Motor cultivator. Tractor with only two wheels used in orchards and small farms, to which various machines and implements can be added to perform soil preparation work, cultural care, forage harvesting, transport, operating a water pump, etc. It is also known in some Spanish-speaking countries as a “ motoazada ” or “ motocultivador ”.
Characteristics
Motor cultivators differ from tractors in that they are not very powerful and have only two wheels (one axle is also the driving wheel). The third point of support is the implement or attached machine. A standard-sized motor cultivator can have a 12 hp diesel engine, a gearbox with three to six forward speeds and two or three reverse speeds, as well as an adjustable track between 40 and 80 cm. Working speeds range from 1 to 5 km/h, and for transport up to 20 km/h. It has a coupling mechanism for implements and a power take-off for machines that need to be driven by its engine.
Operation
The operator walks behind the tiller, just as he does with a team of oxen, but when a trailer is added, an operator’s seat can be provided. All the controls for operating the equipment are within reach: accelerator, brake, clutch, gear shift, drive mechanisms and control of the implements and added machines, etc. It has headlights for moving and working at night.
Mechanisms of motor cultivators
Frame . It is the metal structure that supports the engine and other mechanisms.
Engine . This is usually a small, air-cooled, four-stroke diesel engine. It is started manually by crank, although some models have a starter motor. The engine is protected by a cover made of sheet metal.
Motorized tiller with forage harvester
Clutch, gearbox and power take-off . The clutch engages and disengages the transmission of power from the engine to the gearbox. It has a power take-off for driving the machines, although in some models the transmission is by chains or belts.
Handlebars . It has two handlebars with their grips, similar to a plow, which serve to vary the direction of movement. All the levers and other control devices for the operation of the engine and the attached implements and machines are located on the handlebars.
Rolling . Both wheels are treaded agricultural tyres with adjustable track. There is the possibility of changing the tyres for muddy wheels for soil preparation work on rice terraces.