Compact Tractors

Recently, I came across an article from Terry Harrison that said that front linkage for the Farmtrac FT26 tractors are now available. I believe that for many people this could be a very useful option to add to their Farmtrac compact tractor.

I’ve always liked the idea of having a power unit that I can utilise for multiple tasks. Having a front linkage and a PTO on the front of a con backtracked is a very useful add-on.

Let’s have a look at a few points and benefits that a front linkage compact tractor can offer.

Versatility

Front linkages and PTO kits significantly enhance the versatility of compact tractors. They allow you to attach and operate various front-mounted implements and attachments, expanding the range of tasks the tractor can perform. This includes tasks like front mowing, snow blowing, sweeping, loading, and more.

Increased Productivity

With front linkage and PTO kits, you can potentially simultaneously operate both front and rear-mounted implements, saving time and increasing productivity. However, the biggest plus point is the fact that some machines work better on the front of the tractor and offer increased efficiency.

For example, something like a flail mower is better off on the front of the tractor as we are not running over the grass before we cut it. So it should produce a better quality finish. Something like a blade on the front of the tractor is far easier to use on the front that it is the rear of the tractor.

Ease Of Use

These kits are designed to integrate seamlessly with the tractor, making it easy for operators to switch between front and rear implements. Many kits feature user-friendly controls, allowing for smooth and efficient operation.

Improved Weight Distribution

Front-mounted implements can help balance the weight distribution of the tractor, especially when the rear implements are heavy. This improved balance contributes to better traction and stability, reducing the risk of tipping over during operation.

Improved Visibility

I think most of us know what it’s like to sit on a tractor all day and be looking behind. With front-mounted attachments, the operator has better visibility of the work area. This is particularly advantageous when performing precision tasks, such as mowing around obstacles or navigating tight spaces.

Safe Backing Up

Some tasks, like snow blowing or sweeping, require backing up frequently. Front-mounted implements allow you to perform these tasks more safely, as you can see the work area clearly while backing up and have a better view from the front of the tractor.

Cost Effectiveness

As I mentioned earlier, rather than investing in a separate dedicated machine for front-mounted tasks, adding front linkage and PTO kits to your compact tractor can be a more cost-effective solution. Having one power unit and multiple implements cannot only be a cost-effective solution, but also save on space and moving machinery around.

To Conclude

As I mentioned, I found the front linkage on LinkedIn through Terry Harrison; here is a link to his website.

I recently came across the Farmtrac electric FT25G compact tractor. I must admit I didn’t know that this machine was available. I have heard of electric excavators but not of any compact tractors. You can see the original post that I saw on LinkedIn below. You can find more details on the Farmtrac electric FT25G compact tractor here.

I must admit I’m not a great fan of battery equipment, but I have to say in the last year or so, it has come a long way, especially the commercial battery products. I would still be very careful when purchasing domestic battery equipment; it doesn’t always do what it quite says on the packet!

You Can Find A Similar Farmtrac Tractor Here

The Same Functionality As A Diesel Compact Tractor

Apparently, the Farmtrac electric FT25G has the same features and functionality as a diesel compact tractor. However, the electric version has the advantage of being able to work in places like greenhouses with no issues of fumes etc. It’s also great for places like equestrian centres, where horses can be rather jumpy when it comes to machinery like tractors and powered equipment. And, of course, the other advantage is that you have almost silent power, certainly no diesel noise or vibration. Although, I have to say that the diesel engine has come a long way in the past few years.

Power

The electric Farmtrac FT25G develops 18 kW of power, which equals 24.14 hp, which is pretty good. The battery pack capacity is 300AH, the manufacturer do not say how long the battery will last. That’s obviously a fairly large battery, however, I’m still learning about battery power and can’t give you the full answer. The charge time is eight hours, that’s from zero capacity to 100% capacity. I’m guessing the tractor could be topped up slightly over a lunch break.

It’s difficult to know how long a battery will last for machinery as it depends on the type of work it is doing. Generally, on machines like tractors and excavators etc., I would expect to have a day’s work without filling the tank with fuel. I would like to think this is the same with the battery-powered electric Farmtrac FT25G.

Electric Technology

The great thing is with electric technology is that it must be far easier and cheaper to transmit the power from the motor to the wheels. With commercial battery-powered mowers, there are no belts to tighten; this is a huge advantage as it minimises downtime. I appreciate that the compact is not powered by belts, however, I’m sure with electronics the functionality can be produced in a much cheaper way than the traditional gearbox or hydrostatic drive model.

The Same As A Diesel Compact Tractor

It appears that the electric Farmtrac FT25G compact tractor is identical to the diesel models, apart from it has an electric motor in place of the diesel engine. Maybe this is the easiest way to produce an electric compact tractor.

According to the brochure, the electric Farmtrac FT25G has a three-range constant mesh gearbox. Oil-immersed brakes with an independent parking brake. Standard oil-driven hydraulics with position control. A 540 rpm power takeoff drive with an optional mid-mounted power takeoff.

The steering is still hydrostatic power steering. The front axle has selectable four-wheel-drive.

To conclude

I really like the advantages of being able to use this electric Farmtrac FT25G in places like glasshouses with no concerns regarding fumes etc. It also has the added advantage of being a very quiet way of producing power. I would really like to know how long the batteries last between charges. As soon as I find out, I will update this post.

Update: I have just heard from Justin Thompson that on light work the Farmtrac electric FT25G compact tractor battery will last around seven hours. When using the compact tractor with a finishing mower, the battery lasts between five and six hours.

Specification

I’ve just been looking at the post below on LinkedIn today; the Yanmar YT235V-R comes with a 35 hp diesel in with hydrostatic transmission. I think the main thing that stands out for me is a 5000-hour or five years manufacturer’s warranty, that really is quite something and impressive! Yanmar obviously trusts their products; I don’t think I have known a manufacturer to put such a great warranty on a machine. In the past when I was purchasing machines, it always gave me a massive piece of mind to know that a machine has a good warranty.

Engine And Transmission

The tractor is powered by Yanmar’s own 1.6 L three-cylinder engine, complete with hydrostatic transmission. I have always liked the versatility of hydrostatic transmission; much better for ease of use, especially on a compact. Hydrostatic transmission gives you variable speeds in forward and reverse; there is no need to use the clutch to change gears.

The Yanmar YT235V-R is made in Japan; they are available either with a cab or rollbar. I’ll have more on the range of tractors at a later date.

More Compact Tractors

Five-Year Yanmar Compact Tractor Warranty

The Yanmar YT235V-R compact has been created and backed up through 110+ years of experience! Due to the compact Yanmar tractor’s exceptional quality. The company has the confidence to give a 5000-hour warranty or five-year warranty. That really is quite impressive!

The main benefit of the warranty is that the tractor is built to the highest quality standards. Which gives peace of mind. Costs are covered for parts and labour, and it gives the Yanmar tractor a higher resale value.

The main conditions to keep the tractor under warranty are to register the tractor within one month of delivery. The machine must be operated according to Yanmar’s instructions and operational manual. Maintenance and repairs must be completed by a Yanmar dealer using original parts and liquids. The warranty covers European models that are distributed by European Yanmar dealers.

Cash back offers on Farmtrac compact tractors, ending on January 31st.

Cashback offers are generously funded by the Farmtrac importers, Reesink Agriculture, this is a great opportunity to save some real money on your new tractor. Order confirmations are required by the 31/1/23 and is subject to tractor availability.

See more details on the Farmtrac compact tractor here