Yanmar YM

The two-cylinder diesel engine has a displacement of 662 cc, is tempered by thermosiphon water cooling and produces 13 hp, or 9.6 kW. At 2,050 mm long, 960 mm wide, 1,650 mm high and 544 kg unladen weight, the YM 1300D reaches a design top speed of 12.8 km/h.

Thermosiphon cooling relies on the natural circulation of heated coolant without a water pump and was a simple, low-maintenance solution for small diesel engines of the period. At only 960 mm wide and 544 kg, the YM 1300D was built for small plots, rice paddies and specialty crops, where manoeuvrability mattered more than drawbar pull.

When buying such a light two-cylinder tractor, the condition of the cooling circuit matters most, as thermosiphon systems overheat faster than pumped systems once deposits build up in the coolant. The piston, cylinder and injectors should also be checked, as engines of this age have often either just had, or are still due, a full overhaul, and the availability of the right small tyres and gaskets is worth confirming with a specialist dealer before buying.