Dongfeng mini tractors review
The Chinese concern Dong Feng is one of the most famous in the world for the production of equipment for farms. For more than 50 years, the company has been producing tractors and equipment for them.
Dongfeng mini tractor
Numerous diplomas and awards that the Dong Feng technique are winning once again prove its quality. The lineup is represented by machines with 3 and 4 cylinder engines, which are characterized by power and thrust. The company's specialists are constantly working on the modernization of equipment, therefore, they have achieved significant results in reducing the level of noise and vibration.
Advantages and disadvantages of the DongFeng model 244 mini tractor
A short list of benefits includes:
- four-wheel drive chassis;
- combination of excellent traction and coupling performance and low specific ground pressure;
- economical consumption of fuels and lubricants;
- two functional clutch mechanism;
- the presence of a two-speed power take-off and power steering;
- modern design of the driver's workplace.
Judging by the reviews of the owners, the structural and operational shortcomings of this model are typical for the entire range of small cars made in China.
First of all, this is a moderate build quality, the lack of complete information on how to eliminate failures and malfunctions on your own. In some lots, cheap, short-lived bearings are installed. Leaves much to be desired in the quality of rubber gland seals.
Features of the device
The Dong Feng 244 minitractor has all-wheel drive and a locking differential, which, together with an adjustable track, provides excellent maneuverability, cross-country ability and ease of control of the machine.
The model has a fairly high performance compared to analogues and at the same time has a relatively low cost. According to the latter indicator, this model is much cheaper than cars of Korean and Japanese production, although in terms of reliability and power it is in no way inferior to them. Currently, the production of a mini-tractor is fully automated, which excludes product defects.
Reliability
The high reliability of the mini tractor is due to the fact that the manufacturer uses only its own developments and parts. Moreover, the entire production process of equipment is accompanied by strict control and a variety of modern technologies, therefore, each machine produced has full serviceability, since defects are immediately recognized at the assembly stage.
Repair features
The equipment is quite easy to maintain and does not require large material investments. First, this is due to the extended service intervals. Secondly, each element of the tractor is characterized by increased durability and quality. And thirdly, all key mechanisms, components and assemblies are located in the most accessible place. It should be noted that the cost of consumables and spare parts is currently very acceptable.
Appointment
The DongFeng DF 244 mini tractor can really be called an ideal option for performing farming tasks. It can help you plow, fertilize, mow, remove snow, transport heavy loads, pump water and even dig a trench when you install the right attachments. In terms of versatility, the technique may well compete with heavier special vehicles, however, unlike them, this model exerts much less soil pressure, thereby not causing significant damage to the fertile soil layer. This is due to the relatively small mass.Also, the machine can boast of its maneuverability, which makes it possible to use it in a limited working space.
Transmission
The mechanical power train includes a gear transmission. 8 forward and 2 reverse speeds provide a choice of speed modes in the range from 1.12 to 25 km / h.
The undercarriage is made according to the 4x4 all-wheel drive scheme with the possibility of locking the closed two-satellite differential. The cross-country ability of the tractor is additionally ensured by high road clearance, chevron lugs of wide-profile tire tires.
To control the attachments, an on-board hydraulic system with a gear pump and a valve-spool hydraulic switch for operating modes is used. The universal suspension allows the machine to be aggregated with attachments of domestic and foreign production.
Price and offers
The average cost of a new mini-station wagon DF-224 is 140-150 thousand hryvnia (5100 - 5500 $). Modifications with power steering, safety arches and ballast weights are more expensive. A model with a cabin will cost 180,000 - 200,000 UAH (6600 - 7500 $).
On the market for used tractor equipment, there are offers, the cost of which is determined by the remaining resource, availability of standard equipment and appearance. You can buy a used DF model 224 in working order for 50-60 thousand (1800 - 2200 $).
The cost of cars with relatively low mileage is at the level of 100-120 thousand hryvnia ($ 3700 - $ 4400). A bonus attachment to such a purchase can be a plow, cultivator or other attachments of the middle price range.
Structural and operational advantages
The Dongfeng DF 244 mini tractor combines versatility, affordable price range, wide functionality, efficiency and durability of the main systems and units in its characteristics.
- The car differs from similar models in optimal fuel and oil consumption, the possibility of self-service and repair, the unification of spare parts with proprietary prototypes.
- The offered assortment of parts and assemblies allows in a short time to restore the operating parameters of an exhausted machine by almost 95%.
- The capabilities of the DongFeng 244 mini tractor have been significantly expanded due to compatibility with trailed and mounted implements for various purposes, a wide range of track adjustment, and a high carrying capacity of universal on-board hydraulics.
The practice of using this machine has shown its suitability for servicing a land plot with an area of up to 10 hectares. The tractor effectively works with attached implements of a communal profile, it can be successfully used for transporting goods on dirt roads during seasonal off-road conditions.
In regions with difficult climatic conditions, tractors are supplied with a closed cab, which provides the driver with effective protection from wind and rain, as well as a full all-round view of the front and rear sphere.
The equipment of the workplace is distinguished by a good location of the steering column and other control elements, convenient reading of information from the electronic dashboard.
Dongfeng DF 244 mini tractor device
DF 244 tractors are available in two versions: with and without cab. For small vehicles, the presence of a cabin is not a critical indicator. These machines are often used in greenhouses. And the cost of the DF 244 varies significantly depending on the equipment, but it can be used as an alternative to the T-150K.
Dongfeng DF 244 mini tractor device
Engine
Dongfeng DF 244 mini tractors are equipped with Y380T factory power units. The engine is a vertical four-stroke diesel with three in-line cylinders. Radiator cooling system extends engine life. The maximum power of the unit is 25 hp / 18 kW at a rated crankshaft speed of 2350 rpm.The bore of the engine is 85 mm with a piston stroke of 90 mm. The working volume of the Y380T is 1,532 liters.
Transmission
In addition to the small engine, the DF 244 is equipped with a four-speed manual gearbox with one reverse speed. The main gear is represented by one pair of spiral bevel devices. A bevel device is used as a differential. Locking is carried out by a cam mechanism. The final drives are represented by an overdrive and an external drive. The clutch is double-disc. The transmission provides the tractor with movement in the speed range of 1.11-26.2 km / h forward and 1.44-7.45 km / h back.
Travel device
The DF 244 tractor is a small-sized wheeled vehicle. Like many agricultural versions, this Dongfeng model uses different wheel sizes. On the front steering axle tires 6,00-12 with road design are installed. The rear drive axle is fitted with 8.3-24 tires and a herringbone-type cross-country tread. The undercarriage of the tractor is designed with a 4x4 wheel arrangement.
Thanks to the use of wheels of different diameters and widths, the DF 244 can be used for inter-row cultivation, does not lose flotation and provides maximum travel efficiency in all conditions. For braking, a disc brake system is used. The movement is controlled hydraulically. The reverse track is adjustable in 100 mm increments.
Work equipment and hydraulic system
The Dongfeng DF 244 tractor uses a three-point hitch for aggregation. Three-position hydraulics are installed at the rear of the machine. The hinged mechanism belongs to the first category and provides a carrying capacity of 432 kg.
To transfer power to implements and mechanisms, a two-speed PTO shaft of a standard design is used. PTO operates at a rated speed of 540 and 1000 rpm. Optionally, a hitch unit for trailed implements can be installed.
Other characteristics
The DF 244 tractor is equipped, among other things, with single-wire electrical equipment with an operating voltage of 12 V. To ensure operational accuracy and driving safety, the machine is equipped with headlights and a rear light. In the configuration with the cab, the equipment is distinguished by increased comfort of use. There is a heating device inside. Panoramic glazing guarantees a good view. The windshield has an automatic wiper. Additional lighting devices are installed on the cab roof. However, more powerful models can also use a trailed harvester.
Major breakdowns and their elimination
The attachment does not rise:
- The oil level in the hydraulic system has dropped below the minimum mark (add oil);
- The hydraulic pump is off (turn it on);
- Hydraulic safety valve hangs up (disassemble and clean valve).
The brakes do not work:
- Pedal free travel has increased (adjust its position);
- The brake disc or pad is worn out (replace the corresponding parts).
The engine does not run stably:
- The fuel level has dropped below the minimum mark (it is necessary to top up);
- Stretching the belts (must be correctly aligned);
- Clogged fuel or air filters (clean them);
- The carburetor is clogged due to dirt (it must be disassembled, washed and cleaned);
- Problems with the ignition system (most often the plug comes off, or it has become unusable).
Advantages and disadvantages
Favorable reviews of farmers, positive opinions of experts and high consumer demand for Dong Feng equipment are due to a number of its indisputable advantages.
- All tractor models are very easy to use and do not require expensive maintenance.
- The units are characterized by low fuel consumption, which significantly saves the budget.
- Due to its compact size, the equipment does not require a large garage, and it takes up little space in the yard.Moreover, the small size makes the unit very maneuverable and allows you to work in confined spaces.
- The vehicles have a modern stylish design and are painted in bright, beautiful colors.
- A wide range of attachments allows you to carry out a wide variety of agricultural activities.
- Thanks to strict control at all stages of production and the use of high-quality components, the equipment is very reliable and durable.
- The complete absence of electronic components makes the tractor device very simple and understandable, which in the event of a breakdown does not require expensive repairs. All units have mechanical design and control.
- Wide availability, as well as low cost of spare parts, significantly reduces the cost of equipment maintenance and repair.
- A one-year warranty applies to all models of mini-tractors, which allows you to repair the equipment free of charge. However, for the sake of fairness, it should be noted that warranty cases are extremely rare, and the units have been working properly for more than one year.
- Unlike full-size tractors, mini-equipment does not exert much pressure on the ground and does not cause its destruction. This contributes to the preservation of the top fertile layer of the earth and has a beneficial effect on productivity.
- The machines are very stable and have high grip due to the low center of gravity and deep tread on the tires.
- A wide range of models greatly facilitates the choice and allows you to purchase a model of any power and cost.
- Thanks to the all-wheel drive, power steering, differential lock and rear wheel track change, the unit is characterized by high cross-country ability and is capable of working on heavy clay soils and in muddy roads.
- A spacious cabin with shock absorbers, a wide seat, a well-thought-out arrangement of control levers and a modern dashboard make tractor control comfortable and understandable.
Running in
A set of measures, the purpose of which is to prevent premature failure of the engine and the tractor as a whole, is called running-in. It does not take long, but its necessity is obvious. The condition of all parts becomes better, because during the running-in, the surfaces of the parts are lubricated and lapped.
- Start the engine and let it run at low rpms, increasing them gradually. It will take only half an hour to completely run in the engine.
- To run the tractor in, follow the plan given in the operating instructions.
In order to keep the Dong Feng mini tractor intact, it must be properly prepared for winter downtime. It is desirable that it be stored in a dry, ventilated area. Before conservation, it is advisable to perform the following steps:
- Remove dirt.
- Rinse filters.
- Drain the cooling system.
- Check all contacts and tighten the fasteners.
- Wipe all metal surfaces with an oily cloth to prevent corrosion.
- Reduce tire pressure slightly.
Attachments
In order to ensure the most efficient use, the manufacturer offers the installation of attachments. For this model, such units are available as:
- DK-1T2B potato harvester module.
- Fan garden sprayer model SPEEDY 800.
- Fan garden sprayer model SPEEDY 600.
- Fan garden sprayer model SPEEDY 400.
- Mounted sprayer of the AMAZON 1000 model.
- CLASS 800 mounted sprayer.
- CLASS 600 mounted sprayer.
- CLASS 400 mounted sprayer.
- CLASS 200 mounted sprayer.
- Seed drill model 2BFX-12.
- Rake-tedders with a width of the captured area of 3300 millimeters.
- Rake-tedders with a width of the gripped area of 2600 millimeters.
- DEMAROL model wood chipper.
- Potato planter model DK-1PL.
- Potato planter model DK-2PL.
- BOMET model potato planter.
- Potato digger model DK-2T.
- Potato digger model DK-1F.
- Potato digger model DK-2F.
- Potato digger WIRAX model.
- Potato digger BOMET model.
- Mounted plow model DK-320M.
- Mounted plow model DK-230L.
- Yamobur model VIRAX.
- Double row transplanter.
- Three-row transplanter.
- Four-row transplanter.
- Round baler model 0850.
- Disc harrow model 1BQX with a working width of 1700 millimeters.
- Disc harrow model 1BQX with a working area of 1500 mm.
- Disc harrow model 1BQX with a working width of 1300 millimeters.
- Mounted cutter model 1GQN-160.
- Mounted cutter model 1GQN-140.
- Mounted cutter model 1GQN-125.
- Auger snow blower model B5418RTO.
- Spreader of mineral fertilizers.
Specifications
DF 244 with a dry weight of 1256 kg and a wheelbase length of 1574 mm has a fairly compact overall dimensions in its category. The height, length and width of the version without a cab are in the range of 1.36 / 2.66 / 1.15 m.
The height of the road and agricultural clearance is 33 cm, the standard track of the undercarriage is 0.95 and 1.32 m, respectively. The tractive effort on the hook is within 5.88 kN.
Model | Dongfeng 244 |
---|---|
engine's type | vertical, 3-cylinder 4-stroke diesel with liquid forced cooling and direct injection |
Tractor power, kW (h.p.) | 17,6/24 |
Launch type | electric start |
Wheel formula | 4x4 |
Rated fuel consumption, g / kW * h: | 275 |
Transmission (checkpoint) | (4 + 1) x2 |
Fuel tank volume, l | 25 |
Tire size | 9,5-24/6,00-12 |
Wheel size (rear / front), mm | 1030-1210/952 |
Dimensions, mm length x width x height | 2661 x 1158 x 1365 |
Weight, kg | 1256 |
Manufacturer country | China |
Model overview
Today the DongFeng enterprise produces 9 models of mini-tractors designed for use in medium-sized farms and private backyards.
- The DongFeng DF-200 model is the most compact and inexpensive and is designed for use in garden and suburban areas. The rear-wheel drive unit has proven itself well when working in confined spaces and is the most demanded type of equipment in its class. Despite its small size, the tractor is compatible with all types of attachments and is ready for any technical task. The machine is equipped with a 20 hp three-cylinder engine. with., a gear clutch that allows the differential lock, and mechanical steering. Power steering is not included in the basic configuration of the model and is purchased additionally.
- The DongFeng DF-204 mini-tractor is also designed to work in garden plots. The model has an all-wheel drive design, a four-speed gearbox with three forward and one reverse speeds and is equipped with a three-cylinder engine.
- The DongFeng 240 model is highly maneuverable and has a turning radius of 2.4 m. The unit is equipped with a 24 hp diesel four-cylinder engine. with., has water cooling and is very economical. Diesel fuel consumption is 270 g / kW * h. The maximum speed of the car is 25 km / h, weight - 1256 kg.
- The DongFeng 244 all-wheel drive mini tractor is the most common model. The unit has a differential lock function, it is highly reliable and has a long service life. In terms of its operational characteristics, the model is not inferior to the eminent Japanese and Korean counterparts, but it costs much less. The working units of the machine are located in an accessible place and are fully repairable. Spare parts for this model are widely available and are affordable.
- The rear-wheel drive DongFeng DF-300 model is designed for earthworks, equipped with a three-cylinder 30 hp engine. with., disc brakes and power steering. The unit is compatible with all types of attachments, the differential is locked by means of a clutch.
- The DongFeng DF-304 all-wheel drive mini-tractor is equipped with a cab with a rear-view mirror and a 30 hp engine. with. The gearbox has 4 forward and reverse speeds, the double-disc clutch is easy to adjust and well repaired.
- The DongFeng DF-350 model has a modest size, can be compiled with any additional equipment, and is equipped with a 35 hp engine. with. and disc brake.
- The Dong Feng 354D unit is capable of working on dense rocky soils, is not prone to scuffing the front end, has four-wheel drive and a rear differential lock. The engine has 3 cylinders and has a capacity of 35 hp. with.
- The Dong Feng DF-404 model is equipped with a 40 hp engine. with., having water cooling and direct fuel injection. The turning radius of the unit is 3.2 m, the warranty period is 2 years.