Small scale farming tractors to consider
In South Africa a large number of people live in rural areas and rely on subsistence farming to get by. It can be difficult for them to maintain a steady supply of produce due to the lack of machinery which is expensive to acquire and maintain. We look at some more attainable tractors for communities and small scale farmers.
Tractors are an important machine to have on a farm. They provide the ability to do more work more of the time, increasing production and output which can result in more product sales or more food on the table. We have found three compact tractors to consider in order to help you increase production on your small farm.
1. Mahindra 6060 Tractor
Mahindra is one of the biggest tractor companies in the world and is the top selling tractor brand as well. The company specialises in compact tractors which have been used extensively in country’s such as India and the like. One of their latest offerings is the 6060 and it features a 4 Cylinder engine with direct injection. It is also water cooled and turbo charged and offers 42.5kW of power.
This tractor is also available with 4WD however they entry level 6060 is 2WD. It however still offers a heavy duty transmission which is known to be extremely reliable and easy to-use. The high number of speed options allows the tractor to perform a broad range of farming applications. The 6060 makes use of a single button to engage and disengage the hydraulic independent PTO which makes applications with rotary implements easier. The live powerful hydraulics boasts a maximum lift capacity of 2200 kg to handle the heaviest of implements and the deluxe seat comes with various comfort features like formed cushions, adjustable suspension and armrests. Mahindra tractors offer a country wide dealer network for service and deliveries.
2. 3 Family Utility Tractor
One of the most iconic tractor brands in the world, John Deere also offers an entry level tractor for small scale farming. The 3038E is a powerful little machine designed to be comfortable and offer performance. It is powered by a 3 cylinder Yanmar diesel engine which develops 27.4kW. Like the Mahindra it is also turbo charged and liquid cooled. This engine uses the latest technologies to optimize fuel economy, improve control and accuracy, and reduce environmental impact. One of the greatest operator concerns involves difficulty in attaching tractor implements. John Deere has addressed this issue with the optional iMatch Quick-Hitch. iMatch Quick-Hitch provides easy hookup and a guaranteed fit for all Category 1 implements.
A standout feature on the John Deere is its ease to service as it has been designed with all key service areas in easy to reach locations. Four quarter-turn fasteners allow operators to easily remove the engine side panels without tools to access the engine compartment. This reduces downtime and can increase productivity. The John Deere also offers an uncluttered cabin design which gives operators of all sizes plenty of room to be comfortable. It also features colour-coded controls which are located on either side of the operator for ease of use.
3. New Holland TT Compact
This is a new line of tractors from the New Holland group that have been designed to be tough and versatile. They deliver more performance than their size would suggest with emphasis being placed on the tractors power delivery, Easy Shift transmissions and its big lift capacity. Powering the TT Compact is a powerful 3 cylinder diesel engine available in three power out puts: 35, 42 and 47 horsepower. This motor makes use of the latest in advanced engine technology, providing outstanding power, torque and fuel economy. On the transmission side, the TT Compact Series features an 8 x 2 or optional 8 x 8 Constant Mesh mechanical transmissions, seamlessly tailored to the high torque capability of the engine. While this tractors lift capability is not as impressive as that of the John Deer, it is still capable as all models are offered with a Cat I, 3 point, 1100kgs or 1500kgs lift capacity rear linkage, with position and draft control, plus raise and lower speed control.
Verdict
All three tractors are available in South Africa and are supported by a wide dealer network which makes the availability of parts and servicing more convenient. Be it small scale farming on private property or community use, these tractors are worth a consideration if you need something to get the job done however the Mahindra looks to be the most impressive as it offers the lifting capability of the John Deere and efficiency of the New Holland.