Are you considering purchasing a new rotary tiller? Well, if so, go for the one that goes well with your tractor, is able to perform on different soil conditions and lasts for years. Finding the right tiller is much more than visiting a local dealer and buying just anything. A number of things need to be considered when making the purchase.
For instance, you need to know:
– Width of the tractor
– Horsepower it has
– Soil conditions
– Who will handle the repair
– Presence of rocks & similar obstacles on the working area
Tiller Rotation: Forward or Reverse?
Reverse-till model has the capability to prepare a seedbed in a much better way. Reverse tilling feature of the rotor buries not just the residue but huge clods of dirt along with deposition of fines on the top. Talking about the forward-till model, it does not bury the residue. Also, it leaves larger clods close to the surface, which calls for extra passes to get the expected results.
Before buying reverse-till model, checking the soil type is very important. In the type, the rotor turns in the opposite direction in which the tractor is traveling, which makes it pull itself in the ground. Moving on to the reverse-rotation model, it turns in the direction same as the tractor and walks on the top of hardpan. This is the reason; these models work extraordinary in dry and hard soil. On the other hand, forward-rotation tillers are an excellent choice for garden spaces and soil that’s well-aerated. Not just this but they are also good in conditions where the soil is either rocky or contains a high density of clay. As far as a reverse-till model is concerned, it pulls the rocks up and over the rotor, which leads to adverse damage to the tines or hood.
Rotary Tiller: Gear or Chain?
In three-point rotary tillers, there are two drive options: chain or gear. As obvious, both of them have their pros & cons. Both these tillers have rotor speeds close to 200 revolutions per minute, which is good to till in the 2-mph range. Moreover, they offer end-mounted drive systems that can be maintained easily.
Gear-drive rotary tillers cause increased torque to the ground, which makes them suitable for virgin soil; however, here, chain-drive tillers are a better option. In terms of weight, gear-drive tillers have more weight than chain-drive ones. Another thing that has to be considered is the repair. Be it chains or gears, both are durable. Replacing a broken chain is not something to worry even if shipping is involved. But for the gear-driven models, shipping of parts means losing a day at work.
Tine: Four or Six?
The total number of tines per flange is an important thing to consider. Being four or six in total, these numbers vary according to the manufacturer & model and must be taken into account when it comes to purchasing the tiller. Horsepower increases with the number of tines. Six tines per flange tiller needs 23% additional horsepower as compared to four tine-tine models.
Additionally, more tines mean more weight. Hence, it is good to be specific that the tractor is able to lift the number of tines easily.
Other Considerations To Observe
– Availability of spare parts and services is something quite important
– Warranty of parts and the equipment is vital and comprises of what it covers, for how long it covers and who will do the repair
– To reach the expected tilling depth on three-point tillers, making several passes is important
– Bearings and other moving parts should be cleaned and lubricated at fixed intervals
– Maintenance schedule from manufacturer’s side has to be followed
– Prior to use, gearboxes must be checked
– Pivot points and drivelines must be geared before and after use
Offset capability is a good feature to consider
Keeping by these points is a sure way to have a rotary tiller that survives for years to come.
Victory Tractor Implements is proud to offer a wide range of products including flail mowers, wood chippers, rotary tillers, and backhoes, all designed to be connected directly to your tractor’s PTO for maximum efficiency and performance. In addition, we also offer winter equipment such as snow plows and snow blowers, designed for use with skid steers.
We source all of our equipment directly from the manufacturer and pass the savings on to our customers. As always, the team is standing by to answer any questions to assist with your decision. Victory support can be reached directly at (562) 534-8182 or sales@etractorimplements.com
Proud supporters of the FFA
