Dongfeng’s ZB25 tractor is getting more grunt in the form of a 3hp power increase, making the new ZB28 a more viable option as an entry level tractor.
The Chinese-made Dongfeng ZB range has been available in Australia for 16 years through Midway Sales, which markets the ZB range as a good alternative for anyone working under a tight budget.
Midway Sales director Scott Spring-Brown says Midway’s partnership with Dongfeng has meant better products for Australian customers.
“We have had a long partnership with Dongfeng and a key ingredient of success has been our ongoing work with the factory to refine and develop new products,” he says. “The new ZB28 is another example of this.”
While the extra horses should make the tractor more suitable for particularly rugged Australian conditions, Spring-Brown says the tractor largely retains the same extra features as the previous incarnation.
“The ZB28 is powered by a proven, high torque, direct injected diesel engine,” he says. “The transmission is taken care of with a simple manual 4-speed gear box with high and low range.
“Selectable 4 wheel drive enables greater pulling, plus the rear differential lock will get you out of sticky situations.
“Power steering is effortless with a tight turning circle making getting around easy,” Spring-Brown says. “A three point linkage system, two-speed PTO and rear dual hydraulic remotes enable all kinds of popular implements to be fitted from slashers to grader blades, to get all kinds of jobs done.”
He also points out the high safety standards Dongfeng has adhered to with the tractor’s design, such as the Australian-certified roll protection structure and the retractable seatbelt.
Scott-Brown also says it features a clutch engaged safety switch which prevents accidental take offs when starting.
A particularly popular feature of the ZB28 is the 4-in-1 bucket, which comes as standard.
With a lifting capacity of 350kg, the bucket can be used to move soil or gravel, grab and shift branches, or scrape and re-shape the ground.
“A self-levelling feature enhances safety by keeping the bucket level when raising and lowering the boom,” he says.
“A quick release mechanism means the bucket can be easily removed to fit other attachments such as a fork attachment with bale spikes.
“To make the machine more manoeuvrable for jobs such as slashing, the entire loader assembly can also be quick released on its own support stands.”
The ZB28 is available from Midway Sales for $15,990, making it a good choice in terms of an entry-level or budget tractor.
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