Unlike the tiller, which relies on rotary tines that dig into the soil to turn over the top layer of earth (10 to 25cm), the motor-cultivator relies on tires that allow it to move and work deeper (15 to 30cm). The motor-cultivator is a tool designed based on professional agricultural machinery to work the soil and prepare it for new plantings.
Indeed, the motor-cultivator is a more powerful tool than the tiller and will be a considerable asset for working larger plots of land starting from 400 m² since the engine power is generally between 5 and 8hp. It will be a tool intended for large areas to be worked.
Despite its power and efficiency, the motor-cultivator is a very manageable tool, and thanks to its wheels, it is easy to move forward.
To choose a motor-cultivator, here are the criteria to consider.
What is the width of the area you want to work?
By answering this question, you will find out the number of tines your motor-cultivator should have. A motor-cultivator can turn over wide strips of land up to 80 cm; more tines also allow for further soil separation. There are models with 2 to 6 tines.
What use for my motor-cultivator?
A motor-cultivator is powerful enough to be used for various tasks: mowing, leveling, plowing, stubble plowing, milling, harrowing, and ridging...
Depending on the intensity of use of your thermal motor-cultivator, choose a more or less powerful model: 3hp will be sufficient for superficial plowing and occasional work; for more intensive activities such as plowing and leveling an entire vegetable garden, you will need at least a 5hp motor-cultivator.
For less intensive use, an electric tiller or a thermal tiller may be sufficient.
For very frequent use, some options will further simplify your activities.
For example, some motor-cultivators can be equipped with a reverse function which can be very useful for freeing a stuck machine.
Think about accessories
Border cutting accessories are also handy for protecting your flower beds.
How to maintain your motor-cultivator?
Before each use, as long as the engine is cold, check the engine oil and gasoline levels of your machine. The air filter should be cleaned at least every 3 months and the spark plug at least once a year with a suitable metal brush. A regularly cleaned and well-maintained motor-cultivator will consume less oil and gasoline.