The Eicher 280 4WD is a part of Eicher’s mini-tractor lineup, designed to provide small-scale and orchard farmers with a highly reliable, compact, and fuel-efficient tractor with four-wheel-drive capabilities. Unlike larger tractors that may require wide spaces for operation, the Eicher 280 4WD is optimized for small plots, narrow lanes, and areas with uneven terrain. Its main objective is to provide traction and precision without compromising on reliability, efficiency, or durability.
Farmers have historically used the Eicher 280 4WD for orchard operations, vineyard maintenance, puddling, light ploughing, sowing, and transport of produce or equipment. Its compact design allows easy navigation between trees, hedgerows, and fences, which makes it particularly suitable for horticulture and vegetable farming. Despite being discontinued, the tractor continues to enjoy popularity in the used market due to its long-term reliability, low maintenance requirements, and operational versatility.
The tractor’s four-wheel-drive system, coupled with its lightweight yet robust build, ensures that it remains stable on sloped fields or soft soils. Its diesel engine is engineered for consistent power delivery and fuel efficiency, making it a cost-effective choice for small-scale farmers who require dependable performance across multiple tasks throughout the year. Additionally, the tractor’s simplicity in design reduces the likelihood of mechanical failures and allows easy servicing, which contributes to its enduring reputation.
Eicher 280 4WD Overview
The Eicher 280 4WD has been engineered to provide a balance between traction, efficiency, and maneuverability. The tractor’s four-wheel-drive system gives it a significant advantage over 2WD tractors in wet, muddy, or uneven terrains. The tractor’s transmission system, hydraulic lift, and PTO compatibility ensure that it can handle a variety of agricultural operations efficiently and reliably.
The tractor is particularly well-suited for the following tasks:
- Orchard farming, including fruit and nut tree maintenance
- Vineyard management, where narrow spacing and traction are crucial
- Small-field ploughing and tillage, including rotavation and soil preparation
- Puddling operations in wet soil conditions
- Light transport of equipment, produce, or water tanks
- Operation of small farm implements such as seed drills, sprayers, and rotavators
Its compact dimensions and light weight allow the Eicher 280 4WD to maneuver easily in narrow paths and tight farm layouts, while the four-wheel-drive system ensures that it maintains traction even in challenging conditions. These features combine to make it a practical, cost-effective, and reliable option for farmers with small or irregularly shaped plots of land.
Eicher 280 4WD Engine Specifications
The Eicher 280 4WD is powered by a 26 HP diesel engine, which is designed to deliver consistent performance, fuel efficiency, and reliable torque for small-scale farming operations.
Key Engine Highlights:
- Horsepower: 26 HP, sufficient for light to medium agricultural tasks
- Engine Type: 3-cylinder diesel engine, providing balanced power and efficiency
- Displacement: 1,318 cc for stable torque delivery
- Cooling System: Water-cooled to maintain engine temperature during prolonged use
- Fuel Injection: Inline system designed for optimal combustion and fuel efficiency
- Rated RPM: 2,501, offering a balance between power and fuel economy
- Maximum Torque: ~65 Nm, ideal for traction-intensive operations such as puddling or rotavation
- PTO: Dual-speed, 540 rpm, allowing efficient operation of small implements
- Operator Comfort: Engine design minimizes vibration, reducing operator fatigue during extended working sessions
This engine, combined with the tractor’s transmission system, ensures smooth operation across multiple farming tasks while maintaining fuel efficiency and long-term reliability.
Eicher 280 4WD Features
The Eicher 280 4WD offers a combination of practicality, durability, and versatility, making it an ideal choice for small-scale farmers who require a compact yet capable tractor. The features are designed to deliver reliable performance across a wide range of agricultural tasks.
4WD Traction System: The four-wheel-drive system ensures superior traction, even in muddy, wet, or sloped fields. This is particularly advantageous in regions with heavy rainfall, hilly terrain, or soft soil conditions where 2WD tractors can easily get stuck. The system allows farmers to operate implements efficiently while maintaining control and stability, reducing the risk of slippage and soil compaction.
Transmission: The tractor comes with a single-clutch, partial constant-mesh gearbox, offering 9 forward and 3 reverse gears. This wide range of gears provides flexibility for both field operations and light transport duties. Farmers can adjust speeds for precise implement work, such as puddling or rotavation, or increase speed for short-distance transportation of produce and equipment.
Hydraulic System and Lifting Capacity: Equipped with a 3-point linkage, the tractor’s hydraulic system supports draft, position, and response controls. With a lifting capacity of approximately 739 kg, it allows smooth and precise operation of light to medium-duty implements, including small ploughs, seed drills, sprayers, and rotavators. The hydraulic system is responsive and durable, making it suitable for continuous operation without frequent adjustments.
Power Steering: The inclusion of power-assisted steering greatly reduces operator effort during long working hours. It allows precise maneuvering in narrow farm lanes or between orchard rows, improving overall efficiency and reducing operator fatigue.
PTO Options: The dual-speed PTO at 540 rpm enhances implement compatibility, enabling farmers to use multiple attachments without sacrificing power. This feature adds significant versatility, making the tractor suitable for light rotavation, pumping water, or operating small threshers and sprayers.
Braking System: Oil-immersed multi-disc brakes provide strong stopping power while minimizing maintenance requirements. The brakes are designed to dissipate heat efficiently, allowing reliable performance even during long working sessions in hilly or uneven terrain.
Operator Comfort: Despite its compact design, the Eicher 280 4WD offers an ergonomic operator platform. The seating position, control layout, and minimized vibration levels ensure that operators can work efficiently without excessive strain, even during long days in the field.
Durable Construction: The tractor’s robust chassis and lightweight frame provide durability without compromising maneuverability. It can handle uneven terrains, light transport loads, and repeated implement operations without structural stress.
Fuel Efficiency: The 26 HP diesel engine is optimized for fuel efficiency, allowing farmers to operate for extended periods with minimal fuel consumption. This makes it especially suitable for small farms where operational cost is a key consideration.
Accessories: Optional attachments such as drawbars, top links, hitch rails, and small trailers enhance the tractor’s versatility. Farmers can customize the tractor for specific tasks, from irrigation transport to orchard care.
Together, these features make the Eicher 280 4WD a practical, reliable, and versatile tractor, capable of meeting the diverse requirements of small-scale and orchard farming.
Eicher 280 4WD Price in India
The Eicher 280 4WD, being a discontinued mini-tractor, is primarily available in the used tractor market. The typical price range is between ₹5.30 lakh and ₹5.80 lakh, depending on several factors including the tractor’s age, condition, included accessories, and regional dealer charges.
Factors Affecting Price:
- Condition of the Tractor: Well-maintained or refurbished units generally command a higher price.
- Location: Prices may vary depending on state taxes, dealer margins, and transportation costs.
- Accessories: Tractors equipped with attachments such as small trailers, pumps, or sprayers may be priced higher.
- Maintenance History: Tractors with documented service history and replaced parts tend to have higher resale value.
Given its compact four-wheel-drive design, reliable diesel engine, and ability to handle various small-scale farm operations efficiently, the Eicher 280 4WD offers excellent value for money. Farmers who need a maneuverable, versatile, and cost-effective 4WD tractor for orchards, vineyards, or small fields will find this model to be an optimal choice.
Eicher 280 4WD Technical Specifications
Eicher 280 4WD Engine
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Feature
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Detail
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Horsepower
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26 HP
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Cylinders
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3
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Displacement
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1,318 cc
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Cooling System
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Water-cooled
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Fuel Pump
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Inline type
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Rated RPM
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2,501 RPM
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|
Maximum Torque
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~65 Nm
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PTO
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Dual-speed 540 rpm
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Eicher 280 4WD Transmission
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Feature
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Detail
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Clutch
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Single
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Gearbox
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Partial constant mesh
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Speeds
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9 Forward + 3 Reverse
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Maximum Forward Speed
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23–24 km/h
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Eicher 280 4WD Brakes & Steering
- Oil-immersed multi-disc brakes for reliable stopping power
- Power-assisted steering for reduced operator fatigue
Eicher 280 4WD Hydraulics & PTO
- 3-point linkage with draft, position, and response controls
- Lifting capacity: ~739 kg
- Dual-speed PTO for versatile implement operation
Eicher 280 4WD Dimensions & Weight
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Feature
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Detail
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Wheelbase
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1,550 mm
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Length
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2,965 mm
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Width
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1,140 mm
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Height
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1,320 mm
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Weight
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975 kg
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Eicher 280 4WD Fuel & Electrical
- Fuel tank: 23 litres for extended field work
- Battery: 12 V, 65 Ah
Eicher 280 4WD Tyres
- Front: 5.0 × 12 or 180/85D12
- Rear: 8.0 × 18 or 8.3 × 20
Eicher 280 4WD Accessories & Safety
- Optional drawbars, top links, hitch rails, and small trailer kits
- Turning radius: ~3,040 mm
- Warranty: ~2 years or 2,000 working hours
These specifications make the Eicher 280 4WD a compact, durable, and versatile mini-tractor, capable of performing a wide variety of small-scale agricultural operations efficiently.
The Eicher 280 4WD is a reliable and versatile compact tractor designed for small farms, orchards, and vineyards. Its 26 HP diesel engine, 9F + 3R transmission, and hydraulic lifting capacity of approximately 739 kg allow it to handle light ploughing, puddling, rotavation, implement operations, and light transport effectively.
Despite being a discontinued model, the Eicher 280 4WD remains popular because of its four-wheel-drive traction, fuel efficiency, compact size, and ease of use. Its ergonomic design and power-assisted steering reduce operator fatigue, while its oil-immersed brakes and responsive hydraulic system ensure reliable performance under different working conditions.
While its horsepower and lifting capacity are modest compared to larger tractors, the Eicher 280 4WD excels in maneuverability, traction, and operational efficiency, making it an ideal choice for farmers managing small plots, tight orchards, or sloped terrains. Its combination of compact design, durability, and cost-effective operation makes it a practical long-term investment for small-scale and specialized farming operations.