Product review: Ventrac’s 4520 all-terrain compact tractor

By Alistair May 31, 2023 08:59

Ventrac’s 4520 all-terrain compact tractor and multiple attachments has been described as ‘the course manager’s Swiss Army knife’ due to its versatility on the golf course. The latest version offers 30 percent more available power, the best mix of machine performance, durability and operator experience.

At its core, the 4520 is a compact tractor, but it is very different to what most greenkeepers are used to seeing. The purpose of a tractor is to perform tasks more efficiently than manual tasks. The Ventrac 4520 plays on these advantages, then takes it to the next level. When coupled with the extensive range of Ventrac attachments, this tractor is a versatile machine for a variety of professional users.

The 4520 retains all the features of its predecessor, including its 30-degree slope climbing ability, but has been enhanced with an all-new hydraulic system featuring larger bore piping, more powerful auxiliary hydraulics and more resilient hoses and fittings resulting in faster and stronger operation.

That means 30 percent more available power, improving performance and productivity while providing the operator with a quieter working platform.

A new, robust centre pivot on the Flexframe provides greater durability and reliability and new LED lights provide enhanced vision in poor light conditions. A redesigned dashboard with a new gauge layout is more visible and easy-to-read. Most importantly, all of the existing attachments fit seamlessly to the new 4520.

Ventrac has become the number one choice for versatility for ground’s care professionals. Combining a blend of peak power and agility with front-mounted attachments for superior visibility, a pivoting frame for manoeuvrability, and excellent weight distribution for balance and stability, the new 4520 elevates the Ventrac experience to a whole new level.

Rupert Price, managing director of Price Turfcare, the UK and Ireland distributor for Ventrac said, “We know that Ventrac is the most versatile groundscare maintenance system available to turf professionals in the UK. Our sales since we launched in 2017 verify this and with the 4520 we have gone up a level. With 30 percent more available power, the performance is incredible. And, all existing attachments connect seamlessly to the new model. The machine looks similar to the previous model, with a few styling tweaks, but these latest refinements have enhanced an already excellent machine.”

Peter Todd

Peter Todd is a highly respected turf manager who is the estate manager and director at Royal Norwich. Commenting on his Ventrac he said, “The Ventrac is the only machine that can handle the pronounced shaping around the course without scalping. It’s exceptionally stable, especially with its dual-wheel configuration, articulating frame and low centre of gravity. The Contour deck flexes superbly to follow the ground contours and its counter-rotating blades ensure the cuttings are thrown backwards and not on to the greens. Its manoeuvrability around our rectangular tees is exceptional, allowing it to turn through 90 degrees easily and efficiently. What you get is all the attributes of a four-wheel mower with the manoeuvrability of three-wheel machine.

“I also like the out-front set-up of the Ventrac with all the attachments clearly visible to the operator. The three-point hitch at the back is useful as we can attach drag mats and, because of its very low ground pressure, use it on greens for brushing in top dressing.”