Innehållsförteckning för December 2020 från Profi

Vredestein has added another 15 sizes to its Traxion 65 tractor tyre series. Bringing the total to 19, it now spans the complete range from 16 to 42 inches. Launched at Agritechnica 2019, the Traxion 65 series, which succeeds the Traxion+, was redesigned using the latest technologies developed for the Traxion Optimall VF. This includes curved lugs, which the company reckons not only provide a longer lifespan and increased driver comfort, but also increased traction, and the large contact area in the centre of the tread reduces internal and external noise levels. The new lug design (distance between the lugs widens at the side of the tyre) is said to provide good self-cleaning properties, especially on heavy soils.…

Scotts Precision Manufacturing has developed a windrowing kit that converts Grimme’s two-row GT170 trailed harvester to a windrower. Allowing the harvester to lift a maximum of six 36” (90cm) rows without moving the crop twice, benefits include creating much needed space when opening up a field and being able to load trailers in half the time. Directly replacing the GT170’s elevator module, the kit is attached through the existing elevator fixing points. No modifications need to be made to the harvester. The result comprises a 5.3m-long cross conveyor that lifts crop over the two rows next to the harvester and deposits it into the middle of the next pair of rows. Discharging to the left or right, the five-section, hydraulically-powered conveyor is fitted with a 790mm wide sheeted PVC web. The…

Trioliet’s Triotrac M1-1400 (single vertical auger/14.0m³capacity) self-propelled mixer wagon is said to be ideal for low buildings and tight yards. Sharing its cab with the larger twin-auger models, power comes from the same four-pot 175hp JCB Stage IV engine. The newcomer differs in that the intake elevator has been replaced by a hydraulically-powered rotor at the end of the loading arm. Reaching to a maximum height of 4.5m, silage falls onto the intake platform from where it is fed into the mixing tub by a four-bladed rotor (maximum speed 30rpm). The same intake mechanism allows the Triotrac M to handle round or square bales, loose by-products, minerals, fodder beet and potatoes. Discharge options include doors on both sides and a rear cross conveyor belt. Replacing the self-propelled Smartrac, the Triotrac M…

Requests for a smaller machine to combine strip tillage and sowing have resulted in the development of a 3.0m Focus TD strip-till drill. Fitted with a 3,500-litre capacity steel hopper (split 60:40), the optional 400-litre capacity MiniDrill provides a third component in the application process, increasing outputs when seeding oilseed rape by a claimed 40%. The tine cultivation frame can be swapped for a compact disc harrow, and the 3.0m Focus TD can be specified with the TurboDisc double disc coulter or the new TurboEdge tine coulter. The levelling discs can be exchanged for a crumbling unit in front of the packer to crush coarse soil and provide a fine tilth in the seed strip on medium and heavy soils.…

There are two models in the McHale rake range, the R62-72 and the larger R68-78. Beyond their working width there are other subtle differences between the two, with the smaller machine having 11 tine arms compared to the 13 on the 6.8m to 7.8m model; the latter also has six wheels under each rotor with central greasing versus four 170/60-8 tyres and individual lubrication. The options list is also minimalistic — there's a spare wheel … and that's your lot. Easy coupling Both machines share the same lower link headstock with Cat II attachment. The fold-down parking stand, held in place by a spring-loaded pin, makes hitching on and off a simple task. Rakes made for the 2020 season have gained a new holding arm for the hoses and electrics…

The Tuman is the only agricultural self-propelled sprayer that is built in Russia. Within three hours its spray pack can be exchanged for a fertiliser spreader, injector or seeder. Cab for everyone Whether it was down to the designers or the drivers in the Samara region where Pegas-Agro is situated, the cab on the previous Tuman 2 was too small. The Tuman 3 offers more spacious accommodation, for those tall and small. In addition, the new cab has a lot more glass for a better view of your surroundings. At the same time, the new platform also allows easier access to the inspection points. Cab access to the Tuman 2 was already not too bad: thanks to a clever hydraulic system, the steps fold down only after the brake is…

Walterscheid supplied the headstock, drop arms, lift arms and the top link – all parts that are usually sold through dealers or specialist online suppliers. 1 DISASSEMBLY These drop arms and the lift arms are definitely past their best. The original clevis hitch may have an auto lock function, but its height setting options are limited. To change the height, you have to remove the entire bracket, turn it 180°, put it back in and refit the pins. Back in the early 1990s a K80 ball was not available. If necessary, remove the mounting for the clevis and also the pto speed control. The new frame will have the required holes already in place. 2 CLEANING THE THREADS Before installing the 100kg frame, remove the blanking caps covering the holes;…

“I don’t have the time for slow, casual trips,” jests Rudolf Wehner about his motivation to own the fastest tractor in Germany. His Hanomag Robust zips along at 105km/hr; that’s a touch over 65mph. When he goes on the warpath, he may not break any land speed records, but there are certainly some faces that can't quite believe what they're seeing or hearing. Rudolf (76) comes from a farm in Hesse, central Germany, and has always had a soft spot for machinery. At the age of 25 he went out on his own with a spare parts business, which eventually grew into a much larger mechanical engineering company. A well-thought-out restoration He now owns several restored classic cars and is a regular at vintage shows, although up until 10 years…

A few weeks ago, a rumour arose that Krone was testing a reverse drive forage harvester. Wanting to know if the rumours were true, we called the machinery maker based at Spelle. After promising not to reveal any of the technical details we soon found ourselves on-route to go see the prototype machine in action and we have to say we were impressed. Suitable for use on tractors such as the Claas Xerion 5000 or Fendt Vario 1050, Krone says the prototype machine has to be at least as good as the comparable Big X 480 in terms of output, fuel consumption and chop quality. The drum-based chopping unit comes from the Big X and the test machine can be coupled to the firm’s six- to 10-row maize headers, grass…

The large surface contact area of the new plastic glide bar option on the 8.4m Top 842C twin-rotor rake improves the load-bearing capacity on soft land. Called Flowtast, and unveiled as a concept at Agritechnica 2019, the glide bar replaces the wheels under the rotor. Each glide bar comprises five individually exchangeable 15mm thick plates. Installed close the tines, the Austrian manufacturer says the glide bar tracks the ground across the full raking length of the tine arc to provide perfect ground tracking. A hydraulic cylinder ensures a ground pressure of around 200kg, which is claimed to reduce wear and lower stress on the rake frame. After testing various materials, the tough-wearing plastic (PE1000) selected by engineers, which is similar to that used for a plough mouldboard, is said to provide…

Joining the updated Italian-made MAF 2580 (2,500-litre capacity), 3180 (3,000-litre) and 3580 (3,500-litre) self-propelled sprayers for 2021 is a new 4,000-litre 4080 flagship. The upgraded steering system on all models features automatic alignment when switching between two-wheel, four-wheel and crab steering modes and the steering power is also improved. This allows the fitment of wider, large diameter tyres and 4WS is now automatically disabled at speeds above 14km/hr. Mazzotti is a fully-owned subsidiary of John Deere, and the M-Spray dual-circuit solution system is adopted from this company’s trailed and self-propelled sprayers; the 600l/min pump filling the largest model in under seven minutes. Also new on 2021 models are MK spray booms (24.0m to 36.0m) and Cat IV cab. The John Deere-derived operator station features redesigned armrest controls and multifunction joystick. Powered…

Tramspread’s new range of Suffolk dribble bars is available in eight widths from 6.0m to 24.0m. Boom widths from 6.0m to 15.0m are made of galvanised steel. Suitable for fitting to tankers or tractors as umbilical applicators, they all fold vertically and are fitted with automatic transport latches with safety lock. Made from an aluminium construction, the 24.0m version folds horizontally around the tractor cab without obstructing rear view visibility. The swinging arm does not compromise the tractor’s pick-up hitch, which can be used to tow a pump or reeler while the dribble bars are fitted. All widths from 6.0m to 12.0m feature a single macerator and tractor spool valve controls. The 12.0m dribble bar is also available with twin macerators (standard on the 15.0m and 24.0m models), which come with…

By opting for a hollow piston that is filled with nitrogen, Walterscheid has created its DS series of hydraulic top links with integrated damping. Suitable for tractors up to 300hp is the Cat III compatible HOLHS C-105DS. The 105 figure indicates the piston diameter in millimetres while the piston rod measures 60mm. This is 15mm larger than the standard top link, the extra volume housing the integrated nitrogen accumulator. Walterscheid says the top link develops a pulling force of 105kN (approximately 10.7t) and a pushing force of 156kN (about 15.9t) at 180 bar. For smaller tractors there is the C-70DS with a 70mm piston and a 45mm rod. Always cushioning.. With the nitrogen damper/accumulator set to a default pressure of 60 bar, the piston rod began dampening when the linkage…

It is more than eight years since we tested the Tobroco-Giant 4548 Tendo in our twopart group test (profi12/2012, 1/2013). Two generations later, the GT5048 has hit the market, with the need to install a Stage V motor providing the stimulus to introduce the new model. To do this it fits a three-cyl, Kubota 36kW/50hp engine with a DOC and DPF. The tiny 'tele' certainly impressed us during our driving impression, with the hydrostatic transmission being able to shift between its two ranges while on the move to deliver a good uptake in speed. We used the GT5048 for shifting straw bales and pushing in silage: admittedly neither of these tasks will test the transmission's pushing power, but in reality these machines are going to be used to move materials…

We have been here before, having previously taken a look at buying a pre-owned Spearhead 450-6S, 450-9S and the successor Multicut 460 back in 2007 (profi6/2007). More recently we covered Alamo Group family member, the McConnel SR15-6 ‘flex-wing’ models (profi7/2019). Why the need for this this apparent duplication? First, the Multicut 460 is the strongest selling ‘topper’ of its type in the UK and Europe and secondly its shared parentage does not mean it is only its colour that separates it from its McConnel, Twose and Bomford topper siblings. And finally, the Spearhead Multicut 460 has evolved since we last took a look at the original 460 models. Although not specifically covered here, the wider 6.20m Spearhead Multicut 620 has become increasingly popular model in the UK, and now outsells…

Not everyone possesses the skill to look at a bolt or nut and confidently know exactly which socket will fit. Invariably this means at least two trips back to the toolbox or weighing yourself down with multiple tool options. Could a universal socket help those treading a worn path back to the workshop? We ordered such a tool for €8.49 (including VAT) from online trader Hsmk.shop, to take a closer look. The design Suitable for a. in ratchet, the universal socket fits 7mm to 19mm (or ¼ in to ¾ in in old money) nuts and bolts. The package also includes a ¼ in adapter so it can be used in a cordless screwdriver or drill without any problems. With an outer diameter of 26mm, the housing is the same…

The farm machinery bug often catches people at an early age. Take friends Reiner Auinger and Andreas Bach, for instance. In their Bavarian hometown of Theilenhofen, as youngsters they'd regularly visit a local contractor who operated up to 10 combines at the peak of harvest. Impressed by their enthusiasm, the owner trained the two on how to drive a harvester. The friends soon became key figures in the contracting business. “Luckily, school holidays usually coincided with harvest,” grins Reiner. “Otherwise we would be picked up as soon as school finished and go sit on the combines.” Andreas adds: “The only time our age was a problem was when the combine had to travel to the next field, as we weren't old enough to have a licence. Most of the time…

Following three years of building work, the redeveloped headquarters site of Claas UK and its East Anglian dealer Manns of Saxham alongside the A14 near Bury St Edmunds is now up and running. In addition to offices for both Claas UK and Manns, the new 16.5m-high building incorporates a full height, glass fronted Technoparc machinery showroom. To the rear of the office building is a new 10-bay workshop complex for Manns and a 4,336m² parts warehouse for Claas UK. The new parts warehouse has streamlined parts handling and replaces five individual buildings. It accommodates over 47,000 line items or 850,000 individual items totalling 700t, with space to spare for future expansion. For larger items there is now 45m of cantilever racking and the amount of bulk racking has been doubled, while…

Reduced scuffing when turning, a larger surface contact area and increased comfort on the road are the main advantages of the Quad-shift axle on Premium line slurry tankers from Veenhuis. Pushing out the outer wheels by up to 65cm each side, the Dutch manufacturer reckons four equally large 620/80 R42 tyres are a good alternative to single axle tankers on wide flotation versions. The independent hydraulic suspension system ensures that the pressure below each tyre is constant. It acts like a normal single-axle tanker on the road, is the claim, but the same suspension system provides additional driver comfort on the road. The company is keen to demonstrate the Quad-shift in the UK. In the meantime, the existing fixed four-wheeled axle continues to be available on Premium line tankers from 11-14m³.…

The new headstock and supporting arm arrangement for Sip’s Silvercut disc mowers provides greater security during transport. Fitted to all new side mounted and rear batwing units from next season, the in-house developed headstock features a higher locking point. The intermediary part which supports the main lift ram and cutter-bar hydraulic relief cylinder, and the main arm that connects to the mower frame, have also been updated. The company says the changes are prompted by the ever-increasing use of higher horsepower tractors coupled to fast road speeds.…

Keltec Engineering’s latest front-mounted mower can be steered from the tractor cab to eliminate uncut strips when turning at field corners. Earlier this year Claas and Sauter launched a steerable front linkage while Valtra has also previously shown a similar concept. On the Keltec, the mower can be manually steered through an arc of approximately 16° using a double-acting hydraulic ram. To do this the firm has had to redesign the mower suspension linkage to allow lateral movement between the tractor and mower. The seven disc mower bed is sourced from Italian company Comer. This is the same unit that is utilised in the 3.00m KM300 rear-mounted and trailed mower conditioner as well as the KM600B rear butterfly. The new 1.4t steerable front mower will be offered alongside the fixed…

The new generation Fendt 900 family has more in common with the larger 1000 series line-up than it does with its predecessor. Or that was certainly our thoughts from our driving impression in the 8/2019 issue. In the UK and Ireland, the older 900s have always proved popular, especially the 930 and 936. With the introduction of the new generation, it is the 936 and 942 that have taken over as the key sellers, with over 130 units having already now landed here since the launch in July 2019. And these are not just going to existing owners, says Fendt, as it looks to tempt Magnum and 8R buyers over to the German tractor brand. The five-model range (217kW/296hp 930 to the featured 305kW/415hp 942) employs a MAN motor, replacing…

In all fairness you can't accuse the Massey Ferguson design team of playing it safe with the 8S tractors' styling. The inclined windscreen, broad mudguards and the 240mm void between the bonnet and cab are especially noticeable. The colour scheme also harks back to the 1980s Massey 2000 series, with the angular construction and grey cab frame, the small decorative elements in satin chrome and the interior panels in ‘Ontario sand’ in particular catching your eye. Four models up to 265hp The new 8S replaces the larger frame tractors in the 7700S range. There are four models, from the 8S.205 (152kW/205hp) to the range-topper 8S.265 (197kW/265hp), all benefitting from a 20hp power boost, which is gradually activated at travel speeds over 6km/hr, even without the pto engaged. Supplying the grunt…

From a distance, only a Schuitemaker aficionado will spot the subtle changes to the new generation of Rapide 1000 series forage wagon models. There's the discreet addition of a little yellow near the tailgate, and the wheel rims are now grey rather than white. These minor tweaks to the colour scheme are the only physical changes implemented since the merger of Schuitemaker and Veenhuis to create the SV Group. The two Dutch machinery makers have a clear agreement. Schuitemaker’s attention is on the forage segment with wagons, silage trailers and feeding systems, while Veenhuis focuses on slurry kit with tankers and applicators. This will allow the two firms to focus on their core products while being able to make the most of increased manufacturing capacity at their new shared site.…

In the first part of our classic AgroStar 6.21 overhaul we took off the panels and fitted an extra spool valve. Since then we had the metal panels prepped and spray painted, and the roof and rear mudguards were replaced with new ones. While the painters were doing their job, the mechanics installed new LED work lights and a pair of LED beacons, which were supplied by Hella. Work lights were Hella's Power Beam 1800 Compact units, each rated at 1,850 lumen: the front lights are a flood-type light, while those on the back mudguards are a spot light. We also added two K-LED Rebelution beacons, fitting them to the custom-made mounting brackets. These lights are very flat so less susceptible to low-hanging branches and are available in rotating and…

Situated to the North West of Leyburn, North Yorkshire, Washfold Farm is close to 850ha in size. Forage for the dairy unit is produced from approximately 65ha of maize, 185ha of mainly wholecrop wheat and 325ha of grass. The latter is cut on a 28 to 30-day cycle, typically yielding five cuts a season with an average dry matter of between 35 and 40%. The dairy unit, which employs 35 full-time members of staff, is part of a wider enterprise that includes a full agricultural contracting business that employs 14 year-round, swelling to 24 ‘in season’. To complete the picture, a haulage and commercial vehicle servicing operation is also run from the site, together with an outlet for New Holland dealers; Russells. All fall under the umbrella management of Metcalfe…

If you've ever operated a combine, you'll be well aware of how many factors can influence its performance. Which is why John Deere asked profito come to an estate near the Baltic Sea on August 8th to document the throughput, grain quality and losses of its new X9 1100 rotary combine as well as a T670i six-walker machine. And when Deere staff said ‘a long day’ they weren't joking; they meant the full 24 hours, as long as Mother Nature played ball. Not lab conditions The firm had already fettled the combines on the day before the test and cleared the headlands of the wheat fields. The venue’s hilly fields would be classified by many as ranging from big to huge, as they vary in size from just under 20ha…