Alternative "sub-compact" tractor solutions

[MossRoad]

MultiMow, I am interested in your machine. I sold my Utility tractor soon after I bought my first compact telehandler, a Bobcat V518, seven years ago.

I recommend a non pivoting axle under the loader, like my put together machine:

I was trying to figure out what the heck that round attachment was.... :laughing:

 

[MossRoad]

On the Power Tracs, there's a wheel motor at each corner. The joints between the front and rear sections not only allow for side-to-side articulation for steering, they also allow for oscillation on the Z plane. I think its something like 12 degrees either way. That way, there's much less chance of any of the tires leaving the ground. If you don't allow for oscillation on an articulated vehicle, any time one of your tires goes over a bump, some other tire will most likely come off the ground.

 

[MossRoad]

Thread pruned...
Please continue with the original discussion. Thanks.

 

[LD1]

I'm done.

 

[bcp]

Lots of orchards like the solid rear axle with large tires.

orchard forklift - Google Search

Bruce

 

[Xfaxman]

I was trying to figure out what the heck that round attachment was.... :laughing:

Here is the front view, the diameter is 8'.

 

[MultiMow]

View attachment 486916

Love the new 200 series from Avant.

I just demo'd one at the GIE+Expo in Louisville. A smooth machine, and considerably capable

 

[MultiMow]

If its good and fast it won't be cheap.
If its fast and cheap it won't be good.
If its cheap and good it won't be fast.

We use this in computer systems design, but it applies to about anything else I've seen over the years.

Good news is, I don't need my tractor to be fast

My current drive will allow for a 0-7mph working ground speed, and 0-12mph transit (no load) speed.

As for right now, I'm stuck with 37hp EFI gas power... but I'm thinking seriously about adapting a 3cyl 25hp diesel. Weight is an issue... so I'm shying away from diesel. I need more than 25hp, and that puts me in tier 4 category.... not exactly conducive to lightweight or a low CG.

 

[MultiMow]

MultiMow, I am interested in your machine. I sold my Utility tractor soon after I bought my first compact telehandler, a Bobcat V518, seven years ago.

I recommend a non pivoting axle under the loader, like my put together machine:

View attachment 486912

View attachment 486914

I could never see enough of your modded Toro

 

[MultiMow]

Hello MultiMow, have a look at Antonio Carrera tractors. They have several reversible control tractors, however the smallest was around the 60hp mark.
Another alternative is Ventrac, it is pivot steer, with power outputs in your range and has the operator facing to equipment. BUT the operator station is not reverseable. There are ventrac threads on this site , so there are people with real world experience of the machines who can help you.
Good luck in your hunt.

Ventracs/Steiners are nice units... but if you want front and rear mount capability, you're in $26k territory with a rough cut mower and dedicated the price of dedicated attachments thereafter.