Workhorses that pull their weight - Part 3

publication date: Jul 1, 2008

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author/source: David Harris

Valpadana is the specialist small tractor manufacturer within the ARGO Group. In the UK, the tractors are supported by the dealer networks of fellow ARGO Group manufacturers Landini and McCormick.

For landscaping operations where tight access makes it necessary to use an ultra-compact tractor, the Valpadana 1020HSB provides the answer, says the company.

“Most mini tractors of this size have belt drive to the wheels but the Valpadana has shaft drive for reliability and maximum power delivery, as well as a locking rear axle differential to prevent one wheel spinning if it loses traction,” points out Adrian Winnett.

“And while others might have electric lift for rear-mounted implements, the 1020HSB has a full hydraulic system – and power takeoff drive with easy hydraulic control for operating powered implements.”

Two-speed hydrostatic transmission makes the machine easy to drive while the Briggs & Stratton 16hp engine provides plenty of power to drive the tractor and any implements attached to its rear, mid and front mountings.

Apart from being one of the smallest hydrostatic multi-function tractors around, the Valpadana 1430HST is also one of the most versatile, especially when the tractor is fitted with the optional reversible driving position

“The tractor can be driven like a standard compact tractor – for towing a trailer or operating rear-mounted implements,” explains Adrian Winnett of Valpadana distributor, Landini UK. “But it can also be operated with the seat, pedals and steering wheel turned around and driven in the opposite direction, so it can power specialist out-front mowers.”

Standard equipment that includes 600kg capacity rear three-point linkage and two-speed independent power take-off can be supplemented with 300kg front-end linkage to carry a snow or light earth blade and single-speed front power PTO so that a power brush or small flail mower can be run on the front.

The EX series is the latest addition to the Kioti range from Ruston’s Engineering Co. There are four models from 38-50hp engines, and Richard Ruston comments: “Operator comfort and convenience are important considerations these days, and the EX models address them in various ways.

“A major feature is the headland management control system. A three way switch either switches the pto on or off, or can be set to "auto" so that when the rear mounted implement is lifted at the headland, the pto automatically switches off the implement without the driver having to switch off manually and then on again when returning to work,” he explains.

“On the hydrostatic version, the twin pedals for forward and reverse shuttle allow fast changes of direction – for example when using a loader - without having to de-clutch or operate a lever by hand, meaning that both hands remain free for steering or implement control.

“Another major advantage is the servo-assisted hydrostatic system which gives much lighter pedal operation, while at the same time reducing noise and vibration compared with ordinary HST tractors. All these add up to a better driver experience and less fatigue over longer periods of operation.”

TYM International suggests that the power to weight ratio of its compact tractor range, which starts from 23hp and includes 10 models up to 50hp, makes them a natural for sensitive turf such as on golf courses, while their comparatively small size makes it easy for them to work in awkward areas.

An operator-friendly control layout and flat floor makes them popular with users, comments TYM Director Bob Norris.

“Utility vehicles and quads have their place but cannot really compete with tractors due to their more limited use – they cannot offer hydraulic lift or spool valves without expensive customisation. Even the smallest compact will have these features as standard.”

BSG Supplies imports the Goldoni range of compacts, and managing director Graham Godward comments: “Since many compacts are similar, our advantage is that we can often supply a 22hp Goldoni Quad instead of something larger or more expensive. In many instances, traction is more important than power, minimal turf damage is more important than traction, and stability is more important than size. This also applies to larger models and as we are specialists we can find a solution for applications where the normal sports field tractor leaves off.”

Lamberhurst Engineering supplies the Ferrari tractor range, with the Cobram 40 and 50 models offering an articulated or rigid steer layout with four equal sized wheels.

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