Abstract

A study was carried out to evaluate field performance of tractors attached with winch during 2011–13, on tea plantations, located in Lakhimpur and Sonitpur districts of Assam. It was found during study that average number of uprooted tea bushes by two years’ old tractors was on higher side (19.14%) than that of 9 to 10 years’ old tractors. While average hourly fuel consumption and average unit cost of uprooting tea bushes of 9 to 10 years’ old tractors were more (26.19 and 19.17%, respectively) as compared with two years’ old tractors. It revealed that higher size tractors (45 hp) were suitable for carrying out low load operations after eight years of their purchase and use for uprooting tea bushes. Abrupt engaging and disengaging power from power take off shaft to reel of winch adversely affected life of tractors. Fan belt of tractor and chain and sprocket of winch were found critical wearing spare parts to be kept in reserve with tractor. The major cause of bend in power take off shaft was abrupt transmission of power from this shaft to reel of winch. While breakage of wire rope was due to rusting and corrosion caused by lack of care and maintenance. The major cause of injuries and swellings of fingers of workers was use of ropes possessing rusted and broken wires. It was found essential to carry extra fuel, lubricants, tools, wooden blocks, rope, jack, spade, etc. and 3–4 hand gloves for safety of hands of workers, while proceeding to tea plantation for uprooting old tea bushes. Evening maintenance after completion of work and checks in next morning were found increasing utilization hours of tractors and winches during day time.