Inter-row tractor

Introduction

Designed for vineyard work between the rows, the between-row tractor is characterised by its compact size, manoeuvrability and ability to work in confined spaces, whilst providing the power required for the various implements used in the vineyard.

Most conventional inter-row tractors fall within the T2 regulatory category for narrow-track tractors. This category covers wheeled tractors with a minimum track width of less than 1,150 mm, a kerb weight in running order of more than 600 kg and a ground clearance of 600 mm or less. Where the ratio of the tractor's centre of gravity height to the average of the minimum track widths of each axle is greater than 0.90, its maximum design speed is limited to 30 km/h.

Beyond these regulatory specifications, the choice of a row-spacing tractor depends above all on the work to be carried out and the conditions of use: row width, power and traction capacity, the tractor's weight and balance, turning circle, driver comfort and visibility, hydraulic flow rate, power available at the power take-off (PTO), and the ability to accommodate various vineyard implements.

The tractor required will therefore differ depending on whether it is intended primarily for soil cultivation, spraying, vineyard work, towing, transport or powering implements that require high power at the PTO.

Requirements for agricultural tractors

Inter-row tractor

For pulling work

A heavy tractor with a long wheelbase and front and rear wheels whose dimensions are capable of creating "development", i.e. pulling capacity, is preferable.

For transport and handling work

The qualities required are different from those needed for pulling work. You'll be looking for a lighter tractor with good visibility.

For PTO work

Care should be taken to ensure that the maximum torque delivered by the engine is as close as possible to the standard PTO engine. This is to obtain the desired speed of rotation without being too subject to variations in the terrain (veins of clay, slopes, etc.). A well-spaced gearbox will be necessary for certain jobs requiring low forward speeds.

Hitch

The tractor-implement linkage is subject to regulations. Standard ISO 730 specifies the dimensions and requirements for three-point rear hitches on wheeled agricultural tractors.
The ISO 8759 standard concerns coupling systems positioned at the front of the tractor.The coupling system on an agricultural tractor is generally of the "three-point" type. It is made up of a number of components.
There are four categories of hitch in agriculture. In viticulture, the dimensions of hitching systems generally correspond to categories 1 or 2. They are based on the power developed by the tractor at the power take-off (see table below).

Lifting arm - Automatic hitch

Categories	PTO power (Kw)
1N	Up to 35
1	Up to 48
2	From 30 to 92
3N / 3	From 60 to 185
4N / 4	From 110 to 350

Many parameters are taken into account by this standard. The dimensions given concern the coupling points, the upper support point, the free float in torsion (stabiliser), etc.

Dimensions for tractor coupling points :

Dimensions of tractor coupling points

Dimensions for equipment coupling points :

Dimensions of attachment points equipment

Equipment attachment point dimensions

Some equipment is therefore fitted with two ball size coupling points, allowing equipment based on category 1 dimensions to be connected to couplings based on category 2 dimensions and vice versa.