Plain Russian power
Plain Russian power
HIGH horsepower came to the Irish Ploughing Match in the form of a new 130hp Belarus. The 1221 now forms the flagship model for the Minsk-based company.
Power is supplied by a formidable 6-cylinder, 7.2 litre block which stretches the length of the bonnet. Turbocharged with direct injection, it is a engine with the bullish appearance many would concede is typical of previous Belarus builds.
Transmission comprises four forward and two reverse ranges with each having four gear ratios as standard or, as an option, a four-speed power shift to bring the number of available ratios up to 16×8. Options in the transmission department also extend to a creeper box.
Drive to the front axle is via an electro-hydraulically engaged clutch enabling the tractor to offer three modes of operation – front wheel engaged automatically when the rear wheels slip, engaged full time, and disengaged.
A further automatic engagement mode is employed when the brakes are applied to produce a four wheel braking effect.
Hydraulic performance is put at 53 litres/minute and linkage lift capacity rated at 5200kg. Four spool valves are provided as standard.
For the driver, a climb into the cab is to reveal, by modern standards, a reasonably spacious operating area although a profusion of gear sticks sited to the right tended to encroach beyond their natural ergonomic allowance.
By some western standards, few would deny that the 1221 still retains an element of its eastern, no frills robustness. But, at £33,000 (Irish), ownership of a 130hp tractor is not to be ignored.