Abstract: A pre-pruning machine for trellised vines comprises a cutting module featuring superimposed tools each consisting of a cage and a cutting organ, and a feeding module consisting of superimposed feeding discs, it being possible to swivel the supports holding these modules by the action of a jack so that the said modules may interpenetrate each other in working phase. According to the invention, at least the motor of the cages is submitted to a slide drive limiting the torque, which is adjustable by the action of a pressure limiter (131; 133) within a calibrated range and selected by the operator in function of the working conditions (pruning type, advancing speed, etc.). Preferably, the motors of the cutting organs, feeders and cages are connected in series, the opening/closing device by means of the jack is connected in branch-off upstream of the feeder motor, and the feeder motor is also connected to a pressure limiter (131).