China Two Wheel Tractor: Top 5 China Two Wheel Tractor Manufacturers

The David Bradley two-wheel tractor, popular in North America during the 1940s and 50s, pales in comparison to its modern Chinese counterpart.  The Chinese unit is significantly heavier, boasting a robust transaxle with steering brakes and more.  The assembled tractor weighs in at a hefty 800 pounds, with the transaxle alone likely exceeding 300 pounds.

These Chinese workhorses are a common sight, hauling incredible loads in trailers through villages and cities.  Western tourists often remark on the sheer volume of goods transported. The inclusion of steering brakes is crucial for managing these heavily laden tractor-trailer combinations.  Anyone familiar with tractor operation understands the importance of directing power to the appropriate wheel, or even locking one wheel for tight turns.

In late 2005, I received a large crate containing a GN121 Chinese two-wheel tractor – a truly unique gift!  (Thanks, Joel!)

The GN121's design showcases straightforward, practical engineering.  The clutch, located within the high-mounted 3V input pulley on the transaxle case, is readily accessible for adjustment and maintenance.  Power is transferred from this pulley to the transaxle via a heavy-duty, oil-immersed double-row chain.  The transaxle itself features high and low range settings, along with a three-speed forward and reverse gearbox, providing six forward and two reverse speeds.

A particularly useful attachment is the rototiller.  This impressive implement includes a third wheel and operator seat, transforming the approximately 1300-pound combination into something resembling a Merry Tiller on steroids!

The GN121 is typically powered by a 195 engine, producing 13.38 horsepower at 2200 RPM.  This engine is known for its impressive low-end torque.  My unit came equipped with "luxury" features: a full-sized battery, electric start, handlebar-mounted start switch, headlights, and an alternator.  Adding a heater and AM radio would be a simple upgrade for enhanced comfort.

The accompanying instruction manual, while not perfect English, describes using the engine to power pumps, threshers, and other implements.  This is undoubtedly a common practice for owners.  Switching between implements is easily accomplished by disengaging the drive belt and engaging a drive shaft or belts, or even by swapping the V-pulley for a flat pulley.

I envision families using these tractors to transport produce to town.  Unlike animal-drawn carts, the tractor's headlight allows for extended time in town, enabling a safe return home after dark.  There's even mention of trailer tail lights and brake lights for added safety.

This reminds me of the disabled veteran who traversed America on a garden tractor.  How many front wheels and bushings did he replace?  While I recall the story, I don't remember if he used a reflective triangle.  I also wonder if he encountered any issues with law enforcement regarding operating an unlicensed vehicle on public roads.

This brings to mind the Saturday morning gatherings of local men, where world problems are discussed and solved.  I've even driven my golf cart to these important meetings.  This has led me to consider the Chinese two-wheel tractor and trailer.  I'm contemplating making a grand entrance at coffee one Saturday morning driving this impressive machine.

The rototiller, in its stock configuration, can reach speeds of 15 KPH!  Utterpower offers a new drive ring base with a 1.5-inch shaft that accepts an SK bushing.  By using this to mount a larger drive pulley, you could potentially achieve speeds of up to 25 mph in top gear!  That's remarkably fast for a rototiller.