How to make a mini tractor from a Neva walk-behind tractor with your own hands

You don’t always get pleasure from working on a personal plot. Most people try to mechanize this difficult physical work by purchasing walk-behind tractors, cultivators or mini tractors. Some craftsmen, after working with a walk-behind tractor, decide to make a mini tractor from a Neva walk-behind tractor with their own hands. To make the task easier, you can buy a special adapter with a seat, thanks to which the walk-behind tractor will turn into a four-wheeled assistant.

General excursion into technology

Over the many decades of its existence, a wide range of walk-behind tractors has rolled off the assembly line of the Minsk Tractor Plant.
For those whose activities are closely related to plowing the land, the classic model MTZ 05 is well known. This walk-behind tractor, produced back in the Soviet years, is still in demand today, and it can be successfully converted into a mini tractor. However, the most suitable models for the production of prefracture are MTZ-12 and MTZ-09N. Firstly, these are the most powerful walk-behind tractors, which increases productivity. Secondly, the very design of the units allows them to be easily and quickly converted into a mini tractor. This saves your personal effort, time and money. A special feature of MTZ walk-behind tractors is that they are equipped with 2-cylinder diesel engines, and homemade mini tractors based on them are not three-wheeled, but four-wheeled.

What is a Neva 2 walk-behind tractor?

The powerful motor unit produced is equipped with three engine options for the walk-behind tractor:

• Gasoline engine produced by the Kaluga plant, the most often used modification is DM-1, DM-2, with a power of 6 and 7 hp. respectively. The first works on the A-76, the second on the A-95. In this case, the letter “K” is added to the walk-behind tractor index according to the instructions;
• American engines from Briggs & Stratton. The version of the walk-behind tractor with the index “B” is considered the most reliable and easy to maintain, even without any instructions;
• Subarov engines, when equipped with them, the Neva walk-behind tractor is assigned the index “C”. The engines have a similar power of 6-7 horses, but there are also diesel versions with colossal torque. The most capricious in maintenance and operation, all operations, even refueling and starting, must be performed only according to the instructions.

To find out what specific fuel is used for a particular walk-behind tractor model, you need to check the passport and operating instructions. For example, an attempt to fill a Subarov engine with 92-octane gasoline during operation can lead to burnout of the piston system, and walk-behind tractors with American Briggs often experienced serious problems with starting and controlling engine speed due to the large amount of dirt in domestic fuel.

• The mass of the unit when charged reaches 100 kg. This is the average for most walk-behind tractors; Chinese heavy versions can reach 150-180 kg;
• Motor power -6 hp, with a torque of 180 kg?s, for a diesel engine the torque is increased to 220 kg?s;
• The plowing depth according to the instructions, when using a standard plow, on a walk-behind tractor reaches 200 mm, the maximum harrowing width is 170 cm.

The machine can plow, harrow, dig up potatoes planted in beds, clear snow and much more, provided that the standard attachments specified in the operating instructions are used.

Alternative options

For conversion into a mini tractor, not only walk-behind tractors produced by MTZ are used, but also products from other brands. Each model has its own characteristics, but in general the assembly algorithm differs little.

“Neva”, “Centaur”, “Bison”, “Agro”

Motoblocks "Neva" are equipped with Subaru engines. The machines have a lot of power and are quite heavy, so converting them into a mini tractor simplifies control. A coupling mechanism is supplied with the design of this brand. It is intended for various attachments, thus solving the problem of connecting it to the machine. Motoblocks "Centaur" are equipped with a diesel engine. It is mounted in the front of the frame, which is traditional for such equipment. Meanwhile, torque is transmitted to the rear pair of wheels through the use of a belt or gear drive.

Motoblocks of various capacities are produced under the Zubr brand. To reconstruct them into a mini tractor, it is recommended to use heavy models. They are equipped with a liquid cooling system, which makes it possible to work in adverse weather. To build a control system, you can use a VAZ gearbox, and for the stopping system, mechanical belt-type brakes are used.

When producing a mini tractor from Agro walk-behind tractors, remember one important feature. Their standard axle is characterized by low fracture strength, thereby increasing the risk of destruction during operation

To avoid this, you need to strengthen it. For this purpose, modernized wheel gearboxes designed for VAZ or LuAZ SUVs are used.

"Oka", "Salyut", "Cascade"

Mini tractors made from the Oka walk-behind tractor are equipped with a reversible gearbox, including two speeds. When converted, they are equipped with a frame and all-wheel drive, making all wheels driving. The engine is mounted at the front and has a factory hood to protect it. The transfer case is located in the rear. The drive of both axles with chain gearboxes is also located there.

Engines from leading brands are installed in Salyut walk-behind tractors. Their power usually varies between 6–7.5 l/s. The gearbox is equipped with two main gears and an additional reduction gear. The kinematic scheme involves the use of two V-belts, due to which:

• the quality of torque transmission improves;
• the risk of dangerous slippage that can occur under active loads is reduced;
• the useful life of the machine increases.

If you make a mini tractor from a Salyut walk-behind tractor, it is advisable to increase the wheel track of the rear and front axles to 1200 mm. This manipulation will increase the stability of the vehicle. For the drive wheels, and there can be either two or all 4 of them, only standard tires are used.

When making a mini tractor yourself from “Cascade” walk-behind tractors, you can use “stockings” from old rear-wheel drive “Muscovites” or “Zhiguli” in the design of its rear axle. During operation, the “stockings” are shortened, which optimizes the wheel track parameters. To build a control system, it is convenient to use a rotating beam from PAZ buses, while the hubs and gearboxes are taken from Zhiguli cars.

Engine and hydraulic installation

The most profitable option for converting a walk-behind tractor into a homemade four-wheeled tractor is considered to be a single-cylinder water-cooled diesel engine - this is usually installed on Chinese motor-cultivators of the SCOUT, Zubr and Russian Neva brands. A single-cylinder diesel engine is economical, so operating a mini-tractor based on it will not be expensive. It is typically placed on the front of the frame, allowing the small tractor to maintain optimal balance when operating with additional tools. A fastening system is installed at the location of the motor, which is best made “floating” (sliding) to simplify the adjustment and tension of the belts.

The transmission of force from the engine to the rear wheels of a homemade tractor is organized using a belt drive. The PTO transfer case, like the gearbox, can be used from a decommissioned GAZ-53 car. The homemade power unit is mounted in such a way that the PTO pulley is located in the same plane as the pulley located on the rear axle of the mini-tractor. At the same time, they mark out a place for the clutch pedal. The belt drive is covered with a protective cover to avoid slipping during operation and to make its service life longer. After completing the main work, a hydraulic lift is installed on a homemade mini-tractor with an engine from a walk-behind tractor. The hydraulic conversion kit must include an oil pump, oil reservoir, hydraulic cylinder and distributor. All components of the system are connected by flexible oil-resistant hoses. It is advisable to make the hydraulics in a floating mode - this will ensure full operation of the motor-tractor hitch. Then the rotary cutter will work as it should.

An inexpensive tractor for the price of a walk-behind tractor for only 189 thousand! - Order here. For a large selection of attachments that are also suitable for homemade tractors, see the link. The entire range of heavy walk-behind tractors (SCOUT, Ugra, Neva, etc.) -

Then the driver's seat is installed.

Preparing to create a homemade mini-tractor

To create a mini-tractor based on a walk-behind tractor, you need to draw up a drawing, its kinematic diagram, and also prepare materials, tools and equipment in advance. If you have the required knowledge and skills, then you can figure out how to develop a mechanism demonstration scheme yourself. But if you don’t have such skills, then you can find a more suitable option online.

For a homemade mini tractor, you can use a purchased factory kit for parts and components. But such a decision cannot be called correct for those who intend to break a 4x4 and save on this procedure.

For the technique you need:

• set of tools;
• equipment for welding work;
• drill with various drill bits;
• pipes, channels made of metal;
• nuts, bolts;
• grinder and discs for working with metal.

Attention!

Purchasing a ready-made set of spare parts for conversion is the main expense item on which you should not save. Otherwise, the quality of the finished structure will leave much to be desired.

In addition, for a homemade tractor you need to select two wheels, a hitch, a driver’s seat, a steering mechanism, pedals and a walk-behind tractor with the required weight and power. Ideally, it would be a heavy-duty vehicle with a diesel engine. Thanks to this, you will have a home-made, yet powerful mini-tractor at your disposal that will effectively cope with agricultural tasks.

When choosing the weight of a new mini tractor, you must take into account the condition of the land on which it will be used. If it is compacted and dry, then the unit may not cope with the task assigned to it. Therefore, the harder the soil, the harder it is to choose a walk-behind tractor. And the power of the motor must be correlated with the area of ​​the area that will be processed by such a tractor. Therefore, the larger it is, the more productive the engine should be.

Materials and tools

To assemble a mini tractor based on a walk-behind tractor, you will need, in addition to the Neva itself:

• electric welding machine;
• grinding machine (for rolling and fitting);
• drill;
• a set of necessary simple tools;
• winch, jack system;

From the materials required for construction:

• Dashboard;
• A pair of wheels suitable in size and strength;
• Hub brake system;
• Steering rod;
• Steering rods;
• Transmission;
• Angles, pipes or profiles;
• Canopy system;

Specifications

Engines

One of the main decisions of Salyut engineers is to use not only domestic, but also imported engines from foreign manufacturers (Briggs & Stratton, Honda, Subaru, Lifan, etc.) on a domestically produced frame. Thanks to the use of imported motors, the durability and reliability of the Salyut-5 walk-behind tractor significantly increases, and comfort during operation also improves.

According to reviews from walk-behind tractor owners, the most reliable engines are the American Briggs Stratton and the Japanese Robin Subaru and Honda engines.

The first Salyut 5 models were equipped with Russian-made engines (KaDvi) of the DM series. They were significantly inferior to foreign engines in technical and operational parameters, so in the first half of the 2000s they were completely abandoned.

Gearbox

The pride of the Salyut-5 walk-behind tractor is its gearbox, which has become legendary, the mechanism of which is made entirely of gears. This is the plant’s own development, which was initially manufactured at the main enterprise in Moscow, and then at the facilities of the Omsk Engine-Building Association named after. P. I. Baranova.

The gearbox is made in a single housing, all connections are bolted.

According to Salyut and many users, only a fully gear reducer is the most reliable, durable and maintenance-free for many years

Manufacturers note that during the production of the gear regulator, all technological processes for processing parts are observed, designer supervision and design support of production are carried out. Some factories tried to produce copies of this gearbox, which were significantly inferior to the original - both in service life and in technical and operational qualities

Transmission

On Salyut-5 walk-behind tractors, the transmission consists of a gearbox (gearbox) and a clutch mechanism. Through the V-belt drive and tension roller belts, the drive is driven from the drive pulley to the power take-off pulley (PTO).

The gear shift knob on Salyut-5 is located on the body of the walk-behind tractor, but the company has developed a special gear shift mechanism kit to transfer it to the steering wheel.

The plant has released a special gear shift installation kit, which allows you to move the gear lever to the steering wheel as on the MB Salyut-100.

The speed of movement of the walk-behind tractor and the rotation of the cutters can be adjusted by a 4-groove drive pulley: you need to rotate it relative to the BLOM, unscrew the fastening nut, install the belts in the grooves of a larger diameter and screw the nut back.

The gearbox pulley consists of 3 grooves, the middle one is free for attachments, the other two are for transmission belts.

Motoblock Neva MB2, clutch modification

027

DvigAteL

At first I thought that you had the clutch on top - that you had some kind of rollers screwed there. and the clutch is almost exactly how it was made on my walk-behind tractor from the factory - that is, a piece of hardware is attached to the same bolt on the roller on which the cable is attached. and so close to the axis the spring will of course break

I bought a walk-behind tractor MB23 not long ago. And such a problem emerged. or am I doing something wrong. I adjust the clutch so that the gear pulley does not spin in neutral. I literally set it to the millimeter - but when the clutch is pressed, the walk-behind tractor simply does not mill - the engine pulley slips along the belt. If I pull the cable harder, the pulley does not slip and mills normally. BUT the other speed is no longer turned on - the gear pulley is in constant rotation. vicious circle) . What to do?

DZHONIK AS FIRE

Why so many videos? Belt overheating is guaranteed. The Oka Motoblock also has this weak point, there is a lever but it’s turned out, I’ll also weld the eye. and it was enough for you to place dampers near the engine pulley instead of a bunch of rollers. The belt serves for a long time and reliably when its tension is maintained and there is no big break - from my practice. Finished belts are being made now.

Alexander Nikulin

Namesake, thank you very much for the tip on the clutch. A lot has been done in this MB so that I can buy it more often. I’ve had this freak for two years now and I see that it needs to be radically improved, starting with the gearbox axle (a huge drawback - the axle is round). I’m now looking for a hexagonal and wheels to it. And why the hell did I take this motherfucker, no, look at MBs with hex axles and a normal drive without belts with a normal gearbox.

Barmaley

I don’t know how you sell the cables in the kit; there is already a plate that is attached to the same bolt as the tensioner, about seven to eight centimeters long, and the cable is attached to it; you don’t need to invent anything. As for the other spring, if you put a stiffer spring, the cable in the handle starts to tear off, this has already been checked.

Hello Sanya! What a great idea! My hand is getting tired of holding this pen! and according to your method, it should be easier for the hand to travel? Thanks for the idea.

Advantages of homemade tractors from walk-behind tractors

A mini tractor converted from a walk-behind tractor will be very useful on the farm! It definitely needs to be done to turn routine agricultural work into tireless and interesting activities. A homemade tractor, unlike a walk-behind tractor, will take on the main load, and the person will only have to monitor the process and properly drive the vehicle. A homemade small tractor is a compact unit that is economical to operate and maintain and does not require a separate garage, which is also a big plus. It will not create problems with spare parts - they can be found on sale at an affordable price in almost any specialized store that sells motoblocks of the brands Scout, Neva, Chinese Zubr and others. The advantages of owning such a unit are obvious. Unlike a walk-behind tractor, it will allow:

• Expand functionality;
• Facilitate the operator's work;
• Realize traction potential.

Using skills, you can turn an ordinary motor cultivator with limited capabilities into a multifunctional and efficient mini tractor. Maneuverable, compact - it is able to work even in densely planted areas, between bushes and trees, as well as in a limited local area, without damaging paving slabs and asphalt surfaces. Watch the form, where there is a video about the operation of homemade equipment. Making a mini tractor from a walk-behind tractor means purchasing agricultural machinery with the widest functionality. Together with it, you can use a variety of attachments: cultivator, potato planter, milling cutter, harrow, rotary mower, plow, hillers, etc. And if you equip it with a hydraulically driven stacker, then you can operate a homemade tractor also as a hay thrower or a crane. Thanks to its practical design, working with such a homemade product is simple, comfortable and safe. And the remaining walk-behind parts can be used to create other homemade products. A homemade mini tractor is better than the most expensive heavy motor cultivator and cheaper than a heavy tractor.

Which walk-behind tractor is suitable for conversion?

Here you should clearly determine the power that will be needed. After all, it’s not enough to just make a mini tractor. The engine must be capable of driving not only attachments, but also the weight of the walk-behind tractor itself with its frame and a person.

The Neva MB-23S 9.0 PRO model is best suited. It has a 4-stroke engine. And 9 horsepower is enough to generate traction force, which is sufficient to drive plows, cultivators, hillers, etc.

If the power is not enough, then the simplest solution is to simply buy an adapter. Convenience is certainly not at the same level, but you can move around while sitting. And that's a plus.

But the downside is that the use of some attachments is not compatible with it.

But it is compatible with a mini tractor:

Choosing a walk-behind tractor

Important parameters for these devices are worth listing:

• Cost, manufacturer.
• Plow size.
• Type of engine used.
• Weight.
• Power level.

A detailed consideration is relevant for each characteristic.

Power. Usually it depends on the area that requires processing in a particular area. The larger the area, the more powerful the walk-behind tractor you need to take.

The weight is determined by the type of soil being cultivated. For hard soil types, you should not choose too light devices. Otherwise, mini tractors simply will not cope with their purpose.

Compared to gasoline engines, diesel engines are much quieter. They have low compression, allowing them to start even in severe frosts without additional problems. But diesel wins in terms of efficiency of its use. It has stable revs and increased traction. A diesel engine will cope better with heavy soils and large areas.

Readiness for physical loads, depth and patience are factors that must be taken into account when determining the appropriate dimensions for a future purchase. The optimal choice is considered to be collapsible models that are adjustable in width, then the plow can be easily adjusted depending on your needs at a particular moment.

There is a close relationship between factors such as cost and manufacturer. If possible, it is better to choose products from companies that have been on the market for a long time. But you can get by with cheaper analogues if financial possibilities are limited. Russian products will also be the best option for the majority.

Chinese walk-behind tractors

Basically these are copies of Russian models. Their cost is lower, but it is achieved not only due to cheap labor, but also savings on materials for production and technological equipment. This negatively affects the quality of finished products.

At the same time, the functionality does not differ from Russian analogues. Buyers have also long had the opinion that goods from China are disposable. The production of walk-behind tractors was no exception. Recently, products of acceptable quality have appeared in this direction, but they are still far from even their analogues from Russia. Chinese technology is intended mainly for those who have plumbing skills and a supply of almost professional-level tools.

Russian products

The optimal solution with an affordable price. Options with a V-belt drive or transmission of torque to a mower, snow blower or broom have become popular among buyers. In any case, the process cannot be completed without the participation of a special belt.

A special feature of our developments is the simple design of the clutch system. This makes operation and repair easier. The only maintenance procedure left is belt replacement. Soviet engineers also designed a gearbox that is recognized as one of the most successful on the market. Professional imported engines are used. The units are functional and reliable. They are slightly inferior to imported ones, but in terms of cost they are far ahead.

Gearbox of the Neva MB-2 walk-behind tractor: diagram and design, purpose and operating rules

The gearbox is an indispensable component of any equipment that uses an engine, since without it it is impossible to transmit rotational motion. Structurally, this element in the Neva-MB-2 walk-behind tractors is similar to parts used in other equipment, but to learn more about it, it is necessary to study the issue in more detail.

Peculiarities

The design of the walk-behind tractor is equipped with a gear-chain unit, the main task of which is to transmit rotational motion, and therefore to change the rotation speed of the cutters. It is thanks to the gearbox that the driven pulley transmits the mechanical action to the wheels of the equipment, thereby changing the speed and direction.

Inside the housing there is oil, which is necessary to ensure the operation of the gearbox. The element is enclosed in a durable sealed housing. Its kinematic scheme consists of a chain and two stars located in opposite directions. The lower one is called the driven one, because it stands on the shaft and drives the entire walk-behind tractor system.

Compound

The walk-behind tractor gearbox includes the following important parts:

• screws;
• bearings;
• axles;
• stars;
• frame;
• bushings;
• shift levers;
• gears;
• shaft;
• coupling;
• axle shafts;
• pay;
• spring.

These are not all the elements that are involved in the design of the gearbox, but they are the main ones. Failure of one of them leads to loss of performance and subsequent repairs.

Compared to a worm gearbox, a gear-chain gearbox is more reliable. It is convenient and easy to operate, and can support reverse function. As a rule, this is a collapsible structure, where all elements are connected to each other with bolts, thanks to which you can inspect the condition of chains and gears if necessary. Such gearboxes are installed on large walk-behind tractors, which require a durable and reliable unit to transfer force to the wheels and cutters.

Application nuances

In order for the user to have to deal with walk-behind tractor breakdowns as little as possible, it is necessary to monitor the operation of not only the engine, but also the gearbox. Experts give their advice on what basic requirements must be observed during operation.

It is important to use only high-quality oil, and at the same time regularly check its presence inside the element. According to GOST, TAD-17I or an analogue, which can also be easily found in stores - TAP-15V, is ideal for this gearbox. A complete oil change should be carried out according to the engine hours specified by the manufacturer.

The instructions for users indicate that replacement should be made 30 hours after the first start of the walk-behind tractor, and subsequently after 150 hours. If the walk-behind tractor is put into storage, then all working fluids are removed from it, and the necessary moving elements are lubricated. Periodically, the user is required to check the tension level of the gearbox chain. If it sags, it is replaced with a new one, since this element cannot be repaired. The oil seal can be replaced independently, thanks to the completely dismountable design of the described unit.

Possible breakdowns

It is worth saying that the gearbox from the Neva-MB-2 walk-behind tractor can be repaired quickly and easily. This is possible due to the fact that you can always find spare parts for it on the market. This need arises when the following signs appear:

• oil begins to appear on the output shaft;
• the chain jams;
• no kinematic connection;
• Gears don't change.

In all of these cases, it is necessary to disassemble and inspect the gearbox. If oil leaks, the problem can be eliminated by simply replacing the cuff, which over time may lose its original qualities. Jamming is always associated with a broken chain, so this problem can only be eliminated by complete replacement.

If this element is intact, but there is no kinematic connection, you should pay attention to the sprockets present in the design. One of them could have broken off

If there is no gear shift, the crack is inspected, which may be destroyed. Sometimes the threaded part of the handle is cut off. If the user begins to notice that oil leakage is observed on the shift shaft, this is not always an indication of a breakdown. Sometimes the permissible oil level in the gearbox is simply exceeded. The excess just needs to be drained.

Homemade mini tractors

Ideal for processing small areas. Almost anyone who understands technology, even at a minimal level, can assemble them.

How to make a mini tractor from a Neva walk-behind tractor

First, we purchase the walk-behind tractor itself, on which a hitch is already pre-mounted, either factory-made or home-made. Then it will be possible to attach trailers with a body, which can easily transport cargo, regardless of size. There are other additional details that add comfort during use:

1. Brake and gas pedals.
2. Seat.
3. Steering Wheel.

The volume of Neva walk-behind tractors is usually in the range of 6-8 liters. Therefore, a mini-tractor with such a base requires a minimum number of modifications.

If you have electric welding and a grinder along with additional tools, you can create a dump truck on your own. The main thing is to give a special design to the frame mount, and make sure that the mini tractor from the walk-behind tractor can tilt the trailer and turn it. The controls for these devices duplicate each other, so the walk-behind tractor can be used separately by simply disassembling the small tractor.

Homemade mini tractor from the Zubr walk-behind tractor

Of the required details:

• Frame.
• Cylinder with brake.
• Footrests, pedals.
• Steering column, complete with rods.
• The beam is in front, connected to the hubs and discs for the brakes.
• Wings at the back.
• Rear linkage with manual lift.

The last step is the joint assembly, using a hammer and drill, wrenches with a welding machine. Additionally, wheels are installed in front. The engine is attached to the frame at the front, so the minitractor maintains balance during operation. The power take-off shaft is located on the same axis with the pulley on the rear axle of the vehicle. Belt drive helps transmit power from one part to another. Belt tension and adjustment will be easier if the motor mount is floating.

Mini tractor based on MTZ walk-behind tractor

This walk-behind tractor has one difference from other standard models - it is equipped with a two-cylinder diesel engine. This causes the center to be heavier in the front when the device is actively operating. Because of this, the work process becomes noticeably more complicated. But you can fix the problem by doing the following:

1. We use the mode of operation with mowers.
2. The platform in front is completely dismantled.
3. It is replaced by a wheel from the front of the motorcycle, for which we use bolts. At the same time, the steering wheel is installed.
4. At the top of the frame there is a niche where the steering rod is installed. The adjusting rod must also be secured here, then the structure will receive an increase in strength and hardness.
5. We use electric welding to connect the platform and the mount for the driver’s seat.
6. The engine must have an additional platform where the hydraulic distributor with the battery is placed.
7. The rear part is connected to an additional metal frame for the hydraulic system.
8. The front motorcycle seat is ideal for handbrake placement.

Let's get a compact mini-tractor with three wheels.

Mini tractor made from Agro walk-behind tractor

As always, we prepare several basic parts in advance - the steering and braking system, additional wheels, and the hydraulic system. Hydraulics are needed for the system to work properly in conjunction with attachments. Extra wheels are easy to take from a regular car.

In the case of the Agro walk-behind tractor, additional steps will be needed to strengthen the drive axle shaft along with the wheel gearboxes. Let's assume that the engine of the device is located behind. Then the load will be distributed as evenly as possible.

Do-it-yourself mini tractor with a Centaur walk-behind tractor

Centaur walk-behind tractors are a type of professional equipment designed for agricultural work. Therefore, in the end, the mini-tractor will have high productivity.

The key component is the engine, with a power of up to 9 horsepower. It is necessary to use a metal profile to make a frame for this design. We install the seat along with the wheelset. Additional equipment in the form of a trailer is acceptable, which helps transport small-sized cargo. Other useful additions include single-share plows and moldboards.

Installation of the chassis

Upon completion of installation, the mounting devices are installed on both axles (front, rear), and the wheels are already on them. The ones that came with the walk-behind tractor (SCOUT, Zubr, Neva) are usually attached to the rear axle, and wheels from a passenger car or some kind of agricultural machinery are mounted to the front axle. It is important that they have a deep tread - this will make the homemade mini-tractor a high-cross-country vehicle with improved wheel grip on the ground. Then management will be much easier. To equip a homemade tractor with a full-fledged front chassis, they buy hubs assembled with a brake system and preferably complete with steering rods, steering wheel, gearbox and steering column. They can also be converted by removing them from used passenger vehicles. The front wheels are attached to the mini-tractor as follows:

• Select a metal profile pipe that matches the thickness of the front axle of a homemade tractor.
• Wheel hubs are attached to the ends of the profile.
• The structure with hubs is fixed to the front frame directly in the center.
• Mount the steering rods and then align them with the steering gear.
• The gearbox is fixed to the frame.
• Install the steering rod and steering wheel.
• Adjust the steering column and steering wheel.

Sometimes the tractor's front suspension is supplemented with spring shock absorbers to provide more comfortable working conditions. After the steering column has been assembled according to the drawing, you need to install the rear wheels. The rear axle of the cultivator is mounted on bearings tightly pressed into spherical bushings. A pulley is mounted on it, which will transmit torque from the engine to the rotating components. You can leave the rear wheels of the breaker without a differential - this will simplify the design and minimize slipping of the future mini-tractor when operating on loose soils. The optimal diameter of tractor wheels is 30-36 cm (like the SCOUT T-15 model). If a homemade diesel unit is placed on smaller wheels, it will simply tilt forward. Installing large wheels will make the machine uncontrollable and impair its maneuverability, especially when working with a trailer. Once the installation of the wheels and steering column is complete, the assembly of the main agricultural machinery unit - the engine - begins.

Design features and advantages

The homemade Neva mini tractor, made from the walk-behind tractor of the same name, has a number of the following features, which are also its advantages:

Minitractor from the Neva walk-behind tractor

• Cheap components and spare parts - in addition to the walk-behind tractor used, assembling such a mini tractor will not require significant financial investments and the purchase of expensive spare parts. When assembling such equipment, parts of the suspension and steering of old Soviet cars or foreign cars are used. The frame and frame are made of any durable metal.
• Ease of manufacture - in order to assemble such a small tractor, you need minimal skills and theoretical knowledge of working with a welding machine and other electric tools (grinder, screwdriver, drill, etc.).
• Compact placement in a small garage - compared to other factory-produced mini tractors, such a homemade product will not require a large room for storage in the off-season.
• Convenience when working in small areas - thanks to its small size and convenient steering, this equipment can be used in confined spaces in summer cottages and medium-sized greenhouses, performing soil cultivation and other work more efficiently and quickly.
• Multifunctionality - such a mini tractor, thanks to the presence of two axles and stable traction with the soil, can be used for various types of field work: from plowing to hilling and harrowing. Also, compared to a simple walk-behind tractor, this technique can be used not only with standard walk-behind tractors, but also with more spacious and heavy-duty vehicle trailers.
• Low fuel consumption - the consumption of gasoline or diesel fuel, compared to factory-produced mini tractors, for such a unit is 1.5-2 times less;
• High speed – a lightweight mini tractor can reach speeds of up to 30-40 km/h.

On a note. The production of such a mini-tractor in most cases comes down to attaching the so-called front adapter with a seat, steering, and an axle with two wheels to the walk-behind tractor. At the same time, the production of such a device will cost several times less than factory models; it will turn the minitractor not into a single piece, but into a breakable (composite) unit with complex steering.

Headlight and dimensions for walk-behind tractor

Almost all owners of land plots have to decide how to make light on a walk-behind tractor. Very often you have to work late or drive modernized equipment in the dark. Without path lighting, it is not only inconvenient, but also dangerous.

There are the following options for installing headlights and dimensions for the Neva walk-behind tractor:

1. From the generator. A standard product or a generator from a passenger car is used. To prevent the light from dimming when the speed decreases, it is better to take a generator from a tractor. The part is installed on a bracket welded to the frame.
2. From the battery. If the unit is heavy, it is better to use a battery from a moped or outboard motor. It is advisable to install batteries from passenger cars on light walk-behind tractors. They will not only provide a long-lasting glow, but will also press the wheels to the ground.

To expand the lighting sector, the headlight itself must be installed on a bracket. It is better to place the power switch on the steering wheel. The wires must be insulated and placed in a corrugated tube.

Drawings, diagrams, detailing, assembly

First of all, you need to understand what the walk-behind tractor will mainly be used for. For agricultural work with soil or for transporting various objects. Most often, they choose a universal model so that they can work in the garden and carry loads around the house. At the rear of the mini tractor, another towbar is added for coupling with a trailer. Which, if desired, can also be assembled according to ready-made patterns, because the materials for making a mini tractor and a trailer are similar and you can make two models at once.

Drawing of a mini tractor from the Neva walk-behind tractor (front)

In order for everything to work quickly and correctly, a kinematic diagram must be drawn up.

Minitractor from the Neva walk-behind tractor (rear)

This drawing shows the connection between the wheel axle and the gear shaft. It is recommended to install rear wheel drive. This will give the minitractor additional stability and maneuverability.

All details should be chosen carefully. They must fit one another. If necessary, they can be adjusted using a lathe. The service life of the entire mini tractor will depend on how well the parts fit together.

When drawing up a drawing, it is necessary to take into account the rotating device. It can be of two options:

• Turning by breaking the body is a strong, reliable and time-tested scheme. But at the same time it is not particularly maneuverable when making turns. And the steering column is installed clearly above their connection point.
• Steering rod is a more maneuverable version of steering a mini tractor. It allows you to make turns at a large angle. But more details are also needed for this version. It is best to use factory parts from other cars. Another advantage of this option is the fact that both the rear and front wheels of the mini tractor can be driven.

After choosing a rotating device, you can begin converting the walk-behind tractor into a mini tractor.

Frame creation process

To create a frame yourself, you need a small amount of materials; if any components are not available, they can be replaced with analogues. But at the same time they must have similar sizes and properties:

• Metal for the frame - you will need corners, channels and a square pipe. For hull cladding, it is necessary to use steel with a thickness of more than 1.5 mm.
• Rotating device
• A pair of wheels and axles for them
• Bearing set
• Tools (tape measure, welding, drill and grinder)

Carefully following the initial diagram, the frame is assembled. By size, connection angles and kinematic diagram.

Minitractor detailing, spare parts

After connecting all the elements, you should check the correct installation. To do this, you need to install the frame on the walk-behind tractor. If everything has fallen into place, we begin the next stage; if something is not installed, then it is corrected and installed again.

Steering

Next, ready-made elements are installed: steering rod (which is best installed on the rear axle), hubs and axle. The wheels are attached to the axle using bolts.

And finally the seat is installed.

This completes the assembly process. And you can start test drives. Here you need to run the mini tractor on a flat surface.

Often it is necessary to further adjust the steering or wheel placement.

If all is well, then you can connect the attachments and begin field testing. If desired, you can also carry out cosmetic work with paint or primer. This will protect the mini tractor from corrosion.

The video shows a slide show on how to make a mini tractor from a walk-behind tractor:

The independent process of converting a walk-behind tractor into a mini tractor is quite painstaking work, in which many do not see the point.

Moreover, for Neva walk-behind tractors, Red October offers a ready-made design - an adapter. And there is no need to carry out all these manipulations.

But it's not that simple. The adapter is good only if you need to carry out minor work. It does not have reliable lug mechanisms. And on uneven surfaces or viscous soil, it will constantly slip. Such problems do not arise with a mini tractor, so the Neva walk-behind tractor with adapters will not replace the mini tractor for us.

How to make a frame

After preparing the tools and components necessary to create a mini-tractor, they begin to “reshape” the frame of the walk-behind tractor to adapt it to an additional pair of wheels. The platform of a future homemade machine can be made all-metal or fractured using channels or profile metal pipes. Longitudinal and transverse spars are easy to make - they are cut with a grinder and connected by electric welding or fasteners. For greater reliability, bolted connections are combined with additional welding of the seams. When transforming a cultivator into a mini-tractor, a fracture is often used, consisting of two independent semi-frames connected to each other using hinges. Thanks to this design, all four wheels of the tractor are almost always in contact with the ground, and they practically do not hang out when operating the homemade product on an uneven surface or slippery road. This allows you to increase the stability of a mini-tractor made from a walk-behind tractor, improve its maneuverability and maneuverability when carrying out arable and transport work. An attachment device is mounted to the front or rear section of the prepared frame according to the diagram, which will allow the tractor to work with auxiliary devices. You can immediately weld a towbar to the rear for towing a trailer - this will further expand the functionality of a homemade motor tractor.

Do-it-yourself mini tractor from a walk-behind tractor - manufacturing procedure

Before you start manufacturing a mini tractor based on a walk-behind tractor, you will need to prepare the materials necessary for the work. Conversion kit includes:

• welding machine;
• screwdrivers and wrenches;
• electric drill and a set of various drills;
• grinder and a set of discs for working with metal;
• set of nuts and bolts.

Suitable drawings will help you assemble a tractor from a walk-behind tractor correctly. In them you will find information about the order in which to connect the parts and which fastening method is suitable for their reliable installation.

Converting a walk-behind tractor into a mini tractor is carried out in the following order:

1. A mini tractor based on a walk-behind tractor must be equipped with a strong, reliable frame. It must withstand an additional pair of wheels, plus the load carried in the tractor will put pressure on the supporting structure. To make a durable frame, metal pipes or angles are best suited. Be sure to keep in mind that the heavier the frame, the better the grip of the minitractor with the road, and the better the quality of plowing. The thickness of the frame walls is also not very important - the main thing is that they do not bend under the pressure of the cargo being transported. You can cut the blanks for making the frame using a grinder. Then all the parts are connected to each other first with bolts, after which they are finally welded to each other. To make the frame stronger and more reliable, equip it with a cross beam;
2. Immediately after manufacturing the frame, it can be equipped with a hinged mechanism, through which the small tractor will be equipped with additional accessories. The hitch can be installed both in the front and in the rear of the supporting structure. If in the future the manufactured minitractor is planned to be used in tandem with a trailer, then a tow bar should be welded to the back of its frame;
3. At the next stage, the homemade product is equipped with front wheels. To do this, it is best to equip the mini-tractor being manufactured with two ready-made hubs with brakes provided on them. Next you need to secure the wheels themselves. To do this, take a piece of steel pipe whose diameter fits the front axle. Next, attach the wheel hubs to the pipe. Drill a hole in the central part of the pipe, which is necessary for mounting the product to the front of the frame. Then install the tie rods and adjust them to the frame using a worm gear. After installing the gearbox, install the steering column. The axle at the rear of the tractor being manufactured is mounted through pressed bearing bushings. The wheels used must be no more than 15 inches in diameter. Smaller parts will lead to the front part of the unit “burying”, and larger wheels will significantly impair the maneuverability of the mini tractor;
4. At the next stage, it is necessary to equip the minitractor with an engine from a walk-behind tractor. It is best to install the motor at the front of the unit, as this will improve the balance of the agricultural machine when operating with a loaded trailer. To install the motor, arrange a reliable mounting system. When installing the motor, do not forget that the power take-off shaft must be secured coaxially to the pulley located on the rear axle of the mini-tractor. The force on the wheels must be carried out using a belt drive. The video will tell you more about converting a walk-behind tractor into a mini tractor.

A self-made tractor will remain equipped with a reliable brake system and a high-quality hydraulic distributor, which is necessary for the proper operation of the unit with attachments.

Step-by-step instruction

Kinematic diagram of a mini tractor.

First of all, a kinematic diagram of the future mini tractor should be developed. If you have some experience, you can make such a scheme yourself or find ready-made options on the Internet. It is quite possible that you will be lucky enough to find drawings for converting a mini tractor from a walk-behind tractor for a specific model. This will greatly facilitate further work. In addition, you can find a lot of video material on the Internet showing the assembly and modernization of such units.

Frame and body

The material for making the frame can be metal corners and pipes. To fasten various elements, it is better to use a bolted connection, which means you will need a drill, as well as a welding machine, since welding is indispensable. It is advisable to achieve an optimal ratio of frame weight and strength.

Whether to make a body or not is a matter of taste. However, with a body, a minitractor assembled with your own hands, for example, on the Neva base, looks more presentable, and besides, it creates additional protection from dirt for the driver and various components. For the body it is best to use stainless steel.

Seat and steering

After the body is made and hung, the driver's seat needs to be installed. At car dismantling sites you can find a front seat from an old passenger car. The main thing is that the chair is comfortable.

DIY steering wheel installation should be done after the seat is attached to adjust the angle and height. You can choose the principle of the steering system used on go-karts. Of course, you will have to make the rods stronger and shorter, since in this case the forces will be much higher. Just like the seat, the steering wheel can be found at auto wrecking yards.

Choice of wheels and tires

If you want to save money, you can take wheels from an old passenger car, but this will create certain difficulties when operating a ready-made mini tractor. For such a unit, the front wheels should ideally have a diameter of 12-14″. With a smaller diameter, the minitractor will bury its “nose” in the ground, and with a larger diameter, control will be difficult. Tires, accordingly, are selected to match the size of the wheels installed on the mini tractor.

Installation of levers

To make control more convenient, it is necessary to provide for the installation of levers that will be responsible for the brake and clutch. The simplest method, which is preferred by many craftsmen, is to install a cable drive connected to the motor block.

Run-in

After the alteration is completed, you can paint the mini tractor and install attachments. Painting will prevent the occurrence of corrosive processes. Before using a ready-made mini tractor based on the Neva or Salyut walk-behind tractor, you need to break it in. This is necessary in order to check the functioning of all components and promptly eliminate all possible problems. It would be a shame if a unit assembled with your own hands fails on the very first day of operation. If the running-in went well, you can attach the trailer and run-in the mini tractor again.

The video shows how a ready-made homemade mini tractor functions.

When the mini tractor is fully assembled and run-in, it can be made more “sophisticated” in the future, as your imagination and financial capabilities allow. Canopy, lights, hydraulic system and so on can be installed. As a result, you have received a unit that will significantly facilitate the processing of your personal plot and is more comfortable than the factory models.

For cultivating small plots of land, it is optimal to use small-sized tractors. The cost of factory-made products is quite high, so many rural residents create a homemade mini tractor from a walk-behind tractor. Through the use of multi-speed gearboxes, it is possible to expand the traction range and cultivate the soil with agricultural implements with an increased working area.

Choosing a walk-behind tractor for a mini tractor

Before you make a mini tractor from a walk-behind tractor, you need to select the initial model. When selecting, a number of parameters should be taken into account:

• engine power and number of strokes;
• engine type (diesel or gasoline);
• weight of the original product;
• dimensions of a standard plow;
• price;
• place of production, since for a number of imported products there may be interruptions in the supply of spare parts.

For conversion to tractors, products of domestic, Chinese and Belarusian production are used.

Chinese

Chinese walk-behind tractors are copies of Russian products. Engines of our own design and production are used as power plants, which are somewhat different from Russian units. The advantage of the models is the price, which is reduced by simplifying the design and saving on materials. Because of this, there were complaints about the quality of the products, but the latest models are largely free of this drawback. Improvements in manufacturing and assembly quality have caused the growing popularity of Chinese products.

The functions, engine parameters and weight characteristics of Chinese equipment differ little from their Russian counterparts. Common brands include products under the brands Zubr, Centaur, Aurora.

Russian

Motoblocks produced by Russian factories are among the more popular models. Accordingly, they are more often used as a starting point for building homemade tractors. A design feature is a belt clutch in the transmission and a drive system for attachments from a separate pulley (hay mowers or soil tillers).

Imported engines (for example, Lifan), identical to those used in Chinese equipment, are often used as power units. Due to this solution, it was possible to reduce the cost of products and improve a number of characteristics. The engines have a small volume and flexible power and torque characteristics. At the same time, a long service life and good fuel efficiency are ensured.

In addition to Russian-made products, there are walk-behind tractors on the market assembled at the Minsk Tractor Plant (MTZ). In terms of their characteristics, they are not inferior to their Russian counterparts. The equipment uses Honda or Weima power units, developing up to 13 hp. A design feature is the use of a motorcycle-type multi-plate wet clutch and differential. To drive additional units, a splined shaft is used.

What do they say on the forums?

There is an active discussion on the forums about the pros and cons of a mini tractor made from a walk-behind tractor. How best to build, what materials are best to choose, where to get them, etc.

Here are some comments from them.

Vladimir writes:

“I have had a walk-behind tractor for a long time. I wanted to buy an adapter for it so that I wouldn’t have to walk around all the time. But I came across an idea with a mini tractor. At first it seemed impossible to do it yourself. However, after not delving much into it, I realized that there is nothing heavy here. And I can do this on my own. I chose a drawing and bought all the components at a local scrap metal collection point. And in a month of leisurely work I assembled it. Now the neighbors are jealous. And those who say that you can buy an adapter and be happy, admit that your hands are simply not capable of making a mini tractor from a walk-behind tractor yourself.”

Vyacheslav says:

“I had a walk-behind tractor. I worked with him for about a couple of years and could not be happier with him. But I want to constantly improve and learn something new. And so I wondered, why do I constantly go after him, are there any alternatives? And I found it. The solution was to build a mini tractor. The design is as simple as 5 kopecks. I had everything I needed. Therefore, in just a couple of days I assembled my model using a ready-made scheme that I chose on the forums. I use it and enjoy it"

Power plant modernization

Despite the fact that the Neva walk-behind tractor is equipped with reliable American and Japanese engines, they will only produce the required power if they are regularly serviced. With use, the quality of gaskets, spark plugs and cylinder rings deteriorates. A necessary operation is the periodic replacement of the oil seal on the gearbox.

You can improve engine and transmission performance in the following ways:

1. Seal all gaskets using special sealant. This will help maintain high compression and prevent oil leaks.
2. Clean the spark plugs regularly and adjust the gap. You need to change spark plugs regularly, without waiting for them to fail.
3. Install a stainless steel manifold. A modern exhaust system almost completely dampens vibration and noise from a running engine.

It is necessary to change the oil in the gearbox frequently. To prevent leakage during prolonged operation, the oil seal must be replaced regularly. You need to buy only the highest quality spare parts.