluous in the configuration of this walk-behind tractor, but its structure is designed in such a way that it is able to cope with basic agricultural work - digging up beds, cultivating the soil, etc.

In addition, the design of the main working units allows it to withstand quite long loads, ensuring stable operation for many years.

For more information about the Mole walk-behind tractor, watch the video:

the Mole walk-behind tractor itself consists of the following components:

  • The frame structure, consisting of two half-frames, is attached to the gearbox with bolts.
  • Tubular-type handles, as well as a special bracket for attaching additional attachments located at the rear of the structure.
  • The main control elements are located on the handles - adjusting engine speed and clutch.
  • The output shafts of the gearbox can be equipped with rototillers, as well as wheels, allowing the walk-behind tractor to be used together with a plow, or for transporting various loads.
  • The frame structure houses the motor for the Mole walk-behind tractor, which is connected to the input shaft of the gearbox through a V-belt transmission.
  • In addition, the design has built-in wheels that allow the unit to be moved freely. When starting to work with a walk-behind tractor, these wheels must be removed from the structure, or raised and fixed in the desired position.

As we can see, the device is quite simple and does not include unnecessary frills. In principle, everything you need for high-quality work on the ground is in the design of this unit and in the Sadko, Don, Khuter, Profi, Plowman, and Champion walk-behind tractors.

As for the factory engine of the Mole walk-behind tractor, its design is a 2-stroke engine with one cylinder and air cooling.

Its volume is about 60 cm3, with a power of 2.6 hp. and 6000 rpm. It is started using a regular cable, similar to the principle of starting a chainsaw.

It needs to be refilled with a special mixture consisting of gasoline and motor oil. These characteristics are quite modest, so many people want to change it to more powerful models.

Replacing the factory engine can be done independently , because the Mole design, as mentioned above, does not pose a certain complexity in its understanding. Most often they resort to replacing engines with 4-stroke versions, because they have higher performance characteristics than 2-stroke ones.

Of course, there are some modifications, such as the Mole walk-behind tractor with a 4-stroke Honda engine, but its cost will be significantly higher than that of the standard Mole. That’s why we are considering the “worst” option, when we have a walk-behind tractor with the most standard factory engine, with a power of no more than 3 hp.

Transmission

For a home walk-behind tractor, but as a walk-behind tractor, you will need chains, sprockets and an adapter shaft. Basically, they are taken from decommissioned bikes, cars, and agricultural equipment

. Star hubs are difficult to make without the help of others, using pieces of iron and a lathe, since it is easy to find a detailed sketch on the Internet or on the Internet. A ready-made box for a home product taken from any model of moped. When preparing a homemade box, iron plates and cylindrical discs with teeth are used.

The kinematic diagram of home-made products is created very simply in order to ensure enormous reliability of the functioning of its devices. The transmission of torque from the motor to the intermediate shaft is organized using a standard roller chain with a driving and driven sprocket. The intermediate gear ratio immediately increases and the rotation speed of the output shafts decreases.

From time to time, a so-called reptile crashes into the box of a walking tractor or motor cultivator. This is a gearbox that is needed to obtain leisurely operating speeds (you can figure out how to assemble a reptile).

Installing this device allows you to improve the management of household products and make its operation non-hazardous to humans. The reptile is bought or collected without the help of others. How to make a reptile without the help of others and for this you need, you can look and ask on forums aimed at a specific topic, organized by qualified specialists.

What type of electric motor can be installed on the Mole cultivator?

The design of the Mole walk-behind tractor frame allows it to be equipped with other engines produced at various factories. At the same time, the alteration of the frame will be minimal, consisting of a few simple manipulations.

Lifan

Many note that the optimal choice for installation on the Mole would be the Lifan 168FB engine, whose power is 6.5 hp. This is explained by the fact that spare parts for it are quite cheap and accessible, so they can easily be found in any specialized store.

As practice shows, you need to use a 20 mm pulley shaft (there is another type of motor with a 19 mm diameter). It is also important that the air filter has an oil bath, because such a device is used specifically for areas where there is increased dustiness.

Motor Patriot

In addition, you can install a Patriot electric motor for the Mole walk-behind tractor, the cost of which is within 6 thousand rubles. The only thing is that you need to take care of electricity in your area so that the device can work stably.

Sadko

A good option comes from installing a SadkoDE-220 engine on this walk-behind tractor, the power of which is about 4.2 hp. The diameter of the shaft is 19 mm, it is launched using a cord.

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In principle, these are the most optimal engine options that can be installed on a Mole. In principle, you can try to install other models, but it is important to remember that their power should not be too high.

In principle, 6 horsepower is quite enough for this design of a walk-behind tractor, because the use of high power can lead to excessive load on the gearbox, which is why it can quickly fail.

Popular models

The market range includes a huge number of engines from Chinese, Japanese, American and European manufacturers. These are both small-sized devices created for use in the country, and huge, heavy-duty units aimed at field work. The most common models among Russian consumers are produced:

South American Greenfield, which has the best price-performance ratio, is also highly valued. Excellent motors are made by Russian manufacturers. Such units are reliable, relatively cheap, multifunctional and versatile. For example, the UD-2 subcompact engine is suitable for mini garden tractors and autonomous power generators. Modifications created for installation on light and medium-sized tractors, equipped with an air cooling system and a dust filter that prevents clogging of particles with hard particles.

Another example of Russian engineering technologies. Sadko engine. An unusual design solution in its production with the introduction of light duralumin alloy as the body material. Such motors are considered the best option for gardening equipment. The device does not place much strain on the operator’s hands and is compact in size.

Rigid elements located along the entire perimeter of the body contribute to the stability of the walk-behind tractor

and provide good resistance to internal pressure that occurs during combustion of the fuel mixture. Despite their low weight, SADK engines can withstand enormous loads and can operate in adverse weather conditions. Many Russian consumers prefer Japanese engines. Advantages of such devices:

  • Compliance with international standards.
  • luxury design.
  • highest performance.
  • Introduction of leading technologies and materials of exceptional properties.
  • Compatible with a wide range of mounts.

A typical indicator of the power of Japanese engines. Seven hp..s. They are suitable for installation on walk-behind tractors, pumps, generators, lawn mowers and other garden equipment. Magnum gasoline engines. the best choice for working on large earthen areas. Recommended area. 5 thousand m². Such engines are aggregated with a plow, a harvester, an AL-KO potato planter, a motor pump, a trailer, a high-pressure cleaner and other types of suspended equipment.

Common faults

All difficulties with the engine of agricultural machinery are divided into two broad categories:

  • Startup tasks.
  • multifunctional failures.

Variants of the variator mechanism are also widespread; it transmits torque and is capable of smoothly changing the gear ratio in the range of intended regulation. Repair must certainly be preceded by painstaking diagnostics. Minor faults can be identified during routine service.

Valve adjustment. a fundamental and necessary procedure to ensure reliable operation of the mechanism and increase its service life. Therefore, it must be carried out at intervals established by the manufacturer. The following tools are needed:

  • a set of keys;
  • Phillips and flathead screwdrivers;
  • narrow probe.

Some models may also require other hand tools. The point of the regulation process is to set the valve clearances of the motor walk-behind tractors to the required value, which is indicated in the manual. If this is not done, this is a common cause of premature engine failure. In more common models, the intake valve clearance is 0.15 mm, the exhaust valve. 0.2. It is installed by turning the lock nut. If the feeler gauge fits freely, the gap is adjusted correctly.

Problems with the supply of fuel mixture are common. If the engine smokes or won't start, check the spark plugs. Malfunctions in the fuel supply system may be the answer to the question why the engine is burning or does not develop speed. If the check reveals that the spark plugs are dry, the cause of the malfunction should be found in the fuel supply system to the cylinders. To solve the problem, you need to do the following:

  • Fill the tank with fresh gasoline or diesel.
  • Unscrew the fuel valve.
  • Clean the drain hole in the reservoir plug.
  • Disconnect the fuel line hose from the inlet fitting where it attaches to the carburetor.
  • blow out in streams.

If fuel enters the carburetor but does not reach the cylinders, excessive vibration will be felt when trying to start the engine. The problem can be solved by disassembling and cleaning the assembly. You need to blow out the carburetor with a pump. It happens that the engine does not start due to excess fuel. Wet candle. a sign of such a task. Corrected by cleaning the cylinders and pumping the engine. First you need to turn off the fuel supply.

If plaque is found on the spark plug, you need to clean it and check the gap between the electrodes. It should be 0.8 mm. You also need to check for spark. Its absence indicates a probable malfunction in the electronic circuit. A common problem. large gap between the coil winding and the magnetic circuit. If the engine is powered by an electronic starter, failure may be caused by:

  • battery discharge
  • starter is faulty;
  • blow out the fuse.

If the engine starts, but does not develop speed, stops or works intermittently, there may be the following problems:

  • The air filter is clogged.
  • Deposition of combustion fuel mixtures in mufflers.
  • Incorrect carburetor installation.
  • Wear of parts of the cylinder-piston group.

The compression should be eight atm. This indicator is checked by connecting a compression gauge to the spark plug hole. The diagnostic procedure consists of rotating the shaft with the starter. If the engine does not turn off, check the function of the switch. As necessary, the contacts are cleaned or the faulty element is changed.

Instructions for replacing and installing the engine on a walk-behind tractor

As already mentioned, you can install a variety of engines on the Mole walk-behind tractor. It is only important that this installation takes place in the correct sequence, in strict accordance with the basic recommendations. By the way, stores sell special installation kits for correctly attaching the motor to the frame.

This is a perfectly acceptable option for those who have extra funds, but we will consider the option of directly installing the new engine on the Mole frame structure.

Let's look at the example of a 4-stroke Forza 160F engine , which has 4 hp. This choice is not accidental, because it runs on standard AI-92 gasoline, which is more preferable than the mixture used on the factory Mole engine.

This engine for the Mole walk-behind tractor also has increased technical data, which naturally affects its cost - the average price for such a unit is about 7 thousand rubles.

Selection rules

When purchasing equipment, first of all, you should decide on its class and power. The larger the area of ​​land to be cultivated, the greater the load on the walk-behind tractor. This means that the heavier and more powerful unit will be required.

You also need to take into account the width and depth of plowing. Even for units of the same class, they can differ greatly. The wider the loosening strip, the faster the device will process the required area.

If you don’t want to limit yourself to simple loosening, then you definitely need to purchase equipment equipped with a power take-off shaft. This makes it truly universal.

You also need to decide on the transmission. For small areas that will not create a serious load on the device, a belt is also suitable. For more complex tasks, it is better to choose a chain or gear type.

Expert opinion Kuznetsov Vasily Stepanovich

If possible, it is better to check the equipment (or a similar model) directly in the store. This will allow you to see how it works, as well as identify shortcomings and defects in advance.

Before purchasing, be sure to inspect the unit for build quality. Everything should be well connected to each other, there should be no backlash, loose bolts and similar problems.

Capabilities and applications

The main purpose of the Krot motor cultivator is to cultivate the soil, and therefore it is usually used in vegetable gardens or personal plots. The equipment, small in power and size, is used for leveling, loosening, and harrowing land in areas whose area does not exceed 10 acres.

This device can perform basic operations using a cutter, the torque to which is transmitted from the motor. When using other attachments, you can use a walk-behind tractor for hilling and mowing grass. In some cases, it is used as a drive for a pump to pump liquid, connecting the engine via a belt drive to the pumps. The “Mole” can transport a load of up to 200 kg if equipped with a tow hitch and a trolley.

This device is relatively easy to use and maintain, and does not take up much space when stored.

Advantages

A walk-behind tractor with a Lifan engine has the following advantages:

  • stability of work;
  • high quality;
  • reliability;
  • low noise and vibration levels;
  • small overall dimensions;
  • the use of a cast iron sleeve to increase engine life;
  • ease of operation and maintenance;
  • large margin of safety;
  • long term of service;
  • affordable price.

All these qualities distinguish Lifan engines from other engines.

The best motors

Various types of motors are installed on the Mole walk-behind tractor, which increase the performance of the device and also allow it to be used more efficiently. Such units can be installed independently if the rules are followed, and before purchasing it is important to determine their power in order to choose the optimal engine for agricultural activities.

Honda GX270

The Japanese-made Honda GX270 engine can be easily installed on a walk-behind tractor to ensure ideal operation of the unit in extreme conditions. The volume of such a four-stroke power unit is 270 cubic centimeters and the power is 9 liters. With. This internal combustion engine has an air cooling system and is easy to repair if malfunctions occur. To increase the engine's service life, it is recommended to fill with AI-95 fuel.

As engine oil, you can use 10W40 or 10W30 fluids, which are recommended by the machine manufacturer. The power unit of the device has a sensor, thanks to which you can monitor the amount of oil in the crankcase and add it in time. Honda engines are the most optimal devices for installation on Mole walk-behind tractors.

Firework

Among the large selection of garden tools, the Salute unit is the cheapest today. The interesting thing is that if a Chinese engine is installed on it, then it fails much earlier than the Salyut unit itself.

If you want your mechanical assistant to serve you longer, it is better to install on it a motor from such well-known companies as Briggs & Stratton (America), Honda and Robin-Subaru (Japan), Lombardini (Italy).

However, it is better to purchase a motor from these manufacturers with a professional status. It will, of course, have a higher price, but it will serve you reliably and for a long time. For the Salyut walk-behind tractor, a Japanese HONDA “GX” class engine is better suited. It has excellent quality and long service life.

Which engine to choose for the Mole walk-behind tractor?

Hello! There is a “mole” walk-behind tractor manufactured in 1991. The original engine was removed. I want to install a diesel engine. No more than 6 hp Which engine is better to buy, made in China or Slovenia?

Zames It’s easy for you to choose here since Slovenia does not produce walk-behind tractors or engines for them.

Riba4ok1 Produces engines. Brand "Sadko"

Zames wrote: I have a mole walk-behind tractor manufactured in 1991. The original engine was removed. I want to install a diesel engine. No more than 6 hp

Why buy a light motor cultivator, a diesel engine that can also power a mini tractor?

Any gasoline 4.5 hp. he has enough to spare.

umnyi I want to attach a homemade plow and a trailer to it) And I don’t like gasoline engines

The Ukrainian heavy MS walk-behind tractor has 4.5 hp for almost everything, and it weighs 217 kg as standard. Recalculate hp. per 1 kg Your right! The mass of the mole is simply not enough to power 4 diesel horses; perhaps the gearbox will simply grunt quickly. You will use 1/4 of the engine's power, running almost at idle (which, by the way, is not good) and that's it. Then take it with an electric starter

at least it won’t hurt later. There will be a mega-pumped Mole.

umnyi Then buy a 4.2 liter “sadko” diesel engine.

But still. Which is the best engine brand?

Zames If the difference in cost is ten bucks, what difference does it make what brand it is? They are all riveted at almost the same factories and they put on different stickers. If you were choosing between HondaSubaru and a bunch of Chinese clones, you could talk about something. Better look at the cost of consumables for the engine and their availability, otherwise if the air filter costs as much as a third of the engine.

Zames, you need to take the 168FB engine, 6.5 hp. Because it is the most common, spare parts are cheap and are always available (just in case), and the filters for it cost pennies. Take one with a 20mm shaft (and the bolt at the end of the crankshaft will be a regular M8, and not an exotic one with an inch thread), and also make sure that the air filter has an oil bath (for conditions of increased dustiness). By brand - WEIMA is the best (but also more expensive) - it is a real manufacturing plant, and not a sticker brand. They have better quality parts, the crankshaft and flywheel are balanced, and there is minimal vibration. They have a new line of engines - with a larger gas tank, a round “cyclone” air filter.

Motoblock device

The Mole walk-behind tractor is a frame structure divided into two half-frames. At the top there are tube-type handles and a bracket for mounting attachments located on the rear side. The controls are located on the handles: clutch and speed switch. Some models also have a reverse switch.

The device is equipped with four cutters, 2 external and internal, as well as a coulter. Additionally, a hiller for beds, a potato digger or plow, a pump for water supply, and a mower are installed.

A two-stage gear-type gearbox with a chain drive and an internal combustion engine, which are connected to each other by a V-belt transmission, are bolted to the supporting frame. Above them is the fuel tank.

The clutch of the minitractor is disengaged and is switched by a handle like on a moped. Engaging the clutch provides belt tension to transmit torque without slipping.

Mills for cultivating soil or wheels for moving loads or sharing with a plow are mounted on the output shafts of the gearbox. The cutters serve as the main working body and consist of a rotor with special knives. They rotate and cut, crush and mix the soil as they gradually move forward. The working depth will depend on the length of the opener used.

The milling cutter loosens the soil and mixes fertilizers more thoroughly than a plow. Shows good performance on heavy soils and virgin soil.

The Mole walk-behind tractor moves freely on built-in wheels. Before starting work, they are removed or raised, fixing them in the desired position. During the first 15 hours of operation, do not give full load. At this time, the parts are being run-in. With a “shock” rate of use immediately after purchase, the performance of the motor decreases.

Specifications

  • The working width is 400-600 mm;
  • Rotor diameter with knives – 320 mm;
  • Tillage productivity – 150-200 m 2 /hour;
  • Cutting depth – 250 mm;
  • Overall dimensions in working position: length – 1000-1300 mm, width – 350-800 mm, height – 710-1060 mm;
  • The weight of the walk-behind tractor with an empty tank is 51.5 kg.

Engine Description

In the classic version, the Mole engine is a single-cylinder, two-stroke with a carburetor and forced air cooling.

The motor is equipped with a non-removable starter. It is started manually using a cable, similar to a chainsaw.

  • Working volume – 60 cubic meters. cm;
  • Power – 2.6 hp/1.91 kW;
  • Rotation speed – 5500-6000 rpm;
  • Average fuel consumption – 0.96 l/kW h;
  • Fuel tank capacity – 1.8 l;

The carburetor design is the same as on mopeds of the Soviet period Riga, Verkhovyna or Karpaty.

The motor uses a dry air cleaner with a replaceable filter element.

It should be fueled with low-octane gasoline A-76 with the addition of M-8B1 motor oil (Avtol), maintaining a ratio of 1:20.

The ignition is contactless, electronic model “MB-1”, like on Soviet chainsaws with an “A-17B” spark plug. Installing spark plug “A-11” ensures stable engine operation without carbon formation.

Modifications of the Mole walk-behind tractor are equipped with more powerful 4-stroke engines made in China.

Self-cleaning of the unit carburetor


Do-it-yourself repair of a motor cultivator often involves cleaning the carburetor.
To do this, the unit must be completely disassembled and cleaned according to the manufacturer's recommendations. The work algorithm, as a rule, is described in detail in the cultivator operating instructions. All cleaning procedures performed are aimed at restoring the uniform immersion of the carburetor float. To do this, it is also necessary to eliminate the deformation of the bracket by which the float is attached to the piston system.

Immersion adjustment is performed with both the open and closed needle valve. A screwdriver should be used to align the bracket. All manipulations must be clear and accurate.

Along with eliminating the deformation, you will also need to adjust the valves of the cultivator.

To do this, check the tightness of each of them. Completing this procedure allows you to restore the functions of the carburetor and return the amount of fuel it consumes to normal.

Which engine is suitable for the Mole walk-behind tractor?

The “weak link” of the Mole walk-behind tractor is the engine, which lacks performance and is difficult to start. The owners of the unit are trying to solve this problem on their own.

The design of the Mole frame allows you to replace the engine with a device from another manufacturer. The modifications required are minimal and uncomplicated, so they can be done independently. In most cases, the standard engine of a walk-behind tractor is replaced with 4-stroke models with better performance characteristics.

The optimal replacement solution is Lifan 168FB with a capacity of 6.5 liters. With. It is easy to find spare parts for this motor in a specialized store at an affordable price. When choosing, you need to check the diameter of the input shaft. It should be 20 mm. For reliable operation of the device, an oil bath with an air filter is preferable, because the engine will have to be operated in dusty conditions.

A good solution would be the Patriot engine. It won't cost much. The only condition is the presence of electrical wiring on the site.

The Honda GC 135 engine is suitable for any operating conditions and consumes little fuel. The professional design of the 4-stroke motor features a single-block aluminum cylinder with a timing belt. It is lightweight and environmentally friendly.

Suitable for installation on Mole walk-behind tractor Sadko DE-220 engine. Its power is about 4.2 liters. s and the output shaft has a diameter of 19 mm, so the pulley will have to be modified. The device is started via a cord.

The Forza 160F 4-stroke engine with 4 hp has improved technical data. With. To operate, it will require AI-92 gasoline.

The motor for the Mole walk-behind tractor can be installed in other models, but only of low power. It is enough to limit yourself to 6 liters. With. A powerful motor unnecessarily loads the gearbox and leads to breakdowns.

How to make a replacement

Trouble-free operation of the mini tractor will depend on compliance with the installation and connection sequence.

  • Unscrew the factory fastening and remove the casing.
  • Disconnect the wires and disconnect the belt.
  • Carry out dismantling.
  • Attach the new engine and mark the new mounting holes on the frame.
  • Install the engine and put on the belt.
  • Adjust the belt tension by moving the motor.
  • Align the unit so that the motor pulley and gearbox are in the same plane and positioned coaxially.
  • Drill through holes and secure the walk-behind tractor engine with bolts 35 mm long.
  • Connect the clutch, gas and muffler system.
  • Carry out a run-in at idle speed.

Functional failures

Quite often, due to defects in the motor of a walk-behind tractor, its unstable operation occurs. If the engine idles jerkily, and when you try to add gas, it stops altogether, the reason is a lack of fuel. Clean the fuel tank, carburetor and line screens. And when problems appear even at idle, it is advisable to check the centrifugal regulator. Cravings often stick there.

Let's say the walk-behind tractor simply slows down without jerking. In almost all cases, this is due to the introduction of incorrectly configured, inapplicable or simply poorly worn engines. But changing the electrical station is not always appropriate. Setting the best spark plug quality may help. It is also worth imagining the occurrence of defects in the operation of the carburetor float in the high-voltage wire.

In all these situations, there is no particular need to carry out a complete repair. High-quality defect removal is very important. It is stupid to try to increase the compression in all modern engines; anyway, the decompressor will not allow you to do this.

About the disadvantages of a walk-behind tractor

The multifunctional walk-behind tractor Mole has its drawbacks:

  • The main disadvantage of the device is its low-power engine. With more volume there would be more opportunities.
  • The open type design leads to severe contamination during operation. Dust clogs hard-to-reach places where there shouldn’t be dirt.
  • Stones, roots, clods of earth get into the gap between the body and the knives, making work difficult.
  • Only one operating speed.
  • The service life of a 2-stroke engine does not exceed 400 hours.
  • A narrow strip of land is processed in one pass.
  • The piston group fails after 1-2 years and must be replaced.
  • After replacing the engine with a more powerful model, the frame has to be strengthened with additional parts.
  • High price of the unit.
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