I have worked with garden, forestry, horticultural and agricultural machinery all my working life which amounts to almost 40 years of experience. I have a passion for garden machinery and equipment and I would like to share my experience in the pages on this website. I’m here to help you come to a decision on what machine or piece of equipment will work for your particular situation. You can find out more about me here.
Today we are going to look at the Bertolini BT155 Petrol Rotary Tiller, yesterday we looked at the Feider FBE-5TS 5-Ton Electric Log-Splitter. Over the coming months, I would like to try and look at a variety of machinery and tools that help to make life easier in the garden.
As you know I’m always looking for ways to make heavy jobs in the garden simple. This is where a garden tiller can be really useful and take the hard work out of digging.
The Bertolini BT155 Petrol Rotary Tiller is designed for the keen gardener. This machine currently sells for £334.99 including VAT, it comes with a two-year warranty.
The Bertolini BT155 Petrol Rotary Tiller
Features
EMAK 80cc K300H OHV engine.
46 cm rotor width.
Useful adjusting working width.
Working width from 46 cm down to 22 cm.
One forward gear.
Rear transportation wheel.
Multifunction adjustable handlebars with throttle control.
Two-year warranty
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The Bertolini petrol Rotary cultivator is a tiller that is designed to loosen compacted ground and to make that perfect seedbed in the spring. The BT155 is a powerful and compact rotary tiller, with an 80 cc engine developing 2.4 hp, it has plenty of power to create that perfect spring seedbed.
Engine
The Bertolini is powered by an Emak engine which is unique to Bertolini. The overhead-valve technology and the single-speed gear help to make this 80cc tiller very efficient.
Rotors
One of the best features of the Bertolini BT155 Petrol Rotary Tiller is the adjustable working width of this machine. The maximum width of the rotors is 46 cm (18 inches), however, the working width can be reduced to 22 cm (8.5 inches). This feature not only makes the tiller a decent cultivating width, but it also makes the cultivator a great power hoe.
BT155 Tiller
The narrow cutting width of 22 cm is small enough to get the machine along rows of vegetables to keep the area weed-free. It is small enough to use in flower and shrub borders. Using the tiller as a power hoe is a real time saver and it not only help you in the vegetable garden but in the flower garden too.
Transport wheel
The Bertolini cultivator can be moved around using the rear transport wheel.
To Conclude
The Bertolini BT155 Petrol Rotary Tiller is a small compact garden tiller that cannot only dig your vegetable garden. The tiller can hoe between vegetable plants be used to keep flower and shrub borders weed-free. The Bertolini offers handlebar adjustment for maximum operator comfort. With a two-year peace of mind warranty, you can use your Bertolini with confidence.
Specification
Engine: EMAK K300H
Engine spec: 80cc, 2.4HP
Starting: Recoil
Transmission: Chain
Working Width: 46cm/18”, can be reduced to 32-22cm
Feider FBE-5TS 5-Ton Electric Log-Splitter with Stand
Today we are looking at the Feider FBE-5TS 5-Ton Electric Log-Splitter. I always like to find tools that simplify jobs and take the hard work out of log splitting. Recently we looked at the slightly larger Feider FBE-8T100 8-Ton Electric Log-Splitter which is proving to be very popular. We do have larger log splitters available, however, this machine is definitely much quicker than the traditional log splitting axe!
If you’re running a wood burner or hearth in your home, you will find the Feider FBE-5TS 5-Ton Electric Log-Splitter invaluable. This Electric looks better is currently on special offer at just £239 and offers a saving of £90.
With a two-year peace of mind warranty and an optional five-year warranty, this look splitter really does offer value for money.
The Feider range of machinery has recently become very popular due to the value for money these products offer. The Feider Electric Log-Splitter is no exception to the rules. If you are a home user and have a considerable amount of wood to split, this machine can be a real time saver.
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Quiet Power
Powered by a powerful 1500 watt electric motor the Feider log splitter develops just over 2 hp of quiet power. There is no oil or petrol to check or service, just a quiet electric motor.
Easily Transportable
This five-ton look splitter comes complete with a stand that is at waist height to avoid minimal back straining. The stand is mounted on small wheels (150 mm) which enable the log splitter to be moved around the garden. This enables you to take the machine to the work rather than taking the work to the machine!
The log splitter has a decent length of lead that provides unrestricted movement. It is advisable to use an extension lead with waterproof sockets and safety cut out when using the machine outdoors.
With five tons of downward pressure, the Feider FBE-5TS 5-Ton Electric Log-Splitter quickly splits your logs cleanly. This machine will take logs up to 52 cm in length and 25 cm in diameter.
There are many different types of log splitter on the market today, the Feider log splitter certainly offers excellent value for money at £239 complete with a year warranty. We do have larger electric and petrol machines available if you’re looking for something larger.
Today we are looking at the Feider FBE-8T100 8-Ton Electric Log-Splitter, this is one of our most popular log splitters. This log splitter is on special offer at £549.95. Over the past few days, we have been looking at the BCS range of rotavators, so, it’s now time to look at something different today.
It never fails to amaze me how much time having the right tool for the job can save you huge amounts of time and energy. Over the years I’ve seen so many people struggling in their garden due to using the wrong tools and equipment. Gardening and landscaping can be made so much easier if we make the right decisions when purchasing.
The Feider FBE-8T100 8-Ton Electric Log-Splitter is one of those tools that’s definitely a timesaver and much quicker than the traditional axe. We do have a range of various log splitters for domestic and commercial use. Today we are looking at a powerful eight-ton domestic lock splitter.
Feider FBE-8T100 8-Ton Electric Log-Splitter
Features
A top of the range log split at a value for money price.
Suitable for UK market.
A real time saver if you are using a log burner.
Electric motor- almost silent power.
No servicing of motor.
Transport wheels for ease of movement.
Comes complete with a generous length of cable.
The Feider brand appears to be becoming very popular as they offer value for money on their time-saving equipment. This electric eight-ton log splitter is a fine example of what Feider does well!
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Electric motor
The Feider FBE-8T100 8-Ton Electric Log-Splitter is powered by a 3000 W electric motor, which is about the equivalent of a 4 hp petrol engine. For your interest, 746 W is equal to one horsepower! Although I am someone who always prefers a machine with an internal combustion engine, however, electric power does bring quiet power and zero engine services!
With a 3000 W electric motor the log splitter powers a hydraulic pump that then powers the hydraulic ram. The hydraulic ram produces eight tons of pressure; that’s enough to power through those knotty logs that are traditionally difficult to slice through with an axe.
Transport wheels
As you can see the Feider FBE-8T100 8-Ton Electric Log-Splitter is a well-built machine. However, with the 200 mm transport wheels it makes it very easy to move around. The great thing is you can take the log splitter to the work, providing your electric cable is long enough.
High-capacity log splitter
This high-capacity log splitter will accept logs up to 40 cm in diameter and 106 cm in length. This is large enough for the average homeowner.
To conclude
As I mentioned earlier, Feider seems to be making quite a name for itself with their budget-priced and well-made products. I do normally prefer a machine with a petrol or diesel engine on. However, in this case, the Feider 8-Ton Electric Log-Splitter offers quiet power. With the almost silent running electric motor and the quiet hydraulics you can still hear yourself speak.
Today we are taking a look at the BCS 770HY Hydrostatic Rotavator, this is the first hydrostatic drive rotavator that I have come across. Over the past few days, we have been looking at the range of BCS rotavators and two-wheeled tractors. We started with the smallest BCS 710 rotavator and yesterday we looked at the BCS 750 which is the largest machine.
The BCS 770HY Hydrostatic Rotavator retails at £5365 for the Honda petrol engine or £5985 for the Yanmar diesel engine. These prices are excluding VAT.
The majority of wheel-driven rotavators are gearbox driven, most of the BCS machines have three forward and three reverse speeds. The BCS 770HY Hydrostatic Rotavator is unique, due to the fact it’s has a hydrostatic drive which then goes through a high and low range gearbox. The hydrostatic drive gives much more precise operation and is much easier for the operator to use, especially in small spaces. Let’s take a closer look at the BCS 770HY Hydrostatic Rotavator.
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BCS 770HY Hydrostatic Rotavator
Features
A powerful two-wheeled tractor.
Hydrostatic drive.
Steering brakes.
Differential lock.
Adjustable handles.
Excellent range of attachments.
Petrol or diesel engine option.
Three-year domestic warranty or a two-year commercial warranty.
As I mentioned in the previous paragraph the BCS 770HY Hydrostatic Rotavator is fairly unique due to the fact that it is hydrostatic drive rather than gearbox drive. Hydrostatic drives are fitted to the majority of ride-on mowers and harvesting machinery. The benefit of a hydrostatic drive is huge, especially on ride-on mowers as it gives instant forward and reverse and variable speed. This all comes with a straightforward lever operation or foot pedal, it really is very simple indeed to use. You can like a hydrostatic drive to something like having an automatic car, no gear changing.
The BCS 770 does have a high and low gearbox which helps to give an even greater range of speeds. The machine becomes very manoeuvrable in tight spaces with the help of the hydrostatic drive. There’s no clutch needed to change from forward to reverse direction, it is just instant and variable speed.
Adjustable Handlebars
Engine
There is a choice of engines available for the BCS 770, the slightly cheaper option is the Honda 11.7 hp petrol engine. My preferred choice is the Yanmar 9 hp diesel engine, although, it is slightly more expensive. I don’t want to underestimate the efficiency and reliability of the Honda engines as they are probably the best petrol engines on the market.
However, for jobs like rotavating, I much prefer a diesel engine as it provides low-down torque. Sometimes when you are digging hard ground, you only need low revs so that the machine has an opportunity to actually dig in the ground rather than bounce over the top. At the same time, you still need enough low-down power for the engine to perform.
Hard Wearing Tines
Rotavator
The 66 cm (26 inch) rotavator attachment is wide enough to cover the ground quickly but narrow enough to go through the average garden gate. With a digging depth of 8 inches, the rotavator has the ability to quickly transform an area of ground. There are 20 hard-wearing, replaceable tines on the rotavator. For easy depth control, there is simply a lever attached to a skid. Move the lever up and the machine will dig deeper, lower the skid and the machine will dig more fleet.
The BCS two-wheeled tractors all come with adjustable handles, which is great for operator comfort. The handles can also be offset so that freshly tilled ground does not need to be trodden down.
BCS 770HY Hydrostatic Rotavator
Attachments
One of the many advantages of the BCS range of two-wheeled tractors is the fact that there are a number of attachments. These range from tillage, lawn care and many miscellaneous implements.
The attachments in the cultivation department include; an adjustable ridger, cultivator kit, power harrow, reversible plough, rotary plough, rotavator, single furrow plough, tined cultivator, stone burier and trailed ridger.
In the grass maintenance line of accessories or implements include; scarifier, mulching mower, sickle bar type mowers, flail mower, hay rake, mini baler and rotary mower.
Other miscellaneous accessories include; Buck rake, chipper shredder, dozer blade, power brush, snowblower, snowplough, stump grinder and trailer.
BCS 770HY Hydrostatic Rotavator Steering Brakes
Steering Brakes And Differential Lock
For ease-of-use, the BCS 770 is fitted with steering brakes which help to manoeuvre the machine in tight spaces. There is also an independent differential lock which can be engaged at any time. A differential-lock, locks the driving wheels together so that both drive together, giving extra traction. However, the differential lock needs to be disengaged for turning, otherwise turning will be almost impossible.
BCS 770 Simple Lever Depth Adjustment
To Conclude
I have never owned a rotavator with hydrostatic drive. However, I really like the idea of having a machine with variable speed forward and reverse. No clutch or gears to change, all on one lever!
Another great asset with the BCS two-wheeled tractors is the fact they have a good number of implements and attachments that fit their machines.
As I mentioned earlier, my preferred engine would be the diesel for the reasons mentioned above.
Today we are looking at the BCS 750 wheeled rotavator, this is BCS’s largest machine and is larger than the majority of pedestrian rotavators. Over the past few days, we have been looking at the range of BCS wheeled rotavators. In general, these machines are sold with a rotavator attachment, although, many other attachments are available, which is something we will look at later on in this post.
I have owned a BCS rotavator and also hired various BCS machines over the years. The fact that they are a favourite with hire companies and professional landscapers suggests something good. With a three year domestic warranty and a two-year commercial warranty, the BCS 750 wheeled rotavator is definitely a machine to be looked at.
The cost of the BCS 750 wheeled rotavator is £4350 excluding VAT for the Honda petrol engine version. For the Kohler diesel engine version, which is actually my preference, retails at £5380 plus VAT.
BCS 750 Wheeled Rotavator
Features
Diesel or petrol engine models are available.
Honda petrol or Kohler diesel.
Wide range of attachments available.
Three-year domestic warranty or a two-year commercial warranty.
Large 32-inch wide rotavator.
Six-speed gearbox.
Steering brakes.
Independent differential lock.
Popular with hire companies and professionals.
Very manoeuvrable.
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The BCS 750 wheeled rotavator is the most powerful rotavator in the range. It comes with a 34 inch (85 cm) wide rotavator with a digging depth of 9 inches (23 cm). The rotavator itself is heavily reinforced to protect the machine from flying objects coming into contact with the rotors. The BCS 750 is ideal for professional landscape contractors, nurseries and other professional users. With the various attachments and implements available, it really does become a universal two-wheeled tractor.
So many machines today can only carry out one job. However, BCS has engineered this two-wheeled tractor to be able to carry out many different tasks using the various implements.
Hard Wearing Tines
The attachments in the cultivation department include; an adjustable ridger, cultivator kit, power harrow, reversible plough, rotary plough, rotavator, single furrow plough, tined cultivator, stone burier and trailed ridger.
In the grass maintenance line of accessories or implements include; scarifier, mulching mower, sickle bar type mowers, flail mower, hay rake, mini baler and rotary mower.
Other miscellaneous accessories include; Buck rake, chipper shredder, dozer blade, power brush, snowblower, snowplough, stump grinder and trailer.
Adjustable Handlebars
Wheeled Rotavators
Rotavators come in different shapes and sizes, there are the traditional garden cultivators that are driven by the rotors. These machines are normally used by keen gardeners and allotment holders rather than professionals. A garden cultivator will drive itself along by the rotors. The more pressure applied to the handles the deeper the machine will dig.
However, if you’re looking for a more professional machine, then a wheeled machine is definitely the answer. Wheeled rotavators have a gearbox to drive the wheels that offer various speeds and then a power take-off to the rotavator or attachment. This gives the operator much more control and is much easier to use than the conventional garden rotavator.
BCS 750 Simple Lever Depth Adjustment
Engine
The BCS 750 has two different engine options, the cheaper option being the Honda petrol engine. However, my preferred engine option is the Kohler diesel engine. There are several reasons why I personally prefer a diesel engine on a rotavator. The first reason being the fact that diesel engines have low down torque and are more suitable for working at low revs. The second reason is the economy that a diesel engine gives and thirdly, a diesel engine normally has a longer lifespan.
Having said this, I do not want to undermine the Honda engine as Honda engines are excellent engines and exceptionally well-engineered and very reliable. I just find a diesel engine better matched for this type of application.
Gearbox
With six gears the BCS 750 has great flexibility, there are three forward gears and three reverse gears. There is also an independent power take-off to drive the rotavator and various other attachments. Another useful feature is the fact that there are steering brakes and an independent differential lock that keeps the machine moving forward, even when working on a very fine tilth.
BCS 750 Implement Quick Coupling
Manoeuvrability
You may look a machine like the BCS 750 and think that it is too cumbersome, however, with the steering brakes and range of gears it certainly is very manoeuvrable. The quick coupling attachments or implements can quickly be changed over, this is something that needs to be taken into consideration when purchasing a two-wheeled tractor.
To Conclude
BCS has built up a good reputation for reliability and value for money with their two-wheeled tractors. Having a range of implements and various attachments really does make the BCS 750 wheeled rotavator versatile two-wheeled tractor.
BCS offers a two-year commercial warranty and a three-year domestic warranty, which to me gives great peace of mind. As I mentioned earlier, although the diesel engine is slightly more expensive, this would be my personal preference.
Today we are looking at the BCS 740 Wheeled Rotavator, which comes with a diesel or petrol engine option. Recently we were looking at the BCS 738 Wheel Driven Rotavator, a slightly smaller model. Once again, the BCS 78 is available with a diesel or petrol option.
The petrol BCS 740 Wheeled Rotavator retails at £3445 plus VAT and the Yanmar diesel model retails at £4065 plus VAT
Having owned a BCS 745 diesel rotavator several years ago and hiring many of these machines over the years. I know the capabilities that they have and how they have made a name for themselves. Many hire companies choose BCS as they know they offer value for money and proven reliability.
With five different models available, there really is a wide choice of flexibility and power available. In a few day’s time we will be looking at the hydrostatic model, something that is quite new to the market, I believe.
BCS 740 Wheeled Rotavator
Features
A universal two-wheeled tractor.
A huge range of implements and attachments.
Petrol or diesel engine options.
Two-year commercial warranty or three-year domestic warranty.
Adjustable handlebars.
Parking brake.
Differential lock.
Steering brake.
Simple depth adjustment.
Hard-wearing tines.
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BCS has been making two-wheeled tractors for over 30 years, they quickly became popular with professionals due to their pricing and reliability.
The BCS 740 Wheeled Rotavator is the midrange machine out of the five machines that BCS offer. One of many good things about the BCS is that it offers a range of attachments. The rotavator attachment is probably the most popular attachment, however, with a range of many attachments, this machine becomes exceptionally versatile.
BCS 740 Wheeled Rotavator Working
Wheeled Powered Machine
There are two types of rotavator or cultivator. There are the traditional garden cultivators that are powered by the actual digging rotors. The depth and speed are controlled by the amount of weight you apply to the handles. These machines are great for the keen gardener and allotment holders and they are also great for making a fine tilth in the spring.
However, wheeled powered machines offer much more flexibility and are normally used by professionals or keen gardeners. The BCS 740 Wheeled Rotavator has a gearbox which provides forward and reverse speeds. It also has an independent power take-off to drive various attachments, like the rotavator, for example. Wheeled machine provides much more control and can be used to reclaim old ground.
Engine
BCS offer to engine options for 740 two-wheeled tractor. The cheapest option is the Honda GX390 engine version, which develops 11.7 hp. The slightly more expensive version is the Yanmar diesel engine version, this engine develops 9 hp.
My preference would be to go for the diesel engine version even though it is slightly more expensive. I have found diesel engine rotavators to work better than their petrol counterparts due to the low down torque that a diesel engine offers. However, if you do go for the petrol engine, the Honda is an excellent engine and the many people Honda engines are the preferred choice on small machines.
Adjustable Handlebars
Rotavator
The BCS 740 Wheeled Rotavator comes with a 66 cm (26 inch) digging width. Which is small enough to manoeuvre through the average garden gate but large enough to cover the ground quickly. With the digging depth of 8 inches (20 cm) this is more than enough for most contractors and gardeners.
The depth is controlled by a skid that can be moved up and down with a simple lever movement. The higher you lift the skid, the deeper the rotavator will dig.
The rotavator has 20 replaceable tines that are capable of heavy digging or just making a spring onion bed. The weight of the rotavator alone is 40 kg.
Hard Wearing Tines
Gearbox
The BCS 740 has three forward and three reverse gears which range from 1.6 km an hour to 4.53 km an hour. Steering brakes help to assist the machine when turning. An independent differential lock help to keep this machine driving in all conditions. A parking brake comes as standard.
Attachments
One of the things that make the BCS two-wheeled tractor so versatile is the number of attachments available for this machine. The attachments in the cultivation department include; an adjustable ridger, cultivator kit, power harrow, reversible plough, rotary plough, rotavator, single furrow plough, tined cultivator, stone burier and trailed ridger.
In the grass maintenance line of accessories or implements include; scarifier, mulching mower, sickle bar type mowers, flail mower, hay rake, mini baler and rotary mower.
Other miscellaneous accessories include; Buck rake, chipper shredder, dozer blade, power brush, snowblower, snowplough, stump grinder and trailer.
Steering Brakes
To Conclude
The BCS 740 Wheeled Rotavator is a popular machine for hire companies and landscapers. I like the fact that BCS offers a range of different implements and attachments. It is not only a rotavator, it offers much more and becomes a universal two-wheeled tractor.
I’ve always favoured diesel power over petrol engines, mainly due to the economy and longer life of the engine. I found diesel engines offer better low-down torque than their rival petrol engines. However, if you did purchase the Honda engine version, you definitely have a reliable well-engineered engine.
Today we are looking at the BCS 738 Wheel Driven Rotavator. Over the next few days will be looking at the BCS range of two-wheeled tractors. The most common use for these machines is the rotovator attachment, however, there is an excellent range of further attachments available.
Yesterday we looked at the slightly smaller, but versatile, BCS 710 Wheel Powered Rotavator. Having been an owner of a BCS two-wheeled tractor and using the BCS range of equipment. I know the capabilities of this machine and the versatility that they offer.
The BCS 738 Wheel Driven Rotavator retails at £3025 excluding VAT for a brand-new machine. If you’re looking for a second-hand BCS rotovator you can also carry out an eBay search. I believe that the BCS machines offer excellent value for money. The fact that almost every hire company runs a BCS machine on their fleet, suggests something good.
BCS 738 Wheel Driven Rotavator
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Features
Three engine models.
Petrol or diesel.
Three-year domestic warranty.
Two-year commercial warranty.
Offset handles.
Popular with landscapers and hire companies.
Easy-to-use.
Differential lock.
Three forward and reverse gears.
BCS 738 Wheel Driven Rotavator In Action
The BCS 738 Wheel Driven Rotavator is a popular choice of machine for landscapers, hire companies, smallholders and gardeners. The BCS 738 is a two-wheeled tractor that is more often than not used with the rotovator attachment. However, there is also a range of other attachments for this machine, this really makes the BCS 738 a powerful and universal workhorse.
There are two types of pedestrian rotavators, there is the classic garden cultivator that is driven by the actual rotors. This type of machine can be great if you have a veg patch or an allotment to look after. The depth and the speed of the machine are controlled by the amount of weight you apply to the handles.
The more professional type of rotovator that we are looking at today is the wheel-driven type. The BCS is a wheel driven machine that has a gearbox and a power take-off to drive the rotovator or other attachments. Contractors generally go for wheel-driven machines as they are much more efficient and easier to use.
Gearbox
With a six-speed gearbox, the BCS 738 Wheel Driven Rotavator really is a versatile machine. There are three forward and three reverse speeds and an independently driven power take-off shaft that drives the rotovator. The power take-off can also drive other BCS attachments.
Adjustable handles
With the adjustable handles and the ability to turn the handles 180° the BCS machine has the ability to handle many tasks. Setting the handles to one side is perfect for rotovating a vegetable patch when you don’t want to tread on the freshly tilled ground.
BCS 738 Rotavator
Rotovator attachment
The BCS rotovator attachment is a 66 cm (approximately 26 inch) width, which covers the ground very quickly. The maximum digging depth is 20 cm (8 inches) which is more than adequate for most jobs. There are 20 replaceable tines fitted to the rotor shaft.
The digging depth is controlled by a skid, which is operated by a lever on top of the rotovator housing. All the skid simply does is to control the depth, if you pull the lever up, you will dig deeper and vice versa.
Engine
There are three engine choices available for the BCS 738 Wheel Driven Rotavator. The choice starts with the Honda 8.4 hp engine, moving up to the larger 10.7 hp engine. And then there is a 7.5 hp Kohler diesel engine available, which is the most economical. Personally, I would go for the diesel engine as it offers economy and longer life. I also find that a diesel engine has more low-down torque which is perfect for rotovating.
A Wide Range Of Attachments
The BCS 738 Wheel Driven Rotavator has a wide range of attachments, ranging from; A flail mower, a range of sickle bar mowers, rotary mower, mulching mower, snowblower, snow plough. In the cultivating department, there is the rotovator, adjustable ridger, cultivator kit, dozer blade, reversible plough, rotary plough, single furrow plough and tined cultivator. And more!
To conclude
BCS has been manufacturing two-wheeled tractors for over 30 years, so they have plenty of experience in this field. Having used and owned BCS machines, I can personally recommend BCS Rotavators. With a two-year commercial warranty and a three-year domestic warranty, you certainly have peace of mind.
As I mentioned in the previous paragraph, my personal preference would be the diesel-engined model, however, Honda engines are excellent economical engines if you prefer petrol.
Today we are going to look at the BCS 710 Wheel Powered Rotavator, the BCS and Camon machines are often used by hire companies and professionals. Over the past few days, we have been looking at the Feider range of compact, budget ride-on mowers. As we enter into 2020, the spring season quickly comes upon us, it’s good to prepare ourselves for the coming season.
The BCS 710 Wheel Powered Rotavator retails at £2320 excluding VAT, this is good value for money for a machine that can last you many years.
I have used and owned BCS Rotavators, my first wheeled powered rotavator was a BCS 745 diesel machine. I’m guessing this was back in around 1987. The BCS 745 was powered by a Lombardini diesel 14 hp engine, the width of the machine was 26 inches.
BCS has been manufacturing Rotavators for the past 30 years, the company has built up a great reputation for durability and reliability. The fact that many hire companies use BCS machines and professional landscapers, suggests something good to me. I believe that most hire companies have a BCS rotavator on their fleet, hire companies obviously have confidence in these machines.
Anyway, let’s get back to the BCS 710 Wheel Powered Rotavator.
There are two types of rotavator and cultivator; common garden Rotavators are normally driven by the actual digging tines. Whereas, wheel-driven machines, like the BCS, have a separate drive to the wheels with the power take-off to power the rotavator or other attachments. The wheel driven BCS machines are much easier to use and perfect for the hire market and professional landscapers. With the wheels and the rotors independently controlled, the machine is literally doing the work for you effortlessly.
BCS 710 Wheel Powered Rotavator In Action
Digging Depth
The BCS 710 Rotavator has a digging depth of up to 8 inches. The digging depth can be increased each time you pass over the ground. Full digging depth can only be achieved after a few passes, obviously, conditions and types of soil will vary.
The depth is very simply controlled by a small skid that is adjusted by a lever located above the rotary tines. It’s a very simple way to control the depth, but the system works, simply pull the lever up to increase the digging depth.
20 Inch (52 Cm) Width Rotavator
The 20-inch rotavator attachment, which is attached to the rear of the machine on the BCS 710 Wheel Powered Rotavator, will quickly cover the ground. With a straightforward single forward and reverse gear, you have rotavator that is ideal for allotments and gardens that will quickly get the job done!
Engine
It’s always nice when you are purchasing a machine to know that it is powered by a decent engine. The BCS 710 Wheel Powered Rotavator is powered by Honda petrol GX270 overhead valve engine which develops 8.4 hp. Honda engines are favoured by many machinery operators as their preferred engine.
Over the years I have owned many machines which are powered by Honda, I have never had any problems with a Honda engine. The only spare parts I have purchased are spark plugs, air filters and fuel filters. Over the years Honda has built up an excellent reputation for reliability and economy.
There have been many occasions when I have left a Honda engine over the winter and the engines will start up at the first pull the first time of the key. Honda also has a very easy start-up system, the recoil start is literally effortless to pull.
BCS offers a range of implements for their two-wheeled tractors, the BCS 710 Wheel Powered Rotavatorcan take eight different attachments. These implements range from a dozer blade, hay rake, scythe cutter bar, power/snow brush, rotavator, snowplough and trailed ridger’s. The larger BCS machines offer an even wider range of attachments.
To Conclude
Having owned a BCS machine and hiring many of these machines over the years, I know that they can be an excellent workhorse. BCS offers a three-year domestic warranty and a two-year commercial warranty on their machines. To me, this offers great peace of mind to the buyer, no expenses for at least two or three years. The various attachments that are available, make your BCS rotavator a totally universal workhorse.
The Feider FRT-75BS125 Ride-On Lawnmower offers a cheap solution for customers wanting a small compact machine for their garden. This Feider ride-on lawnmower comes with a Briggs & Stratton engine and a two-year standard warranty and a five-year warranty with terms and conditions. I’m guessing with the five-year warranty you would very much have to stick to Feiders terms and conditions.
Let’s find out more about the Feider ride on mower.
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Features
A compact and manoeuvrable machine.
Excellent value for money.
Electric start commercial Briggs & Stratton engine.
Three modes of cutting.
Large capacity grass collector.
Grass collector – empty from the operator’s seat.
Five forward gears one reverse gear.
Two-year warranty.
Optional five-year warranty.
Feider FRT-75BS125 Ride-On Lawnmower
If your lawn is becoming too much to cut with your conventional walk-behind Lawnmower then the Feider FRT-75BS125 Ride-On Lawnmower is here to solve your problem. This is a budget machine that offers great capabilities for the price. There are many times when I recommend people purchase a good quality walk-behind machine. However, potentially the Feider mower can make your walk behind mower redundant!
Just be aware that there are occasions when a walk-behind mower can be more practical if you have obstacles or you require a nice striped finish to your lawn. However, this Feider ride-on lawnmower could potentially save you many hour’s time over the course of a year.
Engine
One of the benefits of the Feider FRT-75BS125 Ride-On Lawnmower is that it has a powerful 12.5 hp Briggs and Stratton engine. I think most people have heard of the famous Briggs & Stratton brand of engines. They are a very popular engine and a very good workhorse, parts are cheap and are readily available.
I have owned many pieces of machinery and equipment that are powered by Briggs & Stratton, over the years I have had minimal issues with Briggs & Stratton engines.
The 12.5 hp Briggs & Stratton 3125 series engine is a premium 340 cc four-stroke engine, with overhead valve technology. Briggs & Stratton have put a great deal of effort into making this a low emission economical petrol engine.
A float feed type carburettor provides excellent performance and ensures good starting reliability. The cast-iron cylinder liner helps to give this engine a longer life. For your interest, I have a machine that is over 35 years old and still has the original Briggs & Stratton engine with a cast-iron liner! It still works fine and is used regularly.
The engine also comes with a cartridge-type air filter that ensures clean air. Just make sure you check your air filter regularly to keep your engine running smoothly and efficiently. Unfortunately, far too often I see engines that are poorly maintained due to simple maintenance checks. If you look after your engine it will look after your wallet!
Cutting deck
With a 75 cm cutting deck, the mower quickly mows your lawn. However, it is also small enough to get through most garden gates, a very useful option when access is limited.
The Feider ride on mower has three different types of mind modes. They start with collection, the machine comes with a 170 L rear collector that can be operated from the driver’s seat.
The second cutting mode is to mulch the grass. This is a great option for summer when the ground is dry as it helps to keep the grass green in dry weather. It also saves you time when you empty the grass collector.
The third mode is to leave the grass on the lawn through the rear discharge chute. This can be sometimes useful if the lawn has become slightly overgrown. The grass can be cut and then collected by the machine a few hours later once it has wilted.
Gearbox
With the six-speed gearbox, the Feider mower can efficiently work in various conditions. It offers five forward speeds and one reverse speed. As I mentioned in previous blog posts many machines are now fitted with hydrostatic transmission which greatly speeds up the cutting process. Unfortunately, Feider does not offer this option yet, but maybe it will come at a later date.
If you are looking for a machine with hydrostatic drive a good option may be the Mountfield 827H Compact Lawn Rider. Once again, this machine offers good value for money.
To conclude
The Feider FRT-75BS125 Ride-On Lawnmower offers very good value for money and with the generous two-year warranty plus, you can have peace of mind. The only downfall with this machine is the lack of hydrostatic transmission, I hope this will be a feature that comes soon.
Today we are looking at the Feider FRT-7550M Ride-On Lawnmower, this is a budget ride on mower that offers excellent value for money. The machine presently sells for £1299 which is presently a saving of £200 on the normal price. Yesterday we looked at the Feider FRE7050 Battery-Powered Electric Ride-On Mower. The two machines are very similar apart one is petrol and one is battery powered. There are for and against arguments for both machines.
Over the last few years battery machines have become very popular due to the, allegedly, environmental benefits they offer. One thing is for sure, battery power is good for quiet operation, however, there can still be considerable blade noise from a rotary mower. For me, I still prefer something with an internal combustion engine on. So today we will look at the Feider FRT-7550M Ride-On Lawnmower.
Feider FRT-7550M Ride-On Lawnmower
Search eBay Feider Mowers
Features
A compact and very manoeuvrable ride-on mower.
Powerful 4 stroke 15 hp engine.
Probably the most powerful budget mower on the market.
Three cutting choices, bagging, mulching and rear discharge.
Six-speed gearbox.
Five cutting heights.
Large fuel tank.
Easy emptying of grass collector from the driver’s seat.
The first thing that I notice about the Feider FRT-7550M Ride-On Lawnmower is that it offers great value for money. Some ride-on mowers have the tendency to be rather cumbersome, however, the Feider offers compactness with great manoeuvrability.
I will often advise customers to go for a good quality, walk behind, rear roller, rotary mower if the garden isn’t huge. But having said this the Feider FRT-7550M Ride-On Lawnmower really does offer value for money. The Feider is a similar price to a quality roller rotary lawnmower. It may not give you quite the same finish, but you won’t have to walk which is a benefit to some people.
Engine
I believe this is one of the most powerful ride-on mowers in its class. The Feider FRT-7550M Ride-On Lawnmower is powered by a high-capacity 432cc Feider 4/air cooled engine. The engine develops a very decent 15 hp thanks to the overhead valve technology which brings fuel-efficient quiet operation. The Feider ride on mower comes with electric start as standard.
I would not expect an engine of this size to be in this type of budget ride on mower, it really does offer excellent value for money. I have owned similar small commercial machines and the engines are a similar size.
Cutting
Feider has certainly created a machine that helps you manage varying grass conditions. The machine has three different cutting modes, the main one being rear collection, mulching and rear discharge. The Feider ride on mower has a 76 cm cutting width which is approximately 30 inches. This machine will fit through most average-sized garden gates.
With six different cutting heights ranging from 20 to 90 mm, the Feider FRT-7550M Ride-On Lawnmower enables you to cut grass in almost any condition. Just a word of warning; I see far too many people trying to shave their lawn, rather than cutting it neatly and evenly. The majority of lawns aren’t particularly even, so when you are shaving a lawn it creates scalping which is very damaging. You’re far better off to cut your lawn higher and more regularly, especially if you want to keep the lawn looking green and healthy.
The mulching feature is a very useful option, there are times when it’s good to pick up the grass clippings and leaves, especially in the autumn. Mulching can be a good option in the summer months as it helps to keep your lawn looking green and healthy. The mulched grass acts rather like a green manure which feeds the lawn and helps to keep it healthy.
Grass collector
One of the most important features on a ride on mower is the fact that you can empty the grass collector from the operator’s seat. Some manufacturers produce ride-on mowers that have two or three bags to empty on the rear of the machine. To me, this is totally unnecessary as it entails removing yourself from the machine every time the collector is full. With the Feider ride on mower, everything can be operated from the driver’s seat!
Gearbox
Powered with a six-speed gearbox, the Feider FRT-7550M Ride-On Lawnmower has five forward and one reverse gear. This is a good range of gears for a machine of this size. However, it appears that Feider does not make a hydrostatic drive machine that offers variable speed. I appreciate that this is a budget mower and there are trying to keep the price low, which is good. The majority of ride-on mowers sold today come with hydrostatic transmission. I personally wouldn’t buy a machine without hydrostatic transmission; a gearbox is so cumbersome compared with the modern hydrostatic transmissions available today.
The Feider FRT-7550M Ride-On Lawnmower offers great value for money. It also has excellent reviews which are very important and gives peace of mind. The only downside of the Feider mower is that it doesn’t offer hydrostatic transmission, maybe this is something that will come out in the future.
This is the most powerful budget Lawnmower that I have come across, 15 hp is a good-sized engine on a machine of this size.
Feider offers two years peace of mind warranty on this ride on mower.
