ProfiSeptember2025

ALONG WAY TOGETHER

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Last month I was questioning whether grants or subsidies on machinery are a good thing. Yes, everyone likes to have a little extra off, yet the resulting short boom in demand is a double-edged sword, as explained at last week’s Kuhn press launch for the firm’s new products due to debut at Agritechnica. One of the people tasked with looking after our press group is the sales manager for Italy and Scandinavia. When chat turned to the current state of the market, he noted there has been a massive shift in the spec of machines Italian farmers are demanding. Compared to the likes of Austria, Germany or the Netherlands, the Italian market has traditionally purchased relatively straightforward machines. Over the past five years, however, the demand for ISObuscompatible machines with connectivity has rocketed. The reason? Machinery subsidies … with the extra connectivity being used to provide the required documentation of various field operations. And now that Italian farmers have tasted the benefits, they are wanting even simple machines to be at least ISObus capable. Or that was the picture being painted by the Kuhn man.

But this wasn’t the only bit of useful market insight to be gleaned from the Kuhn event, as well as at a catch-up with Massey Ferguson (see the news pages and the profi website for a flavour of the hardware that will be coming in 2026).

As you might expect, there was a lot of chat from both Kuhn and Massey on how the market has been in decline over the past two years, the reasoning why, and the repercussions. On the latter point, Kuhn Group’s CEO, Thierry Krier,

No, you’re not going mad. We already tested the 6R250 in our 08/2018 issue … or the 6250R as it was back then. So, seven years on, has this best-seller managed to mature still further since our initial assessment? Read our exclusive tractor test on page 14 to find out.

made some interesting observations. When discussing the Karl autonomous tractor, for example, he stated that Kuhn is not prepared to rush to the market, adding that the firm isn’t under the same time pressure as a start-up. With the reduction in global machinery sales, seed money for start-ups, be it from investors or government funding, has dried up, and he reckons that new tech start-ups will find it difficult to survive.

And it’s not just the money for new companies that’s running out. He also believes that established tractor manufacturers producing less than 10,000 units per year could struggle to generate the research and development cash required for incorporating ISObus, connectivity and future autonomy into their products. For Kuhn, even if the Karl tractor never hits the market, it will have been a useful resource in making implements smart so they can work with future autonomous tractors from other manufacturers.

Mr Krier, who comes across as the level-headed and frank talking sort of chap, also noted that it’s not just the high-tech smart machine makers that are suffering in the current climate. He reckoned that half of the vast number of trailer makers in France are on the verge of closing their doors, as there is simply not enough volume to justify continued investment. For example, at today’s prices, the installation of a high-quality paint system comes at a cost of north of one million euros.

The better news from both Kuhn and Massey is that the machinery business is turning a corner, and, even though sales aren’t booming, they are levelling out. This particularly applies to the livestock and grassland sectors, with arable growers still needing a bit more confidence to get them spending. It will be interesting to see whether the other tractor and machinery

makers sing from the same hymn sheet in the coming months, because there are another dozen launches planned before the climax of Agritechnica.

This month we’re giving readers the opportunity to win a Porsche driving day in conjunction with Michelin. So, if you fancy a go, then please find the details on page 85.

Best of luck and, until next time, stay safe and happy farming

Mervyn Bailey, editor, profiinternational You can get in touch with me via mervyn. bailey@kelsey.co.uk or head to page 97 for further contact details.

Crutches for the tedder

This famer has been inspired by Krone’s Vendro storage stand system by fabricating these parking stands for his tedder rather than letting the two central depth wheels take the brunt of the load. The box section stands are held in place on the parked machine by a pair of wing nuts.

Mervyn Bailey Editor

14 TRACTOR TEST: John Deere 6R250

John Deere has freshened up its 250. Has this popular model still got what it takes to be a best-seller?

42 DRIVING IMPRESSION: KRM Grass Seeder

We assess KRM’s entry to the grass drill market and see how Sola has used various proven components from its other drills to give grassland a tonic.

28 PRACTICAL TEST: Shallow ploughs

Both Kverneland and Ovlac offer a shallow plough in the UK. See how they compare in our head-to-head test.

46 DRIVING IMPRESSION: Agriweld Min Dis

The minimal disturbance Min-Dis uses an angled disc to clear a path for the leg — and that can work equally well in grassland.

50 USED MACHINERY: Claas Axion 800

With an updated Axion 800 getting unveiled later this year, we thought it an opportune time to refresh our used machinery buying advice. We last looked at these long-serving tractors way back in 2014.

36 DRIVING IMPRESSION: Stoll ISObus

Stoll can now tap into a tractor’s ISObus capability to operate its front

John Deere 6R250

KRM Grass Seeder Stoll ISObus

Brookside Farms Fendt E100 Vario

Shallow

72 TECHNICAL: Fendt E100

Vario

62

Brookside

Agriweld Min Dis

VERSATILE NEMESIS

The Canadian-made Versatile Nemesis will make its European debut at Agritechnica in November. The Cummins-powered range comprises five models from 175 to 255hp. According to German dealer magazine Eilbote, the arrival of the Nemesis this side of the Atlantic is part of a push by the Canadian manufacturer, and its new owner, European ASKO Group, to grow its European presence. A 30fx15r powershift is standard on the 175, 195 and 210, and the ZF CVT on the 235 and 255 is optional on the three smaller models. Rear lift capacity of the 175, 195 and 210 is 7.05t. This increases to 7.4t on the 235 and 255 (8.8t optional).

Versatile sees the addition of the Stage V tractors to the European portfolio as a way to target new customers, and also offer an attractive power range to existing and new dealers.

The company is currently investing €10m at

12M BEDNAR ROLLER

Czech manufacturer Bednar has added a 12.3m model to its Galaxy GE roller range. Joining the 6.3m and 8.3m models introduced a year ago, the reinforced chassis on the trailed 12300 (12m) supports the five roller gangs.

Fitted with alternating 500mm smooth and 530mm breaker rings, the hydraulic system is said to ensure an even distribution across all five sections, and on the road the nearly 10t roller runs on 500/50-17 tyres.

Options include track eradicators, a hydraulically-operated levelling board to break up large clods, and an Alfa 800 seeding unit. It depends on the spec, but

the Winnipeg plant to further increase production and update machining and tooling.

Two Nemesis tractors (175 and 255hp) will be unveiled on the Canadian Pavilion in Hall 6 at Agritechnica, plus, two articulated 4wd

NEW PUMA AND T7

Spy pictures are circulating of what appear to be the successors to the short wheelbase versions of the Case IH Puma and New Holland T7. There is nothing official, but the design, like the cab, are certainly new. We will have to wait and see if the new models are on the stands at Agritechnica.

tractors; including the flagship 620hp Deltatrac. The initial focus is with tractors, but longer-term Versatile plans to grow its implement business in Europe, and the Europeanized Fury disc harrow will have its first airing at the German show.

the company is talking about a power requirement from 160 to 250hp. The plan

is to launch the 12300 in the UK and ROI at Lamma 2026.

LOVOL COMBINES IN POLAND

Polish farmers will soon be able to buy Lovol Aupax branded combines. Lovol importer Korbanek plans to start selling the Chinese made machines from 2026.

Two models are currently in tests; the straw walker GV100 for small and medium-sized farms, and the GM100, a single (3.12m long x 600mm diameter) longitudinal rotor combine that is already available in Serbia. Both models are powered by 190hp four-pot Weichai engine.

Aupax is the new brand for Lovol products made by the WeichaiLovol group, following the disappearance of the Arbos name. It is not known if Weichai-Lovol plans to market the harvesters in other parts of Europe.

IN BRIEF …..

AGCO AND TAFE SETTLE DISPUTE

The long running dispute between Agco and India’s Tafe (Tractors and Farm Equipment) is over. Terminating all outstanding agreements between the two parties, in short, the new one gives Tafe exclusive ownership of the Massey Ferguson brand in India, Nepal and Bhutan. Agco will sell its stake in Tafe back to the Indian company for US$260 million. Tafe remains a shareholder in Agco but has pledged not to increase its 16.3 percent share. The agreement has been submitted to the American stock market watchdog SEC.

KRAMP-BRANDED PTO SHAFTS

Manufactured by Comer, and marketed under the Kramp brand through its distribution network, the new range of pto shafts (T10 to T60 series) includes both with and without clutches. The black guards are said to provide higher UV resistance and a longer service life than conventional yellow guards. “We believe farmers will find these ptos are very competitively priced, and it’s a named brand from a recognised manufacturer,” says Adam Hubbard, product specialist for Kramp. “There is also the added benefit that any spare parts, such as a yoke or universal joint, are readily stocked by Kramp and its dealers, meaning farmers can expect next-day delivery or same-day collection.”

AUTONOMOUS PLOUGHING RECORD

A Kverneland five-furrow LO 300/85 plough and rubber-tracked AgXeed AgBot 5.115T2 have set the first world record for autonomous ploughing, achieving an output of 20.8ha in 24 hours. The challenge was carried out at Birch Farm, Stonegrave, North Yorkshire. Working on-land at furrow widths of 40cm and at a depth of 22.5cm, forward speeds of the 156hp AgBot varied from 5.6 to 8.0km/hr, and fuel consumption from the diesel-electric powertrain totalled 382.72 litres over the 24-hour period (18.4l/ha). Scan now to get our

NEXT VERSION OF THE LELY ASTRONAUT

The new operating system is one of the most significant changes on the Astronaut A5 Next. Allowing technicians to perform pushbutton upgrades, the system lays the foundation for remote servicing and overthe-air software updates. The 2+ teat detection system on the redesigned robot arm combines lasers and cameras to enhance visibility, improve attachment times and reduce stress during heifers’ first milking. A fully automatic milk filter removes the last repetitive task of replacing filter socks and the new robotic milker integrates with electronic ear tag identification. Existing A5 users can upgrade to the new software, although the automatic milk filter is not compatible with sand-bedded systems.

CLAAS EXPANDS AT LE MANS

Claas has earmarked €6.5 million to further expand its French tractor production site in Le Mans. Scheduled for completion by the end of this year, the new 3,800m² multifunctional production facility is viewed as a decisive step in preparing the site for the expected growth in production over the next ten years. Claas took over the Le Mans plant, as well as sites at Trangé (test and validation centre) and Vélizy (development) in 2003, and has since produced more than 200,000 tractors for the global market. The company has invested more than €80 million

to date at the French plant, which currently makes tractors from 75 to 450hp.

IAM TAKES ON SKY IN IRELAND

Following on from the French company’s recent transition to a single unified brand combining Sulky, Sky, and Prolog under the Burel Group, dealers and farmers in Ireland now have full access to the complete product line up following the appointment of Kilkenny based IAM Agricultural Machinery as exclusive importer and distributor for Sky Agriculture across the Irish market. The wide range of kit includes fertiliser spreaders, power harrows, shallow cultivators and trailed no-till and min-till drills.

KVERNELAND PARTS GO ONLINE WITH TERRAKO

Kverneland parts can now be ordered through a new online portal called Terrako. Access requires customers to sign-up, creating an online account which highlights their nearest Kverneland dealers. Doing so gives the customer direct access to stock levels when searching for parts. Payment is made at the time of ordering by credit card, and customers then receive an email confirmation of their order. Online ordering also offers quick and easy parts identification through the Smart Search photographic parts identification tool. This can be accessed using a smart phone, tablet or PC.

BELARUS TITAN

The Minsk Tractor Works (MTZ) has developed the prototype of what is claimed as the world’s most powerful conventional rigid chassis tractor; the Belarus 542hp Titan 5425.

Under the bonnet, the 13.5-litre Chinese Weichai Stage IIIa six-pot turbocharged block develops 2450Nm of torque at 1,500rpm. Mated to an 18x6 speed hydromechanical box with electro-hydraulic control, the result is said to provide uninterrupted gear changing up to the top speed of 40km/hr, and the 900-litre fuel tank is said to be sufficient for 10 hours of operation.

The engine, hydraulics and tyres are outsourced, but more than 80% of the parts used to make the 5425 are of Belarusian

COMPACT SLURRY TRAILER

origin. These include the frame, powertrain, cab, electronics and precision farming systems.

Still in tests, and there is no information as to when the 5425 could go on sale, how

The chassis on the new single-axle version of the Tramspread contractor trailer is over 2.0m shorter than the twin-axle model making it easier to navigate through narrow gateways and awkward yards.

Filling a gap in the range for a more compact format, the newcomer carries everything needed for an umbilical spreading system, including a self-contained engine-driven pump unit, compressor for blowing out the drag hose, hose spool carrying cradle and storage for tools, couplings and sundries.

Powered by either a 175hp or 238hp six-cylinder FPT engine, the new model is available with Bauer, Doda or Cri-Man pump, compressors of 140 or 180CFM output and optional GSM or radio type remote

MEGA STRAW SPREADER

much it will cost and of any plans to fit it with a Stage V engine. It is rumoured that more powerful Titans are on the way, and there is a faint hint that the range could ultimately exceed 600hp.

Spread-a-Bale has extended its M range of straw spreading machines with the Mega. Designed to handle the largest bales, complete with Hardox wear plates to the front floor section and 1.3m high rotors, the Mega has the capacity to spread all bales - round up to 1.8m diameter while it also includes the XL body option giving it additional 300mm bed length to accommodate up to 2.8m-long rectangular bales.

Requiring a handler with a minimum lift capacity of 3.0t, the Mega is able to load one bale in approximately one minute followed by a further minute to discharge and spread. The 2VR (two vertical rotors) head delivers an arc spread pattern up to 9.0m.

control systems. The 900-litre fuel tank has been repositioned underneath the engine and pump, and the 1,000m hose spool is loaded into its cradle from the front and secured with pins – no straps are needed.

The sprung axle is fitted with 50km/hr rated 435/50 R19.5 tyres and air-brakes. The drawbar is configured to allow the towing tractor to carry a dribble bar in the linkage, allowing one operator to move an entire umbilical system.

12M TINECARE HARROW

Pöttinger has updated its 12m Tinecare Master precision tine harrow. It has also changed the model number from the V12200 to the V12050. This is due to the working width in standard configuration of precisely 12.0m (previously 12.18m).

Tine pressure is hydraulically adjustable from 0.5 to 6.0kg (previously 0.5 to 5.0kg) and the longer tines have a larger wear range of 125mm. Other updates include larger jockey wheels with grooved profile (standard) or field lug profile (optional). Optional steerable jockey wheels at the rear of the frame increase ground tracking accuracy, and the position of all the wheels is adjustable to match standard planting configurations and row crops.

The optional track harrow prevents uprooted weeds from being pressed into the soil again by the rear jockey wheels. The frame folds to a transport width to 2.95m and the new precision tine harrow will be available from September 2025.

INTEGRATED PRESS

The six- to eight-furrow Lemken Diamant 18 is believed to be the only single-wheel semi-mounted plough on the market that can be combined with an integrated furrow press as standard. The inclusion of the furrow press on the new in-furrow plough was made possible by tweaking the design of the transport wheel and moving it behind the base frame.

The FlexPack furrow press can be hydraulically pressurised to adapt to different soils, and each pair of rings is suspended individually from spring steel elements. It can also be used together with the plough’s OptiStone hydraulic overload protection system. Designed for tractors of up to 650hp, the Diamant 18 is available in small numbers this year. Full series production will start in 2026.

A bit of everything

A massive 14.5m fully mounted mower and a new range of trailed sprayers will be among the range of fresh-faced machines on the Kuhn stand at Agritechnica. And we reckon there'll be other new items from Kuhn unveiled at the show itself. Roll on November.

GMD15030 — 14.5M BUTTERFLY MOWER

It is not often something new comes along in the world of mowing, but Kuhn has managed to do just that with the GMD15030. This fully mounted machine has a working width of 14.5m using four 3.1m, seven-disc beds at the rear, paired with either a 3.1m wide GMD plain or FC-F conditioner front mower (the latter allowing the grass to be placed in a narrower swath).

The 3.8t rear unit folds to a 3.0m wide, sub-4.0m tall package. To do this it uses the housing of the gearbox between the two outer units to form a 180⁰ hinge. The two mowers are also synchronised rather than being offset so there is no additional overlap. A ram between the two beds limits the amount of movement when inwork from -4.0⁰ to +6.0⁰.

The left and right wings have hydraulic breakback, and there are friction clutches on either side to protect the driveline. Power requirement is said to be in the region of 230hp, and at 15km/hr it would be possible to drop 20ha/hr less the mowing time lost to headland turns. A price has not yet been announced.

MERGE MAXX 02

The latest generation of mergers gain a new cranked tine design and easier repair of the bearings and cam tracks. There are three models: the base 762, middle 952 (ISObus option) and 1092. Among the changes are more cab-based setting options such as the ground pressure, swath width, belt speed etc. Maintenance costs have also come under the spotlight, with the new tine design said to suffer less from stress. Meanwhile only two bolts have to be removed to access the plastic bearings running inside the Hardox cam.

This ram controls the mower movement in work for contour following. The two mowers are synchronised, so the overlap is no different than on the other discs.

The beefy gearbox forms the pivot point for the two mowers. Overall width: 14.5m.

KARAN TRAILED SPRAYER

Kuhn has been missing a larger-volume, higher-spec trailed sprayer, a problem that will be solved by the arrival of the four-model 4,500- to 8,000-litre Karan. There will be three variants, with the midspec Power expected to the be the most popular. Boom widths of up to 48m will also come when the range is complete. Filling capacity is 250 to 900l/min depending on pump choice, while in-field application rates are 250-500l/min. To make use of that application rate, there is a new ‘Eagle’ smart boom control system for forward speeds of up to 25km/hr. It also gets a variation of Kuhn’s Autospray PWM system.

HIGHLANDER

The Diluset filling station is new, allowing auto filling management, and the induction hopper is closed transfer system ready, meaning you can use the pre-equipped holes to attach the coupling for whichever system you prefer. The suction capacity on the hopper is 220l/min.

Mechanical leaf spring is standard with hydro-pneumatic optional. Steering angle is up to 28⁰ for the up to 2.05m diameter VF tyres. A 6,000-litre, 36m Karan will tip the scales at 5.7t.

The smaller Lexis sprayers will stay in production, but the Metris II will be phased out in favour of the Karan, which starts production in January.

TF 2300C

Sitting between the ultra-shallow Prolander and deeper working Cultimer is the new Highlander. Its four rows of tines have a range of 3 to 20cm. This semi-mounted cultivator is available as a 6.0m or 7.6m machine. As well as the 350kg tripping force of the spring-protected tines, they also have 10cm of lateral movement. There is a choice of point and wing configurations up to 280mm. Along the front you can have additional depth wheels, a levelling board or leading discs. For the back, there are levelling blades or discs, three rows of tines or a roller.

OPTICUT 33

Kuhn UK’s Rhodri Jenkins shows the new Opticut 33 pull-out knife bank on the VBP7190 round baler. The 33 blades produce a theoretical chop length of 34mm but can be operated as 0, 8, 16, 17 or 33. As well as being powered up, the knives are also powered down when they retract, helping them to keep the knife bank clean, even when they are not chopping by cycling up and down as the bale leaves the chamber.

With a capacity of 2,360 litres, the TF 2300C is a pressurised front hopper that is split 60:40, allowing you to handle two products or mix them. There is a new metering system, where the whole cassette, not just the metering wheel, is replaced so operators do not directly handle parts that may have come into contact with various seed dressing or treatments. Spare cassettes are stored at the front of the machine, and an over-centre clamp releases them from the housing metering unit — no tools required.

There is the option of a tyre press that uses four larger 822mm diameter wheels. You can also fit up to 800kg of ballast.

Standard Features

● 460 Oblique discs (ODS)

● Depth adjustable disc bar

● Standard 20mm Hardox legs with GLS points @ 500mm centres

● Shear-bolt leg protection

● Agri-PackerTM roller and Easy Clean Scraper BarTM

● Replaceable packer stub axles

● Reflective chevron board

● Rear LED lights with 7 pin plug

● 12 Months manufacturers warranty

Optional Extras

● Auto-Reset leg protection

● Alternative roller options

● Seeder and step kit mounting

The exhaust stack has also been slimmed down, so it is like the 9S, helping improve visibility. Another Xtra change is to the lights. The 8S gets new LED lamps (still sourced from Hella) with the option of enough of them to achieve all-round illumination.

One other change relates to the two manual spool valves; these now get pressure relief levers at the couplers.

Looking to get owners back on board, Massey Ferguson has announced a number of updates to the 8S. It has introduced the new ‘Xtra’, which is now rolling off the line at Beauvais.

A little Xtra

The Xtra name is back at Massey Ferguson as it freshens up the 8S series. It is more about refinements than a complete revamp, with no changes to the quoted power outputs of the six models, which still span a nominal 205305hp.

Instead, there have been improvements to the software, to give better performance from the Dyna-7 and Dyna-E transmissions, and the introduction of self-preservation into the mix as well, where constant flicking between gear ranges and working through powershift steps led to unnecessary ratio movements.

Now if you operate Dyna-E in auto mode, it will look to miss out overlapping powershifts

GROUNDSWELL: WEEDING FOR REGEN

AgriPass, based in Tel Aviv, is the latest start-up to throw its hat into the robotic weeding arena, developing its AI-driven RHIC (Robot of Human Inspired Cultivation) unit, which relies on camera tech for real-time individual plant identification. Machine learning is used to create an optimal weeding strategy, which includes establishing the minimum working depth needed for the tools — designed to work in a similar way to hand rogueing — to remove the weed and thus minimise soil disturbance.

so, rather than stepping through the total of 28 powershift steps, (four ranges, sevenpowershifts) it will only utilise 21 in field and 22 in road mode. For instance, when on the road, it will start off in ‘gear’ five, and then, if you're looking at the overall speed chart, as it comes out of 1E only use range two, powershift D before moving to 3B. Likewise, in field mode, it will do this same ratio skipping exercise. For the operator, the A-pillar display will show which of the 21 or 22 speeds it is currently in. There is still the option to use the transmission in manual mode, but, when the oil is up to temp, the auto Dyna-E shifts pretty smoothly with only the range changes being distinguishable. Giving the tractor's drive stick a gentle push

Bob Jones Jr, of Ohio-based grower The Chef’s Garden, host to one of the USA on-farm trials taking place this year, says that this fits in with the ethos of regenerative farming. “We’re targeting reduced soil disturbance to improve the microbiome. But mechanical weeding also helps solve labour issues and comes in at a better price point than laser weeding.” First developed in tractor-drawn format, version IV is a battery-powered autonomous machine; AI is being developed for weeds of different sizes in Europe as well as the USA.

A reversible fan has been added to the options list, and this can then be engaged from the cab. Not only does this help with self-cleaning, but, by matching required airflow to cooling needs, the system minimises the power required and improves fuel efficiency.

forward increases the target speed that the transmission is working to.

Dyna-7 does much the same, with the new software making use of speed matching, but the robotised range changes are that bit more noticeable than the double-clutch setup in the Dyna E. Delve a little deeper into the transmission setting menus and you can tinker with the rate of acceleration and deceleration. You can also tell the ‘box to not change range, so, when working under load with a cultivator, it is not constantly hopping between ranges while also wrestling with high levels of torque.

This updated software has been rolled out to the existing 8S ‘mechanical’ transmission tractors.

Yet the MF Xtra moniker is not just about software, as you can see from the pictures. For the more sharp-eyed readers that have

LOADER AUTO GREASING

At the launch of the 8S Xtra, there were also some examples of the ‘MF by you’ which is the firm’s bespoke service for nonstandard options including things like central tyre pressure control or different colour schemes. One that stood out for us, was this auto-greasing system on a 5S. This pumps out a shot of grease every time the loader is lowered, cycling its way through the various lube points. The additional lines are routed neatly through the boom, just like the hoses. It is a time-consuming fit, but because it is being done more often at the 'MF by you' centre, they can do the install quicker than a dealer which reduces the labour and therefore overall cost of the package.

already peeked at the photos you will notice some other changes from the original 8S range that was launched in 2020. The more noticeable are the black side panels and top grille. To boost airflow, the vent at the rear of the bonnet (between the engine and cab) has been made bigger.

The entertainment package can be Android Auto or Apple CarPlay compatible and better Focal speakers are a welcome option, too. The microphone for the hands-free kit has been repositioned. The sunblind no longer uses the toggles that tended to constantly tap the glass.

Back to the technology, and there have been more updates to the headland management system, with the section control now able to operate up to 96 boom sections.

Mervyn Bailey

One item that had changed on the later 8S models, but garnered some attention in its early days, is that the ignition key has been moved to the side of the steering column. Previously it was at the front where it was prone to hitting the operator's knee.

John Deere 6R250:

John Deere 6R250

From hunter to hunted?

On the market since 2017, the big-frame six-cylinder 6R has become the best seller in the 6R range. Reason enough, then, to take a fresh view on this refined Mannheim heavyweight in its sports package.

Seven years have passed since our last JD 6250R tractor test in profi 8/2018. Back then we went with the headline ‘That Vario feeling’, as it wasn’t hard to see who Deere was targeting. And it has had some considerable success. Yet those crafty folk from Marktoberdorf

have been doing some hunting of their own of the Mannheim-created deer, and, should the rumours be true, more hunters are soon to be added to the pack. Anyway, the 6R250 is fundamentally still the same tractor as it was then, but John Deere has learned a few lessons. So let’s take a look at the arguments put forward for the 'experienced' 6R250. Under the bonnet is the familiar six-cylinder, 6.8-litre motor armed with two turbochargers and a rated output of 250hp, which then climbs up to a maximum output of 275hp without boost. That boost kicks in when hydraulic power is needed, during pto work at over

2km/hr or when travelling at speeds of 15km/hr+. In this case, the 6R250 delivers around 300hp, of which 265hp arrived at the tail end — very good.

Nothing more, nothing less

And what about fuel consumption with the same hardware? 244g/kWh use (+8g/kWh AdBlue) at the rated speed and 235g/kWh (9.4g/kWh AdBlue) at maximum pto output are almost exactly the same results as in 2018. No record-breaking fuel figures, but they’re still acceptable.

The results from the rolling-road test bed haven’t changed either. Although our 2025

test model improves its Powermix result by 1g, 256g/kWh proves that the deer has nothing to hide, especially as it consumes just 10g/kWh of AdBlue — despite stricter Stage V compliance. The latter is achieved with the help of exhaust gas recirculation, a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC), a diesel particulate filter (DPF) and SCR catalyst. Things get a bit more interesting when it comes to the maximum drawbar power through the continuously variable ZF Eccom transmission with its four automatically shifting travel ranges. The DLG engineers measured 165.5kW/221.9hp at 10km/hr and almost 174kW/233hp at 16km/hr as the boost was already kicking in. At 254 and 250g/kWh respectively, fuel use was also at a very good level.

Fuel-efficient road work

John Deere is promoting the 6R250 with a ‘Sport Package’, among other things. This package includes a new steering column and small leather-clad steering wheel as well as wider wheel rims, which actually give the 6R230 and 6R250 models better roadholding.

But it’s not just good operator comfort on the road; fuel consumption on tarmac is also good: 350g/kWh use at 40km/hr and 353g/kWh at 50km/hr. And since a lot more tractors have done the Powermix Transport test, the newer big 6R performed better than it did in 2018. The fuel consumption is an impressive 24% better at 40km/hr and even 18% less at 50km/hr than our current average.

However, we also have to dish out some criticism. Although John Deere can fit a PTG tyre pressure control system as a factoryfitted option, there is no additional higher capacity compressor available. And speaking of tyres, the test tractor was wearing Michelin Axiobibs, VF600/70 R30 at the front and VF710/70 R42 at the rear. Our rims weren’t yet fitted with the valves on the outsides of the rims, making tyre pressure changes a faff. Also annoying was that, up at 50km/hr travel, the tyres caused unpleasant vibration noise in the cab.

Dream cab

Moving on up, it’s not just John Deere users who feel at home in the cab. In terms of

KEEPING IT BRIEF

The 6R250 boasts good performance results.

Sports package improves straight line stability and steering behaviour at higher speeds.

The steering system and related software are almost perfect.

build quality, the 6R cab continues to set the standard, but it’s a shame the seat rail can only be extended with the help of a dealer-fitted solution, and the area cleaned by the wiper remains too small. The small leather steering wheel feels good in the hand, although if you are hopping between 6R models that have a big or small steering wheel, the varying distance to the powershuttle can mess with your head. It’s a good thing that direction changes can be selected not just on the small control lever but also the CommandPro — either with the familiar left flick or by moving it to the left and then pulling back. Other functions that got a thumbs-up from our test team include the coasting mode (push the joystick to the

The biggest 6R has become a big seller, popular with farmers and contractors wanting that bit more power and bulk.

JOHN DEERE 6R250

FUEL CONSUMPTION IN FIELD WORK

The small leather steering wheel offers a nice grip. However, the distance to the shuttle is that much more than with the larger steering wheel. Some operators won't like it.

front left), maximum speed activation by kicking the stick forward past the detent and quick speed range adjustment by turning the scroll wheel.

FUEL CONSUMPTION IN TRANSPORT WORK

As in the 2018 tractor test, diesel consumption in the Powermix fieldwork tests is consistently (and in some cases significantly) below the current average for all of the tractors tested up to now. This commendable performance also applies to the Powermix transport test, especially as DEF consumption is just 3.0% of the diesel use.

Superior and way ahead of the Vario is the ability to switch between joystick and pedal modes. This makes driving incredibly easy and customisable. The active standstill with automatic parking brake and, consequently, start-off without operating the clutch, were also praised. The 6R currently doesn’t have an automatic engine start/stop.

Many functions

The joystick’s numerous functions and up to five toggle switches, some of which are hidden round the back of the lever can be individually assigned. While the driver may have learned to feel the switches after a few hours, occasional novice users could find themselves accidentally activating them. This is one of the potential downsides of such a flexible operating concept. At least some of the buttons are backlit — for example, when the pto control is on the joystick. A small LED screen in the stick would probably be the icing on the cake and possibly a project of the future. But if you don’t need the CommandPro with its full array of aux-in functions, you can still opt for the old Command Arm set-up and save yourself £1,774.

The G5 Plus display is perfect. Not only is it HD sharp, even in strong sunlight, but the boot-up time after starting the engine is impressively short, too.

OPS and Autopath Boundaries

Operators and job organisers will now be getting used to hearing about John Deere’s Operations Centre facility. Whether it’s data transfer of jobs, maps for drilling or even

A pair of turbos nestle above the 6.8-litre DPS motor. Engine performance is impressive, especially since it uses so little DEF. A reversible fan is a factory-fit option and worth having.

Leaders in the field, Dromone, manufactures mechanical and hydraulic pick-up hitches to suit most tractors. Features include an in-cab release mechanism for quick, easy implement changes and a safe, secure, patented latching and locking system

For the ultimate in towing safety, operator comfort and reduced maintenance costs, Dromone’s Ball and Spoon is the go-to system It offers fully automatic coupling f rom the cab, eliminates rattling and shunting noises and reduces wear and hitch damage by up to 90%

The cab delivers a good feeling of space and a high-quality fit and finish.

LIFT POWER AND LIFT REQUIREMENT

Regardless of it being a 5.0t combi drill or a 2.0t fully-mounted plough, the 6R250 doesn’t produce record results. However, it will still manage to lift most machines that it's likely to be expected to use. The same applies to the front linkage.

Long lift arms: continuous 7,659daN, 75.2cm lift height

Short lift arms: continuous 8,487daN, 68.8cm lift height

Front linkage: continuous 4,140daN; 70.6cm lift height

just navigating to different fields via the familiar Google Maps interface, John Deere is simply ahead of the competition when it comes to this sort of tech.

And if you have questions about operating the 6R250 when away from the yard, then you can have the necessary steps explained via Remote Display Access, although video calling from a smartphone could achieve much the same thing. Another useful driver aid is the 'help' function on the terminal, which is ideally positioned with a question

mark and saves time flicking through the operator’s manual.

Automatic lane planning including headland manoeuvres using AutoPath (Boundaries) and AutoPath (Rows) completes the steering system package. The only things missing for the ultimate American ‘way of farming’ are the ‘Harley bar’ footrests down in the right footwell; these appear on the bigger Deere models.

Finally, with autosteer engaged, the seat can swivel up to 40° to the right so you can

After about a day, you will have sussed out most of the features on the CommandPro armrest. The 70.1dB(A) noise level in the cab is pleasant and eases the stress of a long working day.

keep an eye on the implement. If the tractor then auto reverses at the headland, you’re close to autonomous driving; it's just a pity that the ITEC functions can only be triggered by distance, but not by time.

Hydraulically more is possible

The rear linkage manages a lift range of just 75cm and, at 7,659daN, lifts less than its competitors. Thanks to almost 10,000daN within the upper range, bigger cylinders can also handle heavy attachments in this power class. Thumbs-up for the simple way of altering the lower link spacing and the spring-loaded top link to ease handling. If there was an easier way of putting the lift arms in their top position without having to juggle lynch pins, that would be great.

As for hydraulic couplers at the rear, the 6R250 offers five spool valves and PowerBeyond couplers (six valves without PowerBeyond). The couplers also have a pressure relief lever as well as handy time and flow adjustment. The swash plate pump delivers up to 195l/min.

The neatly integrated front linkage is also available with two additional couplers as an option. It is a bit of a head scratcher that the free-return line obstructs the front clevis so that the pin can only be inserted from below.

John Deere’s sales pitch for the 6R250’s Sport Package is that it provides smooth, straight-line stability and improved steering precision — courtesy of the new steering

Five spools plus Power Beyond connectors and a still tidy back end. UK and Irish spec tractors come with a push-back pick-up hitch. Plough

FURTHER DETAILS FROM OUR FIELD TEST

This is not a summary but a list of positive and less positive details.

B POSITIVE

B Work lights are switched in groups

B Front linkage with ball mount

B Engine air filter very good to access

B Air outlet on the steps

B LED dipped beam

The pull-out screen provides quick radiator cleaning.

LED packages deliver very good all-round illumination.

linkage with fewer joints. We can confirm this trait.

Compared with the smaller 6R175, however, the front axle suspension with its external cylinders is still very firm. The same applies to the brakes: with a tap of the foot, they bring the near 9.6t tractor to a standstill with a deceleration of 5.45m/s². Speaking of weight, the nifty EZ-Ballast drive-over weight from the 7R is now also available on the 6R. This allows the tractor to hydraulically couple just under 2 tonnes

E NEGATIVE

E The mobile phone holder fouls with the rail for the terminal bracket

E The fuel level pointer is too unresponsive

E DAB reception was good but only after a foil was retrofitted

E Rear cable gland

Back wiper can scratch the glass if care isn't taken.

quickly and easily, with the major benefit being that the weight distribution is ideal for heavy drawbar applications. However, this convenience is £2,090 and can't be fitted if you have a pickup hitch. A gross weight of 15 tonnes translates into an impressive payload of 5.4 tonnes. Similarly impressive is the turning circle of 13m — although the much-cited competition does turn tighter. On the other hand, the 6R250 with its LED lights dwarfs many a competitor.

The engine/transmission relationship is impressive for both pto work and when towing heavy loads. Unfortunately, the painted mirrors scratch easily and can quickly start to look tatty.

Seat doesn’t move back enough for taller operators.

How much?

The basic version of the 6R250 is priced at £259,412. Buyers can then tuck into the options list, adding bits like a front linkage, Starfire receiver, CommandCenter with G5 Plus screen including a G5 extra monitor, leather package, Ultimate seat and stainless steel exhaust stack, so you get the Signature Edition sticker. The bottom line for our test tractor according to the configurator is a hefty £325,595.

Summary

Deere’s Mannheim-built 250 has been on the market for a good few years now, but it is maturing nicely. The test results are still impressive, even if you can see that the competition is working hard to win back any customers who have turned green and yellow. That said, the 6R has several reasons why it should remain as a best-seller: the Operations Centre, the well-finished cab, the G5 terminal and more. How things change can also be seen in the price tag. Back in 2018, a base spec 6250R was just under £200k; fast forward to now and the 6R250 starts from closer to a scary £260,000!

Tobias Bensing

Corners are still round in the boundaries line planning feature.

JOHN DEERE 6R250

TECHNICAL DATA

ENGINE: 184kW/250hp (according to ECE-R 120) rated power at 2,100 rpm; 222kW/ 301hp max. w. boost; water-cooled six-cylinder DPS PowerTech PSS with 6.8 litres, in-line turbocharger (variable+fix), Stage V with DPF, DOC and SCR catalytic converter; 470-litre fuel, 25-litre AdBlue tanks

TRANSMISSION: Stepless ZF Eccom 2.9 with four automatically changing travel ranges, powershift shuttle, cruise control, 50km/hr at 1,630rpm; 33km/hr in reverse

BRAKES: Wet disc brakes front and rear, allwheel drive, automatic parking brake, air brake system

ELECTRICS: 12V battery, 174Ah, alternator with 250 amps, 3.8kW/5.1hp starter power

LINKAGE: Cat. III/IIIN; ELC, vibration damping, optional front linkage

HYDRAULICS: Axial piston pump, 195l/min, 205 bar, max. 6+3 control units with time and volume control; 80-litre oil reserve

PTO: 540/540E/1,000 (alternatively 1,000E), 1⅜ inch, 6 splines, electro-hydraulic control, optional front pto

AXLES AND RUNNING GEAR: Flanged axle, multi-plate differential locks, electrohydraulic engagement as on front axle. Tested tyres 600/60 R 30 up front and 710/70 R 42 at the rear

SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE: Engine oil

19.5 litres (change every 750 hours); transmission/hydraulic oil 160 litres (1,500 hours), cooling system 34 litres

PRICES: Basic equipment £278,150 euros; Ultimate seat (£4,539); Starfire receiver (£3,135), G5 and G5 Plus terminal (£5,486); Ultimate front hitch (£7,079) etc... Test specification machine £325,595

Output and torque

Width: 274cm; Length: 583cm; Height: 325cm

TEST STATION RESULTS TEST ASSESSMENT

PTO OUTPUT (unboosted/boosted)

Max. at 1,800/1,900rpm 180.5/195.0kW

At rated speed 156.1/182.2kW

FUEL CONSUMPTION (no boost/with boost)

At max. output

235+9.4/ 236+10.1g/kWh

Rated speed 244+7.9/243+7g/kWh

Absolute max./rated speed 55.1/53.0l/hr

TORQUE (unboosted/boosted)

Max. 1,047/1,079Nm (1,500/1,600rpm)

Torque rise/speed drop 30.3/24%

Start-off torque 114%

TRANSMISSION

No. of gears in 4-12km/hr range Stepless

REAR LIFT CAPACITIES (90% max. oil pressure, corr.)

Bottom/middle/top 7,659/9,291/9.918daN

Lift range under load 75.2cm (23.0-98.2cm)

FRONT LIFT CAPACITIES (90% max. oil pressure, corr.)

Bottom/middle/top 4,140/4,802/5,634daN

Lift range under load 70.6cm (21.3-91.9cm)

HYDRAULIC OUTPUT

Operating pressure 202 bar

Maximum flow 195l/min

Output 51.1kW (192.7l/min, 159 bar)

DRAWBAR POWER

Max. 165.5kW at 1,800rpm 254g/kWh

At rated speed 145.9kW 261g/kWh

NOISE LEVEL (under load at driver’s ear)

Cab closed 70.1dB(A)

BRAKING

Max. mean deceleration 5.45m/s2 Pedal force 36.8daN

TURNING CIRCLE

4WD disengaged 13.00m

TEST WEIGHT

Front/rear axle 3,835kg/5,755kg

Kerb weight/gross weight 9,590kg/15,000kg

Max. axle load 6,900kg/11,400kg

Payload 5,410kg

Power-weight ratio 51kg/kW

DIMENSIONS

Fuel consumption at typical performance (boosted) Fuel consumption

Good performance characteristics; low consumption, especially during transport; low AdBlue use.

Stepless transmission with very good engine/transmission control including fine tuning; pedal and joystick mode freely interchangeable; just three pto speeds.

AXLES AND RUNNING

Very good manoeuvrability; good directional stability on the road; over 5.0t payload; brakes difficult to control. LINKAGE/HYDRAULICS B

Low lifting force in the lower range; good hydraulic power; exemplary operation and spools; assignment of coupler functions is satisfactory.

very

armrest and main controller very good; large, high-resolution screens.

Grading: BB very good B good Z average E below average EE poor Individual marks are merely excerpts from our assessments and do not necessarily result in a mathematically conclusive overall mark.

Three tractors in comparison

This is a comparison of three similar hp tractors that have been tested by profi in past magazines

This is a comparison of three similar hp tractors that have been tested by profi in past magazines

Tractor Test report in issue

No. of cylinders/capacity

John Deere 6R 250 profi 9/2025 Case IH Puma 260 CVX profi 5/2024

(ECE-R 120)

Six/6.8 Iitres/V

(ECE-R 120)

Six/6.7 Iitres/V Six/7.5 Iitres/V

Manufacturer/model DPS/PowerTech PSS FPT/NEF 67 AgcoPower/Core 75

Fuel and AdBlue consumption Specific

Max torque 1, 047/1, 079Nm (1,500/1,600rpm) 1,076/1,187Nm (1,200/1,400rpm)

The Aerosem VT with integrated power harrow scored well in our test with its good accessibility and being relatively compact.

Pöttinger Aerosem VT DD cultivator drill:

Run VT

By making its wider power harrow drill combination a semi-mounted unit, it's not only easier to take on and off but also considerably reduces the amount of load on the tractor. We tested Pöttinger’s 5.0m wide Aerosem VT DD combi drill.

Not only has Pöttinger got a beefy front tank/rear power harrow drill combi in its line-up, but it also has the Aerosem VT, a semi-mounted machine pitched at farms with medium to heavy soils. Subject of this month’s practical test is the 5.0m version, the VT5000 DD, which, along with the 6.0m combi model, was introduced in 2021.

5.0m and 6.0m machines

It's not just the hopper capacity that differs on the two Aerosem VT DD drills (the 5.0m is 2,800 litres, the 6.0m having 4,600l), but

also the power harrow. Our VT 5000 was paired up with a Lion 503C, rated for up to 320hp. This has since been superseded by the Lion V5040 — still with four rotors per metre, but this now has a two-speed gearbox that sees the rotors spin at 342 or 527rpm with a 1,000 speed pto. Another difference includes the modified side plates.

The 6.0m version (Lion V6030) also has a two-speed manual-shift gearbox for a rotor speed of 320 to 430rpm. Its 20 rotors can handle up to 500hp. Quick-release tines are an option on both of these machines. Back to our test machine. On the hydraulic

side of things, our unit had the entry-level ‘Smartline’ system. This means that the individual functions are controlled from individual spool valves rather than from the terminal. For many, this approach will be perfectly adequate because most tractors will have the required three double-acting and one single-acting spool plus a free-flow return line.

Colour-coded grips on the hydraulic pipes make identifying which is which easy once you've realised the identifying decal is on the inside of the door for the drill's storage compartment.

KEEPING IT BRIEF

The tested Smartline specification should be sufficient for most growers.

Improvements could be made to the seed depth adjustment system and tyre packer at the rear of the drill.

Manoeuvrability, calibration, distribution head, harrow depth adjustment and the split hopper result in a versatile drill without the need for any big changes.

The alternative spec to the Smartline, is the Profiline, which sees all of the hydraulic functions operated by the load-sensing hydraulics.

Drawbar pivot point

No quibbles on coupling the Cat. III lower link crossbar, pto shaft, air brakes, ISObus and the power plug. One minor thing our test operators thought could be better was the retaining bolt on the parking stand — it’s a bit of a fiddle.

By moving the pivot point farther back on the drawbar (rather than at the crossbar), the VT is extremely manoeuvrable. Visibility down the slim flanks of the hopper is also excellent, which not only makes reversing with the drill very easy but also gives you an excellent view of the power harrow and coulters when in the field.

The VT is only available with a 50:50 split

Having the pivot point slightly farther back from the tractor makes the combination extremely manoeuvrable at the headland.

hopper. Of course, this means you can fill both compartments with the same variety of seed, in which case you will only have to calibrate one of the two metering units. Both units have corrosion-resistant components for handling fertiliser.

TEST RESULTS

POWER HARROW: LION V5040

Track eradicator BB

Depth control BB

Setting the levelling board B

Adjusting the side plates Z

Seed slot/ridge formation Z

Levelling B

Changing tines B

Tyre press Z

DRILL: AEROSEM VT5000 DD

HARDWARE AND QUALITY OF WORK

Seed hopper BB Seed level gauge BB

Achieving the calibrated rate BB

Cross distribution1) E/Z/E

Tramline control BB

Quality of placement BB HANDLING

Filling the hopper BB

Converting to small seeds BB

Calibration testing BB

Setting the seed rate BB

Setting the seed depth E

Adjusting the coulter pressure B

Setting the tine bar B

Emptying the hopper B

Terminal user interface Z

Steps/platform B

OVERALL COMBINATION

Ease of hitching to tractor BB

Transport changeover BB

Warning panels/lights B

Maintenance/build quality Z/B

1) Rape/wheat/grass; Ratings: BB = very good; B = good; Z = average; E = below average; EE = poor

The sliding lid is comfortably reached from the platform. It would be better if it was easier to open ... and a little wider, too.

MEASUREMENTS AND PRICES

PÖTTINGER CULTIVATOR DRILL

POWER HARROW: LION V5040

No. of rotors 2 x 10

Rotor speeds1) 342/527rpm

Tine length 33cm

Tyre press 400/50-15.5 (Ø 79cm)

Max tractor power 235kW/ 320hp

AEROSEM SEED DRILL

VT 5000 DD

Seed hopper (two 1.4m3) 2.2 tonnes of wheat

Filling width/depth 1.86/1.22m

Filling height from ground/platform 2.17/1.04m

Distribution across rows in wheat CoV = 3.6%

Distribution across rows in rape CoV = 7.6%

Distribution across rows in grass CoV = 6.0%

Coulters 40

Row spacing 12.5cm

Disc diameter 35cm

Disc spacing 30cm

Coulter pressure (min/max) 10/60kg

Press wheel diameter/ width 33/5cm

OVERALL COMBINATION

Tractor attachment Cat. III

Work width 5.11m

Transport width 2.98m

Transport height/ transport length 3.07m/7.10m

No. of grease points 58

Empty weight/axle load 8.40t/7.00t

Price (in base spec) £103,299

Price (in test specification) £150,597

1) at 1,000 pto rpm

We liked the flexibility of the second hopper, whether for sowing a second variety, for fertiliser (it goes down the same spout as the seed) or for drilling at low rates.

Filling: Even if the lid is a bit stiff to open, the concept of it sliding down the right-hand side works well so you can load the hopper with nearly any type of loader. We were also impressed by the accessibility from the side platform — despite the high bottom steps — and the emptying of the pressurised tank. A connection for the airline would be the icing on the cake, as this would allow you to blow out the hopper when changing seeds. The screens inside the hoppers could do with being more easily removed, but then they are sturdy enough for storing small bags. Two ultrasonic sensors, one in each hopper, get top marks as they indicate the amount

An ultrasonic sensor in each compartment continuously measures the amount still in the tank with centimetre precision — a very good solution.

in the tank to centimetre precision. Also, the metering units have low-level sensors, and as an extra-cost option the seed flow within the delivery tubes can be monitored, with their flow sensitivity varied on a scale from 1 to 10.

Calibration testing, too, was given a thumbsup by our test team. Not only are the sidemounted metering units quick to access, but the tared calibration bags, external calibration buttons, hopper slides and the simple-to-open cell wheel cover all play their part to just make the rate checking job a more enjoyable task. Any niggles? Just that the design of the storage compartment for the metering accessories could be better laid out.

Power harrow with hydraulic damper

The power harrow positioned ahead of the tyre packer is also nice to use. It's suspended from a parallel linkage and hydraulically damped. Depth of work can be adjusted with cm precision, with current depth displayed on the terminal — practical for changing conditions.

One minor drawback is that, when you make a big change to the harrow’s depth, you'll need to manually reset the

Quick-change tines are an extra-cost option, but they do make the job easier.

The need to remove the protective cover is a job we could do without.

The levelling board can be quickly adjusted on both sides with the supplied tool.

SEED DISTRIBUTION — AEROSEM VT

The drill performed best when planting wheat seed (CoV 3.6%). Grass (CoV 6%) and rapeseed (CoV 7.6%) distribution was only adequate.

To alter the sowing depth, you have to climb onto or into the middle of the machine — one of the biggest bugbears during

side deflector plates with the on-board tools. To adjust the two halves of the optional levelling board you need to hop out and again use the supplied tool. A laser-etched scale shows the depth — it works well. The space between the power harrow and the tyre packer has since been increased.

There were some issues with the trough seal during our season-long test, but Pöttinger quickly rectified this. Greasing up the cam clutch-protected drive shafts is a bit of a fiddle, especially with the hefty steel guards around the universal joints, because you can damage the speed sensors when refitting.

Equipped

our test.

The linkage used for the double-disc coulters allows very even coulter pressure.

Last bit on the power harrow: it folds in two parts and is pressurised so that it can offer 5° of upward travel but no extra downward travel.

Then there is the pre-sowing consolidation, which is done with a pneumatic tyre press: each wheel is 400mm wide and 790mm high. Unlike other Pöttinger trailed drills, there is no contour following for the section, so it can't adapt to the road camber which is no doubt going to cause inevitable damage. The scrapers located in front of and behind the tyres worked without any issues in our stone-free conditions. Speaking to users, they have had issues with stones jamming in the scrapers on earlier drills, but Pottinger has replaced them with a modified linkage to remedy this.

Well bedded

The drill's 350mm double-disc coulters are mounted on two beams, with equal length arms for the coulters. With a 30cm offset between front and back rows, the machine copes well with stickier soils and organic matter. We measured consistent pressures of up to 60kg on both the front and rear coulters. Overall, the 25mm offset-mounted discs worked without any issues on a variety of soil types, thanks in part to the internal scrapers.

A hole pattern between the coulter and the press wheel (330 x 50mm) is required for sowing different crops. To sow beans, for

A button and tared calibration bag make the two or three calibration runs very easy to carry out. Accessibility is excellent, as is the accuracy of the calibration process.

example, you need to refit one pin on each coulter. The middle position worked fine for us for sowing catch crops, rape and cereals. Seed depth setting, though, does come in for criticism. To make a change you move a spring-loaded pin to a different hole, but there is a scale for reference. This is done four times, but to reach the middle two, you have to climb into/onto the machine.

Regarding coulter pressure, on the Smartline version, this is altered via a manual throttle next to the fan, as the oil is diverted through a bypass. By slightly adjusting the fan speed, the coulter press can be increased slightly. On the Profiline drills, the coulter pressure is altered from the control box/screen. When it comes to all the cross-distribution measurements, the coefficient of variation in wheat of 3.6% was satisfactory but not so in grass (6%) and OSR (7.6%). These figures could be better.

The optional IDS distribution head offers lots of sowing possibilities. Equipped with one control flap for each row, you can switch sections up to 1.0m wide — also via GPS. It can also be used to drill various row and tramline systems. Unfortunately, a GPSsupported tramline system does not yet exist ... for now.

Other details

● The power harrow and coulter bank are raised and lowered at different times.

● ISObus interface offers lots of functions — fine for regular users, but complicated for occasional operators.

The ISObus menu layout works, but it's certainly not the most self-explanatory.

● The combination weighs 8.4 tonnes, of which 7.0t is on the packer when empty.

● Field emergence was uniform and good.

● A front packer is available as an option.

● Depending on the topography and how much power harrowing you want to do, we recommend a tractor of 240 to 320hp.

● Almost 60 grease nipples, some of which are difficult to get at. That's too many!

● The basic machine costs £103,299. Then add £19,404 for the seed bar, £5,348 for air brakes, £1,190 for the quick-change tines without wear pads, £1,467 for the levelling board and £4,205 for a set of bout markers. The seed flow monitoring costs £6,171, the IDS seed distribution head £7,803 and the following harrow £1,710. That’s £150,597 for the 5.0m we tested — and that’s without a terminal, spare metering rollers and eradicators.

Summary

It's the compact and functional overall design of the machine that makes sowing with the Aerosem VT such a pleasure. Nevertheless, criticism goes to lateral seed distribution, the tyre packer when travelling on the road, too many grease points and the seed depth adjustment. Overall, though, we still liked the drill for the mentioned positives. We think the base “Smartline” version should be sufficient for most farms' requirements. Sönke Schulz

With the IDS distribution head (optional), each row can be individually controlled.

A point of criticism: the roller lacks any way of following the camber of the road.

Our head-to-head test compares the multiadaptable Ecomat with the beautifully simple Mini.

WAt the shallow end

Shallow ploughing might not be everyone’s cup of tea but with increased focus on carbon emissions and the obvious cost advantages of just skimming under the surface, it’s a practice that is receiving renewed attention. We put two of the front-runners in the field side-by-side earlier this year..

hile there’s nothing new in the practice of shallow ploughing, it’s a technique that has never really taken a grip as a mainstream cultivation approach. Consequently, manufacturers of these niche

inversion tillage tools have come and gone but a few players remain steadfast in the game. French manufacturer Bugnot continues to have a decent following in its home market with its RapidLab skim plough but due to the small numbers shifted this

KEEPING IT BRIEF

The Ovlac Mini is available in two to nine furrows.

Kveneland makes the Ecomat in five to eight furrows.

As tested the Ovlac is £25,488, the Kverneland £51,854.

side of the Channel, importer ArbForest doesn’t run a demo machine.

So, that leaves just two others - Ovlac and Kverneland. Last spring we asked each to supply us with their most popular shallow ploughs to assess just how well they work and how easy they are to set up.

From the south

Located in northern Spain, Ovlac has been building ploughs for over 75 years and today claims to be the country’s largest manufacturer of soil-engaging equipment. The firm is regarded as something of a specialist in shallow inversion tillage with a

Adjustable trash-boards bolt to the top of the mouldboards on the Ovlac to slice through the furrow as it peels off.

Kverneland Ecomat vs:

range built specifically for that growing market.

Alongside a full offering of conventional and reversible ploughs from two to nine furrows – mounted and semi-mounted – the company has developed its Mini range to work at depths of between 8cm and 20cm. According to the company, reducing share depth to less than 15cm can half power requirements enabling smaller tractors to cover far greater working widths – it is apparently possible to have a 13-body plough spanning 5.0m on a tractor of just 260hp.

From the north

It’s a similar story with Kverneland which builds the entirety of is plough line-up in Norway. Despite having a short break in production of its shallow plough offering a few years back, the company has recently invested a good chunk its R&D budget in its Ecomat shallow ploughs, widening the range to include smaller in-furrow six-, seven- and eight-body models suitable for more modestly sized tractors.

For now though we’re told it’s the company’s eight-furrow on-land model that attracts most attention and so that’s the demo machine we were given.

Great minds think…

On-land versions prove the most popular for the Spaniards too apparently and consequently it was a seven-furrow Ovlac

Mini NH that we received for our in-field comparison.

level a very straightforward process.

Albeit very similar on paper, it immediately becomes apparent that these are two very different beasts. Kverneland’s Ecomat OnLand looks much like a standard eightfurrow plough. And that’s because it is. It’s based on the company’s ever-popular LO-series ploughs and comes with either eight or ten bodies while the smaller infurrow variants are based on ES-series models and run from five to eight bodies. In contrast the Ovlac Mini employs a purpose-built multi-beam frame for its fiveto 11-body fully mounted models while

bigger 12- and 13-furrow versions borrow the single beam design used on the company’s semi-mounted standard ploughs. Our seven-furrow test model came equipped with a number of options including hydraulic auto-reset and an intriguing-looking front depth wheel.

The eight-body Kverneland landed with shear bolt overload protection and manual vari-width enabling pass-to-pass spans to be adjusted from 2.40m to 4.24m. The seven-furrow Ovlac has two manually set working widths of 2.48m and 2.68m with the ability to add another two bolt-on bodies to take it to a maximum of 3.45m.

The Ovlac has to be hoisted as high as possible on the linkage to set the rear wheel to its transport position. Consequently it rides high on the road and can get a bit of a swagger on.

Turnbuckle adjusters on the Ovlac’s front and rear depth stops limit wheel travel and make setting the plough up

With the eight-furrow Kverneland in ‘butterfly’ transport position, the front end can be lowered to a sensible height.

DIGGING DEEP INTO SHALLOW PLOUGHING

Being able to bury trash and control weeds while not exerting huge loading on the tractor makes shallow ploughing an attractive proposition on the face of it. But as with anything agricultural it’ll only suit certain sites, soils and systems.

Much research has been done on the subject particularly in northern Europe and Scandinavia. Trials with organic pea and oat crops in Germany compared the effects of 7-10cm and 25-30cm ploughing depths. Unsurprisingly penetration resistance (compaction) was greater in the 14-28cm soil zone under the shallow regime whereas soil loading due to the increased draft requirements with deep ploughing increased compaction and had an impact on yields, reducing them by between 12.1% - 20.8%.

Annual weed infestation levels were generally higher in the shallow inversion areas. The overall finding suggested that shallow ploughing mitigates the risk of a decrease in crop performance as a result of heavy field traffic and its reduced power/labour requirement goes a long way in offsetting the potential increase in weed burdens when compared with deep inversion.

Comprehensive field trials in Norway throughout the mid 2000s looked at the impact of reduced ploughing depth alongside the difference between in-furrow and on-land approaches.

In-furrow ploughing was found to significantly reduce the air-filled pore space and subsequent permeability when soil conditions were sub optimal however it had very little effect when ploughing was performed with favourable moisture levels.

Shallow ploughing led to marked increases in perennial weed biomass and particularly allowed couch grass to flourish. However, reduced depth cultivation was shown to provide greater reserves of plant-available P & K. It is asserted that this is due to the fact that shallow inversion tillage favours the formation of cavities where air and moisture can work together to provide a microclimate to suit the bacteria that can decompose large volumes of crop residue, producing a clay-humic complex that mineralises nutrients and increases the natural fertility of the soil.

A six-year long investigation in the Netherlands set out to ascertain the minimum ploughing depth possible for sustainable weed control and acceptable yields. Working at depths of between 12-20cm depending on conditions, it was found that crop performance was similar with both conventional and shallow approaches but weed populations did increase when working depths reduced to less than 20cm.

The trial also looked at the impact of noninversion tillage practices for slurry and muck

incorporation, finding that ammonia losses leapt from 10% to around 60% when going from the plough to a stubble cultivator. There is still plenty of debate about the optimum depth of ploughing. Some studies suggest that organic farmers should reduce ploughing depth to a minimum of 8cm. However, in order to bury green manure, annual weeds and crop residues, working depth should be at least 12cm and for control of perennial weeds it should be 20cm or more.

After shallow ploughing the surface tends to be less undulating than after conventional ploughing. This is mainly due to the difference in depth-to-width ratios. Generally shallow furrows run at 2:5 instead of 2:3 with traditional deep inversion. Reduced surface roughness after ploughing can remove the need for a tillage pass for seedbed preparation, making the practice even more financially attractive. But in situations where deep ruts need to be levelled, for example after root crops or maize, shallow ploughing will struggle to alleviate the issues. If it’s possible to achieve almost complete surface burial working at less than half the depth of a normal plough with an implement that requires half the power, while doing a far better job of inversion than a cultivator, then there has to be some merit in the concept.

A pin is inserted in the rear wheel pivot to lock the Ecomat for transport.

Pins in the lower cross-shaft of the Kverneland are removed for transport to allow the plough to follow the tractor like a trailed implement.

Gauge on the rear of the Kverneland beam allows operators to hydraulically alter working depth…

…with it set right, taps are shut to ensure it remains in the same position throughout the day. This arrangement means the hydraulic wheel can be used to lift the rear of the plough out of work but it cannot go deeper than the set working depth.

Bolted to the Ecomat’s landside knivess, trashboards slice through the soil as it curls up over the points. Optional plastic mouldboards are designed for sticky stone-free conditions. Judging by the scarring during our short trial they’re not well suited to flinty ground.

In work

Once pulled into the field, set up with the Kverneland is much like that with a standard plough. A single bolt through the beam in each body bracket varies the angle to alter furrow widths in 5cm increments. Collars on the front furrow width adjustment ram then set the stroke length so that the bean returns to the same angle after each turnover. A large nut on the threaded end of the ram provides fine-tuning. Adjusting the depth on a standard model is done via a long threaded bar linked to the rear wheel. Our test machine had hydraulic depth control. To tweak it you open two taps, use a spool valve to raise or lower the wheel. Shut the taps and that’s the backend sorted. With a floating top-link it’s just a case of setting the link arms to the right height to get front and rear mouldboards running true.

Body choice

As you’d imagine there’s a whole raft of body choices from the Kverneland parts bin. Plastic and steel mouldboards both come

DATA SHEET

OVLAC MINI NH 7 VS KVERNELAND ECOMAT ON-LAND

No. furrows 7 (with +2 optional bolt-on bodies) 8

Min working depth 80mm 60mm

Max working depth 200mm 180mm

Working width per furrow 355mm & 383mm

300-500mm (mechanically adjusted in 50mm increments)

Overall working width 2.68m (3.06m with 1 extra body, 3.45m with + 2) 2.40m – 4.24m

Interbody clearance

Underbeam clearance

Headstock 140mm solid turnover shaft 150mm hollow turnover shaft

Depth/transport wheel

Price – base spec

200/60 x 14.5 BKT front, 340/55 x 16 Ascenso rear 420/55 x 17 Trelleborg

£16,251

£43,975 - as tested

£25,488 1)

£51,854 2)

1) Ovlac demo spec. included hydraulic auto reset, front depth wheel, road lights, rear transport wheel, landside wear plates and trashboards. 2) Kverneland demo spec. included TTS kit with 420 depth wheel and hydraulc depth wheel adjustment, plastic Ecomat mouldboards, knock-on points.

with the same wearing metal as No. 28 bodies and there are the options of carbide tips, knock-on points, quick fit shins, etc… A landside knife comes as standard to slice through the furrow as it peels off the point. On our test rig we had optional bolt-on trash-boards out in front of each body and there is the option of double fingers running

vertically along the top of each board to help flip cantankerous sods over on their backs. With the job done, it’s time to head for home. The Ecomat’s headstock has a pivoting lower cross-shaft that is locked when in the field. A handle is then flipped with the plough in butterfly position allowing the Kverneland to behave like a semi-mounted

Shared with Kverneland’s cultivator range, optional knock-on points make for quick wearing metal pit stops but the blunt bulletpoint tips aren’t the best for penetrating hardpacked soils.

A manually activated pin in the Ovlac headstock locks the frame in an upright ‘butterfly’ position for transport with the rear wheel steering and sharing the load.

rig on the road. With the top link detached, the rear wheel remains fixed while the headstock steers, making the whole setup follow much like a tractor-trailer combination.

It’s fair to say the Ovlac Mini is a simpler beast and consequently setup is more straightforward. First, it’s a case of positioning the sliding headstock in a position where the front furrow is well clear of the rear wheels. This is then easily tweaked on the move from the cab, shifting the whole plough frame left and right accordingly – a useful feature on side slopes where the rig may not track entirely true. Next up is front furrow depth. With the toplink in the slotted hole, the link-arms are the primary means of regulating how deep the plough works. The optional front depth wheel is there more as a guide – it should only be skimming the surface to ensure

The Ovlac Mini was able to work shallower – as little as 80mm – but that provided less margin for error, surface undulations causing it to skip and miss in places.

there’s still decent weight transfer onto the back of the tractor. That said, it’s a musthave option in our opinion, making the rigidframed plough much more effective in maintaining a consistent shallow working depth on uneven surfaces.

With the front end sorted it’s simply a case of adjusting the turnbuckles on the rear wheel to set the whole frame running true. We can’t overstate how beautifully simple the Ovlac is to set up.

It also has another trick up its sleeve to ensure true tracking behind the tractor. The main headstock cross-shaft can oscillate. This means the plough can find its own line, pivoting around its central pull point and finding the midline between the forces exerted on the landsides and mouldboards. In this way it’s not necessary to make lots of adjustments to ensure the Mini pulls straight. It simply finds its own happy medium.

Again, there is a plethora of body choices for the Spanish plough, steel slatted or solid and plastic for the stickiest conditions. Reversible tips can be bolted on to the front of the flush-fit one-way points which is great for extending the life of wearing metal but creates a step which sticky soil can hang up on. Adjustable landside wear plate extensions are standard as are tweakable trashboards.

For transport the Ovlac has to be hoisted as high as possible to get the rear wheel into its road position. This requires a pin to be removed and positioned in the designated travel hole. Getting the weight off is an awkward finger-snagging process that requires generous doses of right boot. Once tucked under the frame the wheel pivots round corners while supporting the weight of the plough.

The Ecomat needed to be working at a minimum of 140mm deep to generate decent trash burial, a situation that could possibly be improved the with addition of trashboards on the top of the mouldboards

A single ram slides the plough left and right in the headstock to set the offset from the rear tractor wheel, effectively providing front furrow width adjustment.

With its multi-beam fixed frame, there’s a definite whiff of the old Howard Paraplow about the Ovlac Mini.

Depth wheels on the front and rear of the Ovlac frame make set-up a cinch. The fore-ender is an £1,364 option but we’d say it’s a must.

Summary

Like other Kverneland ploughs, the Ecomat is often viewed as the gold standard for shallow ploughs. Being arranged around the same basic design as the company’s standard models it has heaps of adjustment in all three dimensions. But that level of sophistication comes with its own inherent complexity. This is no drop it in the ground and go rig. You need to take time to get it set up right to do the best possible job. In contrast the Ovlac Mini is about as

straightforward as it gets. Front and rear wheel adjustments deal with ploughing depth while the sliding headstock sets the front furrow away from the tractor’s rear wheels. The Spaniards’ clever free-floating line-of-pull arrangement means that the plough can never run anything other than true. While this simplicity is great, it does mean there’s less refinement to the Mini and match ploughmen might feel they’re lacking all the tweak-ability they’d like.

The upside of this lack of complexity is that

Switching the Ovlac’s

pin from ploughing to transport positions appears straightforward enough…

…but requires a couple of sharp doses of size 10 treatment.

it’s a massively cheaper build. While the eight furrow Kverneland comes in at north of £50k, an equivalent 7+1 Ovlac stands at about £21,000.

Ovlac Mini ploughs fitted with hydraulic autoreset are supplied with a plug-in pressure gauge to enable operators to set the system according to soil conditions.

rear wheel

A Massey 8S.305 was the test tug for the eight-furrow Kverneland – a little bit overkill for the job, it didn’t struggle for traction or power on the flinty Wiltshire downland.

Nick Fone

And despite the plume of smoke from its funnel, neither did the trusty 12,500-hour Valmet 8550, leant to us kindly by Somerset contractor Ben Simmons.

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An all-wheel steer JCB Fastrac 4220 and Stoll ProfiLine FZ46-29 ISObus Connected loader combo make a formidable combination. Using the tractor’s integrated secondary joystick to seamlessly work the loader with good proportional control proved a plus, but it was the smooth operation of the loader itself that was the standout feature.

Stoll ProfiLine ISObus Connected:

Easier to fit and better to use

Stoll’s ISObus Connected loader controls is now an option on the ProfiLine range making it not only easier to install and use via the tractor’s onboard joystick and ISObus terminal. With this simplified integration, installing a loader is easier but this is just part of a bigger story.

Stoll has packed a whole host of operator-friendly features into its ISObus Connected system. While none are absolutely essential, half an hour into using a ProfiLine FZ46-29 on the nose of a JCB Fastrac 4220 it was clear there is more to the set up than the features that come as a package with this ISObus system. Even a ham-fisted joystick jockey can become a smooth operator.

ISObus Connected can be set up to operate in different ways to match specific tractor models, but for most the loader will be operated via the secondary joystick that is part and parcel of many modern tractor controls. A few tweaks and operating the loader in its simplest mode will have most operators up and running with very little in the way of instruction. According to Stoll’s

long-established UK importer Lynx Engineering, most of the ISObus Connected loaders it has sold to date have seen customers get used to the loader initially by operating it in its basic Easy Mode setting. Once familiar with the basics, operators can then dive into the various set-up profiles that enable various functions to be tweaked, not just in general, but to suit specific attachments and tasks. These can then be personalised to suit different operators – a possible useful feature for tractors is used by different drivers.

Sounds great, but what is it like in practice?

Lynx Engineering had two ProfiLine loader set ups to try; a JCB Fastrac and Case IH Puma 165. This provided an opportunity to

sample the ISObus Connect set up patched into the integrated ISObus system of two different tractors. In both cases, the mini joystick fitted in these tractors was set up

KEEPING IT BRIEF

ISObus Connect is only offered on Stoll ProfiLine loader models

Basic set up offers smooth loader control

Fitting a loader to a suitable tractor will take less time

System adds weigh system to a Stoll loader for the first time

DATA SHEET

PROFILINE FZ 43-27 STANDARD

Ability Lift height 4.30m, lift capacity at full height 1,890kg

Standard features

Mechanical self-levelling, third service, Comfort Drive boom suspension, Euro headstock, Pro control Electric Joystick.

Price £16,370 Case IH Puma 165 fitting

PROFILINE FZ 43-27 ISOBUS CONNECTED

Ability Lift height 4.30m, lift capacity at full height 1,890kg

Standard features ISObus, Comfort Drive boom suspension, mechanical self-levelling, third service, Euro headstock with Hydrolock hydraulic locking.

Price £17,590 Case IH Puma 165 fitting

PROFILINE FZ 46-29

Ability Lift height 4.55m, lift capacity at full height 2,280kg.

Standard features Mechanical self-levelling, third service, Comfort Drive boom suspension, Euro headstock, Pro control Electric Joystick.

Price £17,900 JCB Fastrac 4220 fitting

PROFILINE FZ 46-29 ISOBUS CONNECTED

Ability Lift height 4.55m, lift capacity at full height 2,280kg

Standard features

Mechanical self-levelling, third service, Comfort Drive boom suspension, Euro headstock, with Hyrolock hydraulic locking

Price £19,210 JCB Fastrac 4220 fitting

Operated via the tractor’s integrated ‘stubby’ secondary joystick, the loader was set up so the grab would apply a fixed squeezing force to pick up the bale. Just press the assigned button, and the hands grab the bale without you having to put much thought into the operation. It is the ability to set the loader up to suit the job, personal preferences and specific attachments that is a key plus. A new feature is the ability to weight a load, both statically and on the move.

for operating a front linkage plus spool valves selected by the operator. Thanks to ISObus, the joystick is easily assigned to operate the front loader.

Using a mini joystick to operate a ‘conventional’ front loader can be a

somewhat ‘jerky’ affair, a lack of accurate proportional control sometimes making it difficult to accurately position a load or work the loader in the field over rough ground. With the Stoll system, the sensitivity of the joystick and the way the loader

How the loader will integrate with a tractor will be influenced by its ISObus system, with Lynx Engineering suggesting some makes and models may need some software or hardware tweaks to work with Stoll’s ISObus Connected. Any problems encountered to date have been resolved but the company suggest a full compatibility check may be necessary on tractor models yet to be fitted with one of these new loaders.

hydraulics are controlled can be easily tweaked. This made working the loader if not necessarily easier, then certainly smoother. This was particularly noticeable on the Fastrac, the front suspension of the latter having far less work to do in soaking up the shock loads of the loader as it was brought to a stop at speed with a filled bucket. The loader ram end stop cushioning was adjusted to help dampen the loader as it reaches a pre-set lower stop position to sample what it could do, regardless of load in the bucket, it worked well.

Diving into the loader specific menus did initially seem complex but, as is always the case with ISObus set ups, a short while working through the settings a couple of times and operating the loader as each change was made soon made it easy to navigate through the core settings on offer. Once set up, the settings are retained, with the option to have a range of set-ups to suit specific applications or operators. Regardless of the settings on offer, it was the ability to work the loader smoothly that was the standout feature. Being able to automatically programme in a set up to match the job, such as return the bucket to level at a specific boom height and controlling the dump speed when tipping is the just one of the cherries on top.

Nick Ewbank, managing director of Lynx Engineering, suggests that the market for the new ISObus compatible loader will suit a range of operators. “The benefits ideally suit tractors from 120hp plus”, he says. “As an example, having a loader that can weigh individual ration ingredients and add up

TWELVE FUNCTIONS

Stoll ISObus Connected functions are set up via the tractor’s terminal. In brief these include:

● TEACH-IN

Think of a headland turn sequencing system but this time applied to operating a loader. Individual operational sequences of the lift arm and implement can be recorded and saved. Once set up, these actions can be repeated by simply pulling the joystick back and releasing to trigger each recorded operation in turn.

● LOAD WEIGHING

Up to now, Stoll has not offered a weighing system for its loaders, but with the ISObus system, this is now included. Once set up, deducting the pre-calibrated and saved weight of the implement, the system will weigh the load at a standstill or on the move. The weight is shown on the display, with the ability to store a total weight target. This enables several weighed loads to be totalled, the operator being able to fill a feeder or trailer with a fixed load without needing to tally the total themselves. The systems accuracy is subject a degree of variation, so cannot be used for an invoiced load, but it should be accurate to within plus or minus 2540kg.

● PRESSURE REGULATION

Think of a bale grab picking up a wrapped bale. The trick is to apply enough pressure to secure the bale but limit it so the wrap is not damaged, or the bale deformed. With the Pressure Regulation system, the clamping force can be set. Each time the loader is used to pick up a bale, this setting will be recalled.

● LOAD INDEPENDENT LOWERING SPEED

This feature can make handling heavy loads much easier by reducing the shock loads passing through the tractor to the operator. Once set, this mode will maintain the same lowering speed irrespective of the load. This is achieved by automatically adjusting the return oil

total weights has obvious advantages. Programmable working heights and setting the loader up to complete repeatable operations can boost productivity. Another simple example is in the handling of wrapped bales. The ability to program the squeeze pressure of a bale handler to reduce the chance of bale deformation is

flow to suit the weight of the implement. It can also control the rate of lift.

● RETURN TO POSITION

When using a fork or bucket, setting the required angle to push into the load can be set and stored on the tractor terminal. By using a control button dedicated to this task on the joystick, the operator can revert to the stored angle as the attachment is lowered to the ground. This could be really handy when loading grain or mucking out.

● RAMP FUNCTION

This is the function used to determine how much the joystick is moved before the loader reacts. This can be set from soft to hard. Uses can set the function to soft when loading bales in the field, so when crossing a tramline with the joystick in hand, the soft function will prevent a nudge on the joystick acting on the loader. At the other extreme, a quick tap on the joystick to quickly flip the bucket or raise the loader may be just what is needed when loading. This can be achieved by altering the joystick to its hard setting.

● WORKING WINDOW

In confined spaces or when using an attachment that may have limited tip or crowd, the Working Window function can be set to limit the tipping angle of the attachment as well as the lift height of the lift arms.

● VIBRATION DAMPING COMFORTRIDE

The established Stoll ComfortRide boom suspension system is enhanced on ISObus loaders, with two piston accumulators in the boom crossmember controlling the lift rams’ level of cushioning automatically adjusting for the weight of the load. The system can be set to offer boom suspension suitable for transport on the road or working in the field.

● ELECTRONIC FLOW SHARING

Enables the smooth switching and mixing of functions including the Stoll Real 3rd function by automatically adjusting pump volumes to optimum levels.

● END-POSITION CUSHIONING

Although cushioning the movement of a ram

just one key advantage of a programmable loader and its attachment”.

Summary

Matching a tractor to a front loader can see a compromise between ease of attachment and its control, an integrated loader joystick not always offering the finesse that makes

at the end of its travel is not new, the system on the loader can be adjusted to match the application. This is achieved by automatically calculating the kinetic energy of a specific load and the determining the required deceleration distance as the ram approaches the end position. In simple terms, the loader operates more smoothly.

● BUCKET SHAKE

The shaking function can be set to activate automatically. It has two preset actions, a long slow shake or a faster shake with shorter movements.

● ELECTRIC PARALLEL GUIDANCE

As the hydraulics are electrically controlled, maintaining a set angle of an attachment can be calculated and adjusted accurately as the boom is raised or lowered. The levelling can be controlled to the limits of boom and implement travel. In pallet work, the system can help ensure the load is retained at a safe working angle through the loading cycle with a much-reduced chance of the load being tilted and dislodged. The function can be switched on and off.

Core modes are divided into twelve but the level of control and settings on offer is broader. Once a loader, and attachment, have been set up, the operator can easily switch on key functions to match specific applications.

the loader pleasant to operate. The Stoll ISObus connectivity system scores by enabling the operator to set up the loader so its sensitivity can be matched to a specific application with the accurate control of the loader hydraulics to make it easier to smoothly operate.

James de Havilland

Three buttons are fitted on the Puma’s ‘mini’ joystick, with four on the JCB Fastrac. This will not necessarily limit the loader functions available but it serves to illustrate why Lynx Engineering do not claim everything in the ISObus world will lead to 100% compatibility. The Case Puma and loader combo worked exactly as expected. Note the loader set up menu. This will take some time to work through initially, Stoll suggesting users first work the loader in Easy Mode. There are numerous settings to fiddle with.

Loader set-up menu in top left corner can be used to determine a host of loader working parameters, to include a ‘working window’ that can be used to limit boom lift and lower as well as set the crowd and dump angle of an attachment. This could be handy when using the loader in a building or when working with an attachment that has its movement restricted by its design. It is also possible to set the speed of the boom drop so it remains constant, even when lowering a heavy load.

Two position sensors, one at the carriage (left) the other at the boom pivot (right) accurately monitor the position of the loader arms and angle of any attachment. From these settings, the loader can be set up to accurately set return to load or dig bucket angles and fix raise and lower heights.

Stoll have developed the loader ISObus package so it is completely self-contained, with no need to install specialist hardware on the tractor. The loader’s ECU (arrowed) is located under a protective cover with the valve blocks on the loader crossmember.

ISOBUS COST PREMIUM

Stoll ISObus Connected will add around £1,220 to the cost of the loader. This is just part of the cost equation, however, as the ISObus system makes the loader easier to fit. There are three hoses to the rear of the tractor and they plumb directly into the hydraulic circuits rather than into the valve block. They are directly connected to Power Beyond, Load Sensing line and the Return. For dealers, this simplified fitting will have its own attractions that could well see ISObus Connected loaders sold at a price that will make them the default choice over a ‘standard’ ProfiLine loader for those with a suitably specified tractor.

Amazone Catros+ 7003-2 Pro cultivator:

Amazone has developed the Catros+ Pro as a slurryincorporating cultivator with an impressive throughput.

Keeping discs clean

Depending on the amount of slurry and soil moisture, a rear roller on a disc harrow is a potential sticking point. Amazone can now fit a following harrow on its Catros+ disc cultivator when working with slurry and digestate.

There are several variations of Catros in the Amazone disc harrow range. Newest addition off the rank is the Pro, which is pitched at farmers and contractors wanting an off-the-peg slurryincorporating cultivator from the factory. It comes in working widths of 5.0m, 6.0m and 7.0m. Vogelsang supplies the macerator/ distributor for these mounted units, which also benefit from special disc bearings to better match the corrosive nature of slurry.

Less weight

Last year, we went to see a Catros+ 7003-2 Pro in action with German farming business Althausen Agrarservice, in the Rhineland region, working down cereal stubble ahead of oilseed rape. The 7.0m wide disc harrow was mounted on a Kumm 16m³ tanker. The farm opted for the double following harrow, which allows it to evenly distribute chopped straw and still do a clean job even in wet conditions.

Is the disc harrow without a roller lighter?

Yes, but not by that much. A clean Catros+ weighs in at 4,437kg with the double row following harrow, compared to 4,700kg with the 60cm cage roller. A difference of just 260kg, according to the Amazone brochure stats.

The weight advantage is more noticeable when working in the field: although the lighter harrow needs some additional gauge wheels at the front, to control the depth, the centre of gravity is significantly closer to the tanker’s axle. Another advantage is that the soil and slurry don’t stick to the harrow like they do with a roller, which then needs extra lifting power.

In the front row

The slurry disc harrow will definitely get dirty. On the machine we visited, the slurry was still being applied in front of the first row of discs. However, not just in our own experience, but also that of users, placing

the slurry in the shadow of the first row of discs is becoming more popular. Amazone has actually stopped selling the version where slurry is applied ahead of the first gang of Catros discs this year.

The 50mm diameter hoses are tidily routed

KEEPING IT BRIEF

The Pro version of the Catros+ disc harrow comes slurry-ready from the Amazone factory.

Slurry is applied behind the first row of discs.

Double tines are an alternative to the rear roller.

The tines shift the centre of gravity closer to the tanker and reduce the weight by 260kg.

DATA SHEET

AMAZONE CATROS+ 7003-2 PRO

Work width 7.00m

L/W/H 1) 2.75m/3.00m/4.00m

Cutting angle 17°

Disc diameter/ number 510mm/56

Tine diameter 12mm

Spacing of tine pairs 16cm

Macerator/ distributor Vogelsang Dosimat

Total weight 4,437kg

Price £61,995

Manufacturer information; 1) in transport work

and never kink — not even during folding. Spring-loaded chains on hose packs help with this task. Speaking of folding, when the 7.0m harrow is in its transport position, in order for it to sit below the 4.0m road going height in certain markets, ground clearance is not abundant. You do need to watch out that the inner tines do not catch the ground.

Twist the discs

As mentioned, the Catros+ Pro rests on two solid 31x15.5-15 wheels at the front end. The hydraulic cylinders on the gauge wheels are only needed for transport in the folded position (the wheels move outwards to avoid colliding with the tank). This is also the reason why the disc harrow with gauge wheels is only available on the 6.0m and 7.0 models.

Disc depth is controlled by Amazone’s Smart Frame — where the disc arm beam rotates to lower the discs. Once the machine is fully aligned, depth is precisely adjusted without

Depth is adjusted by twisting the rotor sections relative to each other.

causing any sideways pull — great!

The 510mm diameter scalloped discs on a 12.5cm spacing ensure an intensive mixing action. As usual, the individual discs are mounted on rubber sausages for overload protection. We were working at about 8cm to make sure that the slurry was thoroughly incorporated. Going shallower may improve volunteer establishment but can also leave the odd lump of straw on the surface. The following two rows of tines levelled the soil nicely. Only long-ish straw stalks tend to get stuck in the 12mm thick, 42cm long tines — as happened on our test field headland. Tine pressure can be altered by adjusting the angle and contact pressure, which is

done using a pin-and-hole arrangement.

Other details

● There is the extra-cost option of central greasing.

● Amazone has redesigned the oil-filled, maintenance-free bearings. The chrome content of the mechanical seals has been increased to prevent them from rusting.

● Larger working widths are available on the 8.0m+ models which come under the semi-mounted TX.

● A 200-litre Greendrill break crop seeder is also on the list of options.

Tobias Bensing

This 7.0m version folds in two sections.

The hoses are neatly routed. On this machine, the slurry was applied ahead of the first row of discs. Applying slurry behind the first gang of discs (standard now) makes the job a lot less dirty.

The GS300 is available with 24 or 32 coulters across its 3.00m working width and uses a number of Sola’s proven drill components, some of which KRM offers in the UK.

A bit of what you know

When KRM asked Sola for a grass sowing drill, the Spanish company was able to utilise several parts from its existing machines to come up with the GS300. We caught up with one of the UK demo units in the Yorkshire Dales.

The UK grass drill market has been bubbling away over the past few years as farmers look to boost their pasture performance and meet the needs of establishing herbal leys and SFI mixes. Wanting in on the action, KRM has had a word in the ear of drill maker Sola, for whom it's the UK importer. The Spaniards have listened, coming up with the GS300. While it is a new machine, it does make use of a lot of the Spanish drill maker's tried and tested seed sowing components. We caught up with one of the demo units a few weeks back in the Yorkshire Dales. This

particular machine has 24 coulters and the smaller hopper capacity of 300 litres. While there may just be one working width of 3.00m, there are plenty of options on the GS300 including extra coulters and bigger, multi-metering hoppers that we'll get to in due course.

Fresh metal

The headstock and main frame of the drill are fresh off the drawing board. The drill is relatively short, measuring just 1.65m front to back, but it is weighty, which, in part, is due to the prisma roller at the rear; our test

machine tipped the scales at 2,250kg with an empty hopper. This mass will be the deciding factor on tractor size, but the Fendt Favorit 716 was getting on fine up and down the Dale.

The linkage is on Cat III spacing and the top link pin can be placed in a fixed or floating slot. There is a potentiometer for turning the metering unit on/off at the headland as the machine is lowered/raised.

Speaking of all-up weight, rather than adding hefty ballast to aid coulter penetration in dry soil conditions, even more so with the 32-coulter version, Sola has employed the

KRM Sola GS300:

KEEPING IT BRIEF

The GS30 only comes in one working width — 3.00m, but with 24 or 32 coulters.

Sola drill users will be familiar with the metering system.

Weight transfer system applies pressure from the underside of the lift arms

Prices are from £39,670 for the base machine.

weight transfer system that it's been using on its maize drills for years. When this hydraulic option is activated, a bar presses against the underside of the lift arm. This can provide up to 650kg of extra downforce. A pressure gauge on the headstock shows the user how much force is being applied while a neighbouring accumulator provides some give in the system as the machine is lifted at the headland rather than having to manually reset the system on each bout. Smart thinking.

A bit more travel in the hydraulic ram would be advantageous when it comes to hitching

Rather than adding ballast, Sola took the weight transfer system from its maize drill. A hydraulic arm presses on the underside of the tractor’s lift arm. This is a £2,450 option.

up. Because the disc coulters presumably push up the frame height compared to the maize drill, the hook ends on the lift arms can barely get low enough to latch onto the balls while clearing the lowered weight transfer bar. Annoying.

Parking stands that slide into the frame keep the disc coulters off the ground when the machine is parked up. The stands are stored at the front of the frame, and they do have a second purpose when it comes to setting the seeding depth. The stands slot

DATA SHEET

KRM SOLA GS300

Working width 3.00m

Seed hopper

Number of metering units

300- or 2,000litre capacity (additional option of small seeder for third product)

One, but option of second Oil requirement 35l/min

No of coulters/ spacing

Disc coulter

24 disc coulters on 12.5cm spacing or 32 at 9.4cm

400mm serrated disc on a 5.0° angle to direction of travel

Rear roller Prism ring, alternating 450 and 500mm diameter

Kerb weight 2,250-2,940kg depending on spec

Length/width 1.65m/3.00m

Controls Sola Performa terminal or ISObus connection

Price Base spec from £39,670

Manufacturer information

into the roller frame when the machine is raised, allowing you to then put in or take out the depth limiting shims. Again, a good solution; in fact there are lots of nice details around the machine.

Big drill features

You have the choice of pressurised hopper, a 300-litre as fitted to the featured machine, or a larger 2,000-litre tank. With the latter you can also split it 50:50, 60:40 or 70:30 (£3,040) with a secondary metering unit for

The metering unit is the same electrically powered unit as can be found on the

tine

company's SM-P

drills. The cell wheels are swapped for handling different sizes of seed.

Holders on the headstock provide storage points for just the disconnected hydraulic pipes. The pressure

unit with interchangeable cell wheels for different seed that is capable of 2-400kg/ ha. There is a shut-off from the bottom of the hopper if you do need to make a change with a loaded hopper.

measuring out the second material, be it seed, fertiliser or slug pellets.

And if that's not enough, you can even add a mini seeder (£9,680) with its own 300-litre hopper for handling a third product. A low seed level sensor is part of the standard fitment.

For the metering unit, Sola has stuck to what works on its other drills — an electric driven

The metering unit gets its input from the simple Performer control box or via ISObus depending on which you opt for at the time of purchase — there is no difference in cost unless you need an ISObus terminal. On this particular machine, the ground speed signal comes from a GPS patch antenna. If you go with a split hopper and/or additional seeder, then you will need to go with the ISObus controls.

When it comes to calibration, this will be familiar to existing KRM drill users. A seed catching calibration tray lives at the rear of the machine, and the delivery tube simply slides across so it sends material into the box rather than on to the distribution head. For any smaller seeds, the metal tray can be swapped for a bag with smaller holes so

To alter sowing

Alternating 450mm and 500mm prisma rings provide the depth control, which is set using the number of 5mm silver shims either side of the stop ... from +30mm to -130mm.

the air flow can vent without forcing out any seed. Once the metering unit has run through its calibration sequence, just input the result into the control box and you are good to go.

Seed hose routing from the distributor is equally well thought out, with tensioned cable used to support the plastic pipes. The pipes are also fastened to each other at various points, and there are additional sleeves towards the end where the pipes connect to the coulter.

Into the ground

This takes us to the business end of the drill. Like many others, Sola clamps the coulter arm to the main frame, with rubber cord sausages providing some flex in the system.

For calibrating, the seed delivery hose simply slides across so material is directed to the perforated box rather than the distributor head. There is an external switch for engaging the calibration metering procedure. LED work lights and road lights are part of the standard drill package.

The hoses are supported by cable stays so they are not jiggling around when in work, which should help extend their service life. You can also see the right-hand parking stand in its stowed position across the frame.

The hopper is reached from a platform at the rear offering good access. The lid on the smaller 300-litre hopper on this machine hinges far enough out of the way for filling.

gauges relating to the weight transfer and fan are easy to see.

depth, you can reposition the parking stands to take the weight of the roller and then re-site the depth limiting shims.

The 400mm serrated disc opener, run at a 5.0° angle, cleaving the ground just enough for the seed to be popped in. Maintenancefree bearings are used on the discs. There is 60cm between the front and rear disc rows. As mentioned, this particular

GS300 is a 24-coulter machine, with seed being dropped in the ground every 12.5cm across the machine's 3.0m working width. There is also the 32-coulter version, which translates to a 9.4cm spacing between each coulter row.

In work, the drill was producing neat cuts in the old pasture, with the seed placed at a consistent depth wherever we had a look. Even the undulations in the field did not seem to make a big difference to the coulters' contour following ability.

Summary

The GS300 may be the first grass seeder from Sola, but it's a well thought out machine that features components that have proven themselves on the firm’s other drills. It also seems to tick all the boxes when it comes to hopper size, number of metering units and coulter count choice. Plus, this drill makes use of the prisma ring roller, which always impresses me when you see the job it does. It's also a relatively short drill, which should mean that the coulters are able to run at a consistent depth as the machine follows over ground undulations. There were certainly no issues on the day we tried out the drill.

Mervyn Bailey

Disc angle is 5.0° to the direction of travel, creating enough room for the coulter to run in its shadow. The 400mm serrated disc was cutting a neat line in the pasture where we used the drill.

Agriweld Min-Dis cultivator:

Make way for fun tines

Agriweld’s Min-Dis is a lowdisturbance subsoiler that can work in grassland and arable operations.

Over the past eight years, Agriweld has grown its cultivator range with a number of compaction-busting soil looseners in various configurations. The Min-Dis is one of those machines that utilises the minimal disturbance legs. Read on to find out more.

Sometimes our driving impression articles are rigorously planned; other times we just happen to stumble upon a machine in a dealer’s yard that we think looks an interesting tool. This is one of those occasions, having seen the Agriweld Min-Dis outside the door of Irish distributor, Cooney Furlong Machinery.

Over the past eight or so years, Agriweld has been honing its compaction alleviating minimum disturbance leg design, so it now has a broad variety of pan-busting tools to suit different scenarios. These include the following:

● Mantis: front-mounted soil loosener.

● Assist: rear-mounted, positioned between the tractor and cultivator. Also available as the ASL, which previously lacked the

Assist’s leading discs, making it closer coupled. This is now available with row cleaners.

● Prevent: Another variation on the Assist, but aimed at removing wheelings while also towing a trailed cultivator.

● Min-Dis: A standalone low disturbance subsoiler complete with leading discs and rear packer.

● Min-Disc: Adds two rows of cultivating discs after the tines.

● Multi-Till: a low disturbance all-in-one cultivator.

So, you now get the picture. The Yorkshire engineering business has worked hard on getting its leg assembly in order and has been able to create machines that its farming customers have asked for.

KEEPING IT BRIEF

Leading disc runs at an angle to help clear more trash away from leg.

Arable model range from 3.0m to 6.0m wide while grassland models are from 2.5m.

Price for the auto-reset six Min-Dis featured here is £21,895.

Although it has mechanical shear bolt and snap-bar leg protection options, around 85 per cent of its subsoiling machines are now going out with hydraulic auto-reset. Indeed, the ideas man behind the drawing board,

The rear scraper bar can be swung up and away from the packer to make cleaning easier. A supplied tool slots into the frame for leverage. The handled pin locks it in place.

AGRIWELD MIN-DIS 3

Working width 3.00m

Leading discs

No. of legs

460mm concave, serrated disc set at a 7.0⁰ angle for trash clearance

Six 20mm thick Hardox tines fitted with onepiece GLS points. Leg spacing 500mm centres. Max working depth 30cm

Leg protection

Rear roller

Power requirement

Hydraulic auto-reset but option of shear bolt or snap bar

A gri-Packer 508mm tube, 65mm ring so 638mm overall overall diameter drum

Minimum of 160hp recommended

Price (as tested) £21,895

Manufacturer information

Dean Foster, adds that the extra cost is no longer seen as the sticking point it once was, and that's true even in areas where metal snapping aggregate is not in abundance. The reason is twofold: the additional cost is not as eye watering as it once was as overall machine prices have increased; and the gains in output by not having to stop and replace a shear-bolt.

What are we looking at?

As mentioned, our focus is on the minimum disturbance Min-Dis subsoiler. Like the other Agriweld machines that employ the same leg, the objective is not to bring large clods to the surface. The maximum working depth is around 30cm, but, if you want more earth shattering to a greater depth, then flick forward a few more pages in the Agriweld price list and look at the full-fat subsoiler. Alternatively, if you're happy with the MinDis depth, the company has developed an adapter that allows the usual low disturbance GLS point to be swapped for a Trio point that will give more soil mixing. If you are thinking for a moment, 'hang on aren’t those Sumo points', then you are correct. Rather than trying to reinvent the wheel, Dean says that

Our machine had the optional hydraulic auto-reset legs. These are connected to an accumulator. The position of the pressure gauge needs improving so the operator gets a better view.

these wearing items are widely available from several sources that will make them out of conventional metal or material with longer life attributes. This means Agriweld customers benefit from greater choice than if the bits were made in-house.

From the front

Starting at the headstock, this is a Cat III setup leading to a chunky frame predominantly fabricated from 150x150 box, which is either 8mm or 10mm depending on its function. There's a cut plate for the removed hydraulic pipes and seven-pin plug to slot into when the machine is parked up. Likewise, there are parking stands at the rear for supporting the unhitched machine.

The leading discs have what Agriweld calls its ODS (Oblique Disc System) as a means of clearing trash away from the path of the following leg so it doesn’t snag and create lumps.

The disc itself is a 460mm serrated concave disc running on maintenance-free bearings. Critical to this is the 7.0 degree angle of the disc arm for that path clearing task. Each arm is clamped to the frame, with rubber cord sausages allowing some stone hopping protective give.

For arable work, having the disc perfectly aligned with the tine is less of an issue than it is in grassland. However, for our pasture job, a little bit of fine tuning, and we had everything running inline and the disc was doing a good job of chopping through the sod, preventing it from being lifted and pushed to the side by the tine. However, if all your work is in grassland, then Agriweld does offer a straight, vertical disc. In an arable setting this can hairpin straw, and, once it has lost its sharp cutting edge, it's less effective than the ODS arrangement. An equal amount of thought has gone into setting the depth of the disc. Turnbuckles, on either side, pivot the disc carrying beam in and out to get the ideal setting.

Leg chat

As mentioned, the legs on the Min-Dis are a minimum disturbance design made from 20mm thick Hardox steel. These have the quick and easy to fit Sumo GLS point. Or with Agriweld’s pointer adapter, they can also be used with a wider, more aggressive Trio one-

piece foot for bringing a bit more soil to the surface if that's what you're seeking.

Our 3.0m wide machine was equipped with six tines on 500mm centres. The legs are offset 350mm from their neighbour. These were protected by the hydraulic auto-reset system that adds around £3,900 over the price of a shear bolt model.

There are three accumulators that allow the legs to trip, with the operating pressure shown on a gauge on the right. You can tailor the pressure to your ground by opening and closing a valve. This allows you to pressurise the system when you get to the field from the spool valve; the only problem is that the pressure gauge was hidden by the mudguard of the Puma. We would prefer to see it in a more central location just so you can check that a leaky spool has not let the pressure drop.

Stone protection is not the only benefit of the auto-reset system. You can also use it to retract the legs when in transport and also when the machine is removed when it then rests on the roller and discs; if you leave

The concave disc runs at 7.0 0 to enhance its trash clearing ability ahead of the following leg. Agriweld calls this the Oblique Disc System.

Bolt-on fins provide traction to help keep the 638mm diameter roller turning. Agriweld has changed the profile of the rings so they enhance consolidation for arable work.

The 460mm diameter leading discs are concave. A turnbuckle on either side of the machine allows you to alter the depth. The buckles pivot the disc-carrying beam to achieve the desired setting.

This gauge shows the working pressure for the auto-reset system, but it was a struggle to see when seated in the cab of the Puma.

Packer depth is controlled by moving one of the pins to a different hole. Note the bracket for standard road lights has laser-cut holes for fastening the wiring to — just one of the nice detail touches on this machine.

the legs lowered, then the parking stands also need to be down so it remains balanced. The retract function is also advantageous in reducing the transport width of the larger semi-mounted models.

Rolling this way

Our machine had Agriweld’s Agri Packer, a shouldered ring arrangement that’s a hefty weight. How this is fabricated has recently been changed. The shouldered rings have more of a profile that makes them sit 15mm farther away from the drum than on the previous version. Dean says that this helps the rings press against the soil rather than relying on the drum to do the majority of the consolidation. In our grassland scenario this was not something we could test. Speaking of grassland, there is the option of having a plain roller, with drive teeth as a cheaper alternative.

Back to the Agri Packer, and here again there is another neat feature, this time with the scraper bar. By pulling a pin on either side and using the supplied tool you can swing the scrapers away from the roller, allowing any stubble, soil and more crucially seeds to fall away when cleaning — excellent from a field hygiene perspective. In the very dry conditions we were using the Min-Dis it also had the benefit of being able to take the scrapers out of work and thus prevent any unnecessary wear, a second hole for the pins keeping the bar in its secondary position. One last point, the roller uses bolt-in stub axles, so, if it does happen to get damaged after a failed bearing, it is a much quicker and easier task to replace than having to cut out and weld.

Although primarily developed as an arable tool, once the leading discs are positioned directly ahead of the leg, the Min-Dis is just as capable in grassland situations.

Summary

Min-Dis may not be designed as a grassland subsoiler, but, as we found out, it is certainly capable of running through a sward without damaging it. You can see how the leading discs do their job of not just cutting through trash but also clearing a path for the tine to do its job in stubble and cover crops. The leg auto-reset was working its magic, allowing us to keep moving in stony conditons. Looking around the machine, you notice great attention to detail, such as the lasercut frame where the wiring for the lights can be secured and how the scraper bar can be quickly flipped to enable easier cleaning.

Mervyn Bailey

The Rubin10compact disc harrow

Dominates the field.

Thenew semi-mounted Rubin 10compact dischar rowimpresses with its flexibilit yinany soil -thanks to different fronttools anda quick-change system forthe rollers

CLAAS AXION 830

CEBIS CMATIC 50KM/HR

Year: 2017

Condition: Good. Fully dealer prepared

Hours: 5,550

Comment: High specification tractor. 30% 600/70 R28 and 50% 650/85 R38 rear tyres. Front Proactiv suspension with brakes. Engine brake. S10 RTK steering ready. 110l/min hydraulics. Comprehensive halogen work lights.

Equivalent with Hexashift around £7,500 less.

Price: £69,750

CLAAS AXION 830

CIS+ HEXASHIFT 50KM/HR

Year: 2019

Condition: Above average. Fully dealer prepared

Hours:

2,800

Comment: 40% 540/65 R30 front and 50% 650/65 R42 rear tyres. Front Proactiv suspension. ISObus ready, EGNOS/E-DIF correction. Telematics ready. S7 GPS terminal. 110l/min hydraulics. High spec seat. Comprehensive halogen work lights.

Price: £69,750

CLAAS AXION 830

CEBIS CMATIC 50KM/HR

Year: 2020

Condition: Excellent. Fully dealer prepared

Hours: 4,350

Comment: 50% 600/70 R30 VF and 50% 710/70 R42 VF rear tyres. Rare bar axle. Front Proactiv suspension. Engine brake. ABS trailer brakes. 110l/min hydraulics. GPS pilot, S10 terminal. Telematics ready. Comprehensive halogen work lights.

Equivalent with Hexashift around £7,500 less. Price: Around

£85,950

Claas Axion 800 series - 2014 to 2025:

Getting in on the Axion action

Claas launched its ‘second generation’ Axion 800 tractors back in 2014, with the oldest examples now past their tenth birthday. This means there should be a used example available to suit a range of budgets, but you do need to do a bit of homework to secure the right buy.

When discussing used ‘first generation’ Axion 800 tractors back in 2014, it would be fair to say we found used models could be more ‘affordable’, pro-rata, than competitive alternatives. Does this apply a decade on to second gen Axion 800 tractors?

Bad news used buyers. Axion 800 Stage IV and Stage V models command stronger money.

This is partly due to new tractor prices, but these second generation FTP engine Axion 800 tractors have earned their spurs in the market, with a proven dependability record. Where problems with these tractors have arisen, (there doesn’t seem to a general big expense problem area), Claas dealers have

typically been quick to resolve them, the factory also having made detail changes to resolve any recurrent troubles.

Users suggest Axion 800 tractors are solid performers too, with decent fuel economy across the range. Add that these tractors are increasingly purchased new with a Claas fiveyear Maxicare maintenance and warranty package and this solid record of past care further enhances used values. A final point is the specification of the tractor, an increasing number of models coming with the top-spec Cebis package. Entry level CIS models will be a rare used find.

A few outline spec pointers for those less familiar with Claas tractors can include: ● CIS, CIS+ and Cebis specification packages.

● GIMA sourced Hexashift , with six speeds in four ranges to give 24/24 forward and reverse speeds with Hexactiv automated shifting. No longer offered from 2025.

● CMatic transmission based around ZF Terramatic stepless transmission hardware with Claas software.

● From 2017, Carraro front axle with suspended Proactiv self-levelling option.

● Three-speed pto with 540/1000/1000E default but 540/540E/1000 and two speed 540/1000 available.

● Integrated front linkage with front pto a common option.

Initial second generation Axion 800 Stage IV and current Stage V emission compliant

CLAAS AXION 830

CEBIS CMATIC 50KM/HR

Year: 2025

Hours: Approx 250

Condition: Ex. demo

Comment: 600/70 R30 front and 650/85 R38 rear tyres. Front Proactiv suspension with brakes. Engine brake. ABS trailer brakes. 150l/min hydraulics. Full GPS package. Comprehensive LED work lights. Top spec seat.Price: From £185,000

models from 2021 do have standard spec differences but expect a late Stage IV and early Stage V of similar hours and spec to be retailed at much the same money. The key is to consider actual specification, tractor condition and the fitted tyres.

With reference to hours, the mechanical elements of all models are not known for any major problems but as is always the case a great deal will depend upon how the tractor has been looked after. A dealer prepared and serviced used buy should be a safe bet, with many users having taken out the previously mentioned Claas five-year Maxicare package. This would have helped ensure any problems that did arise would have been dealt with. All good then? Broadly speaking yes. A gen two Stage IV or V Axion 800 of any spec and power package can make a sound used buy. The caveat is you will need to ensure the tractor has been looked after.

Before you start looking

Clearly you will need to establish which model offers the power you need. Stage IV 225hp Axion 830 and 250hp Axion 850 are key used models, the 270hp Axion 870 taking over from the latter as a top seller from its launch in 2016. Stage IV Axion 830 with CIS+ spec and a Hexashift transmission proved popular, the Axion 850 and 870 coming in top spec Cebis with CMatic CVT on the latter. CMatic will be a common find on 830 models,

LOOKING AT A FIRST GENERATION MODEL?

When Claas launched the Axion 800, they were the first models that were developed inhouse by Claas. Up until then, existing Claas models of the time were developments of Renault models, Claas having acquired Renault’s tractor business, including the factory in Le Mans, back in 2003.

First generation Deere Power Systems powered Axion tractors span a nominal 163 to 238hp, with the introduction of Claas Power Management (CPM) from around 2008 offering a boost in power. Triggered at working speeds of 7 to 8km/hr plus in the C1 transmission range, CPM will also activate when the load on the pto increases or there is a rise in demand from the hydraulics. CPM is a significant development. Taking just the Axion 810 and 820 models, output on climbs from 170hp and 189hp to 213hp and 232hp when CPM kicks in. If you are looking at a first generation Axion, post-2008 Axion 810 and 820 models clearly offer more potential output, but as Claas did not make any cosmetic changes to these tractors you need to check date of production, as opposed to using the reg plate, as an age identifier. The key is to look for late 2008 manufacture.

Gen one Axion models were initially only offered with what was then the top Claas tractor specification, Cebis. From 2008, an entry-level CIS package was made available. A simple identifier is that CIS models will have mechanical spool valves. The ZF sourced CMatic stepless transmission option was also introduced in 2008.

A further point is that first generation of Axion tractors weigh between 7.1 and 8.0 tonnes without ballast. Gen two Axion models are around 1.2 tonnes heavier and have an increase in overall payload of up to a tonne. (See profi 11/2014 Used Machinery and 10/2024 Report for further detail)

AXION EQUIPMENT

CIS display in the A-pillar, Drivestick and multifunction armrest

CIS colour display in the A-pillar, Drivestick and multifunction armrest

Cebis touchscreen and Cmotion multifunction control lever/armrest

Cmatic continuously variable transmission

transmission

number of mech spool valves

number of elec spool valves

implement control

Cemos for tractors

● standard O optional available – not available

Claas UK standard tractor specification packs have seen detail change over the past decade, the table below providing a guide but be aware there may be subtle differences between model years and supplying dealers. CIS tractors not common but this spec did have a following in some livestock regions and in Ireland.

In the cab, it will be easy to spot the differences between CIS, CIS+ and Cebis specifications (left to right). Entry level CIS with mechanical valves and Hexashift transmission rare, Axion 850 and later the Axion 870 tractors coming with full Cebis spec and CMatic CVT for the latter as standard.

incidentally, with it becoming the default Axion transmission choice before becoming the standard fit from this year. Hexashift remains a good used choice. If you are moving from a gen one Deere engined tractor you will note how the Hexactiv shift pattern in auto has been tweaked to match the higher torque developed by the FPT engine. The oily bits of this GIMA sourced transmissions are well-proven and affordably fixable if something does go wrong but more on that in the ‘see what to look for’ section. The top Cebis specification is now available with Cemos interactive learning, as seen on Claas combines (see separate panel on page 57).

NOTE: Gen one DPS powered tractors are fitted with a Dana front axle that even in suspended form did not come with hub brakes. From 2017, Stage IV and Stage V Axion will have a Carraro front axle with suspension and integral hub brakes available.

Stage IV and Stage V Axion 800 used buying checks

Working back, the front linkage bolts onto the Claas specific structural sump of the

engine. If a used buy is not fitted with a front pto, one can be easily retrofitted for around £5-6K, as can front valves. The latter are plumbed into the back of the rear valve blocks. The front pto clutch packs on pre2019 models can engage abruptly, a revised seven-plate system offering improved modulation, but this cannot be retrofitted. Check the pto switch. Some fail. The black radiator grills are known to fade to grey and they can also rust, with the bonnet paint also liable to dulling. These cosmetics are easily resolved by repainting the grills and giving the bonnet a polish. Dealer prepared tractors will typically present in good cosmetic order.

Suspended Dana and Carraro front axles are of different designs, the latter coming with front hub brakes as an option. 50km/hr tractors will have larger rear axle brake packs with high pressure boost and trailer air brakes as standard but not necessarily front axle brakes so check. Also check permissible gross weights as these will vary according to the front axle fitted. Front axles are not known for problems, but a blocked breather can cause oil to weep from the seals.

not

Front axle brakes are not standard so check they are fitted if you do a lot of fast roadwork. 50km/hr tractor all have larger disc packs in the rear axle and air brakes as standard.

Engine

There are no specific problem areas regarding the FPT engine but still look for evidence of fluid leaks. Earlier models could see the coolant header tank crack, which should have been resolved under warranty, and the flexible U-bend at the base of the exhaust could also fracture, again fixed under warranty. AdBlue indicator alerts can arise if there is a leak in the system with fluid

and valves are not part of the standard package. These items are a straightforward retrofit, so do not dismiss a used buy if either not fitted. An electrical power outlet is standard with the front linkage.

Carraro front axle has a higher capacity than Dana original plus the suspension system is completely different. Wear in the axle tends

to be a problem but still check. Note sump forms an integral part of the tractor, with the front linkage bolted directly to the engine.

A front linkage is a common fit, but a pto

Early coolant header tanks could crack, a warranty replacement curing the problem but still check on early Stage IV models as some may not have failed and have the original fitted.

EASY SPOT DEVELOPMENTS

Second generation Claas Axion 800 tractors may share the same name and model numbers as their predecessors, but the later models are essentially based upon the Axion 900 series, with a 6.7 litre FPT engine in the place of the more powerful 8.7 litre engine used in the Axion 900. Initially, Claas offered four Axion 800 models with a choice of CIS and Cebis specifications. The range was expanded to include the Axion 870 for 2016.

Outline changes include:

● Stage IV (Tier 4f) compliant 6.7 litre six-cylinder FPT engine with DOC and SCR emission hardware. Requires ‘Ad-Blue’.

● Self-supporting engine crankcase with embedded sump to enable a front linkage to be fitted without any additional bracing.

● Different styling with larger four pillar fully suspended cab mounted further forward than on the previous generation.

● Automatic de-coupling of front PTO when not in operation that operates via a mechanical clutch to disconnect the pto completely from the engine.

● Initial gen two Axion outputs span a nominal 200hp up to 270hp. Fit between Arion 500/600 models of 145hp to 184hp and Axion 900 of 280hp to 400hp.

The after-treatment sensor is located under the exhaust heat shield where it is easy to access should it need to be replaced. Early Stage IV tractors could have problems with the SCR catalyst, but these will largely have been resolved so should not be a concern for used buyers. Note the tractor serial plate position at base of cab.

● Front axle brakes and suspension standard on 50km/hr Cebis versions. Single brake pedal on Stage IV models, twin on Stage V.

One Machine. Many possibilities.

Proceed is awhole newcategoryofseeding machinery.Withanunmatched levelofprecision, itworks with full capacitytofit everyfarmer’sneeds. This onemachine canincreasethe yieldpotentialof afullrange of crops, such as cereals, oilseedrape, sugar beet, peas, maizeand more.Proceed simply offersmorethanany previousseeding machine, making farmersready fora fast-changingfuture.

crystalising around the base of the exhaust. Easy to check. The after-treatment sensor can also fail but this is a simple replacement job.

Early tractors could suffer from the SCR catalyst failing, leading to high Ad Blue consumption. Claas came up with a fix, with any catalyst that failed out of warranty having a repair cost contribution related to age and engine hours. This should not be a problem but if you are looking at an older, high hour tractor find out if the system has been worked upon.

The coolant package opens out for cleaning, making this easy to look over. The air filter housing on early tractors could have poor sealing that allowed moisture to get in and wet the filter. This could then lead to the filter element becoming liable to clogging. Not common but a revised seal resolved damp filter clogs.

Transmission

With Hexashift transmission tractors, check the tractor does not ‘creep’ when swapping between forward and reverse at idling speed. If it does the shuttle clutch pack may need to be changed. The latter was upgraded to resolve earlier failures and is less liable to occur until the tractor has some serious hours on the clock.

A harsh shift between ranges can typically be resolved by re-calibrating the transmission. This is not difficult but will need talking through with a dealer for a user to resolve on farm.

NOTE: Never attempt Hexashift recalibration in a confined space. The tractor may jerk forward or back. A more common problem on high hour Hexashift tractors is a failure of the shaft

RANGE TOPPING AXION 870

The Axion 870 was added for 2017 model year and offers a boosted output of up to 295hp, so up to 31hp more than the 850. This extra power is only available at speeds above 14 km/h or when the pto is in use. Axion 870 models fitted with a higher capacity front axle to increase permissible gross vehicle weight by up to one tonne.

Up to seven electronic spool valves can be fitted, all managed via the Cebis terminal integrated into the armrest. Key tractor and equipment functions can be controlled via function keys in the armrest or using the Cmotion multifunction lever. Ex-factory GPS Pilot steering and a choice of S7 or S10 control terminals were options. All 870 models will be GPS ready, as will most Axion tractors from around 2015 but check.

related to the C range. A fix is relatively straightforward, Claas introducing a revised shaft with a heavier bearing to prevent future failure. Not all tractors will have had any problem and later models should be fine but still check.

Cmatic CVT transmissions are not known for any mechanical related issues.

Cab

Cab door hinge wear can see the door sag and hit the rear mudguard. If the paint is scuffed on the latter, the hinge bushes will need renewing if they have not been replaced. Always check the seat suspension system, the type of seat fitted varying enough to make suggesting what type will be fitted difficult. Users rate the Grammer Evo highly.

Four-point cab suspension is standard, this having three ‘comfort’ settings of essentially hard, medium or soft. Although the setting can be altered most will not bother as adjustment will typically need the nearside rear wheel removing and unbolting the connection between a torsion bar and cab mount. Gen two tractor cab suspension is less liable to bush wear than earlier Axion 800 models but still listen out for clonks from under the cab on a test drive. If the cab feels prone to rolling it

simple F1 and F2 settings,

could be the suspension setting is at its softest and not that there is a problem. Cebis spec tractors from 2017 have a 12-inch touch display that looks like the previous button controlled example. Some of the first touch units could suffer from moisture getting into the display but this was resolved under warranty.

The parking brake solenoid can fail. This is typically caused by dirt build up under the cab fouling the brake cable that then seizes. Check the brake works and that the park lock on the shuttle moves freely.

The black paint on the cab steps and tinware can fade and if scratched corrosion will set in, spoiling the cosmetics. Claas dealers will typically sort out problems in this area but look for this if buying elsewhere. The nearside steps can seize in place making it difficult to access the battery and the step latch can also fail. On the nearside, the toolbox slide-out runners can also seize.

Hydraulics

Claas fit pressure release levers as standard to the rear valves, with good service access. The oil collector bottles attached to the valves will fill quickly if the valve ‘O’ ring seals have failed, a

High specification Grammar Evo seat and leather steering wheel on top Cebis spec tractor are options, as is an airline and GPS screen. The later the tractor, the more likely it will have a high specification. Note dual brake pedals. Stage IV tractors have just a single pedal.

Original Cebis screen display (left) operated via function buttons but is otherwise as clear as its touchscreen replacement (right). Cmatic transmission tractors have

Hexashift models having A,B,C and D ranges with six speeds in each. There are subtle developments between Stage IV and Stage V tractors but like for like pricing of used examples of near the same hours and spec will be similar.

QUICK GUIDE TO AXION 800 DEVELOPMENTS

2014 Gen 1 A40/41 series Axion 810-850. Service intervals: 600 hours engine, 1,200 hours transmission/hydraulics.

2016 4WD shaft modification to provide additional lubrication to clutch carrier. New reinforced turbo outlet pipe and intercooler hose.

2017 Gen 2 A60/61 series, mother regulation updates, introduction of range topping 870. Move from Dana front axle to Carraro for higher permissible gross weight.

2018 Introduction of new Cebis touch screen and introduction of CIS+ cab spec

2019 Stage V compliant, A50/51 series. Additional changes to comply with EU ‘mother regulations’. Changes include, new bonnet decals, seven-plate pto clutch pack, Grammer Evo seat option, 205l/min hydraulic option, camera option in CebisTouch, high pressure brake alarm issue resolved. Paint options available include metallic grey, metallic green or black. Revised LED lighting package. CTIC auto tyre inflation and CEMIS 1200 GPS system available.

2025 CMatic transmission only, HexaShift discontinued. Claas Connect connectivity. Night Edition spec pack with Apple car play, grey roof, side panel and rims, Night Edition carpet, headrest, steering wheel and decals.

modification with an extra back up ring typically solving leaky items.

The hydraulic oil sight glass on the rear axles should read above minimum when the tractor is cold. If the oil looks dirty check when it was last changed as the service interval of 1,200 hours is generous enough to suggest a missed change is a sign of poor past care.

Ian Crosse and William Helliwell of Claas dealers Olivers, Luton have found the Axion 830 to be a strong seller, with buyers increasingly opting for the Cmatic CVT over the Hexashift powershift. William says the specification, hours and tyres of a used buy will all have an impact upon prices with Ian suggesting the tractors are reliable and not known to develop costly problems as the hours rack up.

CIS VERSUS CIS+

Automatic rear stabilisers are fitted to both lower links. Look over the entire hitch for wear and make sure hitch balls are supplied with the tractor and that the latches are in good working order. Easy to overlook. The push-back Dromone pick-up hitch will also need looking over for wear, with particular attention paid to the towing hook.

CIS Axion tractors with mechanical spool valves and a reduced standard specification were intended to offer a lower cost entry point into the Axion 800 series but with second generation tractors this did not prove popular. CIS+ from 2017 subsequently proved a more popular ‘mid-spec’ alternative. A Drivestick is used to operate the Hexashift or CMatic CVT transmission, with an Electropilot four-way lever with integral direction change and an A-pillar mounted 7-inch CIS colour display for viewing and configuring all the main machine functions.

CMatic transmission tractors with CIS+ with the armrest mounted Drivestick to be used to deliver proportional control of acceleration and deceleration. Alternatively, accelerator pedal mode can be selected, with the Drivestick used to manually intensify or reduce the engine braking effect. A cruise control button allows the selected forward speed to be saved.

CIS+ models with the Hexashift transmission feature a Smart Stop and cruise control, with the CIS+ Electropliot four-way control lever incorporating a forward and reverse shuttle. CIS+ electronic spool valves feature flow rate and time control for individual valves, with up to four automated sequences recordable within the headland management system. CIS+ tractors can have up to six spool valves. ISObus is standard on all CIS+ on tractors, with compatibility with Claas telematics.

CEBIS TOUCH SCREEN UPDATE FROM MID 2017

With the Cebis 12-inch touch screen display, Claas offered a revised user interface with a Direct Access option linked to a multifunction armrest with ten freely assignable function buttons. The structure of the previous Cebis display is retained, but with touchscreen operation.

Direct Access provide access to key functions via a silhouette of the tractor on the screen. Touching the required function area, such as the pto or engine, will open the relevant dialogue window. The hydraulic spool valve settings can also be selected directly from the main screen. The revised control is also linked to some other changes. The controls for the hydraulic spool valves can be configured for specific tasks, to include ramp up and ramp down for each spool valve. This allows the speed of flow to a spool valve to be set to match the application. Video images from external cameras can also be displayed on the screen.

display.

From the 2017 model year, Axion Cebis specification models are fitted with a high-resolution CEBIS 12-inch touch screen

Summary

Although used buyers may find alternative models, the Axion 830 will be the most abundant used find, the later the tractor the more likely it is to be fitted with a Cmatic CVT. Entry-level CIS spec tractors will be harder to find, CIS+ and Cebis specs both more common. Axion 850 models sold well until the advent of the Axion 870. These more powerful variants with their high standard specification were costly

when new on paper but less so when all the features on offer are factored in. 850 and 870 models can make a sound used buy, the latter offering a good power to weight ratio.

Finding used examples of the latter has been difficult but will improve as more of these models reach their fifth birthday. As to prices, Claas dealers will sell 2017 Axion 830 Hexashift CIS+ models for upwards of £60K with around 5,000 hours

CLAAS AXION 800 SPECIFICATIONS

on the clock, Cmatic transmission tractors carrying a premium of £7,500 plus. Tyre condition plays a big part of used tractor pricing, so do not just assume a higher priced tractor is in better shape or has lower hours. Axion 850 tractors will start at over £70K but expect prices in the region of £80K plus for lower hour 2019 models, low hour examples commanding £95,000 plus.

James de Havilland

Engine FPT, six-cylinder 6.728-litre capacity with variable geometry turbo

Rated output (ECE R 120)1 142kw/194hp 151kW/205hp 165kW/225hp 184kW/250hp 199kW/270hp

Max. output (ECE R 120)1 150kW/205hp 158kW/215hp 173kW/235hp 194kW/264hp 206kW/280hp

Max. torque 896Nm 941Nm 1,016 Nm 1,132Nm 1,276Nm

Max. power Hexashift 150kW/205hp 161kW/216hp 175kW/235hp 194kW/260hp -

Max. power CMatic - 175kW/235hp 188kW/252hp 204kW/273hp 221kW/296hp

Fuel tank capacity

455-litres

Service interval 600 hours

CMatic min-max speed – Stepless transmission 0.05km/h to 40 or 50km/hr

Hexashift powershift Four ranges, six powershifts result in 24 forward/reverse ratios –

Min. speed at rated engine

Max. speed 40/50km/hr

Rear axle

Max. diameter of rear tyres m 1.95m 2.05m

Widest rear tyres 710/70 R38

Hydraulic oil service interval 1,200 hours

Power take off

Hydraulics

CIS mechanical spools

CIS+ / Cebis elec spools

Rear linkage Max. lift capacity at ball ends

Data management and operator assistance systems

headland management

and TIM

R38

Three to four

Three up to seven maximum

ADVANCED OPTIONS

DETAIL STAGE V UPDATES 2021 MODEL YEAR

Claas took the opportunity to add a few development tweaks at the same time as meeting Stage V emission regulations. Although the maximum power outputs of FPT engines remain the same, the torque curve is altered to boost pulling power lower down the rev range. Hydraulic flow of 205l/min available, with the pto uprated to a seven-plate clutch. External pto engage button can be linked to engine speed memo button through Cebis.

A leather steering wheel option was made available, with a higher specification Cebis extra leather pack option. Heated, ventilated and tilting headrest Grammer Evo dual motion seat option.

Key Stage V identifiers include twin brake pedals a tinted rear window, revised bonnet decals, LED indicator lights and a flexible bottom step

CEMOS

Launched by Class in late 2020, Cemos for Tractors offered interactive and self-learning driver assistance and was a development of the system offered on the company’s combine. A point to note is that Cemos was an ex-factory option, but it can be retrofitted to all Axion 800 tractors with Cebis touch terminals built from 2018.

Cemos is not something most will link with a tractor, but it offers a range of set-up systems that are interesting. When setting up a cultivator, soil conditions, the selected implement, the tractors tyres and total weight of the tractor are factored in by Cemos, with the software then displaying suggested optimum tyre pressures and the need for any ballasting. In work, Cemos will monitor performance to enable the operator to increase output or reduce fuel consumption, listing options, such as to engaging the diff lock, then illustrating the effect this has on performance. Other changes, such as altering speed settings, are done automatically.

Cemos will also suggest implement settings based upon details such as working depth, with suggestions on alternatives that can be used to help improve output or fuel efficiency. Mowing assistant, to include both front and rear and butterfly combinations is another function. Once the working width, type of crop, pto speed and whether swathing or spreading are entered into the system, Cemos can be used to set the cut height and suitable overlap, adjusting the link arms and stabilisers. Advice on the correct conditioner speed will also be shown. Having set-up the mower, headland turn management can be added. Even transport assistance is offered, ensuring with the mower bar is locked and the maximum transport height is not exceeded.

CTIC AND CTIC 2800 TYRE INFLATION SYSTEMS

Stage IV decal and side panels left compared to Stage V right. Easiest way to quickly spot the model change.

CTIC tyre inflation systems are not widely specified on UK Axion tractors but the system is becoming increasingly popular as the benefits of being able to alter tyre pressures to suit conditions assumes growing importance. The more powerful CTIC 2800 variant will deliverup to 2,800l/min air flow which should be sufficient to raise the pressure of 600/70 R28 front and 710/70 R38 rear tyres from 0.8 to 1.8 bar in around a minute and a half. A control for trailers and attachments can be recorded to inflate tyres to suit field and transport. Current generation CTIC and CTIC 2800 systems can be retrofitted to Axion 800 tractors with an ISObus terminal or a Cebis touch terminal, regardless of year of manufacture.

Claas originally fitted a wide LED rear light pack (left) that was changed to meet EU ‘mother regs’ in 2019 to oval bulb (centre) or LED alternatives(right). This, plus front and work light changes plus several different mirror types can make life hard for the parts department. Foldable markers meant to be a safety feature but obscure the rear-view mirrors when extended so most fold them in for transport.

Swift-Cut CNC plasma cutter:

Swiftest of cuts

If you want to take farm engineering to the next level and regularly cut various pieces of sheet steel, then a CNC plasma cutter might not be a ridiculous purchase. We take a look at what hardware British firm Swift-Cut can offer, with the technology to match.

Farm workshops, very much like farms themselves, range wildly in both size and the levels of equipment available, often ranging from a small workbench tucked away in a quiet corner somewhere to a purpose-built unit full of metal forming gear.

Regardless of which particular scenario you find yourself in, given basic tools, and, with a little patience and skill, even reasonably complex fabrication is possible. Talking from experience, armed only with a drill and grinder, I too have employed the ‘hillbilly

lathe’ to shave a few mil off the occasional oversized pin. As proud as I may have felt, having snatched victory from the jaws of defeat, there is still nothing quite like having the right tool for the job, facilitating both precision and timeliness.

One such fellow to have fully embraced technology and the benefits it can bring is farmer and YouTuber Tom Lamb, who kindly invited profi to a demonstration of his new Swift-Cut CNC plasma cutter, with assistance provided by Swift-Cut’s marketing manager, Dan Page.

KEEPING IT BRIEF

Founded in 2011, Swift-Cut is based in Burton-on-Trent.

Tom Lamb has recently invested in a CNC plasma cutter.

Swift-Cut is offering profi readers the Pro 1250WT package at a special introductory price of £15,995 rather than the usual £18,995.

Tom Lamb’s neat on-farm installation provides good side access for sheet metal and allows him to cut steel as and when needed.

What is a CNC plasma cutter?

Quite simply it is a computer-controlled cutting head working in a flat plane above a table style bed, capable of precision cuts in a variety of sheet metal.

Don’t be put off by the ‘computer-controlled’ aspect, as every effort has been made by Swift-Cut to simplify its intuitive design and cut programmes, facilitating the various steps

Not known for doing things in a small way, Tom went for the high capacity plasma generator capable of piercing 25mm steel. Should it be needed elsewhere, the unit can be removed and used remotely for handheld work.

between blank canvas and finished part. In addition, 89 design templates come preloaded, with the handy option to adjust key dimensions and values to quickly match those required.

However, I was most impressed with the software’s ability to create a replica design from a high-contrast image. In other words, take a good photo of the part you wish to replicate and let the software do the rest. Clever stuff.

Despite the firm’s best attempts to remove as many as possible, should you still manage to run into a stumbling block, help is at hand, as Swift-Cut staff is able to take remote control of your machine for troubleshooting. Whichever route you take to produce your design, options to ‘nest’ duplicates on the same sheet are then offered, with the system asking what thickness of material you intend to cut and returning the size of cutting cartridge needed at the business end. These cartridges are consumable parts, a selection of which are provided with the machine.

Off you pop

Once started, plasma amperage and travel speed are all taken care of automatically, with the water in the cutting bed serving as fume suppression. As a bonus, the water also acts as a heat-sink, keeping parts cool during cutting to prevent any warping and allow immediate handling.

You don't need a high level of computer skill to operate the software. A lot of the cut layout can be done automatically by the software.

Having burnt out my fair share of grinders, the significant benefits provided by CNC cutting become glaringly obvious as, once programmed, the precision parts could be repeatedly churned out without supervision.

Theory into practice

This ability is exactly what existing SwiftCut customer, Sanderson Steel Structures, has been taking full advantage of, turning sheets of plate steel into a plethora of cleats, end-plates and gussets, all complete with accurately positioned bolt holes. Albert Sanderson, company director of the Skipton business, was keen to emphasise that, once programmed, the machine frees a member of staff to make an early start on fabrication work, raising productivity and helping the company see a return on investment within the year.

Rather like purchasing any other machinery, here lies the crux of the matter — should you want one, can you justify it? For those in the fabrication business it would appear a ‘no brainer’, but for the more occasional user in the farm workshop it may not be so clear. Realistically, how quickly will you see that ROI? Helping clear the waters somewhat, Dan Page expected to see typical running costs in the region of £9 per hour, including consumables, which compares favourably with skilled labour at £20/hr before adding any consumables. That skilled labour not only needs to bring their A-game in order to produce comparable levels of precision but also spend valuable time measuring and marking, especially when holes are required. Even if armed with a mag drill, boring holes in metal plate is not only time consuming,

Here the cutting head faithfully traced the path, with an impressive end result.

but somehow both mind numbing and a little nerve wracking.

Something that is far more difficult to put a monetary value on is the timeliness afforded by running your own machine and being able to turn out parts as, and when, needed. A detail not lost on Tom, who stated it helped to justify buying his own machine.

How much?

Now it’s time for the nitty-gritty, what is a realistic on-farm price and what do you get

Before I would have had time to mark the centres, let alone cut anything, the part was finished ... job done. Thanks to the water bed, the part was also cool enough to handle.

for your money? The Swift-Cut Pro package starts with the 1250WT at £18,995. This includes the 1,250mm x 1,250mm water filled cutting bed, a Hypertherm Powermax45 SYNC plasma power source that's capable of running on single phase, and a computer terminal. Installations do require a good supply of dry compressed air, so, if the workshop compressor is a little tired, factor in the cost for its replacement, too. Nigel Thornborrow

Sanderson Steel Structures’s plasma cutter example is proving invaluable in added precision and reducing the time taken to cut the raw steel it uses in its shed building operation.

Repetition is the name of the game at Sanderson’s, which has seen a relatively quick return on its admittedly significant investment.

Swift-Cut parts are now fed into a recently acquired press-brake, making the building firm self-sufficient for all its bracketry requirements.

Maize stubble cultivator:

4 in 1 combi-roller

Master of all? Maybe. Or perhaps just the master of a few? This farm-built combi-roller is capable of performing a number of tasks, including cultivating, seeding and rolling.

Iwas looking for a cultivator that I could use for seedbed preparation, fighting the European corn borer beetle, the sowing of cover crops and for carrying out regular rolling work. Since I couldn’t find a machine that ticked all of these boxes, I decided to build one myself.

To begin with, I bought brand new prisma rings, a new seeder and several hydraulic rams. The axle, the 13.0/75-16 wheels and the knife roller, which was cut down to the

required size, are used items. I made the frame myself using 800 x 800 x 10mm box section. I also cut out all of the plates for the chassis, the fold system etc., with a plasma cutter. After welding and painting the frame I assembled the various parts. The crossboard and the knife roller can be moved up and down hydraulically. Next are the splash plates of the seeder. These are protected from being damaged by stones and mud/clods by catwalk plastic panels and

rubber mats. The walkway also lets me get to the seed hopper. At the rear is the prisma roller, which is rigidly fixed to the frame. To ensure full-width cultivation, I offset the middle section to the rear; this gives a small overlap. My cultivator weighs 4.4t, and it has an overall working width of 5.90m. I can use it on 65hp and 100hp tractors depending on the job. Buying all of the metal and parts cost me around €12,600.

Johann Wechsler

The crossboard and the knife roller can swing up, so only the prisma press is left in work.

Johann Wechsler uses the combi-roller for rolling, sowing cover crops and to help control corn borer.

It does a good job in maize stubble.

Rubber mats protect the seed splash plates.

The machine is coupled to the link arms.

With a fixed conveyor, the ration always gets loaded to the same place in the tub, reducing variances in processing or at least that has been the experience of Brookside Farms.

Brookside Farms self-propelled feeding:

More meals on selfpropelled wheels

Brookside Farming took delivery of their self-propelled feeder in April 2025. It has been delivering daily rations for 750 cows since, bringing increased efficiency and consistency with the aid of AI driven ration prescription.

Over nearly fifteen years, Brookside Farming has transitioned from a low-input New Zealand style setup to a high-input, high-output herd. Located outside Chester, on the edge of the Cheshire and North Wales border, the herd varies from 850 to 900 cows, with between 740 and 750 milking at any one time.

“The investment we’ve put into the farm drove the change, it’s a productive space, and needed the approach to match,” points out owner, Peter Cope.

As part of its move to higher yielding cows, the farm has been using World Wide Sires throughout to shape the Holstein Friesian

base herd to an efficient genetic line that has resilient health, good breeding and high milk yield,” that Peter is happy with.

Heifer replacements are contract reared offsite due to space limitations on the home farm. This off-farm rearing strategy frees up critical infrastructure and manpower for the milking herd while still maintaining good genetic development and herd continuity.

The herd is on a 25-30% replacement cycle, this equates to about 240 fresh heifers entering production each year, replacing older animals, as well as cows that have a low yield record.

The milking herd is permanently housed in a

KEEPING IT BRIEF

Farm turns to Trioliet for a selfpropelled feeder, adding precision to the ration

The farm has adopted an Ai driven system to gain efficiencies in feed prep

Animal health and silage clamp presentation see an upward trend

barn designed around a flood wash system, which keeps passageways clean without any scraping system. Cows are bedded on sand that settles-out of the washings enroute to a separator system, sand is mixed with manure and deployed to the land.

Once per day

Feeding takes place once a day, beginning at around 5:00am and thanks to the yard layout, operators can access passages without having to move cows. One compromise of the power flush system is the trough at each end of the shed, which prevents the use of automated silage pushing robots. There would need to be four or five pushing robots, which would be prohibitively expensive compared to the Ford 333 tractor that normally pushes up the feed four times per day.

Silage is harvested on a four-week cycle on a 200 hectare grass platform, with two cuts already completed by the start of June and a third scheduled for later in the month. The local soil is quite heavy and retains moisture well. Grass lays are reseeded every three years, but there are a number of meadows that are often one year leys due to flooding, while they grow grass; even in dry times

when they do flood, the subsequent weed burden is intolerable in a multicut system. The farm also grows 160 hectares of maize for its ration, which is grown close to the farm, on land away from the flood plain. Brookside buys in straw along with the other elements of the TMR. To maintain quality and nutritional consistency.

Silage harvest is split between farm equipment and a local contractor who comes in with a self-propelled forager. The farm tends to take care of mowing and buckraking. Clamping is done with a tractor and front mounted buckrake, Peter also hauls a compactor behind, which although needs more ponies to push the grass, it does save time rolling, with a notable decrease in waste making it very much worthwhile.

Feeding Evolution

Brookside’s journey with self-propelled feeders has had its challenges. Fifteen years ago, a used RMH self-propelled feeder was purchased at a farm dispersal. Unfortunately,

BUSINESS OVERVIEW

BROOKSIDE FARMS

Feeding Triolet Triotrac 28m³

Milking herd

750 milking plus dry and followers

Transport width 39l per cow per day average

Grass Platform 200ha Maize 160ha

it came with wear-related issues, leading to significant maintenance concerns. And a “I’ll never have a self-propelled machine again mentality.” from Peter.

Twelve years on, circumstances changed. When the farm’s trailed Trioliet feeder was due for replacement, allow hours used Keenan self-propelled tub mixer became available. It was a practical next step with immediate availability and a manageable

Josh Kerr owner Peter Cope, two of the three regular operators of the feeder.

Brookside have a RotoGrind straw processor, enabling the farm to be self sufficient in ration prep.

The working height of the Trioliet means it can cross the slurry trough comfortably without risk of grounding out.

The cab lifts up for loading, saving the operator from a bad neck, they can look straight at the rotor while working.

price point. However, the Keenan’s 25m³ capacity and a 10-tonne weight limit meant it required more fills than anticipated. While a 25m³ tub typically suggests loads of 12-13 tonnes, this was not achievable within its limits. This meant extra time and fuel per day, not to mention extra wear from higher trip counts.

Other self-propelled machines were looked at, with Siloking a front runner, but most of the machines in the offing shared a similar concept for milling the fodder out of the clamp. Peter was convinced the cutting head of the Trioliet would deliver a marked improvement in clamp management. Eventually, the farm revisited the Dutch built machine, having previously run trailed models and visited the factory, they felt confident that the brand could deliver a suitable self-propelled solution. The dealer relationship also contributed to the decision. Given the importance of backup and parts availability, a strong support network was a deciding factor.

Herd Management and Feeding

Brookside’s herd is divided into six groups: highs, mediums, lows, freshcalved,heifers and dry cows. Milking is performed three times daily, and the herd averages 39 litres per cow, per day. High-yield cows receive a 70.5kg as-fed ration with 30.1kg of dry matter.

This drops incrementally through the feed groups to 56.6kg as fed ration with 24.6 dry matter for the low yield group. The constituent parts of the ration also change fractionally, with different cuts of grass silage volumes used group depending.

The

Triotrac

X in Action

Brookside chose a 28m³ Triotrac X, although this model can go up to 32m³. The machine is substantial, with three axles, two of which are driven, and all are steerable. JCB components are used for the drive axles. Hydraulic suspension supports the chassis and lowers the front for loading.

A 6.7-litre FPT engine powers the machine. It

Brookside use a water filled compactor when clamping, mounted on the back of the buckraking tractor, increasing quality and waste reduction.

is mounted on rails, allowing it to slide out to the side for servicing after removing a single exhaust clamp. The transmission is hydrostatic over powershift, which supports slow, precise operation during feeding and efficient transport up to 40km/hr. Initial experience shows fuel consumption to be favourable. With just one machine running for feeding, the Triolet is using close to 70 litres of fuel per day. The other side effect is the longevity of the farm’s loaders – there are two JCB TM320S pivot-steer machines on the farm that are ousted every five years. With north of 500 hours a year saved, their

When adding concentrates the tablet from the cab can be moved and used for reference, no remembering what’s needed, reducing errors in the ration.

Cows at the barrier is what every farmer wants, the animals are content and quiet with fresh food in the passage.

The rotor breaks the fodder up into small pieces which then fall to the floor where it is gathered by a rubber conveyor that delivers the forage to the tub. The opening providing easy access for cleaning and maintenance.

Loading straw requires a larger bite, the cutting head can extend well beyond the conveyor to pull in lighter material

Built around the power flush system the housing can be washed in minutes, with no scrapers for the cows to avoid.

running costs have been lowered, and the shear grab is only kept for emergencies, another piece of equipment saved.

Smarter Ration Control

Brookside adopted the Algo Milk system last year to enhance ration management. While a nutritionist remains involved, the system

provides day-to-day decision guidance.

Integrated with the Dairy Comp interface, Algo Milk uses milk yield data to inform cow grouping and ration volume.

As cows move through their lactation cycles, the system highlights changes in margin related to feed intake and suggests optimal group transitions for each animal. It also calculates ration costs, monitors forage quality changes, and can serve as a feed inventory if input data is accurate.

There are automated segregation gates that could allow the system to sort cows into groups, but decisions remain with the farm staff, who assess the full context behind changes in milk yield. Currently, the priority is using the data as a management prompt, not as a fully automated directive. Algo Milk’s real strength lies in marginal cost control. When feed prices spike, the system helps

Operators say comfort is good and the layout of controls is sensible. They spend three hours a day in the self-propelled.

Brookside evaluate where feed efficiencies can be gained with minimal compromise to production.

The CowManager platform is also in use, operating independently from Algo Milk. It provides real-time cow status data— temperature, movement, and behaviour (eating or resting). However, integration between the systems is currently lacking, meaning health issues must be identified separately from yield-based metrics.

CowManager excels in identifying abrupt changes such as elevated temperature or inactivity, for events like early mastitis or silent heats, the system’s alerts are extremely useful. The team on the farm all have access to the system on mobile devices.

Feeding Routine

Brookside typically prepares seven loads per day: one each for high, medium, and lowyielding cows, one for dry cows, the fresh group and heifers; and a pre-mix for the following day. The full routine takes around three hours and is rotated among three

For the premix there are a couple of hundred kilos of small bag ingredients which are added using the loader bucket.

Josh Kerr uses the tablet to measure in water for the premix, taking away guesswork keeps consistency high.

operators: Josh Kerr (five-day shift), Maciej (seven-day shift), and Peter Cope (every other weekend). This schedule maintains consistency and operator familiarity.

Loading for the high-yield group takes about 20 minutes, often amounting to 14 tonnes. A portion of the previous day’s premix is left in the tub overnight to speed up the next morning’s start.

The Trioliet’s cutting system sets it apart. While most competitors use rotating milling heads with blades, Trioliet’s design features a reciprocating blade backed by a rotor that breaks up fodder. Peter notes that it has resulted in a cleaner silage face, reducing waste reducing water ingress and so aiding consistency.

The default cutting profile follows a 400mm deep j-curve, starting from the top of the clamp and sweeping downwards and out toward the machine. This leaves a nearvertical silage face and prevents overhang at the top, even on tall clamps up to 8.0m high. This was a feature that quickly became noticed as a clamp safety benefit.

“Some machines leave a curved face which, on high faces leaves a significant enough overhang to be of concern when people are up there pulling sheets back, the Trioliet doesn’t do that,” explains Peter.

Although not all fodder lands perfectly on the conveyor during cutting, over-spill is managed either immediately or during loading for later groups. Operators use the blade and conveyor together to gather and load excess material from the clamp floor. There are two schools of thought on the clean-up, Peter will do this as he loads each mix, whereas Josh leaves it to the end, and gives the sweepings to the low yield group, or dry cows.

Loading profiles can be set for different fodder types, adjusting depth and speed. While clamped feeds (maize or grass) use

similar settings, straw—processed using a RotoGrind—benefits from a larger bite and extended cutter head reach.

Loading pre-mix involves lowering the fixed blade and pushing into the pile, finishing with a brushing motion to clean up. It’s not a perfect clean up but is comparable to other self-propelled machines.

For the premix there are a couple of hundred kilos of concentrates and minerals, which highlight the small side door on the tub somewhat useless, it’s above shoulder height for most humans, and is only about 150mm wide which would make adding the 20kg bags a slow laborious job, so a loader is needed, but only once per day.

The weighing system is independent of the chassis and loading element, but does have an operational quirk, in that the chassis needs to be level to get an accurate weight reading. this manifests as a 30 second wait when doing a large load as the already loaded ration needs to level out in the tub before a stable reading is seen.

Results can vary by 50-100kg depending on how large the load is, the trick is to switch off the loading conveyor as you reach target and then use what’s left on the blade and conveyor to top off the ration weight.

Getting around

Despite its size, the Trioliet is notably

manoeuvrable. It operates primarily in allwheel steer mode. The centre axle turns less sharply to minimise tyre wear, only scrubbing slightly at full lock when in crab steer mode. This crab steer function proves helpful in tight areas, such as when manoeuvring around the water and syrup towers, as well as moving away from clamp walls.

There is a joystick steering feature, which caught one of the operators out one day, gathering the first battle scar to the rear light strip/bumper. The joystick mode was accidentally engaged and as dispensing began the lever was knocked which swung the rear end into the feed barrier.

Summary

Brookside Farming’s decision to stick with a self-propelled feed and invest in the Triotrac X has paid off with notable gains in feeding precision, labour efficiency, and increased milk yield. The integration of advanced management systems like Algo Milk and CowManager supports the farm’s commitment to data-driven decision-making. The real-world gains have been measurable, with a significant reduction in stomach twists through consistency and having the feed at the barrier when the cows exit the parlour, the farm is now at 0-1 instances per month, rather than 1-2.

Improved clamp management has also been a welcome side effect, cutting the fodder rather than tearing it leaves the face tidy and tight reducing climatic impact. Getting across the whole face of each clamp more frequently has also aided feed consistency. In an industry increasingly focused on margin control, animal health monitoring, and labour optimisation, Brookside’s setup demonstrates how machine choice and digital integration can combine toward greater efficiency and increased animal health.

Ken Topham

The cross conveyor remains unused, it’s in the middle of the machine and doesn’t suit many of the passages, but was added as a resale item.

Cow manager has been implemented and has proven to be a useful tool for sudden events, but less so for gradual changes.

Crab feature is useful moving away from silo’s and also getting close to clamp walls without unwanted tail swings.

New and wider tyres make a big impression. But it's important to choose a tyre pairing that maintains the best lead ratio.

Determining axle lead and selecting tyres:

A simple calculation

Whether it's replacing worn-out tyres or you're wanting to fit a different size, there are several things to consider when booting up with different rubber.

Tyre specialist Herwig Kühne is a fountain of knowledge, because for around 50 years he has been been advising customers on suitable tyre combinations.

We also spoke to Stefan Rössler, of Michelin, who's responsible for product and application technology for the firm’s agricultural tyres.

The challenge — getting the lead ratio

Perhaps the most important point about swapping or fitting new tyres is to ensure that the front wheels have the correct lead. Lead means that the front wheels cover the same distance slightly faster than the rear wheels when four-wheel drive is engaged.

TYRE SIZES EXPLAINED

IF 710/70 R38 172D TL

IF/VF: Improved Flexion (IF) for up to 20% more load capacity; Very high Flexion (VF) for up to 40% more load capacity

710: Tyre width in mm

70 : Sidewall cross-section in relation to tyre width (%)

R: Radial ply tyre

38: Rim diameter in inches

172: Load index (LI), here up to 6,300 kg per wheel

D: Speed index, here up to 65km/ hr

TL: Tubeless: the tyre has no tube

TT: Tube required

This configuration enhances the tractor’s drawbar power in the field and protects both the tyres and driveline. Each tractor maker specifies the maximum lead amount as a percentage that relates to the number of rotations of the respective rear wheel. The permissible lead is normally between 0.0-5.0%. Some tractors will also

KEEPING IT BRIEF

Optimum lead is between 1.5-3.0%

The calculation for determining lead is based on the tyre’s static rolling circumference.

Inflation pressure and ballasting will also have an effect on the lead (dynamic rolling circumference).

specify a lower limit of 1.0%; for others the upper limit is 4.0%.

This information is particularly important for tyre dealers and suppliers. If the lead is too great or negative, various components will be exposed to strain and stress, especially on 40km/hr+ tractors where the four-wheel drive is engaged for braking. When you release the brake you will hear a banging noise. This increased strain affects the fourwheel clutch, the front axle differential, the axle bearings and the tyres themselves. To eliminate this effect, experts recommend determining the lead with even greater accuracy and have an eye on the jobs the tractor typically carries out. Many years of experience show that a lead of between 1.5 and 3.0% is ideal for tractors that are used for both transport and field work. This, however, is not always easy to achieve, because you need to find out a number of different parameters such as the rolling circumferences or the tractor’s transmission ratio (i-value).

Rolling circumference

If fitting new boots all-round, you can look up the static rolling circumferences in the tyre technical spec sheets. These figures specify the circumference under nominal

Herwig Kühne has been working on suitable tyre combinations for agricultural tyres for almost 50 years, with many farmers in the area relying on his vast knowledge.

load (maximum load to load index with specified air pressure).

The actual issue is getting these figures, if only the front tyres are to be replaced, as the rear tyres are still in good condition. In this case, you’ll have to measure the tread depth on the rear tyres at three different positions (in the centre and on the outside) in the direction of travel. Next, compare the measurement with the tyre’s data sheet and calculate the difference. You will need to factor in wear; if the lug is 2cm lower than the lugs on a new tyre, for example. Our sample calculation shows one way of doing this. This requires the tyre’s actual rolling circumference for determining the suitable front or rear tyre.

The i-value — the transmission ratio

Another key parameter is the i-value — the transmission ratio between the rear axle and the front axle. Finding this value is not always easy because the gear pairings in the transmission may vary (even on what may appear to be the same model of tractor) or they may have completely different front axles.

Your tractor or tyre dealer should be able to help in determining this figure. This can

DETERMINING THE I-VALUE BY WHEEL TURNS

A clock face is marked upside down on the side of the front tyre i.e. the 12 is at the bottom. The mark moves up as the tractor drives forward. This helps to count the full number of revolutions and determine the degree of the last revolution.

The

turned a total of 13.25 revolutions, which corresponds to an i-value of 1.325 after dividing this count by the 10 revolutions

front wheel

of the rear wheel.

The starting point is marked on the rear wheel. With four-wheel drive engaged, the tractor completes ten full turns of the rear wheels as you count the number of front wheel revolutions.

Lug height can be measured with a tread depth gauge. Or you can use a ruler and a straight edge.

SAMPLE CALCULATION: WHAT IS THE CORRECT LEAD RATIO WHEN FITTING TWO NEW TYRES?

A Claas Arion 460 was delivered with AC65 tyres from Mitas — 480/65 R28 at the front and 600/65 R38 at the rear. The rear tyres still have around 50% tread (the lugs on the new tyre are 40mm high), but the front tyres are worn. According to the tyre spec sheet, the rolling circumferences of the new AC65 tyres are 5,251mm at the rear (HA) and 4,064mm at the front (VA). The i-value is 1.335.

With this information we can figure out what the rolling circumference of the new front tyres must be if it is to come close to the 3.0% target.

usually be determined by the front axle or transmission serial plate. Wholesalers or manufacturers also have databases, such as Michelin with its Agro-Pro portal where you can see the figures.

If you are still at a dead end, you can resort to doing a rolling test. This involves driving the unballasted tractor forward on a paved surface with the four-wheel drive engaged for exactly 10 revolutions of the back wheel. Make sure the tyres have identical pressure in them. As the tractor moves forward, count the number of revolutions of the front wheel.

Marking a clock face on one tyre, with 12 at the bottom helps. The front wheels usually turn 13 to 14 times while the rear wheels complete 10 turns. The i-figure is obtained by dividing the front wheel revolutions by the rear wheel revolutions. The lead ratio is obtained by repeating the test, this time with all-wheel drive disengaged. The difference between the two results is the lead. This method can be problematic if the lead was incorrect in the first place, a symptom of which is that clunking noise as you release the brake with four-wheel drive engaged. In this case, you should jack up the tractor for doing the rolling test. Count the number of turns of both front wheels and then use both counts to calculate the average number of turns. This is due to the friction losses in the differential, especially if the driveshaft is not completely centred on the axle.

Doing the calculation

Once the all-important i-value and rolling circumferences of the rear tyres (HA) and

This is one formula:

Lead:

((VA / HA x i-value) - 1) x 100

Existing rolling circumference: ((HA new / π) - 2 x lug wear) x π

New rolling circumference VA: HA current / i-value x desired lead / 100 + 1

Calculation:

Lead on the new machine: ((4,064mm / 5,251mm x 1.335) - 1) x 100 = 3.32%

Using a laser measuring device, Herwig is able to adjust the tracking to prevent uneven tyre wear, along with the extra cost this entails.

front tyres (VA) have been determined, enter these figures in the following formula: ((VA / HA x i-value) - 1) x 100. This gives the theoretical lead of the tyre combination as a percentage. The next step is to determine the suitable tyre pairs. This often leads to using two different brands front and rear, especially when just the one pair is being replaced.

As a guideline for selecting the right tyre, you can calculate the lead of the existing pair when new, provided the tractor was

Existing rolling circumference at the rear: ((5,251mm / π) - 2 x 20mm) x π = 5,124mm

New rolling circumference for VA: 5,124 mm / 1.335 x 1.033 = 3,965mm

Tyre search: 480/65 R28 145A8/142D Alliance Agristar 365 TL AS, rolling circumference: 3,959mm

New lead: ((3,959 mm / 5,124mm x 1.335) - 1) x 100 = 3.15%

delivered on them. Otherwise, it is advisable to aim for a lead of about 3.0% for new front tyres. This ensures an optimum range even during heavy braking (the dynamic rolling circumference) or as they continue to wear.

Inflation pressure

In addition to the rolling circumference as the most important criterion, you should also pay attention to a few other things. Particularly important is the load index (LI). This is provided in the tyre information (see box ‘Tyre sizes explained”) as a three-digit number, e.g. 178. It should correspond to at least half the permissible axle load of the tractor.

Furthermore, there are also IF and VF tyres. These meet special requirements, because standard tyres on high-hp tractors often reach their load limits when an implement is attached.

According to ETRTO requirements (European Tyre and Rim Technical Organisation), IF tyres must withstand up to 20% payload and VF tyres up to 40% — without altering the inflation pressure. The other way round, this means a VF tyre can be driven at up to 40% less pressure than a standard tyre although the payload has not changed.

NOTE: Permissible tyre pressures for the various axle loads always relate to work that doesn’t involve drawbar work and tractive forces. This means for drawbar work you should always inflate the tyres to the higher minimum pressure specified. It should also be noted that the rolling circumference decreases as tyre flex increases. This is the so-called dynamic rolling circumference,

which is dependent on the payload and tyre pressure. Low tyre pressures at the rear, for example, can lead to increased lead, while low pressures at the front can lead to negative lead. This means that the flexing front and rear should be identical, and the air pressures should be adapted to the payload.

Observe tyre wear

You should keep an eye on the tread to determine any wear — not only on new tyres and when changing tyres. Uneven wear on the front wheels in particular is usually the result of inadequate track. To adjust the

Potentially expensive cracks in the carcass may be caused by too low a

WHAT IS PERMISSIBLE? GERMAN COMPLICATIONS

This panel will be of little relevance to readers outside of Germany, but, if you think we have red tape to deal with, check this out.

The rolling circumferences also play a major role in terms of homologation when it comes to changing tyres. If the desired tyre pairing is already listed as an option on the supplement to the registration certificate or on a socalled clearance certificate, which can be requested from a dealer, there will be no issues with having the tyres registered with the TÜV.

When fitting larger replacement tyres, the tractor’s maximum speed must be reduced for homologation; otherwise

there's a risk the maximum speed would be exceeded. In addition, the permissible vehicle dimensions must always be observed. According to §32 Paragraph 1 No. 1 of the German traffic regulations, a towing vehicle must not exceed a width of 2.55 metres. However, when using wide tyres in agriculture and forestry, a max vehicle width of 3.00m is permitted (35. Exception to the regulations). In addition, warning panels must be fitted if the width is 2.75 metres or more.

Additional marker lights are required if the outermost point of the tractor protrudes more than 40cm beyond the outermost illuminated point of the rear light.

track, specialised companies such as Kühne utilise laser measuring systems that are attached to front wheel hubs. Pronounced wear on the outside of the tyres suggest toein. The opposite applies, if wear concentrates on the inside of the tyre.

Our expert has a simple tip on how you can visually check the tyre track configuration yourself. To do this, drive the machine onto a dry gravel surface or gravel road. Ensure that the front wheels are inflated well (at least to 1.7 bar) and check whether the dust collects in the centre of the lugs. If the dust deposits further inwards, this indicates toeout.

One consequence of low tyre pressure is prematurely and costly damaged sidewalls. This problem is exacerbated if the tyres are mounted on rims that are too narrow and thereby constricted. The experts therefore always recommend choosing the widest possible rim for the tyre of choice.

Summary

Lead ratio is a particular issue for changing or fitting new tyres on tractors with 40km/ hr plus speeds and all-wheel braking. The experts recommend a lead of 1.5% to 3.0%, saying it is essential to determine it accurately. As inflation pressure and tyre flexing, too, influence the lead, it is very important to consider the lead when setting your tyre pressures.

Alexander Bertling

If the overall width of the machine exceeds 2.75 metres, additional warning panels are mandatory.

The tyres should be mounted in the widest possible rims, and this is even more important when using low pressures. Consult the maker’s tyre charts for this level of information.

tyre pressure or excessive constriction of narrow rims.

£200k for 70hp

Electrification has found its way into a full-size Fendt tractor, in the guise of the E107S Vario. But how has it been done and what does it offer, over and above its far cheaper and virtually identical dieselpowered stablemate, the 207 Vario? Time to don the insulated gloves and stand on a rubber mat.

If you thought the four-pot 620 was expensive in last month’s issue, then hold my beer. Fendt’s all-electric, 70hp E107S starts at an eye-watering £198,000 for the boggy-basic Profi-specification. And that’s before you tick your way through the options list, or choose the Profi+ model. Adding front linkage and pto, plus a host of other goodies, including a loader that was sat on its parking stands, cranks the heat up to £236,720 for this featured example. For those concerned about the reliability and longevity of the EV tractor’s components, there’s some security in the knowledge that Fendt will provide an eightyear, 8,000-hour warranty. Extended warranty costs £2.46/hour, pushing the ecofriendly tractor’s price tag over £250,000. Let that sink in.

Model choice

The E100 series comprises two models – the full-size, 2,163mm-wide E107S and the narrow, 1,278mm-wide E107V. Fendt admits that the E100 series is unlikely to find its way onto many farms. The 200-series on which this is based accounts for just 5.0% of the German maker’s UK sales, with annual numbers floating between 30 and 50 units. But it does see new market opportunities among the amenity, sports turf, local authority, solar and industrial sectors for the electric tractor. The key attraction of course, is zero emissions, low noise, a projected 7.7tonnes of carbon reduction per annum compared to the diesel version, and a one third reduction in the cost of servicing. We’re focussed on the full-size E107S, which is expected to be the bigger seller of the

two. So how did Fendt arrive at this point? Quite simply, it chose to electrify an existing tractor, rather than opt for a redesign using electric wheel motors or create the ability to run auxiliary equipment through electrical power outlets.

“We had an existing package in our 200-series that uses our proven Vario transmission, axles, hydraulics, suspension

KEEPING IT BRIEF

Charge management is essential

Dealers require heavy investment in training

CCS2 compatibility for charging

Fendt E100 Vario:

Fendt’s E100-series comprises two 70hp four-wheel drive tractors and currently represent the only two electric tractors in Fendt’s tractor line-up.

E107S packs 70hp, with a boost function that lifts output to 90hp.

from 20 metres/hour up to 40km/hr. In terms of power delivery, there are three driving modes available to the operator: Eco, Dynamic and Dynamic+. Eco creates 68hp, while Dynamic lifts this output to 75hp. Dynamic+ has the ability to deliver a peak output of 90hp, available for additional performance over a limited time, for example with high-load pto start-up.

The same, but different

In place of the diesel version’s floor-mounted exhaust brake is a foot switch for energy recovery. When travelling downhill, the foot switch can be used to put up to 40kWh back into the battery, making use of inertia. This retardation function also acts as brake.

A DC/DC converter is used to step-down the 668v battery output to 13.8v, to run the tractor’s standard 12-volt electrical system and its consumers, without need for an alternator. This is achieved using a power distribution unit, to direct energy where it’s needed.

and cab,” said product specialist, Phil Mattey. “All we needed to do was substitute the power unit.”

Taking the three-pot oil burner out of the 207 Vario and replacing it with a 100kW battery pack was the starting point for the E107S. Supplied by Bosch, the prismatic lithium-ion battery comprises 180 cells producing 668 volts and weighs around 650kg – just 150kg more than the threebanger diesel engine. The E107S weighs just 4,500kg, compared to 4,100g for the 207 Vario.

An inverter takes the 668-volt DC (direct

current) output from the battery pack to provide AC (alternating current) to power the three-phase Danfoss electric motor, which is connected to the transmission input. Think of this as the engine’s crankshaft.

The AC motor is more efficient in power consumption than a DC motor, and it also provides flexibility over a wide range of working speeds. However, the AC motor’s high rpm working range is also responsible for the high-pitched whine that radiates from the tractor when in use. However, this permanent magnet synchronous Danfoss motor runs considerably faster than the diesel engine would – typically up to 4,000rpm - so an epicyclic reduction gear slots between the motor and Fendt’s ML75 Vario transmission, to reduce the input shaft speed to a working range that replicates that of the diesel engine. This way, Fendt engineers can run the existing powertrain in the same speed range as the diesel equivalent. This means the E107S has working speeds

Fendt has had to work out different strategies for managing heat too, so the operator has little to worry about when using the tractor, and the E107S has three cooling circuits, which converge at the front of the tractor within a redesigned cooling package. Unlike conventional radiator packs that draw air in at the front and push it back over the engine, the E107S pulls air in at the sides and pushes warm air out through the front and top of the cooling pack. This avoids pushing warm air over an already warm battery pack.

Transmission oil is cooled conventionally

Multiple cooling circuits are used to manage heat.

Rear linkage is as-found on the diesel-powered 207 Vario.

Charging socket is CCS2 compliant, offering AC and DC input.

through a radiator, with air flow provided by an electrically driven fan that sucks are forward through a condenser then through the transmission cooler. There are three water circuits built-in, which are used to manage heat among components and also provide a source of warmth for the cab. A dedicated water circuit offers cooling of the electric drive motor, inverter and DC/DC converter. A second circuit provides cab heating, and a third circuit provides both heating and cooling of the battery pack. Both these circuits are connected by a series of directional valves, to divert heat where it may be needed, if it’s not being cooled. Cleverly, waste heat generated during the charging cycle can also be used to pre-heat the cab, making the most of energy efficiency and recovery. An underfloor electric heating system also provides cab

heating, and this too can be functioning when the charging process is operational.

Battery management

Charging the tractor is where an element of additional operator training and education may be required. Conscious of how mobile phone battery life can be shortened by

repeated fast-charging, Fendt is keen to avoid the E107S’ battery capacity being eroded unnecessarily.

Fully integrated battery management helps to make the most of plug-in power, which creates multiple charge strategies that can be tailored to suit the way the tractor is being used. These include AC and DC inputs, with the later offering a rapid charge function using a 125-amp charger which is capable of firing a maximum of 80kW direct into the battery. This lifts charge status of the battery from 20-80% in just 45 minutes. Full charge on this system can be achieved in just one hour. A lesser 40kWh DC charge input delivering 64 amps slows the process to around two hours.

Far more sympathetic charging is achievable through AC charging stations. With a maximum 22kWh AC source for example,

With the coded key in its holder, the start-stop button is activated.

is

wheel, and shows battery charge and temperature.

Main dashboard display

nestled behind the steering

668-volt battery pack has replaced a three-cylinder diesel engine.

Permanent magnet motor, circled, drives the transmission.

Cooling pack uses electric fans to push air upwards and forwards, away from the battery pack.

Electric badge accompanied by switch to access the charging socket.

12in terminal makes it easy to see what’s going on with tractor functions….

… as does the bespoke charging screen for those all-important battery management processes.

recharging takes around four to five hours, and is handled by the on-board inverter which then feeds the battery.

Fully topped up, the E107S can deliver a run time equivalent to 25% of what its dieselpowered stablemate can achieve on a full tank of fuel. So expect to become overly familiar with the many ways you can charge the E107S.

Through the FendtOne terminal, it is possible to select the charge current and charge times. This automatic charge management will finish charging the battery at the specified time, and also condition the battery by bringing it up to the correct operating temperature so it achieves a fully charged status just before it is due to be used each day.

This allows over-night trickle charging and cab pre-heating for example, which is said to make the most of battery life and maintain its total storage capacity for longer.

Daily maintenance requirements are few

and far between on the E107S. Aside from inspecting and cleaning the cooling package, plus checking the oil levels, there is little to do but poke the grease gun around in the usual spots.

Orange cabling highlights the tractor’s highvoltage systems, which is anything over 30 volts AC and 60 volts DC. This in itself will require specialised technical training from dealers, with IMI Level 4 standard being applied to match that of the automotive sector.

So only the panels around the cooling pack can be opened – the bonnet remains firmly locked closed, and is accessible only by trained and qualified technicians.

In the cab

Anyone who has used the current generation of Fendt tractors will find the E107S no different. There is an ignition key, but it doesn’t turn. This individually coded key slots into a magnetic holder, so the electronic

EV REGULATION

Aftersales support will be a vital part of the E107’s introduction, with dealer technicians required to have a level of electric vehicle-related training recognised by a UK body, such as the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI). While there will be specialists in the network with IMI Level 4 training, Fendt says dealers will receive IMI level training specific to the E100series.

EV infrastructure can be provided by AGCO, to include safety equipment, workshop tooling and charging accessories, such as rubber floor mats, insulated tooling and the need to provide a one metre cordon around any EV in the workshop.

system can wake-up and identify that the correct key – and user – is at the controls. A start/stop button on the steering column brings everything to life and the central instrument display nestled behind the steering wheel illustrates battery capacity and battery temperature.

Fendt’s joystick and terminal, plus pto and hydraulic functions, have lost no performance or functionality. There are two hydraulic circuits with up to six auxiliary services, plus Power Beyond and flow rates of up to 65 litres/min thanks to a 110 litres/ min load-sensing hydraulic pump. Rear lift capacity is 4.2 tonnes, spools can be assigned by the operator and flow rates can be individually set.

With the handbrake released, you’re good to go. Don’t expect any noise though, other than the whining of the electric drive motor.

Summary

The arrival of the E100-series will put the German maker on its own diversification path towards new market opportunities beyond agriculture. Rather like large-scale industrial and construction projects like HS2 and its processes, this appears much more of an industry solution for blue-chip clients and customers who seek box-ticking for sustainability and environment, over cost and common sense. This aside, Fendt sees its future fuel sources being a mix of technologies, with batteries being used for low power applications typically sub-100hp, with the 100-250hp sector being driven by hydrogen. Above 250hp, E-fuels are likely to be adopted, including HVO.

Geoff Ashcroft

A 6.00m Müthing flail mower is one of the latest purchases for Coombe End Farm, tackling estate work and offering contracting opportunities.

Coombe End Farms:

Adapt and thrive

With the ongoing uncertainty concerning farm support and thus cropping plans, machinery investment involves some tricky decisions over which equipment will remain cost effective over its lifetime. A Müthing MU-M 600/F Vario flail mower is an impressive addition to the fleet this spring for one Gloucestershire business.

Coombe End Farms is part of a diverse estate near Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, with enterprises including a 6000 tonne commercial grain store and Elkstone Studios, a new office park which offers the leisure facilities to make it a weekend destination too.

The office park was built on the old farm site, so farming operations and the grain store have transferred to the former dairy 300m up the road.

The 800ha estate has 450ha of combinable crops in hand, plus 160ha of land in SFI

agreements. Contracting is an important strand of the business, on another 650ha, with all arable services offered. It is run by a small team of farm manager Martyn Thorn and operator Ben Harris, with help coming from Chris Thorn and Kevin Bullock as the season becomes busier, working closely with the owner and estate manager.

“We can see an increasing demand for agricultural contracting and environmental work in the future, and a proportion of our machinery and labour is deployed for maintenance on the wider estate,” points out

Martyn. “The income from the office park supports the farm, replacing that from the Basic Payment Scheme, and allows future investment.”

Recent estate projects include planting 1.8km of new hedge using capital grants.

Decisions, decisions

The newest purchase took a considerable amount of thought for a ‘humble rough mower’. It’s an oft-forgotten and neglected item of kit, but with large areas of game cover to mulch and amenity grassland and

Martyn and Chris Thorn with operator Ben Harris.

environmental areas to maintain, getting the right machine was key for Martyn.

“We had a wide area batwing rotary mower, but its poor performance led us to look at alternatives,” he explains. “The tractor wheels pushed down the maize stalks in their path and the deck didn’t create enough updraft to deliver them to the blades, so the final result was disappointing.”

There was already a 2.00m flail on the farm, used for smaller areas of rough mowing, but Martin was keen to have a higher capacity solution and they ended up with a Müthing MU-M 600/F Vario. It’s 6.00m working width is made up of a pair of 3.00m pto-driven flail mower beds which fold to 2.85m for transport. A single gearbox transmits power to a V-belt which drives the large diameter rotor, which is fitted with 52 hammer flails. The trough is especially deep to increase the suction generated within and to lift crops run down by the tractor. It is steel lined and uses an adjustable mulching bar which can be moved closer to or further away from the flails to alter the intensity of mulching by loosening retaining screws and repositioning it as required.

Another feature of the design is a patented shark fin shredding bar which is located in the top of the trough, guiding the material towards the flails.

An option on these machines is a hydraulically driven additional flail unit which sits between the two beds to ensure that material in the centre of them is not missed. After a site visit from Müthing importer Simon Richard, to help get the best from the mower, this has been retrofitted

to Coombe End Farms’ machine.

Stone guards front and rear prevent debris being thrown out and skids at each end offer protection for the beds on uneven ground. It can be specified with four castoring wheels at the rear rather than a roller, and Martyn notes that unlike another brand that he looked at, the wheels turn through 360 degrees, allowing a complete headland turn without lifting the mower.

“We did look at a few designs of flail mowers – I didn’t want a rear roller as it will be used in winter, when the damper soils can lead to mud accumulating on the roller and blocking up. Another challenge is that we need to be able cut grass banks, so rear wheels allow the mower to trail behind the tractor on turns for safety rather than having to lift it.”

Adjusting the tractor top linkage so that the mower sits back and opens up the throat ensures that taller stems are taken in when mulching the maize cover, which is carried out in the spring ready for ploughing and redrilling. It can also be put into float to further aid with contour following.

“The Müthing mulches most of the stems on the first pass; turning round and going over a second time gives a complete fine chop,” comments operator, Ben Harris. “Where maize has grown well it tends to blow over and can be difficult to mulch, but now we have a solution.”

Wild bird mix that had died back before it could be mown this year was no match for the flail mower, but Martyn explains that in a dryer spring it would be tackled earlier. He’s also exploring the possibility of using it for scrub clearance. On amenity grassland,

KEEPING IT BRIEF

Diversified estate with flexible approach to machinery

Heavy duty flail mower with large working widths tackles a number of jobs

Contracting opportunities always a consideration for purchases

The shark fin shredding bar guides the material towards the flails.

An adjustable ‘Vario’ mulching bar can be moved closer to or further away from the flails by loosening retaining screws and repositioning it as required to alter the intensity of mulching.

the shredding action has produced a fine, almost lawn-like finish, he notes. Ben comments: “We used it on some cover that had gone flat after being topped – the hood just ‘suctioned it up’ so that it could be cut. I’m confident that we can get to within a couple of inches of the ground when we need to. We’ve already found that residues that have been shredded with the Müthing are much easier to incorporate, making for better cultivations.”

Martyn adding: “We have clients who have established AB15 that needs to be regularly maintained; the Müthing will go low enough to do this so it gives us more options for contract work.”

He comments that the 6.00m machine makes a neat package when folded; it also comes complete with parking legs so can be quickly dropped off in the workshop.

Adapting to the workload

In addition to the acreage in-hand, stubble to stubble contracting work is carried out on an acreage charge basis and Martyn explains:

“The day you put the seed in the ground is the most important day of that crop’s life.

If you don’t get that right you’re always on the back foot, so we do what is required. If that is a cheaper way, then great, if not then I am not afraid to get the plough and combination drill out.”

Rotation is oilseed rape followed by first wheat and a second cereal of either feed or malting barley. SFI options brought in buckwheat as a companion crop to oilseed rape; a green cover is established between harvest and spring barley.

“We make SFI work to our advantage within the rotation, or to manage corners, stony areas, banks or springs.”

Manure plays a role for oilseed rape – either biosolids, mushroom compost or chicken litter improve soil health and tackle flea beetle, he comments.

A Horsch Terrano is fitted with a range of points to do different jobs, from creating a stale seedbed to establishing rape or cover crops when fitted with a Biodrill.

“We’ve also put winged points on and used it to hoe weeds for an organic farmer,”

Martyn comments. “We direct drill better land with our Horsch Sprinter with 1in or 5in Dutch openers and we direct drill all spring barley.”

The Sprinter has a twin hopper and additional mini hopper for slug pellets.

“This model is fitted with a full width front packer and the 22 coulters contour well; discs on the back row also help to keep soil in front of the coulter,” explains Martyn. “It’s an improvement on its predecessor on which we had to retrofit a ring packer. We can also put urea down the spout to give spring barley a boost; we don’t find it spins out well to 30m and this also helps reduce volatilisation.”

He concedes that the Sprinter is best suited to dry conditions, and common with many farms, the business found itself shopping for a power harrow drill in 2019’s deluge.

“It was an Accord on a Kuhn power harrow, and we’ve just updated it to a 4.00m Kuhn Venta which has three rows of tines for better trash flow. No two years are the same

A hydraulically driven ‘mini mower’ has since been retrofitted to tackle vegetation at the centre of the two beds.

The two 3.00m wing mowers fold vertically for a sub-2.85m transport width.

The wheels can turn through 360deg, avoiding blocking and scuffing on turns. On this type of work, the castoring wheels also increase stability and thus safety as the mower does not need to be lifted at the end of a run.

An all-round workhorse for the business, the 334hp John Deere 7R offers plenty of power and weight to handle the mower.

and we have variability of soils within the same field, so we need that flexibility. It can go in without ploughing in some conditions, but we have got a Kverneland on-land VariWidth in the armoury if needed.”

Crop nutrition options

Fertiliser is divided between a Kuhn Axis and liquids through a 4,000-litre Bateman RB35.

“We work closely with our independent agronomist, Mike Dolman and the Crop Advisory Buying Group and use Rhiza Contour to produce VR maps that can downloaded into the JD system; we’ll install a concrete pad for Yara tanks for our contract clients so that it’s there when we need it.’

The RB35, which comes with VG booms, the company’s boom levelling and Capstan PWM was purchased via a shrewd deal which saw it replace a well-cared for simpler Bateman, chopping a good chunk off the price of the new machine.

“Bateman claims 8% savings on chemicals in the first year, and we’ve been impressed with results of the shut-off on fertiliser too - there’s less lodging. The way it turns on and off the nozzles makes life as an operator easier and less tiring. Downtime is reduced with a 10,000-litre bowser.”

The combine was another recent link in the chain, marking a return to New Holland for the estate after 20 years.

“The CR 8.90’s a straightforward machine, easier to keep clean, less moving parts and servicing and competitively priced,” says the farm manager. “I was concerned that the tracks aren’t suspended but there’s not that much difference.”

The 10.5m MacDon header has been a bit of a revelation, he comments. “We can get longer days in wheat and particularly barley as straw doesn’t wrap round the auger and up onto the reel. We have unusual climatic conditions: at the start of the harvesting day it gets ‘dummel’, where moisture increases and straw starts to bend. But if rain is ahead, there’s usually no dew, so we can keep going for longer.”

It can also be used closer to the ground, he adds: “The header flexes so you can get low or brackled crops and can be used in a positive or negative arc; you can also pitch it forward from the cab. This is helpful when it’s dusty or the sun is in your eyes - you know the header is doing its thing.”

A wider header was considered, but the 10.5m unit gives the ability to downsize the combine if required in future and to work for customers with smaller fields.

Martyn comments that the combine has ‘all

the technology you need without being over complicated’, and the approach extends to monitoring the grain store from the cab, using remote access to the Svegma 50t/hr dryer.

“I can set it up for 14% moisture when I start combining then I can increase or decrease the speed and the temperature remotely and then speed it up remotely as the conditions improve. Chris does the double checks, but the process is largely automated.”

Chris and Kevin weigh every trailer load over the Parkerfarm weighbridge so there is complete transparency.

The estate has been loyal to John Deere for 50 years and tractors are mainly owned, but one is kept on contract hire for flexibility. The estate also collaborates with a neighbouring contractor for that business’s silage work, supplying Ben and his tractor for the triple mowers.

“Similarly, we benefit from their contract maize drilling service. With the cost of the kit escalating these days makes sense for us to help each other out. It’s all part of our ongoing plan to keep the farming business profitable and sustainable so that it’s there for the next generation,” Martyn says.

Jane Carley

A power harrow drill returned to the fleet in 2019, this Accord/Kuhn combi was purchased second hand and only recently updated.

The CR 8.90 marked a return to New Holland for the estate after 20 years.

The Horsch Sprinter has proved to be best suited to dry conditions.

A 6000 tonne commercial grain store has been built at the old dairy, along with modern workshops and machinery storage.

Neil Green says going off-grid proved much more affordable than a traditional power supply.

N & S GREEN AND SON:

Going off-grid

Faced with extortionate costs to install power to his family’s farm, one Derbyshire farmer and contractor decided to go totally off-grid, adopting roof-mounted solar panels with energy storage using battery packs, in combination with a wood boiler for hot water and heating.

When Derbyshire livestock farmer and contractor Neil Green and wife Sarah gained planning permission in 2018 to convert one of their farm buildings into their home, the pair believed that bringing power to the farm through the local utilities supplier would be simple and straightforward. Not so.

Bringing power up from the nearby village of Tansley, over a distance of around half a mile to reach Oxclose Farm was going to set them back an eye-watering £100,000. An alternative supply route, running across a neighbour’s two fields from an existing pole was thought to be a more favourable

solution. That was until the neighbour’s land agent sought to leverage an easement of around £60,000 for the privilege of accessing power.

“The greed involved actually did us a favour,” explains Neil Green. “So we looked at going off-grid, with a system that could successfully power the farm and our home.”

The farm had already invested in a 200ft deep bore hole to supply water for livestock. This supply could be piped to the house and with accompanying UV and particle filters, the Greens could ensure a clean and healthy supply of drinking water was available.

“All we had to do was buy into an electricity scheme that could harvest, store and supply

power, which we could use on a year-round basis,” he says.

At Oxclose Farm, Riber near Matlock, Neil along with wife Sarah and son James,

KEEPING IT BRIEF

80hp generator tops-up batteries when needed

Excess solar energy is used for immersion heaters

Annual panel cleaning maintains performance

usually keep around 80 head of cattle. The farm is looking to grow this enterprise, with a set-up that revolves around 10 pens, with 10 calves per pen.

Stock arrives as calves and are reared to around six to nine months of age when they are moved on to a regular buyer, as stores. While the livestock customer provides a bespoke ration as part of the stock rearing process, Neil Green produces around 150 round bales of haylage each year. While Neil operates his own mowing, tedding and raking equipment to manage dry matter content, a neighbour supplies the baler.

In addition, a flock of pedigree Jacob sheep provides a supply of fat lambs that are sold in boxes, with very little going to waste. “We even sell the skins, as rugs,” adds Neil. His contracting business has been scaled back in recent years, and Neil continues to include hedgecutting but on a more manageable scale. The lion’s share of the workload is handled by his JCB 3CX backhoe loader, carrying out on-farm ditching, drainage and farm track repair work. Having chased and achieved the dream since starting his business in 1992, he now enjoys a finance-free approach to tractor and machinery ownership, and has recently diversified into firewood supply service along with a good friend, having invested in a Posch a firewood processor.

Running older kit is not without its challenges, and Neil admits that he perhaps spends more time in the farm workshop to ensure he keeps on top of maintenance with his modern classic fleet. Doing so requires a decent supply of electricity to run a collection of workshop kit including compressor and welder, plus a host of essential power tools.

“We looked into a lot of options to give us a reliable and dependable source of power,

BYD provides the power storage, in the guise of eight, 2.56kWh 51.2-volt lithium batteries with a total storage capacity of 20.48kWh.

Roof-mounted solar panels at Oxclose Farm harvest up to 20kW of energy, which is stored in batteries.

On-farm boiler room is where electrical energy and heat are managed and distributed.

and settled on a solar panel system that could be installed on the roof of our buildings,” he says. “There’s a lot of roof space, so why not make use of it?”

The Green’s off-grid power supply is generated by an array of 77 photo-voltaic panels spread across two roof areas. Collectively, the panels are capable of generating up to 20kW at their peak. This power is collected through a Solis inverter, which feeds the harvested electricity into a BYD battery storage pack comprising eight, 2.56kWh 51.2-volt lithium batteries, offering a total storage capacity of 20.48kWh. Stored battery power is accessed using three Victron Energy inverters – one for each phase. This enables a 240-volt supply to be used for the house, in addition to a

415v three-phase supply for the farm and its workshop.

“There’s more than enough power available to run my 450-amp MIG welder,” says Neil. “And if I’m welding on a sunny day, the power will come straight off the panels, through the inverters and is not drawn from the batteries. We’ve seen peaks of up to 25kW from the panels, but the average is much less.”

Conscious of energy consumption, Neil says Led lights are used throughout the buildings and workshop, limiting the amount of energy drawn from what’s available in the battery storage.

Living in the Derbyshire Dales though, is not without its off-grid challenges and through the winter months with the shortest days, the solar panel system is unable to keep up with demand. It’s also an area known for snow fall, and the lightest dusting on those

roof-top panels is enough to prevent any power from being harvested. Because of this, the farm does have a plan B, which was built-in to the power plan.

“I went up on the roof one winter to clear the snow from the panels, and realised how green and dull they had become,” he says. “They hadn’t been cleaned in their first four years of use, and now it’s part of our annual maintenance. Clean panels mean peak performance so we can harness as much of the sun’s energy as possible.”

“That said, it’s essential that we have a backup power supply,” adds Neil. “And to get the batteries back up to 100% capacity in winter, we have a 40kVa three-phase diesel generator that makes up for any shortfall.” He says that the farm cannot get through winter without help from the generator, as consumption from November to February is more than what the solar system can

Victron Energy controller shows where energy is flowing, and also where it’s going. An app provides easy access to the system.

Three inverters provide the phases needed to run the farmhouse and the workshop – the latter gaining a three-phase supply for welding and air tool equipment.

Wall-mounted Solis inverter manages power harnessed from the sun…

… showing real-time power, plus a breakdown of daily, monthly and yearly energy harvested, as well as total energy produced since installation.

generate.

“We do get bright, crisp winter days that do yield energy from the panels, but it’s not enough to fill the batteries,” he says. With the entire system accessed through an app, power generation and consumption can be monitored. While the back-up generator can be used automatically to kick-in when battery levels drop to around 15% capacity, Neil prefers to run the generator as-needed during those dark winter days.

“There’s nothing worse than the generator starting in the middle of the night,” he says.

“So when we’re in the sheds feeding calves and livestock, and the lights are on, it’s easy enough to run the generator just to top-up the batteries in the day time, so we can get through the night.”

Typically, he says the generator is only used for one to two hours per day from November to the end of February. Over the four months’ use, a few litres of diesel each day is the system’s only annual cost.

As part of the off-grid focus, the farm has installed a gasification boiler for its heat source, burning wood in exchange for

warmth. This solid-fuel central heating boiler operates at a high temperature –typically 500 degrees Celsius – using wood with a moisture content of less than 18%.

This boiler heats a 5,000-litre insulated water tank, which is used to supply heat to the farmhouse. It does this through a pair of heat exchanger coils, positioned in the tank. The lower one – and therefore the coolest –is used to run the farmhouse’s underfloor heating system on the ground floor and also its central heating system, which uses conventional radiators throughout the upstairs rooms.

The upper coil is where the tank is at its hottest, is used for hot water to supply the kitchen and bathrooms, operating at around 65°C.

“Having 5,000 litres of water in an insulated vessel creates a great thermal mass, so once it’s warmed through, it doesn’t take much topping up,” says Neil. “And we do use a lot of hot water for mixing up milk powder when calf rearing.”

“The underfloor heating system is capable of blending hot and cold water, so the water temperature circulating through the underfloor pipework is cooler than that in the radiators, and is maintained at a constant 37°C.”

Though Neil says that a drop in the floor temperature is the first alarm bell that indicates the wood boiler needs to be relit. “I only light the wood boiler every three days in winter, but this increases to every

Underfloor heating system blends hot and cold water to maintain a constant floor temperature.

Four-cylinder 80hp generator is called upon to keep batteries topped-up from November to February February, when shorter days impact on solar panel performance.

On-farm bore hole provides water that is filtered and cleansed using UV light.

other day when it’s really cold,” he says.

“Each fill requires a wheel barrow of logs, and the amount of ash in the bottom after a burn is minimal. I’d like a larger boiler, so it can burn for longer and therefore doesn’t need lighting as frequently.”

In addition, the 5,000-litre water tank also carries three immersion heaters, with any excess power from the solar panels being used to heat the water tank, once the battery storage is full.

“In the height of summer, those eight batteries are usually at full capacity by 10am, and we’re still producing electricity,” he says. “Running immersion heaters is the best way to absorb this excess electricity and it means we don’t need to light the boiler through the summer, simply because the panels are producing more than we can use for everyday tasks.”

We do have some servicing costs for the entire system, but they are marginal,” he adds. “For example, oils and filters for the generator’s Perkins Phaser engine, plus UV and particle filters for the water system, and our other cost is that of logs, for the woodfired boiler.”

But with a plentiful supply of wood, and diversification into firewood processing, the availability of logs is low cost.

“We burn the equivalent of a 12-tonne grain trailer of logs every year,” he says. “It’s not

an expensive system to run for what we get out of it, in fact, it’s a very cost-effective way of securing an electricity supply, a water supply and a source of heat for our family farm.”

Six years in, Neil reckons the system is working well, and is perhaps as low-cost as it gets.

“We don’t get any utility bills, which is brilliant,” he says. “And the cost of the system has worked out at about £60,000, which included electricity and heating, plus plumbing for the farmhouse.”

His next move could be to add a small wind turbine to supplement the existing system, adding that a wind turbine capable of producing five or six kW would bring an element of additional security to power generation at Oxclose Farm.

“It would be useful to keep collecting some power when the weather means the panels are barely getting by,” he says. “Fog, cloud cover and dark days are the worst offenders, and even very heavy rain can have an impact on what the panels produce.”

“It doesn’t help that our buildings are adjacent to a woodland, either,” he adds.

“There’s an element of shading when the sun is low, which is a compromise for us when using existing buildings. So a small turbine

would keep spinning when the wind blows – and there’s no shortage of that around these hills.”

Neil says that if he was starting again, the chances are he’d follow the same path, but would erect another building in a different location on the farm where there’s greater visibility to the sun.

“Panel angle is very important, but when we were starting this journey, cost was a key driver, and so we worked with the buildings that were already in place,” he says. “It would be good to use a heat exchanger on the generator too. But overall, we’re very happy with the energy independence we’ve got.”

Summary

While Neil and Sarah Green’s decision to go entirely off-grid wasn’t the family’s first choice for acquiring on-farm power, the prospect of being held to ransom for what is deemed an essential utility brought out the very best in lateral thinking from this cost-conscious contractor. It’s a lesson to all, that traditional and established processes along with reliance on others, is not always for the good of your own bank balance, or your sanity.

Geoff Ashcroft

BUSINESS DATA

N & S GREEN AND SON, OXCLOSE FARM, RIBER, DERBYSHIRE

Contract services Hedgecutting, hay making, ditching, drainage, farm drive maintenance, firewood processing, calf rearing

Staff Neil, Sarah and James Green

Tractors and handlers

Equipment

JCB Fastrac 145 with Botex timber crane, JCB 3CX Sitemaster, JCB 530-70 Farm Special, IH 955XL, DB 1490, IH 454, JD 3350 Turbo, Track Marshall 90

Posch firewood processor, Krone mower, Krone single rotor rake, McConnel PA32 hedgecutter, snow blade, dump trailer, flatbed bale trailer

Moisture content of logs can be checked using the type of portable device often favoured by the caravan industry for checking dampness.

Firewood is dried in IBC frames to allow air to flow through. Cut-down IBC containers are used as lids to keep the rain off.

Posch processor has increased output for the on-farm firewood processing operation.

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Valtra S280 vs Valtra S416

S with high-tech

The first-generation S-Series had lots of special features, even when compared with the now current sixth generation Valtra flagship.

Let’s get straight to the point, because a lot is happening in here: the office accommodation we are talking about is the cab of the Valtra S280. Indeed, the huge cab was a key talking point when the S-Series was launched in 2002 — things like the back window, which wrapped around the corners for a less interrupted view, or side console with its colour screen that was also ultra-modern at the time. To see how it has aged, we’ll also take a look inside the cab of the current Valtra Boss. But let’s take one detail at a time.

Admission to the upper class

For tractor maker Valtra, which was still part of the Partek Group in 2002, the S-Series was a real landmark. This was the first time the Finns had entered the 260hp power bracket with a conventional tractor. The S-Series also marked a design shift for Valtra away from the sharp angular line towards a more sleek, rounded look.

Providing the grunt was an in-house Finnish Sisu six-cylinder engine generating 169kW/ 230hp and 191kW/260hp in the first S230 and S260 models. Just one year later, the

KEEPING IT BRIEF

When launched in 2002, the S-Series offered a lot of high-tech features.

Both the original and current S-Series have the option of the TwinTrac reverse-drive system.

The current S-Series has a lot more driving and operator comfort with its stepless transmission and SmartTouch display.

Which is the better S? Twenty years separate the two top models in the Valtra range.

versus the Finnish big Boss

DATA SHEETS COMPARED

VALTRA S 280

Year of construction 2004 2024

Engine Sisu six-cylinder with turbocharger and 8.4-litre capacity, 206kW/280hp

Gearbox Six gears, four powershift steps, semi-automatic shifting, 50km/hr

VALTRA S 416

AgcoPower six-cylinder with turbocharger and 8.4-litre capacity, 309kW/420hp

Continuously variable ML 260 transmission, 50km/hr Pto 1,000rpm

Linkage Cat. III, 9.90t lift capacity

Hydraulics Axial piston pump with 147l/min; seven spools

540E/1,000 or 1,000/1,000Erpm

Cat. III, 12.00t lift capacity

205l/min at 1,650rpm or 200 + 200l/min, up to nine spools

Dimensions (L/W/H) 5.10m/2.50m/3.46m  5.94m/2.55m/3.64m

Unladen

Tyres 600/70 R30 at front, 650/85 R38 at the rear 650/60 R34 at front, 900/60 R42 at the rear

Price £153,310

Today’s value £20,000 to £35,000

engine output increased by 10hp and 20hp respectively and the model number changed to the S240 and S280. 280hp was a thing in 2003.

Today, the S-Series has just edged over the 400hp line with its top dog, the S416. Engine displacement and the number of cylinders remain the same, but as well as the extra oomph, exhaust gas aftertreatment gubbins have been added on, which has altered the sound despite the absence of exhaust gas recirculation.

The engines themselves have since been further refined under the AgcoPower name, Valtra and Sisu becoming part of AGCO in 2004. This buy-out did have an impact on the S-series; since 2009 it has been built at MF's Beauvais factory in France, and it shares components with MF's 8000 series and now the 9S. The engine, gearbox, axles, rear linkage and hydraulics are largely identical.

With the launch of the sixth S generation, production of the “Boss” returned to the

The coloured circles show the four main function groups. For instance, purple highlights the TwinTrac reverse-drive system.

Finnish Valtra plant in Suolahti. However, the tractor still shares its underpinnings with the Massey Ferguson 9S. Its unique selling point, as with the first S-Series, is its cab.

Shop window

The cab comes from the current QSeries, the smaller brothers of the larger S-

The rear linkage of the S280 hardly shows its age.

is what it was

Series tractors. At first glance, it is noticeable that Valtra no longer has a dashboard under the steering wheel. Instead the colourful display has moved to the right-hand A-pillar.

The large “SmartTouch” on the armrest allows you to change a myriad of settings by simply tapping the screen.

Yet, the current cab appears smaller and darker than the S280 with its four pillars and the huge, curved rear window providing excellent visibility.

And thanks to the pneumatic cab suspension, even today after 20 years, the ride comfort is nothing to sneeze at! Other spec details such as an automatic air-con system and electric and heated mirrors add to the 'ahead of its time' feel.

Several functions can be controlled from ground level on the S416.

This

designed for: the huge back window gave great operator visibility when used in reverse-drive mode.

However, the original S didn’t have headland management. And that's despite having a screen on the side console, and an on-board computer for programming, monitoring and data transfer (via chip card). Instead, this was used for assigning the three doubleacting spools and the likes.

The electronically governed engine and cruise control function allowed the operator to programme any engine and pto speed as well as forward travel speed. Once set, the electronic system automatically moves its way around the four powershifts so it can

try to remain within the desired speed range.

ZF's T7300 transmission with the creeper box in the S280 offers a total of 40 forward and reverse gears from 480m/hr to a maximum of 50km/hr. Smooth pulling away is not an issue with the S416 courtesy of the stepless transmission, the AGCO ML260 box

that has proven itself in various Fendt Vario 900 models.

Thrust

Valtra gave the S280 cab that big, curved rear window for a reason. These had the option of being fitted with the TwinTrac reverse-drive system. “This quickly turns a standard tractor into a carrier vehicle with the qualities of a self-propelled vehicle,” the Finns advertised at the time.

With TwinTrac, only the seat and armrest are rotated through 180⁰. The pedals, a steering wheel and two small displays were permanently integrated at the back of the cab. After changing travel direction, a task that can be done in just a few seconds, drivers enjoy an unobstructed view of the forager, triple mowers or wood chopper through the panoramic window. The system has proven itself — especially when operating a heavy-duty forestry mulcher or a crane. The S416, too, is

Plenty of space and lots of glass in the S280 office.

Both are six-cylinders with 8.4 litres, but the new one has an extra 140hp+ on tap.

The TwinTrac’s steering wheel on the S280 always remains sited in its central position.

still available with the optional reversedrive system, which we tested during our driving impression (profi 2/2024), although new S owners don’t have the luxury of the large, curved window from the S280.

Powerful hydraulics

Moving to the rear, the S280 had up to seven spool valves! So, operating even demanding machines has never been an issue. It has a variable displacement pump with 147l/min and separate hydraulic oil reservoir.

The current Valtra S416 also scores highly in terms of its hydraulics. Two axial piston pumps are available as an option, delivering 200l/min + 200l/min of oil and supplying up to nine spools.

S to be intriguing used tractors

When the S-Series was launched, Valtra was

The A-post display and the SmartTouch screen offer lots of well-laid out information and adjustment possibilities.

still a niche name in many parts of Europe; as a result, big Finn models are still few and far between. Today that means, these first-generation S-Series are a rare find on the used market.

If you do come across one, they are often attractively priced. If you’re not afraid of electronics, you can get a lot of power for not a lot of investment. This is how the featured Valtra S280 came to its current owner near Hanover. The tractor has been tackling arable jobs for two years doing about 300 hours each season — certainly not enough of a workload to justify a new tractor of this size.

After initial issues with a seat contact switch, the rare Valtra, which had just

The multi-function armrest and side console were state of the art, but there was still a gearstick. Now there's a thing!

Both are stylish, but the current S has gained a bit of weight — it’s around 2,000kg heavier than the old boy.

3,000 hours on the clock when it was bought, now handles the farm's semi-mounted cultivators without any issues. The comfort of the still modern cab is a pleasure, helped by the hydraulically suspended front axle which was standard on the S280.

The different bright colours of our comparison candidates: at the launch of the S-Series in 2002, the customer could

Four decent steps and a large door provide easy access up into the cab.

The interior of the new cab, which is also used on the Q-series, is significantly darker.

Innovative colour screen and easy to understand pictogram for the work lights help with operation.

choose between different liveries, a unique policy in the tractor industry that Valtra still offers today. With the “Valtra Unlimited” package, there is now an even wider array of colours and factory-supplied options.

Further details

● The handbrake on the S280 is integrated into the powershuttle.

● The S416 has an air outlet and battery terminals by the left steps.

● An extendable ladder on the right-hand side of the S280 provides access to the right-hand mirror at an overall height of 3.20 metres.

Summary

In particular, the cab with the integrated TwinTrac reverse-drive system was a special feature of the first S-Series in 2002. Today, Valtra is part of AGCO, so current S-Series shares many of its components with Massey Ferguson’s large tractors.

Now the sixth generation is produced in Finland again: the S-Series, which the firm calls the “Boss”, is thus returning to its roots. The S416 is a serious contender thanks to its continuously variable transmission,

Look me in the eyes: Both have a modern design, and, when it comes to colour, the customer is spoiled for choice.

The bird’s eye view reveals that the most recent S model is noticeably longer.

extensive hydraulic kit and attractive spec details. In a direct comparison with its old predecessor, it wins above all in terms of comfort — even though the S280 set the bar high around 20 years ago.

Lucas Colsman

Finnish brothers: The S-Series is the top boss of the Valtra range.

Tyre sizes have grown: 900/60 R42s bring that extra power to the ground.

It's not everyday you see such a line-up of Challenger 765s on offer. These ranged from 15-19 years old and were part of the dispersal resulting from the Caudwells selling the Lincolnshire farm and moving to a larger piece of ground farther north.

Multiple cats in the bag

The well-presented machinery from Mark Caudwell went under the Cheffins sale hammer at the onset of harvest, but that timing didn’t deter bidders. There was a good turnout at the viewing day and again on sale day, along with over 230 online bidders going up against a high level of local interest. Prices were strong, with the vast majority of the machines staying in the UK.

There was a pair of 2013 Dowdeswell 170 MA mounted on-land sevenfurrows on offer. This one made a surprising £17,500, the other £17K.

In near enough ex-demo condition, this 2024 Spearhead Multicut 650 Pro-Line bat wing topper sold for £19,000.

Mark Caudwell dispersal sale:

One of two Simba Flat Liner 500 mounted subsoilers with five legs, the pictured lot with DD packer made £1,200. The other was just £450.

Achieving £34,500, this 2015 Väderstad Carrier 925 may have been looking pink, but it had good discs and steel packer rings.

Another near new looking machine was this 2023 Stewart GX22LL low loader with sprung axles with 435/50 R19.5 tyres, air/hydraulic brakes, strap box, hydraulic ramps and bale wedge; it made £24,500. The 2010 Larrington Majestic 18t grain trailer made £8,700.

This very tidy 2014 Great Plains Simba SL500 stubble cultivator with good discs and similarly worn tines sold for £24,500.

This newer 2021 Maschio Toro HD Rapido 6.0m wide power harrow made £23,500. The older 2012 Toro PLS 1-RAD fetched £13,800.

There were a number of older tractors and machines among the lots including this County 1174 which was showing 4,324 hours; it went for £29,500. This six-cylinder equal wheeler was fitted with a Hara cab and offered with duals for the 13.6-38 tyres.

The newest of the Challengers was this 2010 MT765C with 7,446 hours. Complete with 16 x 45kg weights, rear linkage, pto and Trimble auto-steer, it brought in £46,000. Most of the other Caudwell Challengers found new homes at the £30,000 to £40,000 mark.

On 30in tacks, this 765B from 2008 had just 4,969 hours on the clock. It, too, had weights linkage, pto and Trimble steering gear. The hammer fell at £40,000 for this one.

This Fastrac 3200 sped its way to £37,500. The 2006 JCB had 7,344 hours and was on 540/65 R30 tyres — BKT on the backs, Ceats up front. It was tidy for a 20-year-old tractor.

The 7,721 hours didn’t make a dramatic difference to this 2008 765B which sold for £36,000. It had the same spec – linkage, pto, weights, 30 inch tracks and auto-steer.

On a full set of 540/65 R30 BKT boots, this 2004 JCB 3220 Plus Smoothshift model was also in impressive order with 9,829 hours. It brought in a healthy £29,500.

The oldest was a 2006 MT765, but it had just 5,014 hours but was on narrower 24 inch tracks and didn’t have an auto steer kit fitted. Nonetheless it still returned a decent £34,500.

One of the more conventional tractors was this 2009 Arion 630, which left the field for £19,800. The 5,666 hour, 40km/hr Claas had good 480/65 R28 fronts, but the 600/65 R38s were down. It came with a 700kg weight.

There were two Claas Scorpion handlers on offer. This 2016, 7044 Varipower was newer but had more hours (5,951) and sold for £26,500. The other, a 14-yr-old 7040 with 4,444 hours, made £28,500.

It may have just missed the start of harvest, but this 2013, Perard Interbenne 27 chaser bin on 710/50 R26.5 tyres made £27,500. No doubt this high-capacity hauler will have been put straight to work.

£19,000 was the final bid for this 2010 JCB 130LC track machine which came with three buckets. It had worked its way to 6,842 hours.

Still looking fresh, this 2021 RB35 hit £161k. Spec included a 36m VG boom, 4,000-litre tank, Michelin VF 420/85 R34 tyres and AgLeader InCommand display with section control but no GPS fitted. It had clocked 2,590 hours.

COMMENT

Yorkshire farmer & contractor, Nigel Thornborrow:

Elderly Care

Not unlike a paramedic arriving at a crash scene, I have been prioritising what potentially life-threatening problems my Fendt has. There are those that are perfectly visible, with trails of vital fluids spilling everywhere, and those that the patient will tell you about by lighting up the dashboard. Falling firmly in the former category, the radiator has taken to holding its drink like a teenager — not well, leaving a mess and a headache.

Stripped of its loader and tinwork, work could begin on dismantling the cooling pack, consisting of the removal of six other radiators/heat exchangers before I could get to the culprit. Years of operating in a dusty environment had created a substantial amount of debris to build up, eventually getting damp and allowing corrosion to set in. Ploughing on, I got to the point where I thought the radiator was now undone and should have simply lifted off. Why was it stuck then? Was it simply seized by rust or had I missed something? I thought

it best to check first before frustration hit and something costly fell victim to ‘The Rage’. Armed with the VIN number, I consulted the AGCO parts website to not only get a part number for anything beyond repair, but also to scrutinise the exploded parts diagrams and rationalise just how things were held together. It appeared two studs remained, pointing down from the radiator and through the cooling-pack belly plate. Hidden behind pipes, above the front axle, access to the studs was tight. Seeing as the nuts were rusted tight this lack of access would have been a real problem as cutting was nigh-on impossible. Just as well that the studs had rotten clean off the radiator then. Years of soggy detritus had done for the steel radiator base, with the belly plate below not faring much better, but it did mean they parted company without too much protest.

After a quick pressure test of the newly liberated radiator showed a pinhole at fault, the decision of how to proceed loomed. Do I spend big and

get OEM parts now or risk downtime against finding cheaper alternatives? Or, as I did, simply repair what I had and keep the wheels rolling. A new radiator will be needed, but, for the time being, a field dressing of epoxy putty was applied to stem the bleeding with a view to sending it back out to battle as soon as possible.

Older New Holland knotters leave a characteristic small ‘tail’ of twine each time they make a knot. One knotter of mine took a liking to these tail babies it produced and did not want to let them go, so decided to keep them all.

Stuffed tightly around the twine disc, the tails slowly suffocated the mechanism to breaking point. Did the roll pins shear, preventing costly damage? No. Were the old parts easily accessible at least? No. Teeth had been stripped off the cam gear, necessitating the removal of the knotter shaft itself, so parts could be slid on and off. What with a Fendt that keeps wetting itself and a New Holland that can’t keep its teeth in, Throstle Nest is starting to look very much like a care home for elderly equipment.

Nigel Thornborrow

Keeping cool. Top priority when dealing with knotters.

New cam gear installed. Time to get back out there and join the bale-packing fight.

Mid season issues are never welcome. I’ve got bales that need stacking and no time to waste.

This is going to need some pretty serious attention before it goes back in.

J F Hudson Silo Crab

The Silo Crab allows farmers to scoop up left-over mixed rations from the feed fence, so the 'old' feed can then be dished out again to other cow groups.

Want to know which of these 150hp tractors has proved to be the most durable? We've surveyed owners from across Europe to gather their input on the eight featured models, and you can see the results in just four weeks.

Green bedding

One of the most experienced users of green bedding in the UK, Richard Threfell explains the benefits for his 350 cows.

Our used machinery buying advice next month is all about Shelbourne Reynolds hedge cutters.

Pöttinger Servo 2000N

We are in the field with two ploughs in the October magazine, one of which is the auto-reset Pöttinger. Check out how the Austrian performs at flipping over a range of soils.

MARKET ROUND-UP

Although auger feeders come in all shapes and sizes, it's the 22m³ twin-auger type that remains the best seller in the UK. We round up your potential new diet feeder options in the next issue.

REPORT

J & J A Venables

Cheshire Farmers J & J A Venables started contract round baling in 2018 off the back of their own requirement. It's since grown into a three-baler operation running along side poultry, beef and sheep enterprises.

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We’ve made EIGHT changes to this picture of this John Deere cab. Simply locate your answers and mark them on the gridline picture at the bottom of the page – it’s just for fun.

THE DIFFERENCES IN LAST ISSUE'S PICTURES WERE IN THE FOLLOWING SQUARES:

Krone beet transport trailer C2, C8, C10, D/E8, D9, E3, E5, E7

UK contractor charges

This is the National Association of Agricultural Contractors (www.naac.co.uk) charge guide, based on info supplied by its members in the spring of 2025. The figures are only a guide and assume a red diesel price of £0.70/litre. Prices will vary according to UK region, size of job, type of equipment used etc

£25.83 £10.45

Cereal

Cereal drilling — min-till £65.57 £26.54

Rape drilling with subsoiler

Grass seed drilling with harrow

Grass seed (broadcast)

Grass seed (cross drilling, per pass)

Sugar beet/fodder beet drilling

Maize precision drilling

Maize drilling under plastic

Fertiliser — granular

Fertiliser — variable rate

Fertiliser — liquid

Spraying (more than 80ha)

Slug pelleting

Avadex application

ATV spraying (per hour)

Combining cereals

Extra for straw chopper

£94.80 £38.37

£52.14 £21.10

£34.59 £14.00

£68.09 £27.56

£75.28 £30.47

£60.63 £24.54

£163.08 £66.00

£15.93 £6.45

£21.97 £8.89

£16.48 £6.67

£16.52 £6.68

£11.35 £4.59

£19.41 £7.85

£50.67/hr £50.67/hr

£119.34 £48.30

£12.73 £5.15

Combining OSR (direct) £119.44 £48.34

Combining peas/beans £123.44 £49.96

Swathing OSR

Grass mowing

£65.07

£38.35

£48.14

120cm x 70cm (without plastic)

Jobs charged per hour

FYM spread — tractor and rear disch. spreader

FYM spread — tractor and side disch. spreader

Weed wiping

Hedge cutting — flail

Hedge cutting — saw blade

Ditching 360º digger

Ditching 180º digger

Telehandler plus operator

Tractor and post knocker plus operator

Tractor (100-150hp) plus operator

Tractor (151-220hp) plus operator

Tractor (221-300hp) plus operator

£3.62/bale

£69.55/hr

£60.57/hr

£75.00/hr

£53.74/hr

£70.63/hr

£56.50/hr

£49.33/hr

£57.36/hr

£57.63/hr

£50.75/hr

£58.17/hr

£70.25/hr

Tractor (300hp+) plus operator £91.00/hr Additional charge for trailer

Livestock operations

Sheep shearing — ewes £1.81/hd

Sheep shearing — rams £3.80/hd