Farm Progress

Technology

May 1, 2010

3 Min Read

New high-horsepower tractors
AGCO has expanded the Massey Ferguson 7400 series and Challenger MT500B series tractor lines to include two new models each — the Massey Ferguson 7497 (165 PTO hp) and 7499 (180 PTO hp) and Challenger MT585B (165 PTO hp) and MT595B (180 PTO hp). These tractors come standard with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) to provide smooth, infinitely variable speed control.

The models are powered by a 7.4-liter-capacity AGCO Sisu Power 74CTA engine. The CVT along with AGCO’s tractor management system allow the operator to determine a specific ground speed and optimum rpm. The tractor’s engine and transmission then work together to choose the most efficient engine speed for maximum productivity.

Suggested list price: $145,000 to $154,000. For more details about the Massey Ferguson 7400 series, visit www.masseyferguson.com or circle 150. For more information about the Challenger MT500B series, visit http://www.newfromchallenger.com.

Tires for combines, tractors and grain carts
Goodyear Farm Tires, a brand of Titan Tire Corporation, introduces the DT 930TM 1100/45R46 radial tire. It features a low sidewall (LSW) aspect ratio for stability and wide, deep lugs for enhanced flotation. The tires enable users to harvest the crops and power through the muddy fields that narrower dualed tires cannot handle, according to Jeff Vasichek, vice president of sales and marketing for Titan Tire Corporation.

The tire is agriculture’s largest radial, standing at 85 in. tall and almost 4 ft. wide, and is designed to reduce vehicle bounce, loping and power hop.

AGCO has approved the DT 930 tires for use on its Challenger brand tractors. Flotation can be maximized when dualed on 4-wd and MFWD tractors. DT 930 tires with appropriately sized wheels can be used in place of narrower dual rear tractor tires.

Suggested retail price: $2,064. For more information, send an e-mail to Titan International at [email protected], visit http://www.titan-intl.com.

Fast hay drying
New hay-conditioning rollers called Crushers help reduce alfalfa hay drying time and the time hay lies on the ground exposed to the elements. B & D Rollers reports that drying time may be half when Crushers are used. The new rubber rollers feature an intermeshing design and release more moisture from the hay than standard rollers do for faster drying and better quality hay.

Crusher rollers are available for all makes and models of mower conditioners. They are trued to 1,000 rpm and operate without vibration. A set of new rollers retails for $5,546. Hay growers also may have their old rollers reconditioned for a cost of $2,950. For more information, call B & D Rollers at 800/832-1135, visit http://www.bdrollers.com.

Gator updated
John Deere has updated its Gator series of utility vehicles with an eye on improved performance. The Gator TX features an extra 19 hp, 90% more torque, quicker acceleration and a new coil-over-shock suspension system. The electric model, the Gator TE, operates for a full day with one overnight charge. It will haul 900 lbs.

The Gator TH, TX and TE are now equipped with a metal and composite cargo box with a pickup-style tailgate and latch. The sides can be removed for a flat bed. Plus, the box now offers 20 tie-downs to keep cargo from shifting.

Prices for the Gator T models start at $6,499. For more information, contact your local John Deere dealer, visit http://www.deere.com.

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