Farm Machinery Journal August 2026

F I R S T F O R FA R M M A C H I N E R Y O P E R AT O R S

August 2026 // Issue 148

www.farmmachineryjournal.co.uk

FIRST IMPRESSION

A diff erent animal Contractor confirms that Claas’ claimed increase in output is no exaggeration

FOCUS ON...

MID-SIZED

TRACTORS

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ED'S LETTER

F I R S T F O R FA R M M A C H I N E R Y O P E R AT O R S

August 2026 // Issue 148

www.farmmachineryjournal.co.uk

FIRST IMPRESSION

A different animal Contractor confirms that Claas’ claimed increase in output is no exaggeration

FOCUS ON...

MID-SIZED

TRACTORS

S CLAAAR JAGU 1080 REVIEW

EDITOR Tom Laight editor@farmmachineryjournal.co.uk

August 2026 Issue 148

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

SUB EDITOR Katherine Weir £4.80

ART DIRECTOR David ‘Spike’ McCormack

NEW 6RS, 6MS & MORE

RETOUCHER Linda Duong

REASONS AN IRISH FARMER/CONTRACTOR FEATURES AND BENEFITS OF THE STICKS WITH A TRAILED JF-STOLL CHOPPER AGRISPREAD AS2150T SPREADER

DEERE REVEALS

WORKING CLASSIC

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SAVED BY BACON!

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FIRST IMPRESSION

COVER IMAGE Ken Topham

ADVERTISEMENT SALES Mike Lane 020 8639 4406 ADMINISTRATOR Martin Attis 020 8639 4409 PUBLISHING DIRECTOR Paul Cosgrove 020 8639 4401 CONTRIBUTING WRITERS AND PHOTOGRAPHERS Alex Cotterill, Sandy Cox, Eoghan Daly, David Laley, David Pullen, Martin Rickatson, Howard Sherren, Ken Topham Farm Machinery Journal is published by Sundial Magazines Ltd, Sundial House, 17 Wickham Road, Beckenham, Kent, BR3 5JS TEL 020 8639 4400 FAX 020 8639 4411 EMAIL info@farmmachineryjournal.co.uk WEB www.farmmachineryjournal.co.uk SUBSCRIPTIONS Farm Machinery Journal subscriptions Trinity House, Sculpins Lane, Wethersfield, Braintree, Essex, CM7 4AY TEL +44 (0)1371 853634 EMAIL farmmachineryjournal@escosubs.co.uk NEWSTRADE Seymour Distribution 2 East Poultry Avenue, London, EC1A 9PT TEL 020 7429 4000 REPRO Design & Printing Solutions Ltd Unit 45C, Joseph Wilson Industrial Estate, Whitstable, Kent, CT5 3PS TEL 01227 770034 PRINTING William Gibbons & Sons Ltd 26 Planetary Road, Willenhall, West Midlands, WW13 3XB COPYRIGHT Sundial Magazines Ltd 2026. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is forbidden without the express permission of the publisher. ISSN 2055-043X Sundial Magazines Ltd. Registered in England no. 4134490. CONDITIONS FOR ADVERTISING All advertisements are accepted subject to the publisher’s standard conditions of insertion. For a copy of advertising terms & conditions, please write to Paul Cosgrove at Sundial Magazines Ltd, Sundial House, 17 Wickham Road, Beckenham, Kent, BR3 5JS

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Farm Machinery Journal is available on the second Friday of each month

Welcome

to Farm Machinery Journal, the monthly magazine dedicated to modern agricultural equipment. As I write to you, we’re in the midst of haymaking. It’s not my favourite time of year I must admit, especially when the good weather clashes with putting the finishing touches to the latest issue of FMJ. I’m lucky to be supported by a good bunch of contractors who turn out to get the job done – despite some protesting! By the time you read this, it’s likely that combines will be tucking into winter barley crops that are altering at a rapid pace due to the hot conditions. The high temperatures have certainly hit the headlines again this month. Also making news are more changes to the CNH dealer network, this time in Scotland, with two established Case IH dealers replaced by two New Holland dealers, who have become dual-franchised. I question CNH’s rationale behind the changes; is it to drive up sales? I fear they’ve underestimated customer loyalty to dealers, and judging by the reaction on social media, it could actually harm their market share. Sadly, I’ve learned that there are more announcements still to come too. This month also saw the first of two Cheffins sales, held on behalf of Velcourt. It was somewhat nostalgic flicking through the lots looking for the kit that I used during my time as a student working for our local farm, Fitzroy Farming. I look back on those days with fondness, although the teenage me may not have agreed! Tom Laight, Editor

AUGUST 2026 WWW.FARMMACHINERYJOURNAL.CO.UK 3

CONTENTS AUGUST 2026 // ISSUE 148

56

45 25

69 Front Link

6 FIRST IMPRESSION

39

A Derbyshire contracting firm shares its thoughts on the Claas Jaguar 1080 self-propelled forage harvester

13

NEWS

Technical

69 PLOUGHING TIPS

A champion ploughman shares the ins and outs of competition ploughing

Buying

A round-up of the latest stories from across the farm machinery sector

39 EVENT REPORT

Some of the machinery highlights at Cereals 2026 held at Diddly Squat farm

74 BUYING GUIDE

News of all the John Deere tractor and combine updates coming for 2027

45 FOCUS ON…

A round-up of the mid-sized tractors in the 170-180hp power bracket

78 AUCTIONS ROUND-UP

Results from a collective sale in Shropshire and a dispersal in Cheshire

20 SPECIAL REPORT

22 PRODUCT WALKAROUND 51 MODERN FARMING 25 FIRST IMPRESSION 56 RUNNING REPORT Taking a tour of the brand-new McCormick X7.624 Clever Cab Plus

Why an Irish contractor switched to an Agri-Spread AS2150T SCS spreader

30

FIRST IMPRESSION

We learn why Massey Ferguson’s TH.6534 telehandler is a worthy contender

Features

36 EVENT REPORT

Kit at the Muck Management UK event at Bodrhyddan Hall in north Wales

An in-depth look at the various hedgecutter head/attachments available

All you need to know about buying a second-hand Massey Ferguson 7618S

Rear Link

80 WORKING CLASSIC

Why and Irish operator sticks with a trailed JF-Stoll FCT1050 ProTec forager

61BEHIND THE SCENES

84 GAMING 87 MODEL ZONE

66 MODERN CLASSICS

98 TRACTOR TWITCHER

A Yorkshire farming business’s opinion on its two-year-old Bunning Lowlander 175 HD Mk2 HBD spreader

We talk to the man now at the helm of the Kidd Farm Machinery business

A feature documenting 25 years of JD Automated Guidance systems

4 WWW.FARMMACHINERYJOURNAL.CO.UK AUGUST 2026

Farming Simulator silage updates

All the latest models that wouldn’t look out of place in any miniature fleet

Some of the interesting tractors that were on display at Cereals 2026

30

51

NEVERSSUE NI MISS AD SAVE – AN EY! MON E 86 G E S E PABSCRIBE U AND S ODAY! T

74

FIN PAG M D G E 92 A D E EQ C A RE U HINLS O AT IP E N M R EN Y & T

61

80

6 AUGUST 2026 WWW.FARMMACHINERYJOURNAL.CO.UK 5

COVER STORY

Same name different beast Claas unveiled its 1000 series Jaguars in August 2025, the most significant forager upgrade since the introduction of the 491 chassis in the mid-1990s. FMJ caught up with an early adopter to find out if it delivers WORDS AND IMAGES KEN TOPHAM

laas have been in the forage harvester game since green forage became popular. They produced the first self-propelled machine, the 60SF in 1973. In the 1980s, the German manufacturer introduced the first Jaguars – the 600 series. In 1994, Claas launched the revolutionary 491 chassis, which has been the crop flow template for large capacity foragers ever since.

C

Why the 491 chassis was a revolution was because it allowed the engine to be mounted transversely, enabling direct drive to the chopping drum. It also made installation of a kernel processor easy, and the layout allowed a high throughput. Its development led to the 492 chassis update in 1999, which saw the introduction of electronically managed engines among other upgrades. It wasn’t until 2007, with the launch of the 494 chassis, that there was an increase in the crop channel width. With the 494’s introduction, channel width was widened by 20mm, with an increase in height at the same time. This

6 WWW.FARMMACHINERYJOURNAL.CO.UK AUGUST 2026

remained unchanged until the 502 chassis for the Jaguar 990 was introduced. Let’s be honest, the 990 can still chop enough forage for any UK needs, but 2025 saw the dawn of a new chassis design. Last time we caught up with Naylor Plant (from near Ashbourne in Derbyshire), was to find out what Colin Naylor and his team thought of their (then-fresh) Claas Jaguar 970 in 2020. It was equipped with a six-cylinder MAN D4276 engine, and it impressed; it had tons of power, 790 horses to be precise, yet with Dynamic Power it had the ability to be efficient if needed. Since that first 970, the business has had a secondstraight replacement, and two John Deere foragers. When Claas invited customers along to see the 1000-series new foragers, Colin was impressed by the

Front Link First Impression // Claas Jaguar 1080

TECHSPECS

Left: Operator Sid Roberts’ only complaint is how far the mirrors stick out, which makes traversing narrow lanes a challenge.

upgrade and placed his order not long after. “It’s a natural progression,” he explains. “The 970 is a 20-year-old concept, and though a very good machine, people will be looking for a 1000 series on the second-hand market in the future. “Claas claim 20% more output, and it’s definitely doing that, we’re finding the jobs are done faster and using less fuel compared with the older machines – and that’s working in fields with an average size of 4ha too,” Colin explains.

Years of development The all-new 1000 series selfpropelleds have been in development for several years, Claas says. The first units were released into the wild dressed up as a 502 chassis machine, busting out of the tinwork like the incredible hulk. It was quite amazing how Claas kept them a secret! Starting at the front, there’s a new Claas Pick Up grass header that has independent drive to the auger and pickup reel. Auto Header control alters the speed of each to suit crop conditions – taking into consideration the chopper’s forward speed and the desired chop length. With an Orbis maize attached, the transfer speed to the feed rollers is varied to best suit chop length. The auger also has hydraulic compression, in a similar vein to John Deere’s system introduced on its 30R header. With adjustable speed and compression, the auger’s able to de-tangle the crop ahead of the feed rolls, but it can also lift out of the way, so, if there’s a blockage, or the metal detector goes off, inspection is easier, particularly if looking for a foreign object.

Auger position can be altered, and there are a couple of options: it can either be in the low position for light cuts or in the high position for big crops. It’s also able to drop (like a combine header reel) when the pickup’s raised on the headland. This then clears the deck, preventing the crop left behind from being dragged in exactly when a tractor is underneath the spout – plastering the windows. It has evolved from the old i36 pickup; there are no chains. Instead, mechanical power is transmitted via PTO shafts and gearboxes. Auger drive comes from the machine’s variable motor under the cover near the steps, and the pickup reel is driven hydraulically by a motor located underneath the header. Plastic tine bands improve robustness and the cam track for the five-tine-bars is submerged in oil. To ensure good ground tracking, the whole header is mounted on a pendulum frame, something that

Above: To cope with the new foragers, Claas has re-designed its headers, launching new Orbis maize units and Pick Up ranges for grass.

Naylor Plant’s operator Sid Roberts praises, stating that it’s a massive improvement over what went before. Cemos takes crop type and volume into consideration to manage the pressure on the feed rollers to present the most consistent mat of crop possible to the knives. The roller can now also be opened hydraulically, so inspection and servicing can be made easier.

Smooth feed “It feeds really well,” Sid comments, “It’s very smooth and there’s no bumping; the load on the engine is much smoother too.” The feeder housing is 880mm-wide based upon feeding the chopping drum that’s now 910mm – claimed to be the widest on the market.

Claas Jaguar 1080 (As tested) Engine V12, 24 lit MAN D2862 Maximum power 850hp Transmission 40kph two-speed hydrostatic Number of pre-compression rollers 4 Cropflow channel width 880mm Chopping cylinder width 910mm Chopping cylinder diameter 630mm Number of blades 24 V-Flex Length of chop 4-22mm Crop accelerator width/diameter 757/536mm Fuel tank capacity 1,500 lit (standard) AdBlue capacity 145 lit Spout rotation 210 degrees Working height 5,474mm Base machine weight 17,000kg Tyres F VF710/70R42 R 600/65R28 GRASS HEADER

Claas Pick Up 3000 Working width 2.62m Transport width 3m

“Claas claim 20% more output, and it’s definitely doing that: and that’s working in 4ha fields”

The 1080 is longer than a 970, but yet it remains very manoeuvrable thanks to a narrow chassis.

AUGUST 2026 WWW.FARMMACHINERYJOURNAL.CO.UK 7

Watching the 1080 work isn’t completely detached from anything else, but it’s notably quieter than most foragers. Despite being equipped with 24 knives on the 910mm V-Flex drum, it doesn’t sound like an angry bee when it’s chopping, and the flow from the chute looks smooth.

Covering ground at an impressive rate, owner Colin Naylor says Claas’s claimed 20% increase in output isn’t an exaggeration.

Huge change An area that’s seen a huge change, and possibly part of the power/fuel saving equation, is the crop accelerator. A gap that used to be 3-5mm from the accelerator paddles to the back plate in the 492’s days, can now open as far as 60mm. “This makes a massive difference,” adds Sid, “I’ve had it out to 38mm in a big first cut, and the output was very impressive.”

“Even though the Deere was pleasant, the Claas is quieter still” During our visit, Sid had the accelerator gap set at 16mm whilst chopping what was a 25-30t/ha grass crop. There was little noise in the cab, compared to the John Deere F8 600 we profiled in the July issue of FMJ. Even though the Deere was pleasant, the Claas is quieter still – the effort from the machine seems minimal. Claas’s X11 cab is spacious – and comfortable – there’s enough room on the cab floor for two Labradors. It’s pretty much the same structure as the module fitted on the 900 series – but it’s isolated from the cab via rubber mounts, which make a notable difference to the noise and vibration

BUSINESS FACTS

Naylor Plant Ltd

Operator Colin Naylor & Sid Roberts Location Ashbourne, Derbyshire Business type Agricultural and plant contractors and farmers

levels experienced inside. There’s also a different operator interface; the screen is big and bright and provides convenient shortcuts to high-traffic pages. CMotion is of course the control interface, present across most of the Claas tractor and harvester ranges. This provides a seamless operator

experience; you could jump from a Jaguar 860 straight into the 1080 without having to learn much. Footage from the spout camera is displayed on the screen, that provides a wide enough view of the trailer allowing the operator to load without having to look out of the window. Claas’s Auto Crop Flow function is a fancy way of saying that if the engine speed drops below a preset level, the feed stops to prevent a blockage. This concept isn’t new in foragers; it seems to have become a standard feature on all choppers of any brand.

Below right: Air filters can be removed for maintenance without tools – other than an 8mm Allen key to open the panel.

Maximum performance To keep the forager working at either maximum output, or a set throughput, the Auto Performance feature allows the machine to make its own mind up about how to drive. Operating in this mode can see a reduction in engine power, thus making a fuel saving. But of course – as Sid was doing during our visit – you can just drive it manually and keep an eye on the performance monitor. If the buyer chooses to spec a Nutrimeter NIR sensor, then the machine can be set to account for the moisture level of the crop; therefore automatically adjusting the chop length to suit conditions, maximising the potential for good ensiling.

8 WWW.FARMMACHINERYJOURNAL.CO.UK AUGUST 2026

Right: Pickup wheels are mounted on a double-jointed arm for tighter folding and are more robust to handle the pendulum ground-following action.

Left: With all panels open, access to all the 1080s are easy, although a ladder might be needed to reach some. Right: The spout camera provides the operator with a good view of the trailer.

Front Link First Impression // Claas Jaguar 1080 Far left: Mounted on large rubber isolators, the Claas X11 cab is quiet, with very little mechanical noise audible inside. Left: Claas has opted for physical buttons and dials for the lights and climate control rather than making operators search through the screen.

Far left: They’ve retained many physical switches in the 1000 series; some operators may prefer it to scrolling down a screen to alter things. Left: The steering wheel is compact and is adjustable to any operators’ size and shape. Joystick steering’s an option.

As an aside, the latest Nutrimeter is now an ISOBUS unit, meaning it can be swapped from harvester to harvester quickly (as long as both machines are compatible). As yet, Claas doesn’t offer a slurry option for its NIR sensors. Power is provided by the wellproven MAN D2862 engine that’s been used in the Jaguar 980 and 990 since 2007. Elsewhere, it’s used in marine applications where cooling isn’t an issue, which enables it to be tuned to 2,000hp without an issue. Even though MAN engines share some mechanical architecture with the Liebherr D9512, they aren’t the same thing, and while John Deere and Krone use a Liebherr motor, Claas has stuck with MAN engines for its flagship machines.

Better on fuel With a more powerful engine, Colin Naylor may have thought fuel consumption was going to be greater – it has turned out to be the opposite. “It’s notably better on fuel than the 970,” he says, “largely covering the same area. “Obviously the crops are different, but I’ve noticed it’s using less fuel on average.” Admittedly, from the operator’s seat some of the feel has gone out of driving because of how smoothly the

machine runs. “You have to watch the performance gauge because you can load the engine and there’s no obvious noise from the machine to say steady on,” Sid stresses. He also notes that getting the same or more output from the 1080, compared to the 970, is much easier – not that a 970 wouldn’t perform. In terms of fuel consumption, Naylor Plant reports the 1080 is using about 10.4lit/ha in light crops to 12.4lit/ ha in heavier going. In a similar fashion to the 900 series’, the new Jaguars’ side panels run its full length. With all three open, there isn’t much that you can’t access; the three air filters can be pulled out from inside or outside as they’re located just above the rotary screen in the middle of the harvester and can be got at without tools. The rotary screen is huge, naturally. The 1000 series has more power and carries more oil, so therefore needs more cooling. The system, now called Dynamic Cooling, only cools the machine as much as it needs, so saving power in milder climates. Claas claims it’ll keep the machine working in temperatures up to 50-degrees. With its own dedicated extractor, the rotary screen is kept clean, rwith with any debris blown out below the

AUGUST 2026 WWW.FARMMACHINERYJOURNAL.CO.UK 9

Front Link First Impression // Claas Jaguar 1080 Right: MAN’s V12 D2862 motor isn’t new and has been powering the 980 and 990 since 2007. It’s tweaked to develop 1,110hp in the flagship 1200.

machine. It operates in both work and transport modes, so when travelling from field-to-field, the grass sitting on the front of the machine, that’s invariably pulled into the cooling pack, is swept off the screen. Naylor Plant opted for the high volume only inoculant system, that, as an option, doubles as a wash out for the crop channel (from after the chopping drum).

“On a dry day you’d struggle to get to 60% engine load without blocking” Game changer In dry conditions, which were borderline during our visit, the system was active. Water is sprayed into the transition plate after the draft plate/drum bottom, and into the base of the upper chute when the header is lifted on the headland. This coats the inside of the machine with water, preventing a build-up of material in the chute, therefore reducing blockages. “We didn’t have this feature on the first 970 back in 2020,” says Colin, “and on a dry day you’d struggle to get to 60% engine load without blocking. The system’s been a game changer.”

Above: This motor, located under the steps drives the pickup auger. The auger’s speed can be altered independently of the pickup tines. Left: The rotary screen is huge to keep the enlarged Dynamic Cooling system free of debris. It operates in both field and road mode.

The only part that isn’t brand-new is the rear axle. But, despite the 1080 being longer than a 970 it provides an impressive turning circle allowing the forager to comfortably turn from one Claas Liner 4800 swath into the next. Naylor Plant expects their 1080 to cover 4-500 hours this season, depending on crops and how full clamps get. The business’s retained Jaguar 970 is set up for wholecrop and maize, so the 1080 will stay in grass mode all-year-round. Between Colin and his dad, they’ve been running self-propelled foragers for over 40 years, and despite a few Deeres in the mix, silage harvesting gear has been largely seed green. Claas’ Jaguar 1080 has been a jump-in-and-drive chopper upgrade, and not to take away from a 970 (they’re two very different animals), it’s been well received by Naylor Plant as an output monster. This image: Naylor Plant’s 1080 is equipped with a Pick Up 3000. Variable speed and adjustable height auger work to help smooth crop flow.

10 WWW.FARMMACHINERYJOURNAL.CO.UK AUGUST 2026

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NEWSDESK

The latest machinery developments, launches and updates

Front Link News

FIRST MACHINFOR E NEWS RY

Global tractor sales on the up lobal tractor sales figures during the first four months of 2026 reveal a mixed picture across major countries according to the president of FederUnacoma (Italy’s association of agricultural machinery manufacturers), Mariateresa Maschio, speaking at the federation’s annual meeting in Bologna on 23 June. Between January and April, total sales rose by 18% compared to the same period in 2025, increasing from 433,000 to 512,000 units; however, she stresses that this growth is distorted by India’s performance and doesn’t reflect the sector’s true trajectory. The Indian subcontinent sold a record 375,000 units in the first four months of 2026. Mariateresa suggests that it’s capable

G

of one million registrations in a year – nearly 40% of the global total. While the Indian market is growing, traditional markets such as North America are shrinking. The US market continues to decline sharply, down 10% in 2025. Tractor sales dropped to 53,800 units in the first four months of 2026 – a 9% decrease compared to the same period last year. Canada also saw a decline, with its market dropping by 8% to 6,100 new registrations, as did Brazil, that recorded a 15% drop to 12,300 units. Turkey’s decline was also very steep; its sales totaled 7,250 tractors – half of what was registered during the same period of 2025. Europe’s performance was a mixed bag; overall tractor sales increased by 4% (to over 45,000 units), although the German market

stagnated, down 0.7%, with 9,240 units sold. The Polish market, that’s been vigorous in the past few years, also saw a steep drop to 14.8% selling 2,670 units. Italy, however, reported good results. Its market was up 4.6% with 5,250 units recorded. France also saw growth of 1.1% with 7,340 tractors sold. Mariateresa admits that the industry has long been influenced by external factors, and the price surges due to the conflict in the Gulf reduced the sector’s capacity for investment.

According to the AEA’s figures for May, the UK continued to show growth with the market up 23.4% on the same period in 2025, with 4,956 tractors retailed so far in 2026

KRONE ANNOUNCES NEWS OF A MERGER Krone has thrown itself into the merger market with the introduction of the Swativo T 1040 Pro offering a working width of up to 10.4m. It’s made up of a combination of tried-and-tested Krone technology, the firm says, which it refers to as the OptiSwath concept. It comprises a stretched camless EasyFlow pickup, that’s equipped with five rows of curved tines and plastic scrapers. From here, crop is guided onto the 1.2m-wide belt by a speed adjustable FlexFlow feed rotor. To ensure neat row ends, the belt automatically stops at the end of each run. Pickup units are hydro-mechanically suspended with ground pressure altered via the ISOBUS controls. A mechanical forced steering system allows tight turns to be made during work.

AUGUST 2026 WWW.FARMMACHINERYJOURNAL.CO.UK 13

Front Link News

Third-gen harvesters revealed D

ewulf has revealed the third generation of its tracked four-row Kwatro and Kwatro Xtreme self-propelled root crop

harvesters. The new machines are available with Dewulf’s AI-driven intelligent harvesting system, Level X Gold, which is already an option on the wheeled Enduro harvesters. Dewulf suggests that using this system, even

an inexperienced operator can harvest 2kph faster than without it. Operators will be seated in a Claas X11 cab, that’s fitted with a new touchscreen and ergonomically designed ‘N-joystick’. Upgrading to Premium spec gets them a leather ventilated seat, fridge, sun visors and additional windscreen wipers. For variable harvesting conditions, the Quick-Change Easyclean module enables

components to be switched in under five minutes, Dewulf says. The Scania DC13 engine has 10% more power than the previous generation and now develops 550hp. The size of the cooling pack has also been increased. Crop carrying capacity is also increased with the fitment of a 12t two-part bunker that has a volume of 18cu.m. Bar webs on the unloading elevator aids cleaning.

WIDER KV F-DRILL MODEL Kverneland has introduced the new f-drill Plus, a 6m drill toolbar that’s equipped with a second distributor head and pipework, enabling it to sow grain and fertiliser or companion crops when paired with a f-drill Maxi Plus split compartment front hopper. The unit comprises two 3m coulter bars with the distribution heads arranged one behind the other to allow the host 6m power harrow to fold. The outfit’s equipped with a total of 48 CX-II double-entry disc coulters. In addition to the new coulterbar, Kverneland has also made revisions to the f-drill front hoppers as well as adding a new model, the split hopper f-drill Compact Plus. Featuring a dual Eldos metering unit, it’s also available with a dual front camera system with dedicated screen, and weigh cells – an option that’s now available on all front hopper models and is also retrofittable to older hoppers. Internal grilles have also been revised; these can now be lifted out in four sections to make hopper cleaning easier.

AXIAL-FLOWS GET BIG COMBINE UPGRADES Case IH has announced several upgrades to its 160 series Axial-Flows for the 2027 harvest, many of which have filtered down from its larger combines. Most notably, there’s a revised cab layout, taken from the 260s and AFs, with dual Pro 1200 screens replacing the AFS Pro 700 display. Airflow from the air conditioning system has been improved too. Tweaks have also been made to the electronic architecture: to enhance automation, connectivity and diagnostics. Onboard sensors have also been uprated for greater accuracy. Guidance accuracy is improved with the fitment of a Vector Pro receiver, and a suite of precision farming systems are either installed as standard or can be specified. A feature taken from the AFs is the ability to disengage the grain tank cross augers, to allow the unloading auger to completely empty before being folded in. Concaves have been reconfigured for threshing high-moisture crops and a two-speed feeder drive is now an option.

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03/07/2026 09:35

Front Link News

Top operator crowned Norfolk sprayer operator was crowned as the winner of the coveted Syngenta Farm Sprayer Operator of the Year (FSOOTY) competition at Cereals 2026. First time entrant, Scott Harrod, carries out all spray applications for HDF Farming in Trimingham, and was encouraged to enter by his wife, Emily. “He’s a really worthy winner – taking the top spot against strong competition from the other finalists,” commented FSOOTY judge and Syngenta application specialist Iain Lindsay. The other finalists were another first-time entrant, James Crackell and second-year finalist Jack Williams.

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NEWSINBRIEF Header hook-up record is set

Visitors to this year’s Lincolnshire Show were able to witness three operators racing to attach, and make harvest-ready, a combine header. Jacob Copley was the fastest competitor, hitching up the header to the Fendt Ideal 10T in just 1 minute and 26 seconds, setting a new Guiness World Record!

HEDGECUTTERS GO ON SALE

NEW MINI WELDER

McConnel is now taking orders for 77-series hedgecutters equipped with the new lighter-weight telescopic variable forward reach armset that it previewed at LAMMA in January. All armsets on 77-series trimmers, whether VFR on not, have larger diameter pivot pins providing 48% more contact with the bushes to reduce wear. A 70hp hydraulic system, that contains 180 lit of oil, is standard, but an 85hp setup can be specified. Other standard equipment includes a high-capacity oil cooler, electric rotor engagement with soft start, LED lights, and a two-piece rear guard. An integrated blower is an option.

Jefferson Tools has introduced a new mini arc welder purposely aimed at in-field repairs. Requiring a 230V single-phase supply to operate, the tool supplier says it draws just 13A – making it generator friendly. It also weighs only 3.2kg. Rather than a transformer, it uses Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor invertor technology, that produces a far smoother arc, Jefferson says. Output currents range from 20 to 140A, with the selected setting shown on a digital display. A smart cooling system cuts the risk of a thermal shutdown during prolonged use.

REMAP BASE REVAMPED Avon Tuning has just completed the redevelopment of its premises near Bristol, turning it into a state-of-the-art research and development centre. The renovation, that’s taken two years to complete, was undertaken to meet the increasing demand for remapping solutions from across the globe. The development also includes a new fully equipped workshop and dedicated training room to provide in-house practical and theory training for the growing network of agricultural and automotive agents, as well as an office space where the automotive and HD divisions can share ideas.

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CF Moto dealer network expanded

Kirby Ag Ltd, based in Melton Mowbray, has joined CF Moto’s expanding dealer network. Covering Leicestershire and the surrounding areas, Kirby Ag’s director, David Ogleby, says that the franchise is the ideal fit with the business’s other activities; Vredo sales and service.

Area sales manager appointed

Knight Farm Machinery and Agroma UK has appointed Peter Wiles, one of the sprayer sector’s most familiar faces, as dealer sales manager for the Midlands and southern and eastern counties. Peter takes up the role following 30 years with Hardi.

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Speak to your local Massey Ferguson Dealer for more information *Price offers valid on MF 4700 M or MF 5M for the purchase of a new tractor before the 31st October 2026 at participating dealers. Financing is available only through AGCO Finance Limited (“AGCO Finance”) via participating dealers. This does not constitute an offer and is not binding on AGCO Finance. All applicants must be 18 or over and credit is provided for UK registered businesses only. Availability of financing is subject to approval by AGCO Finance and cannot be combined with any other campaign. Guarantees and indemnities may be required. AGCO Finance is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (Firm Reference Number 680024) only in respect of agreements regulated by the Consumer Credit Act 1974. This document has been prepared for promotional purposes only. It is not meant as advice on how any transaction or aspect of it should be qualified from a legal, tax, accounting or other perspective. AGCO Finance does not guarantee that any information provided in this document is complete or accurate or fit for your purposes. You should seek independent advice.

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30/06/2026 16:58

Front Link News

NEWSINBRIEF

Telematics is now standard ieci has announced that its aptly named Dieci Telematics System (DTS) is now standard fitment on all compatible telehandlers. It allows owners to view machine information in real-time, which has been made even easier with the introduction of the Dieci Telematics app. In addition to run-of-the-mill fuel, hours, and error code monitoring, there’s also a geolocation-based security system included,

Conagri to sell McCormick

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designed to prevent improper or unauthorised handler use. Included in the price of a new machine, is 36 months free subscription. In addition, Dieci has extended its warranty to three years.

Conagri, the distributor of Captain tractors and Venieri wheeled loaders, has joined the McCormick dealer network. From its base in Crediton, it will represent the brand across the Devon area.

HORSCH SEES FUTURE IN SPOT SPRAYING Recognising the future potential in spot spraying, Horsch has taken a strategic stake in SamDimension, a firm that’s created a targeted treatment system that doesn’t use boom-mounted cameras. Instead, it uses drones to survey the crop pre-application, image data is then processed using AI, before a precise spot-spraying map is created. This is then uploaded seamlessly to a compatible sprayer. A benefit of this system, Horsch says, is that growers can see the areas to be treated prior to spraying, enabling them to mix the right amount of chemical.

TH White take on Aodes

Boss Off-Road Vehicles has appointed TH White to its growing Aodes dealer network. The agreement will initially see the Chinese-built ATVs and utility vehicles sold from the dealership’s Knighton depot.

NEW DISTRIBUTOR FOR SPOT SPRAYING SYSTEM LH Agro has become the UK distributor of the Carbon Bee SmartStriker X camera-based spot spraying system. The system can recognise over 20 different crops and various weeds, and it uses AI to learn how to adapt to different growth stages, amounts of daylight and weather. Operating in real-time, it can be set up to detect weeds in two modes: Green-on-Green or Green-on-Brown. The SmartStirker X kit comprises a Sensor X, Controller X and an ISOBUS VT app and is retrofittable to most sprayers.

NEXT-GEN LASER CONTROL Drainer manufacturer, Mastenbroek, revealed its latest-generation laser grade control system at Cereals. The MCS1-EM is the next stage of development for the firm’s automated control systems, following the launch of the MCS1 at last year’s event. A key difference of the new system is the electrically elevating mast, allowing the drainer operator to control the machine gauge height and receiver elevation. It also provides automatic adjustment on longer runs and undulating fields. The system is easily retrofittable to most drainage machines, Mastenbroek adds.

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Sustainable growth

Horsch reports that by the close of play in 2025, group turnover grew moderately to €1.08 billion, the third consecutive year it’s been over seven-figures. The firm puts this down to (among other things): innovation and having close connections to customers. Horsch opened the AgTec centre in the US during 2025.

The new 6R 260 delivers up to 305hp with boost, and features a new e19 full powershift, which builds on the firm’s PowrQuad technology.

Above: A revised CommandArm includes a display for seat adjustment, CommandArm and cab settings, including climate control, media and new nine-colour ambient lighting. Right: Operators benefit from a redesigned steering column with foot-operated rake adjustment.

Deere reveals… John Deere has unveiled a raft of product updates for the coming sales season, including tractor upgrades and the firm’s first 50ft combine header WORDS MARTIN RICKATSON IMAGES MARTIN RICKATSON AND JOHN DEERE

New 8Rs New 8R, 8RT and 8RX tractors follow the launch of larger models of up to 634hp earlier this year, and span 280-410hp, or 310-410hp in 8RT twin-track and 8RX formats. The updated CommandView 4 cab introduces ‘door cinch’ soft-closing, push-button start with pin code protection, 320-degree wiper and wireless phone charging. The redesigned CommandArm integrates either CommandX Plus or CommandX Pro, available for e23, AutoPowr or eAutoPowr (on 370 and 410 models) transmission options. A new seat has electronic controls for both seat and CommandArm. On the 8RX models, a new CommandView 4 Plus cab option

removes the right-hand console, increasing legroom by 15% and improving side visibility to the implement by 20%, says Deere. New Reactive Command Steering provide adjustable return-to-centre functionality, said to improve straightline on-road stability, while variable steering ratios based on tractor speed reduces the effort needed for steering.

6R updates The updated 6R range comprises four ‘Large Frame’ models, from the 6R 180 to the 6R 240, and two ‘Xtra-Large Frame’ variants, the 6R 230 and 6R 260, the latter producing up to 305hp with boost. The new 6R 260 delivers up to 305hp with boost, and features a

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Below left: Six-cylinder 6M tractors are now available with the new e19 full powershift transmission controlled via a CommandX Plus joystick. Below: From 2027, all 6Ms will have a new cab layout and an operating concept similar to the other ranges.

new e19 full powershift, which builds on the firm’s PowrQuad technology, with a dual-clutch design and proportional control valves to smooth changes between ratios. Deere also highlights the new 6R 240’s combination of an 8,900kg weight and 291hp maximum power output, delivering a power-to-weight ratio of 30.5kg/hp, and combined with a 2,800mm wheelbase. Road behaviour is boosted by a ‘Sport Package Pro’, blending chassis, steering and braking updates to improve stability, ride quality and steering precision on- and off-road. At its heart is an updated TLS Pro front axle suspension that combines adaptive, adjustable damping and suspension with automotive-grade components and reinforced suspension cylinders. It continuously adapts to speed, load and surface conditions and is calibrated to match each frame size. Operation is automatic, but a custom mode permits adjustment to suit operator preferences and ballast configuration. The system is complemented by revised hydraulic cab suspension with low-friction suspension cylinders, an updated controller and revised cab mounting components.

Front Link Special Report // John Deere tractor and combine updates The cab itself is a new 66dB CommandView 4 unit, with more volume and a revised layout. A redesigned frame features forwardsloping C-pillars and a curved rear window, said to improve rear implement visibility by 20%. Operators benefit from a redesigned steering column with foot-operated memory adjustment, a new 33cm contoured leather steering wheel and a flatter steering column angle to enhance steering precision and comfort. While a new displacement-based braking system and automotive-style pedals are claimed to deliver progressive deceleration and easy pedal without heel-lifting. A revised CommandArm includes a display for seat adjustment, CommandArm and cab settings, including climate control, media and new nine-colour ambient lighting. The standard CommandX Plus or optional CommandX Pro joysticks are available for the new e19 full powershift and AutoPowr CVT transmissions. A new ‘Vision Seat’ tops the seat portfolio, offering 50-degree swivel, electric adjustments and even neck ventilation…

Revised 6Ms The 17-model 6M 95 to 6M 220 line has also been updated, with a revised cab layout, unified operating concept and – for six-cylinder models – optional e19 full powershift. As on the 6R, the latter incorporates an integrated engine and transmission management system that continuously adapts gear selection and shifting behaviour based on multiple tractor inputs, said to aid efficiency, speed gear changes and eliminate torque interruption under varying load conditions. An inclination sensor adds terrain awareness to gear selection, to further enhance this area. As on the 6Rs, the transmission features Skip Shift to jump multiple gears for rapid speed changes, and Scroll Shift, which keeps clutches partially engaged for fast transitions and reduced heat and wear. Compared to the CommandQuad

The 665R and 685R loaders have been introduced specifically for the latest ‘Large Frame’ and ‘Xtra-Large Frame’ 6R tractors.

Plus six-range/four-step powershift, the e19 is reckoned to deliver up to 5% greater productivity and up to 5% lower fuel consumption. Full forward speed of 50kph can be achieved at 1,620rpm. In the cab, options range from a right-hand console with mechanical or electronic remote valves to a compact CommandArm with G5 CommandCenter and CommandX Plus joystick, the latter available on tractors with e19 or AutoPowr transmissions. The operating logic now follows the 6R, 7R and 8R series – and the latter range is also revised for next year.

Above: In line with the larger 8Rs unveiled earlier this year, smaller 8R models are due to receive an updated CommandView 4 cab in 2027.

Larger loaders John Deere has also expanded its front loader offering with the introduction of new 665R and 685R models, specifically for the latest ‘Large Frame’ and ‘Xtra-Large Frame’ 6R tractors. Their design is said to enhance visibility at work, while a multiposition digital camera can be specified as an option, mounting either on the loader boom or torque tube and connecting directly into the loader harness. The camera can be repositioned quickly without tools, says Deere. New latch-point cut-outs allow operators to visually confirm correct

Below: New for 2027 is a 50ft HDX draper header for X9 combines, specifically developed for European conditions, Deere says.

attachment from the cab, while a new factory-set two-position bucket level indicator helps maintain correct attachment angles when switching between implements. Further visibility gains come from low-profile hydraulic hose routing and a redesigned underslung mechanical self-levelling system. Revised loader geometry provides an additional 8-degrees of rollback through a combination of a new angle plate position on the loader and updated bucket latching point geometry, with redesigned side plates that allow the bucket to hold more material. All models feature central greasing, while a new electrical architecture, controllers and main harness allow additional features such as suspension, lights, camera or Deere’s loader ‘Technology Package’ – Dynamic Weighing System, Level to Horizon and Return to Position – to be added later.

Combine news Meanwhile, also new for next year is an 15m/50ft HDX draper header for John Deere’s X9 combines. The unit has been developed specifically for European conditions, being hinged in three sections to follow ground contours, and featuring 1.2m belts and a fully-fingered top auger. Elsewhere, T series walker combines are now available with Predictive Ground Speed Automation, as established on Deere’s rotary machines, claimed to boost hourly capacity output by as much 20%.

AUGUST 2026 WWW.FARMMACHINERYJOURNAL.CO.UK 21

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Front Link Product Walkaround // McCormick X7.624 Clever Cab Plus

CLEVERER CAB

McCormick’s Clever Cab Plus is now available on X7 and X8 tractors following its unveiling at Agritechnica 2023. Here, we take a walk around a 240hp X7.624 equipped with the Clever Cab Plus that features a semi active electrohydraulic suspension system. The four-post design provides 14% more interior space and glazing along with an additional 8cm of headroom. It’s also equipped with rear hinged doors for better access and a 210-degree windscreen wiper. The cab glazing is also coated in the Comfort Sky compound developed by Saint Gobain that improves UV protection and reduces in cab temperatures by up to six degrees. The Clever Cab’s interior includes the revised Multifunction armrest and McCormick’s new 30.5cm high-definition Data Screen Manager (DSM) Plus touchscreen terminal, EasyPilot joystick and Precision Steering Management (PSM) advanced guidance that’s ISOBUS compatible with implements. WORDS AND IMAGES DAVID LALEY

Electronically controlled front mounted three-point linkage, 3,500kg capacity FPT N67 Stage V 6.7 lit, 24-valve, six-cylinder 240hp turbocharged and intercooled engine. Electronically controlled front axle with independent suspension and full differential lock.

350 lit fuel and 52 lit AdBlue tank. VT-Drive continuously variable transmission achieving 50kph at 1,690rpm. X7 Clever Cab Plus, 66dBa four post cab. Extra-large telescopic and heated rearview mirrors.

20 adjustable LED work lights and four LED driving lights for 360-degree illumination.

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Fully adjustable steering wheel and dashboard. DSM Plus dashboard and 30.5cm highdefinition touchscreen terminal. Integral multifunction armrest and EasyPilot joystick. Alcantara upholstered heated and ventilated swivel seat with electronic suspension. Comfort Sky cab glazing coating to reduce temperature fluctuations by up to six degrees.

AUGUST 2026 WWW.FARMMACHINERYJOURNAL.CO.UK 23

Front Link First Impression // Agri-Spread AS2150T SCS

Spreading goes large

County Cork-based contractor Cyril Roche has run eight different Bredal machines in his bulk spreading operation, but when selecting his latest spreader, he decided on an Agri-Spread AS2150T. FMJ finds out why he made the switch WORDS AND IMAGES EOGHAN DALY

aced with completing larger spreading tasks, Fermoybased Cyril Roche recognised the need to increase capacity and efficiency when he was in search of his latest fertiliser spreader. Bulk spreading is just part of a larger agricultural contracting operation, run by Cyril, that serves both grassland and arable farmers. During his engagement in the specialist activity, Cyril has run eight different Bredal machines, but when the time came to change this time, he saw the Agri-Spread AS2150T as a

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more attractive option based on a combination of factors. Having carried out an evaluation of the available options, the willingness of Agri-Spread to build a machine to his precise design and specification helped sway the decision. Agreeing on the specification, it ultimately arrived through County Waterford dealer Jim Power Agri Sales in time for the 2026 spring spreading campaign. Joining a pair of Bredal machines including a K85, and a mounted Amazone spreader with a carrying capacity of 3t, the new Agri-Spread

“The Agri-Spread just seemed a better value machine; and the fact that when I was speccing it up nothing was a problem”

AS2150T SCS features a wealth of features that makes it at one with the application.

Easy decision “I’ve always had the height of respect for Bredal spreaders, and I’ve had great service from them over the years,” explains Cyril, “but the Agri-Spread just seemed a better value machine; and the fact that when I was speccing it up, nothing was a problem. They were willing to build the machine I wanted, down to the smallest detail. “Buying an Irish-designed and built machine was an easy decision in the end for me.” With a capacity of 12t, the AgriSpread AS2150T SCS is a high-spec spreader deemed necessary for an intensive bulk spreading contractor.

TECHSPECS Agri-Spread AS2150T SCS Maximum carrying capacity 19.5t (lime) Capacity (level) 13.6cu.m Capacity (heaped) 17cu.m Loading height 2,980mm (standard height) Hopper width 2,625mm Spread width 12-36m (fertiliser) Spread width 8-16m (lime) Number of load cells 4 Tyres BKT 710/50R26.5

Cyril Roche spreading fertiliser with his Irish-built Agri-Spread AS2150T following first cut silage near Mitchelstown, County Cork recently.

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Front Link First Impression // Agri-Spread AS2150T SCS

Left and above inset: The suspension elements of the machine make for driver friendly ride comfort.

Covering a large area from his Fermoy base, the areas served extend north-west as far as Charleville and run all the way across to Dungarvan to the south-east. Working for Dairygold and McDonnell Brothers animal feeds and agri supplies, as well as some other work for farmer clients, having a large capacity machine offering high levels of efficiency and spread accuracy is a mandatory requirement. “I was finding spreading jobs were getting larger and it was often necessary to return with just 2-3t on-board to complete a job. Running a bigger capacity spreader capable of doing it all in one pass made much more sense.

“An increase in capacity is just part of the complete package” “Cutting down on the amount of unnecessary driving is a big plus and helps reduce operating costs, especially with the rise in the price of diesel. It also allows me to get through much more work, which is especially important at peak times.” While an increase in capacity may be a welcome benefit, it’s just part of the complete package brought by the new machine, which exudes worthwhile features and individual design preferences in a wealth of

areas across this imposing spreader. It is most encouraging to see how Agri-Spread have successfully maintained the ability to retain the personal touch and are prepared to meet individual customer requirements wherever possible. Machines such as the AS2150T SCS are just part of an extensive range of equipment produced by the County Mayo company.

Exact needs The willingness to provide a machine exactly to meet a customer’s needs was clearly the main factor that won Agri-Spread the deal with Cyril Roche. Emphasising numerous areas where Agri-Spread met his requirements, one of the more significant areas was the lower overall height compared to a standard production AS2150T. “Loading the spreader is often done with forklifts at many of the agricultural merchants, which means I need the overall height of the spreader to be lower than a standard machine to give enough clearance for half-tonne bulk bags to be hoisted over the hopper. “Agri-Spread lowered the height of the machine by fitting a 3in extension instead of the standard 6in version. “Another request I made was for a hydraulically operated cover that they were able to source and fit to the machine. I also decided to get the spreader painted in a custom colour over the standard Agri-Spread red.” Presenting a particularly high

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Above: BKT FL630 floatation tyres provide positive stability and good ground contact.

Right: Cyril commends Agri-Spread’s design of floor roller bearings that are located on the outside, making for easier replacement when the time comes.

specification, the AS2150T SCS belongs to the company’s AS2000 series of spreaders that features a comprehensive line-up of 13 models from the single axle 6cu.m AS265 right up to the largest 16.8cu.m capacity AS2220T.

Tactfully designed Below left: The fully ISOBUS spreader sees all operating information displayed in a clear format on the host tractor’s terminal. Below: Unnecessary overlaps are avoided thanks to the 16-section automatic section control system. All spreading components are constructed from stainless steel.

The tandem-axle AS2150T has been tactfully designed from every perspective to yield premium level longevity, reliability and spreading accuracy. Every step has been taken to ensure the machine is built to last. While a standard machine already adopts a dedicated design with stainless steel used in the hopper construction at the front and rear, Cyril’s machine features a complete stainless-steel hopper in the interests of corrosion resistance over longterm service. “With a fully stainless-steel hopper, the machine is given every chance to last well into the future,” Cyril adds. “All bolts are also stainless and anywhere else open to corrosion including the spreading deck. “It’s a very well-constructed machine and features build strength in all the places its needed most, yet it’s still not excessively heavy and is very well balanced, which really

Who are AgriSpread?

Far left: Lights are sensibly located for maximum effect and safe on road travel. Left: In the front face of the spreader, there are a number of sight glass panels for visual observation of hopper level.

shows when travelling on the road.” Tractor attachment is via a ball and spoon arrangement. The spreader also has drawbar suspension that results in travel being particularly smooth. Other positive factors include the positioning of the sprung tandem axles that aid weight distribution as well as helping deliver positive manoeuvrability. With an overall length of 7.56m, the turning point remains relatively short thanks to the positioning of the front axle, while the rear axle steers – another contributor to positive manoeuvrability, and reduces scuffing when turning on the headland. Impact on the ground is cushioned by the fitment of BKT FL630 710/50R26.5 floatation radial tyres, while the tread pattern also minimises ground damage and compaction potential, but still delivering adequate gripping characteristics. Covered by full width chequer plate mudguards, throw from the tyres is controlled, which helps keep the machine clean. Most importantly, the comprehensive lighting package is strategically positioned throughout the machine for maximum effect. Forward positioning of the axle has

resulted in a slight tail swing. However, with prudent design considerations built-in, this does not create any negative characteristics when turning into narrower entrances off restrictive country roads.

Hopper cover To reduce any negative width restriction, the rear bumper bar and spreading unit are narrower than the full width of the machine. This inset design limits the impact of any tail swing presented by the machine. Sensible design also manifests itself during filling with the specified powered cover being central to ease of use. After Cyril insisted the machine would have this feature, Agri-Spread fitted a Canadianmanufactured Michel’s Industries unit cover. “The cover is opened and closed by pressing the control buttons on a ground level control box. If it can work in harsh Canadian conditions, it should have no problems here and is working very well for me.” Access to the hopper when loading is also a user-friendly process thanks to the gripped steps on the ladder and a railed upper platform, making it easy to step into the hopper. Inside,

Below: The hopper features a series of inner screens that allow fertiliser to pass through freely but holds clumped material effectively.

County Mayo-based Agri-Spread were established in 2006 by Mark Murphy and his sons David, Marcus and Dermot. The family have a long tradition in farm machinery manufacturing that goes back 50 years. Since forming the company that now operates from a dedicated purpose-built facility extending to 5,744sq.m, Agri-Spread have achieved several significant milestones. These have included the production of the first rear discharge muckspreader in 2009 before entering the fertiliser and lime spreader market the following year in 2010. Expanding into new international markets commenced in 2011 and included exporting the company’s products to South Africa. The first tandem axle fertiliser and lime spreader was produced in 2012 with the aim of entering international markets. Inter-continental expansion was furthered in 2014 as the company set up bases to serve the Australian and American markets. In addition to their agricultural equipment range, Agri-Spread also run a construction equipment division that designs and manufactures a range of equipment for soil stabilisation and dust suppression under the Spreadtec name. With such a level of experience and ambition, it’s not surprising to learn of the comprehensiveness of the company’s current range and the number of international markets in which they are active. Despite the level of market success achieved, it’s encouraging to see how the personal touch still prevails and has not been lost through the global focus of their operations.

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Front Link First Impression // Agri-Spread AS2150T SCS Below: Functional and aesthetically pleasing, the chequer plate mudguards mould perfectly over the spreader’s tyres and do a good job of keeping the machine clean.

a series of durable screens prevent lumps of fertiliser entering the hopper. A particularly easy machine to setup, the unit is fully controlled through the host Fendt 724 Vario’s FendtOne ISOBUS terminal. Cyril comments on how AgriSpread personnel have done everything possible to ensure the machine was working to its peak as well as providing the necessary operator training: “Agri-Spread were very professional and thorough when setting up the machine and providing training on it. In total, they spent two days here to make sure everything was right, leaving the machine and me ready to work.”

“I couldn’t fault the spreader or the service I’ve had from Agri-Spread”

Section control Sitting on weigh cells, the volume of material in the hopper is displayed on the in-cab screen together with all other relevant information on the spreading operation, together with camera footage from the rear that shows the spreading action in real time. The display also presents a panel to inform of the status of the section control system, which employs 16 sectors across the machine’s working width, that Cyril continually deploys a 24m spread width. Another pane within the screen shows the map view of the area being spread, which through the intervention of Trimble GPS ensures the entire area is spread and to a high level of accuracy based on the

Above: Four weigh cells relay an accurate indication of the fertiliser level to the ISOBUS display. Top: The machine is completely hydraulically driven – there’s no PTO – which is said to be central to its spread accuracy and consistent operation.

This image: Ground friendliness and manoeuvrability are positive traits of the machine’s design.

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section control system working in tandem. A single belt conveys fertiliser to the spreading discs. This reflects some interesting design features. “The bearings on the floor conveyor rollers are located on the outside, which means when the time comes to replace them, access will not be a problem,” says Cyril. “Even though this may seem the obvious way to build a machine, not all manufacturers do it this way as I know from experience. It’s another example of how AgriSpread are continually looking at machine design from the point of view of the end user.”

Even though Cyril Roche Agri have only had a few months operational experience with the new spreader, everything has aligned perfectly to deliver consistent performance and reliability. Cyril remains confident he made the right purchasing decision.

Faultless service “We are now well into the machine’s first year of work and I couldn’t fault it or the service I’ve had from Agri-Spread. “At the start, one hydraulic valve was leaking and on telling them about it they came down from Mayo immediately with a replacement, even though the weather conditions meant I wouldn’t be spreading for a few days. “This kind of service is welcome, but it’s not too often you see it, which makes me well impressed by the machine and the support behind it,” Cyril concludes.

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Front Link First Impression // Massey Ferguson TH.6534

Badge-engineering done right

Massey Ferguson might be loitering in a telehandler market dominated by some big players, but as FMJ finds out, its TH range offers some nice features that mean it shouldn’t be overlooked WORDS AND IMAGES KEN TOPHAM

orth Wales-based J Wrench & Son are Massey Ferguson through and through, so it’s no surprise they have a telehandler from the same stable. Interestingly, the Wrench family switched their business model from largely arable farming to a 200-plus cow dairy herd five years ago. They’re very much machinery-oriented people, and the Massey Ferguson brand has been present on the farm since the 1950s. When they decided to upgrade their loader, it wasn’t a dead cert that it would be a red machine; machines from all the big names were

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demonstrated. But the Massey Ferguson badged machine won through; in part, due to the excellent and long relationship with Emyr Evans, the Wrench’s closest MF dealer. It wasn’t just brand and dealer loyalty that sold it to them though. They liked the machine too, and how it performed. None of the other handlers evaluated left a lasting impression. It’s no secret that Massey Ferguson’s telehandler is a French-built Bobcat – if you look closely, the Bobcat name is stamped all over. The TH.6534 is a mid-range handler in MF’s range; a clue to its capabilities is in the model

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number – 6.5m maximum reach with a 3.4t lift capacity. It’s powered by a 3.4 lit Doosan (Bobcat’s parent company) engine that develops 135hp. There are two transmission options available: the four-speed hydrostatic, which the test machine is equipped with, or the continuously variable Dyna-CT box, launched last year (FMJ September 2025). Both variants boast a top speed of 40kph, and an impressive hydraulic output of 190lit/min.

Three trim levels

Below: Massey Ferguson’s TH.6534 telehandler is a badged-up Bobcat TL34.65 – a pokey feature-packed telescopic.

There are three levels of trim available: Essential, Efficient and Exclusive. The Wrench’s went for top-spec Exclusive package – in lieu of a pickup hitch, something that John Wrench says they never used on previous machines. The top-level trim adds mostly creature comforts: a high spec seat, 7in touchscreen terminal, and a cool box by the seat – a neat touch. Getting in is easy; John notes that the cut out in the floor of machines like the Kramer does make getting in easier, but the MF is okay, despite the cab being quite low. The step is

TECHSPECS

generous, and there are good grab handles. The cab is a five-post space, with a curved window over your right shoulder that provides excellent visibility. There’s a good view to all sides, and the front window is shaped so that you can see all the way to the top of its travel. Driving position is good, but John, who’s probably 1.8m-tall and must be careful with his back, says his only negative is the firmness of the Exclusive-pack seat cushion, and wishes it was a bit softer. That said, the seat fitted in Exclusive-spec machines is air sprung and has more damping options. Pedals are well placed and are at a nice height – you don’t need to lift your leg to reach them – just lift your toe. Being wide, you can instinctively find

“It’s no secret that MF’s telehandler is a French-built Bobcat – if you look closely, the Bobcat name is stamped all over” the brake pedal, but there’s still enough room for you to shuffle your feet around in the footwell

Power Control paddle The grabby steering wheel is a nice size. Beneath it is MF’s Power Control paddle that handles shuttling with the left hand, and by tapping it forward or back, changes the hydrostatic hi-low speed range. The only gripe here is if you’re using the spinner on the wheel to steer, your fingers can’t reach the lever, but if your hand is on the wheel, you can reach it. In addition, there’s a trigger-like finger forward-reverse switch on the joystick. Praise to the designers here – you don’t need three thumbs to operate it. The trigger is good, and it can, when you get used to it, be switched while you’re doing other operations. There is a conflict warning if you try to use both forward-reverse control switches; it’s one or the other. The joystick falls to hand perfectly and is mounted onto the seat so moves with it, a plus point. Scroll dials are smooth and consistent to control; the left one is for the boom extend/ retract, and right one does the third service. Buttons are well placed, with the most used functions positioned nearest your thumb. These buttons include a shake function, that when pressed, does a great job. On the side console, which is also neatly laid out, there are two buttons that make the machine a joy to use. The first is a height limiter; the operator sets the boom to the maximum height they want, press the button, and once it lights up, the limit’s set. Even if you key the machine off, it remembers the point to where you’d

set it. If you need to recall this height for a regular job, the setting can be stored in the ‘job’ section of the screen. Next to the height limiter button, there’s a button to activate the Smart Handling System. This allows the operator to fine-tune the maximum oil flow for smooth boom movements, but it also has the function to set the boom to extend/retract as it’s raised and lowered. This works really well, especially if you’re loading out of a shed, or from a midden, where you may not have the space to leave the boom out; it’s a serious brain saver. Main feature in the cab though is the 7in touchscreen, which is pleasant to use. It contains the radio, which can be controlled from the panel on the arm rest, but its main jobs are displaying the reversing camera, and as a ‘job’ computer. Operators can store a ‘job’ profile for loading grain or sweeping with a bucket brush and the machine will save your preferred settings for that job. On a dairy farm, there are always

Massey Ferguson TH.6534 Engine 135hp, 3.4 lit, 4-cylinder Doosan D34 Torque 500Nm Transmission 40kph, four-range hydrostatic Lift capacity 3,400kg Maximum forward reach 3.4m Maximum lift height 6.5m Tear out force 6,200kN Fuel tank capacity 138 lit AdBlue capacity 28.8 lit Hydraulic capacity 126 lit Hydraulic pump output 190lit/min Hydraulic pump pressure 225bar Hydraulic pump Gear Operating weight 6,635kg Turning circle 3.71m Tyres Alliance 460/70R24

Above left: In first gear and in high range, the handler will keep pushing until you run out of nerve.

Below: Exclusive-spec machines come with a 7in touchscreen. It’s nice to use, bright to see, and displays all relevant information as well as footage from the reversing camera and enables operators to save settings under ‘job’ profiles.

AUGUST 2026 WWW.FARMMACHINERYJOURNAL.CO.UK 31

Front Link First Impression // Massey Ferguson TH.6534 Left: Radio and phone answering buttons are by the joystick; these are very logically placed. Right: Everything is easy to access under the bonnet; filters and battery are to hand, as well as AdBlue filler

BUSINESSFACTS J Wrench & Son Below left: Duplicating the left-hand Power Control paddle is the joystick mounted forward/reverse switch. Its action is positive and the switch is bulky enough for large hands.

Location Saltney Ferry, North Wales Business type Dairy farmers

Right: The cooling pack is easy to clean, on Exclusive models there’s a reversing fan too, which can be set to automatic or be manually triggered.

feeding chores to be done, and J Wrench & Son are no exception. At the time of our visit, the herd was just on the verge of calving. The loader was just receiving its 100-hour service despite having only been on the farm a couple of months. As well as the daily stock feeding duties, there’s also silage clamping and general muck handling thrown into the mix, together with a bit of landscaping.

“A hand throttle allows users to set the revs and control forward speed using the pedal” The family use contractors to make the silage, who bring along a loading shovel for clamp duties. To help, and to maximise storage in the indoor clamp, John used the loader to push the silage about as the heap reached the eaves and to make sure corners were full. He reports that it climbed well, never refusing or making hard work of the task. The farm was also carrying out some improvement work, extending an apron at the end of a shed to make access with the feeder easier as well as making the yard larger. This meant that there were piles of topsoil and hardcore to dig into.

Forgetting you’re in the highest ratio and pushing into a pile of soil does cause the transmission to ‘give up’. But flicking the rocker switch into first range makes it a very different machine.

No shortage of push In first-high the handler would dig into the pile, fill the bucket, and keep pushing until you ran out of nerve; it’ll spin the wheels and dig in – there’s no shortage of push. This combination of speed ranges means the machine is fast enough around the yard. Selecting first-low, it tops out at about 8kph. Taking the handler for a spin up the road, it accelerates well up to 43kph. Slowing down is just as smooth and progressive, and there’s no feeling of over-braking from the hydrostatic unit. Ranges one and two are mechanical, and high/low are changed by altering the angle of the swash plate. Despite scooping bucketfuls of soil, the load monitor didn’t trigger, nor did it lock us out – and we were trying. It felt stable with the boom extended too. A feature of both the hydrostatic and Dyna-CT machines is a hand throttle. This works very well, allowing the user to set engine revs and control forward speed using the pedal. Ideal for hydraulic-hungry

32 WWW.FARMMACHINERYJOURNAL.CO.UK AUGUST 2026

Above: Quick access buttons to the right of the joystick make saving boom settings very easy. Automatic retraction of the boom as it lowers is a nice touch.

Right: The joystick is well designed, and buttons are positioned in the right place. It falls to hand nicely and provides predictable proportional control.

Below: Like on a stepless tractor, the hand throttle sets the engine speed, allowing the forward speed to be controlled by the foot pedal, ideal for use with bucket brushes and cubicle dispensers.

With a full bucket of soil and the boom stretched out, the load monitor didn’t beep once and the machine felt planted.

duties such as bedding with a dispenser or bucket-brushing. As mentioned, power is provided by Bobcat’s parent company Doosan, that supply a Korean-built D34 motor. Doosan have been in business for 130 years, so are a pretty well-established outfit now. The 3.4 lit engine meets Stage V emissions using SCR and there’s no EGR. It has a distinct note to it and pushing out 135hp, appears very pokey.

Right: Thanks to the nicely sculptured windscreen, there’s no stooping to see the bucket at height. All-round visibility is excellent although guards are internal, which leaves the glass vulnerable. Below: The cab is nicely laid out, and switches have a quality feel. Ventilation is good too.

Easier to service The Emyr Evans technician carrying out the 100-hour service during our visit notes that, compared to previous Bobcat-badged machines, this one is much easier to service and mentioned that needing to change a starter motor on a previous generation was a challenge. On the new model, all filters are visible when the bonnet’s open, and as the Emyr Evans technician explained, the battery is easy to access too. The cooling pack is also easy to clean, and plumping for the Exclusive spec machine means you gain a reversing fan. This can engage on a timer or be manually operated. There are plenty of LED work lights and each is placed well within the periphery of the machine, so you’ll have to really try hard to knock them off! Hoses can be plugged into third service couplers easily – even under

AUGUST 2026 WWW.FARMMACHINERYJOURNAL.CO.UK 33

Front Link First Impression // Massey Ferguson TH.6534 pressure. There are no electric dump valves as with other machines; the ideal setup in a dairy environment. A choice of headstocks is available, but the Wrench’s handler is equipped with an FDI Sambron unit matching previous machines. There’s still a Sambron machine on the farm.

A 3.71m outer turning circle is very competitive, and the machine feels very compact for its capacity.

“Most operators’ peeve of needing two thumbs to use two functions isn’t present” French manufacturer FDI Sambron were latterly owned by US firm Ingersoll-Rand that also owned Bobcat at the time. The original Bobcat telehandlers were actually a Sambron design, and they’re still built in the former Sambron Pontchâteau factory today.

Well thought out The Massey Ferguson telehandler is a nice machine to drive. It has some very good functions and feels compact for its capacity. It’s hard to pick fault with it to be honest. The joystick has been well thought out and most operators’ peeve of needing two thumbs to use two functions isn’t present. Additional features make it much nicer to use. Exclusive trim is well worth speccing; the 7in screen is good, and the cool box is a nice touch. The cab is well put together using easy-to-clean materials. However, visibility is the strongest feature of the cab structure – it’s very good.

Above left inset: Taken from the tractors, Massey Ferguson’s Power Control left-hand reverser is a win for a loader. As well as direction changes, you can use it to shift through speed ranges. Left: Third service connectors are located out of harm’s way and can couple under pressure without the use of a dump valve.

Above: A cool box is a nice benefit of the Exclusive package if you’re out for the day. The armrest does come into contact with it though.

This image: Pressing the well-placed button on the joystick provides an effective bucket shake function.

34 WWW.FARMMACHINERYJOURNAL.CO.UK AUGUST 2026

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03/07/2026 16:39

The inaugral Muck Management UK event attracted 40 exhibitors including some that were showing kit that had never been seen before on British soil.

Managing muck Muck Management UK, held on 3-4 June, was a band-new event dedicated to all things manure related. FMJ picks out the highlights

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WORDS AND IMAGES TOM LAIGHT

Among the interesting kit on display included one totally t’s been nine years since there’s been an new muckspreader and another that was making its debut event dedicated to all things muck and on British soil. slurry. The inaugural Muck Management UK event held on 3-4 June saw 40 exhibitors involved with "There were eight Richard Western DL8 Developed to fill a gap in the UK the sector descend on Bodrhyddan demo plots muckspreader market, is Richard Western’s Hall in north Wales.

Alongside the static stands, there were eight demo plots where visitors could see muck spreaders and slurry tankers in action, including self-propelled machines from Holmer, Vervaet and Vredo. In addition, there were ADAS-led seminars discussing topics such as the value of muck in modern farming, manure storage, slurry separation and application techniques. “Manure management is more important now than ever, especially with the rising cost of artificial fertiliser and the increasing legislation,” explains NAAC chief executive and guest speaker at the event, Jill Hewitt. Other keynote speakers included contractor Martin Hays and biosolids contracts manager for JSE systems, Bertie Harper.

Richard Western DL8

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DL6 and DL8 rear-discharge spreaders where visitors new that are aimed at smaller farmers wanting to could see spread their own muck that would have used rotor spreaders. With spreaders and traditionally capacities of 6t and 8t respectively, the tankers in action" entry-level DL range slots in beneath the smallest D-series Delilah spreader. The spreading unit, that comprises two vertical beaters, is just a smaller version of the unit used on the larger Delilah spreaders, explains Richard Western’s managing director Angus Western. Bodies are constructed from 5mm steel, and the material being spread is conveyed to the back via slats attached to two 16mm floor chains driven over six-tooth

Strautmann TS140

EVENTREPORT MUCK MANAGEMENT UK

handle the sales of the Dutch manufacturer’s agricultural range of overseeders in addition to the self-propelled tankers.

Vogelsang Blackbird and Pronar TG214

Vredo VT4556 sprockets. Driveline protection is provided by a shearbolt and there’s an overrun knuckle system too. A wide-angle PTO shaft and a slurry door are on the options list, Angus says.

Strautmann TS140 Following the static debut of its top-spec VS spreader at ScotGrass, Strautmann were gauging the interest of British farmers and contractors by demonstrating a more modestlyspecced twin vertical rotor TS140 spreader. The low-body TS range is more suited to in-field spreading, says Strautmann UK’s David Mein, adding that muckspreaders account for 30% of the firm’s sales on the continent. The 14t 140 is the smaller of the two TS models, with the larger being the 16t TS160. To avoid material bridging, the TS’s body is narrower at the front than at the back, and beneath the flared extensions, the vertical sides are also marginally narrower at the top than at the bed. The sides are constructed from 4mm steel, and are powder coated in Strautmann’s brand-new paint plant. A sprung drawbar is part of the standard specification, and its height can be adjusted to suit any tractor, ensuring that the spreader runs level. Extras the demonstrator machine was sporting included a rear bumper and a slurry door – the latter is likely to form part of the standard-spec on UK-bound machines, David says. Standard tyre equipment for the TS140 is 650/65R38s, although there’s the option to spec-up to 52in rubber if spreading in wet conditions.

Vogelsang Blackbird and Pronar TG214 Vogelsang had quite a presence at the event, with its products also present on other firms’ stands in the form of dribble bars, trailing shoes, distributors and filling arms. On their own plot, they were demonstrating a 15m Blackbird trailing shoe injector that was paired to a 14,000 lit Pronar TG214 slurry tanker. The Polish-built Pronar tankers are imported as a joint venture between Vogelsang dealers HRS Contracting and Engineering from Oswestry and Kings Lynn-based CC Agricultural Engineering. The composite tanks are 1.5t lighter than their steel-built counterparts, explains HRS’s Richard Sockett. Unlike steel tankers, they don’t use a vacuum for filling and unloading and instead use a Vogelsang PD pump. This, and the use of a three-way valve means the pump can be left running even during turns, explains Richard, allowing the slurry to keep mixing. The tandem-axle TG214 has a passively steered rear axle.

Bauer Lupus Line+ Bauer were demonstrating a 20,000 lit version of its Lupus Line+ tanker. The polyester tank is lighter than a steel equivalent, Bauer says, allowing larger loads to be carried whilst still meeting weight limits. An eccentric rotor pump, produced in-house by Bauer, handles filling and unloading and the version on the demo machine had an impressive capacity of 6,000lit/min. Another benefit of pumping slurry on board (rather than sucking) means frothing is reduced, the firm adds. Clever electronic valves automatically switch the pump from filling to mixing once the tanker’s loaded. The tanker at the event was shod on 800/60R32 rubber and rode on twin pendulum axles. It was teamed up with a 24m Vogelsang SwingMax dribble bar equipped with section control.

Vogelsang SwingMax

Vredo VT4556 Melton Mowbray-based Kirby Ag who handle the sales and service of Vredo self-propelled tankers in the UK, were demonstrating a Vredo VT4556 self-propelled tanker equipped with a 19.5cu.m tank and a 12m Bomech trailing shoe injector. Despite looking like new, the machine was a used machine the firm had recently taken back in. Priced at £340,000, the 2020 machine (that’s clocked just over 3,000 hours) offers a significant saving over new price. They are anticipating the arrival of a new VT tanker that’s set to embark on a demo tour of Britain this summer. Following a reshuffle at Vredo, Kirby Ag is now also able to

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EVENTREPORT CEREALS 2026

New machines amidst the mud Cereals returned to its roots during June, taking place in the Cotswolds, where it began in 1979. Given the abrupt change from spring drought to downpours, the light land was a blessing. FMJ picks out some of the machinery highlights

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WORDS AND IMAGES DAVID LALEY AND MARTIN RICKATSON

cleaning system. The machines are also available with a otswold brash may not be ideal warranty that can extend up to eight years. land on which to grow cereals, Using new Altek electro-pneumatic nozzle bodies, but given the weather this June, improved OptiNozzle drift reduction automatic selection it proved ideal land on which to technology uses different nozzles to maintain pressure while host Cereals. After alternating for minimising drift but maximising possible forward speed. many years between sites in Options include a single line Hypro five-way rotary body and Lincs/Notts and Herts/Cambs, Altek twin-line or quad-line arrangements. Boom widths the organisers behind the two-day technical from 24-36m are available with four or six height sensors. event for arable farming this year found a new Operators benefit from multi-stage Category 4 filtration, Cotswolds host venue: Curdle Hill carbon filters to ensure spray vapour Farm, at Chadlington in west “There was an incorporating cannot enter the cab through the ventilation system, Oxfordshire. Given the deluges before and during the event, the impressive while the touchscreen terminal uses the FendtOne operating concept from other Fendt machines, with the free-draining nature of its soils attendance of ability to share operational data between them, and was welcomed by attendees.

about 25,000, keen transfer it automatically to the FendtOne online portal. to see the latest John Deere 500R Deere’s new 500R series made their Cereals developments” John debut, taking its front-cab self-propelled models into

Many will, of course, know the venue by its title for television, Diddly Squat – still an accurate description for what many farms are earning from their arable enterprises, given the widening disparity between input costs and commodity prices, plus diminishing government support. That said, some 700 exhibitors committed to attending Cereals 2026, despite the squeeze on marketing budgets created by the arable industry downturn. And there was an impressive attendance of about 25,000, keen to see the latest developments in areas including arable equipment.

new 4,000-6,000 lit capacity territory. Previewed in mainland Europe last summer, 500R models incorporate design principles inherited when John Deere purchased

Sprayers

Fendt Rogator 600 series Gen 2 Among the sprayers were the latest ‘Gen 2’ 600 series Rogator self-propelled sprayers from Fendt, with upgrades across areas ranging from uprated electronic air nozzle bodies and Banjo valves to Fendt’s ContiRinse progressive

Fendt Rogator 600 series Gen 2 AUGUST 2026 WWW.FARMMACHINERYJOURNAL.CO.UK 39

John Deere 500R Italian maker Mazzotti. They are manufactured at Deere’s former Douven factory in the Netherlands, and use key components from other Deere machines, such as the X9 combine cab and the 6.8 lit engine from larger 6R/6M tractors. The CommandDrive variable speed hydrostatic transmission features one hydrostatic pump powering the four-wheel motors, each connected to a heavy-duty planetary final drive hub. Electronic monitoring provides anti-stall and anti-slip functions. Full 40kph road speed is achievable at 1,350rpm. Spraying-wise, specification includes 1,200lit/min filling and 1,000lit/min spraying pumps, while spraying pressure range spans 1.0-8.0 bar. ActivePause allows operators to pause water filling to ensure products can be added in good time. BoomTrac Pro 2 auto boom height control features five (boom widths <36m) or seven (36m+) ultrasonic sensors, with a new boom centre frame incorporating active yaw and roll control to counteract chassis movement and slope effects.

Knight Agroma

Nexus Chafer This year’s Cereals was the first for Lincs sprayer maker Chafer since it was bought out of administration, officially becoming Nexus Chafer, a business that also incorporates the applicator product range from sister brand Horstine. There are reckoned to be around 500 Chafer sprayers at work on farms, and the firm says it offers full product support for existing machines, but it also already has production underway at Chafer’s established facility near Gainsborough, and new product developments ready for sale. Regarding the latter, the show marked the debut of a new 8,000 lit version – Chafer’s largest-ever sprayer – of the trailed Sentry, adding to the existing 4/5/6,000 lit model offering. Nexus directors include Peter Chantry, who heads up the design and engineering side of the business, and in addition to tweaking the Sentry design to accommodate the larger tank, he and his team have developed a new mechanically- or electronicallycontrolled plumbing system that enables the use of fewer moving parts, cutting the number of valves incorporated into the machine by almost two-thirds, from 11 to four.

“This year’s Cereals was the first for Lincs sprayer maker Chafer since it was bought out of administration” Opico Rumex

Knight Farm Machinery gave over some of its stand space for sprayers from Agroma, with the Greek manufacturer having formed a new UK import business in co-operation with Brian Knight, providing a supplementary range of simpler mounted, trailed and orchard models to complement the Knight range. There are two mounted ranges – the 800-1,500 lit/12-15m Millenium SM and 1,000-1,500 lit/15-18m Millenium M – both with electrohydraulic boom control and 180lit/min four-piston diaphragm pumps. The three trailed ranges comprise the 3,000 lit/15-18m Millenium ST with tracking drawbar option, the higher-spec 3,000 lit/20-28m Millenium ET with bigger capacity 260lit/min six-piston diaphragm pump, and the Millenium T, in 3,000/4,000 lit capacities, with 20-28m boom options and a 300lit/min pump. The stainless steel 3/4in spray line is fitted with four-way Quadri-Jet anti-drip diaphragm nozzle bodies, and there’s an auto recirculation and prime and purge system. Options include ISOBUS control and axle steering.

Knight Agroma

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A name associated with many products, but never with spraying equipment, Opico used Cereals 2026 to reveal a new import and distribution agreement with German firm Rumex for its range of spot sprayers. Available in 6 and 9m formats, the Rumex machines use AI technology to accurately identify weeds regardless of size. The larger model features six cameras, with their imaging aided by a pair of 43,200-lumen spotlights. There are 222 individually controllable flat-fan nozzles spaced at 40mm to target the smallest weeds, and the adjustable chassis can work across bed widths from 1.5 to 3m. The manufacturer reckons the AI system is sufficiently advanced that it can reliably identify weeds in poor light or shadow, meaning a hood is unnecessary. Bespoke nozzles produce a precise narrow spray jet, allowing the boom to be positioned lower and closer to the target, thereby minimising drift.

Nexus Chafer

EVENTREPORT CEREALS 2026

Amazone Condor 9002-2TC

Opico Rumex

Drills

Weaving Machinery Sabre 12.48 Weaving took the wraps off its largest ever drill at Cereals, with the 12m Sabre 12.48 low-disturbance model being the centrepiece of its stand – not difficult given its size. To closely follow lateral ground contours, the machine features four 3m sections, while longitudinal contour-following is aided by the automatic coulter pressure system established on Weaving’s GD drill. The four sections feature a total of 48 Sabre tine coulters spaced at 250mm as standard, with a 200mm option. Soil-engaging components comprise a single row of cutting discs, two rows of seeding tines – which run either side of the seeding coulters to create tilth and aid drainage in wet conditions – and a double following harrow at the rear. The 6,000 lit hopper is pressurised, and can accommodate one, two or three products, being split 50:10:40. The stainless-steel metering system feeds two distribution heads supplying each 6m side.

Mzuri Pro-Til 4.36TX and Pro-Til 3.33 Mzuri drills were seen at Cereals for the first time since 2024 after production and distribution was moved from their original home in Worcestershire to manufacturing facilities in Poland under the guise of Mzuri World – who are currently dealing with UK based customers directly. They retailed their first revamped Pro-Til 3.33 to a customer in Scotland earlier this year. This 3m machine was on display alongside the more sophisticated 4m Pro-Til 4.36TX. Both ranges of Pro-Til have undergone significant development since production moved to Poland. The entry level models now feature a centralised lubrication system as standard whilst axle capacity has been uprated from 2.2 to 8.6t. The legs are now mounted on a single adjustable frame whilst the distribution heads have been redesigned for tramlining. The higher specification Pro-Til TX is now equipped with a larger tank and an advanced ISOBUS compatible operating system. Aftersales and backup for the UK built Mzuri drills in use is handled by Orange Drill Support, a subsidiary of Razorback run by the Mzuri drill’s creator Martin Lole at Pershore in Worcestershire.

A prototype of Amazone’s new Condor 02 range of highcapacity tine drills made its first public appearance at Cereals 2026. The new 8 and 9m 8002-2TC and 9002-2TC (shown) feature a more compact chassis compared to the current 12 and 15m models and a revised low profile 3,200 lit capacity seed hopper with a 60:40 split for better weight distribution and balance on steep terrain. The prototype showcased at Cereals was also equipped with an optional 900 lit hopper for small seed. The new generation of Condor drills are also equipped with a revised coulter bar to accommodate three rows of narrow spaced tine coulters for better trash flow and can be spaced at 20 or 25cm whilst up to 120kg of pressure can be applied to them individually. The prototype on display was also fitted with new double steel press wheels designed to consolidate and close seed channels more effectively.

Lemken Solitair ST Lemken was displaying its new 12m Solitair ST, the largest seed drill it currently produces. The Solitair ST was first announced in November 2024, with limited numbers made available towards the end of 2025 before going into full production in 2026. The massive ST’s main frame carries either a 6,000 lit capacity hopper as standard or an optional 7,000 lit version (shown) with a 60:40 split so that crops and fertiliser can be established simultaneously.

Mzuri Pro-Til 4.36TX

Amazone Condor 9002-2TC

Weaving Machinery Sabre 12.48

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Cousins Switchblade

GreenTec Mantis 570S

Seed and fertiliser pass through four metering units per hopper section, each of which supply one pneumatic distribution unit. This provides the operator with accurate manual section control whilst automated section control is available as an optional extra. Mounted to the rear of the chassis is Lemken’s hydraulic folding Optidisc precision coulter bar that features a choice of leading rollers, discs or levelling boards followed by up to 96 parallelogram guided double disc coulters spaced at 12.5cm intervals or 72 spaced at 16.7cm. The hydraulic version of the Optidisc system (shown) provides up to 70kg of coulter pressure whilst consolidation is carried out by trailing depth rollers and a covering harrow.

Cultivators

Cousins Switchblade

cutting discs followed by a set of hydraulically retractable low disturbance legs that improve soil structure at depth. The previous version came with a single row 450mm diameter wavy edged discs for seedbed cultivation; however, the updated model is equipped with two rows of alternately angled concave cutting discs that are designed to incorporate stubble more efficiently to create a better low tilled seedbed in a single pass. The tilth left behind is then consolidated with a heavy-duty packer roller.

Machinery Sub-Line 284 “The Switchblade is Ceres Ceres Machinery were showcasing products from designed as a its comprehensive portfolio of Barn Stormer grain pushers, telehandler and front loader lighter-land attachments and primary cultivation kit. plenty of interest on Ceres’s stand was alternative to the Generating their Sub-Line 284, a 2.8m wide four-leg grassland firm’s heavier-duty, subsoiler designed for use with 95 to 150hp heavier-land Patriot” tractors. The Sub-Line is suitable for all types of pasture

New from Cousins, the Cambs-based cultivation equipment specialist, the Switchblade is designed as a lighter-land alternative to the firm’s heavier-duty, heavier-land Patriot tine/ disc/press combination cultivator. It weighs 0.5t less, making it easier to lift and to pull – a 160hp tractor is reckoned capable of handling the 3m implement in most conditions, whereas 200hp is recommended in front of a similarly-sized Patriot. The Step Change low-disturbance loosening tines can work down to 300mm where required, while the two rows of staggered wavy discs that follow are individually mounted on rubber suspension units and can be hydraulically adjusted on the move. The rear press consists of open-channel soil-to-soil rings.

rejuvenation and features leading discs with independent suspension to prevent damage and reduce shock loadings. These are followed by a set of legs equipped with M16 shearbolts and knock-on points, and a 460mm diameter roller equipped with dual turnbuckles to alter the depth between 0 and 450mm.

Everything else

GreenTec Mantis 570S

Grange Machinery were exhibiting a revised version of their Top Tilth Cultivator (TTC) that’s available in 3, 4 and 6m working widths. The TTC is a three-in-one cultivator fitted with hydraulic

Said to have been designed specifically to meet UK hedge and verge management requirements and developed following its acquisition of vegetation management equipment designs from Razorback, the Mantis 570S is manufactured by GreenTec, a Danish specialist in the sector that says it is on a mission to grow its UK dealer presence. Available with 1.2 or 1.5m heads fitted as standard with

Grange Machinery Top Tilth Cultivator

Ceres Machinery Sub-Line 284

Grange Machinery Top Tilth Cultivator

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EVENTREPORT CEREALS 2026

Spaldings TMS 250D

PeK Agroline Agile Helper

C-flails, the machine has a 5.7m reach and incorporates a 90-degree slew. Mounting to the tractor is via a patented four-point design that is claimed to result in an installation time to the tractor of as little as 10 minutes, as well as enhancing tractor/trimmer combination stability due to its close-coupled format.

Spaldings TMS 250D Parts specialists Spaldings were displaying the latest heavy duty 2.5m wide mulching topper from Spanish manufacturer TMC-Cancela. The rugged TMS250D weighs in at 1,557kg and can be mounted on a tractor’s front or rear linkage. It has a minimum power requirement of 135hp and features hydraulic side-shift plus a new auto-tensioning transmission system for greater efficiency and longevity. The TMS250D also comes equipped with a 485mm diameter rotor fitted with 26 floating hammer flails and three rows of replaceable counter blades, whilst an internal rear roller is used for height adjustment.

PeK Agroline Agile Helper Warwickshire-based Autonomous Agri Solutions were displaying Slovenian electric and autonomous vehicle manufacturer Pek Agroline’s Agile Helper in the UK for the first time. The Agile Helper is a fully autonomous rubber tracked three-in-one robot designed for use in vineyards and is equipped with a front mounted hinged mulching drum fitted with contour suspension and 16 blades, a side mounted cutter bar equipped with vertical and horizontal blades for pruning, and a rear mounted rotary cultivator. It’s capable of working up and down 1.7m wide rows and gradients of up to 42% whilst its guidance system supports GNSS RTK. It’s 48V power pack takes eight hours to charge and has an operating time of eight to 14 hours. The Agile Helper’s performance is monitored through the TeroAir App that’s used with a smart phone or tablet.

Agriweld Slimline weight block

Agriweld Slimline weight block

Ryetec WorkBox Mini / Float Tyre Control Box / RearGuard Ryetec were showcasing its WorkBox Mini, one of three new products. It’s designed for compact tractors and measures 1,000mm wide, 450mm high and 400mm deep. It comes equipped with a full width toolbox, two tool trays and a lockable lid. Base weight is 125kg; however, this can be increased by adding up to three 25kg belly weights. It comes as standard with an integrated Category 1 and 2 linkage. Cat 0 linkage can also be specified. The second new product was a compressor box developed in conjunction with Float Control from Holland. This features a compressor, valves and control unit that’s capable of adjusting and controlling tyre pressures efficiently and safely at higher operating speeds. Ryetec were also debuting their adjustable linkage mounted RearGuard designed to reduce the spread of debris, mud and water during transport operations.

Ryetec WorkBox Mini

Agriweld introduced its new Slimline range of weight blocks at Cereals 2026. Designed to complement its premium ranges of weight blocks and boxes, the 1,000kg (shown) and 1,500kg Slimline weight blocks are aimed at customers who require simple and cost-effective secure storage and ballast. The close coupled Slimline range features amber reflectors in place of LED lighting, a lockable lid latch, rubber floor mat, reflective chevrons, a grease gun holder and can be colour matched to any tractor with a bespoke logo too.

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A clean product line.

www.bemasweepers.co.uk

contact@bemasweepers.co.uk

Tel: 07436 272 292 44 WWW.FARMMACHINERYJOURNAL.CO.UK AUGUST 2026

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FOCUSON… MID-SIZED TRACTORS

TECH SPECS Case IH Puma 175 CVXDrive

Engine 6-cylinder FPT NEF 6.7 lit Power 180hp (rated) 224hp (Max) Max torque 840Nm @ 1,500rpm Transmission CVXDrive 40 or 50kph Hydraulics 140lit/min (160lit/min option) Rear linkage lift capacity 8.3t Front linkage lift capacity 3.6t Fuel tank capacity 330 lit AdBlue tank capacity 48 lit Turning circle 9.5m Wheelbase 2,789mm Service interval 600 hours

The sweet spot

With rising implement demands and tighter operating margins, the 170180hp bracket has emerged as the go-to choice for serious fieldwork. We assess the leading tractors shaping this competitive power band WORDS KATHERINE WEIR IMAGES MANUFACTURERS

T

he AEA suggest that the average horsepower of tractors sold in the UK dropped in 2025 to 173hp, down from just under 180hp in 2024.

This power bracket sits squarely between midrange versatility and heavyduty performance, providing enough power for demanding cultivation and PTO applications while remaining agile enough for transport, loader and livestock duties. So, what are the average tractor customers buying? FMJ explores what the major manufacturers consider their most popular models in this horsepower range.

Case IH

mid-mount electronic remotes can be fitted, with flow and timing adjustable through the AFS Pro 700 or AFS Pro 1200 display. PTO options include 540/540E/1000/1000E, with automatic load-dependent engagement to protect driveline components. With a 330 lit fuel tank, robust chassis and a wide tyre and ballast range, the Puma 175 is engineered for versatility across cultivation, mowing, baling and haulage tasks. The current Puma 185 is a long wheelbase model, also said to be a popular choice (rated 180hp). The new Puma short wheelbase tractors announced at Agritechnica in November were unveiled to the UK at LAMMA in January.

Case IH’s popular short wheelbase Puma 175 CVXDrive has a rated power of 180hp and boosts to an absolute maximum of 224hp. It’s a mid-range tractor suitable for mixed and arable farms needing strong draft performance and efficient PTO output. Power is provided by a 6.7 lit FPT NEF engine with four valves TECH SPECS per cylinder and common rail injection. It Claas Arion 6.190 CMatic meets Stage V emissions using HIeSCR2, Engine 6-cylinder John Deere 6.8 lit DPS PSS avoiding exhaust gas recirculation to Power 185hp (rated) 205hp (Max) Max torque 849Nm @ 1,500rpm maintain fuel efficiency, the manufacturer Transmission CMatic CVT stepless 40-50kph explains. Continuously variable CVXDrive is Hydraulics 150lit/min the only transmission option for the 175, but Rear linkage lift capacity 8.3t buyers can select a top speed of 40 or 50kph. Front linkage lift capacity 4t Fuel tank capacity 370 lit A heavy-duty rear linkage delivers up to 8.3t AdBlue tank capacity 16 lit lift capacity, supported by a 140 or 160lit/min Turning circle 11m closed-centre load-sensing hydraulic system. Wheelbase 2,825mm Service interval 750 hours Case IH says that up to four rear and three

Claas At Agritechnica 2025, Claas debuted the Arion 6 series with new comfort features including premium driver’s seats with massage function as well as a new lighting concept. It also comes with a high-end multimedia system with wireless smartphone connection and Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. The top-of-the-range Arion 6.190 CMatic model will initially be introduced and offered alongside the Arion 660 CMatic at the start of the new model series in 2026. The Arion 6 series is based on the popular and best-selling 600 series, whose flagship 660 CMatic was a finalist in Tractor of the Year in 2024. The 600 series is said by Claas to be at the end

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at 1,000 hours. Transmission options mirror those on the four-pot model. The load-sensing hydraulic system has a 120lit/min flow rate, with a 160lit/min option, while rear linkage lift capacity is 6.2t, with a 9.7t option. Unladen weight is 7,200-8,100kg, depending on specification, while comparable figures for the fourcylinder 6170.4 are 7,080-7,700kg. A robust hydraulic system supports demanding implements, and the 310 lit diesel tank paired with a 30 lit AdBlue system ensures long working days between refills, the manufacturer claims.

TECH SPECS Deutz-Fahr 6170

Engine 6-cylinder Deutz TCD 6.1 lit Power 171hp (rated) Max torque 727Nm @ 1,500rpm Transmission Powershift, RCshift or TTV (CVT/stepless) 0-50kph Hydraulics 120lit/min (160lit/min option) Rear linkage lift capacity 6.2t (with 9.7t option) Front linkage lift capacity 4t Fuel tank capacity 310 lit AdBlue tank capacity 30 lit Turning circle 9.6m Wheelbase 2,767mm Service interval 1,000 hours

TECH SPECS Fendt 616 Vario

Engine 4-cylinder 5 lit AGCO Power CORE50 Power 169hp (rated) 184hp (Max) Max torque 861Nm @ 1,200-1,600rpm Transmission Fendt Vario stepless CVT 50kph Hydraulics 152lit/min Rear linkage lift capacity 8.4t Front linkage lift capacity 3.8t Fuel tank capacity 205 lit AdBlue tank capacity 22 lit Turning circle 10.2m Wheelbase 2,800mm Service interval 500 hours

of its product life. The 6.190 has now entered production with orders being taken. It’s powered by a 6.8 lit six-cylinder engine with up to 205hp maximum output with Claas Power Management (CPM), and a maximum torque of 849Nm at 1,500rpm. The additional power provided by CPM is now gradually activated in the new 6.190 from 185 to 205hp. The CMatic gearbox has functions such as the automatic trailer stretch brake and the unique wheel loader mode for front loader work. The Cemos operator assistance system is also available as an option. With the 6.190, Claas is introducing the Auto CSM function on the GPS Pilot Cemis 1200 as a new feature. This automatically triggers the individually programmable CSM headland management sequences when entering or leaving the headland.

Fendt

Deutz-Fahr In the 170-180hp bracket, Deutz-Fahr offers four-and six-cylinder choices in its Series 6. The 171hp 6170.4 is powered by a four-cylinder 4.1 lit Deutz engine with a 1,000-hour oil change interval. Transmission options comprise a five-range/six-step powershift, RCshift powershift with automated rangechanging, or the TTV CVT. At the rear, the specification includes a 160lit/min load-sensing hydraulic system and 9.7t rear lift capacity. For those who prefer six-cylinders, the manufacturer also offers the 6170. It’s also powered by a Deutz engine, in this case the German firm’s TCD 6.1 lit unit, and the additional cylinder pair contributes to a longer wheelbase of 2,767mm. Oil change interval, though, is the same

TECH SPECS John Deere 6R 180 (6R 240 picutred)

Engine 6-cylinder John Deere 6.8 lit Powertech PVS Power 180hp (rated) 198hp (Max) 229hp (with IPM) Max torque 843Nm @ 1,500-2,100rpm Transmission AutoPowr IVT 40kph or 50kph Hydraulics 155lit/min (210lit/min optional) Rear linkage lift capacity 9.9t Front linkage lift capacity 4t Fuel tank capacity 345 lit AdBlue tank capacity 25 lit Turning circle 9.5m Wheelbase 2,800mm Service interval 750 hours

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Fendt’s 600 Vario series includes four models providing a power range from 149 to 209hp, with an additional 15hp delivered by a dynamic performance system. Second in the range, after the 614, is the 616 that provides 169hp and can be boosted to 184hp. It’s powered by a four-cylinder, 5.0 lit AGCO Power CORE50 engine that produces 861Nm of torque from 1,200-1,600rpm. The 50kph top speed is achieved at 1,250rpm. The 616 is also very manoeuvrable, providing a turning circle of just 10.2m with 540/65 R30 tyres. Fendt’s latest VarioDrive transmission features a single stage drive train that measures the slip on all four wheels to regulate power output. A clever, cab-operated, reversible fan has been borrowed from larger Fendt tractors to help operation in dusty conditions, the manufacturer says. The 600 can also be specified with Fendt’s VarioGrip central tyre inflation system to improve tractive power and fuel consumption by up to 8%. Another similarity with larger Fendt tractors is the FendtOne operating system. This includes the familiar multifunction joystick, 10in digital dashboard and a 12in terminal on the armrest. Smart functions such as the Fendt Guide guidance system, automatic section control and variable rate control, are all displayed through ‘easy to access’ tiles on the terminals. The Fendt 616 Vario is available in Power, Profi, or Profi+ specifications.

In the 170-180hp sector, Deutz-Fahr offers fourand six-cylinder choices

John Deere At John Deere, there’s been major upgrades to the 6R and 6M series (see

FOCUSON… MID-SIZED TRACTORS

page 20). model year 2027 (MY27) update of its 6R Large and Xtra Large Frame tractor range. This included technical refinements aimed at road transport performance, operator environment, precision farming capability and long-term operating efficiency. The updated Large Frame models include the 6R 180, 6R 200, 6R 220 and 6R 240 (pictured), and two Xtra Large Frame models, the 6R 230 and 6R 260. Road transport performance is said by John Deere to be ‘further improved’ with the Sports Package Pro. An updated TLS Pro front axle suspension continuously adapts to speed, load and surface conditions and is calibrated to each frame size. While the addition of the CommandView 4 versatility cabin is designed to improve ergonomics, visibility and acoustic comfort. Also announced were the updates to the 6M series for 2027, including revised cab layout, unified operating concept and new intelligent e19 full powershift transmission.

Kubota Kubota’s M7004 tractor series, announced in 2024, brought updates to the manufacturer’s leading tractor range to enhance operator experience, tractor functionality and overall performance. It is powered by a 6.1 lit, four-cylinder Kubota engine producing up to 175hp, and meeting Stage V emissions regulations. The flagship M7-174 model packs a rated power output of 170hp with a boost function delivering 175hp. In Premium specification, there’s a choice of two transmissions – powershift or Kubota Variable Transmission (KVT), either 40 or 50kph. Kubota says that while the powershift remains unchanged with six powershift speeds in five ranges, plus auto-shifting, the KVT has gained updated pre-set droop settings for customisable transmission sensitivity and optimum fuel efficiency – along with the introduction of an activestop function. For operator convenience, a newly repositioned cooling pack at the front of the engine creates better access to key components while simplifying maintenance requirements. Cruise control speed settings can now be set without needing to drive the tractor, further improving functionality, the manufacturer claims. There’s also repositioned fuel and AdBlue tanks,

TECH SPECS Kubota M7-174

Engine 4-cylinder Kubota 6.1 lit V6108 TIEF5 Power 170hp (rated) 175hp (Max) Max torque 711Nm @ 1,500rpm Transmission KVT stepless CVT or powershift, 40 or 50kph Hydraulics 110lit/min (125lit/min optional) Rear linkage lift capacity 9.4t Front linkage lift capacity 3.5t Fuel tank capacity 330 lit AdBlue tank capacity 38 lit Turning circle 9m Wheelbase 2,720mm Service interval 500 hours

along with shallower steps that create easier access and egress from the four-post tractor cab. Now integrated into the tractor shuttle control is an automatic assisted parking brake, making it easier to stop and park safely.

Massey Ferguson The popular Massey Ferguson 7S.180 sits in the middle of the 7S range, offering users a six-cylinder tractor in a compact frame, capable of handling a wide range of farm tasks. In top Exclusive spec, the models include the latest technology and transmission-spec, with brake-toneutral functions as standard. The 6.6 lit engine has an All-in-One advanced emissions system to meet regulations, while the Engine Power Management (EPM) offers up to 30hp power boost on demand. Two transmissions options are available on the Efficient and Exclusive tractors: Dyna-6 or Dyna-VT. The latter features infinite speed control from 0.03-40 or 50kph, with two speed ranges to optimise torque delivery for certain jobs through pedal or foot control, Massey Ferguson states. The Dyna-6 transmission has an automatic mode to handle regular gear changes and improve output, while a Super Eco feature achieves 40kph at 1,500rpm, and 50kph at 1,800rpm, helping to

save fuel during haulage tasks. The top spec, Exclusive, adds a Datatronic 5 touchscreen terminal, four electric spools and electric heated mirrors. Efficient and Exclusive spec tractors have MF’s Multipad control lever, allowing transmission, hydraulic spools, PTO and headland management, all from the joystick.

McCormick The X7 short wheelbase (SWB) series from McCormick consists of four models: the X7.417, X7.418, X7.617 and X7.618 that deliver a mix of performance, versatility, efficiency and comfort. The brand says that the range is specifically designed for farmers and agricultural contractors looking for a tractor that is sleeker in design and more versatile in use than its ‘long-wheelbase bigger brother’. Inspired by the automotive design, the new X7 SWB tractor is said to impress with its powerful dynamic lines and its spacious cab with ergonomically designed controls. For the 170-180hp bracket, McCormick primarily offers models within their short-wheelbase (SWB) X7 range. These four- and six-cylinder Stage V tractors feature advanced continuously variable (VT-Drive) or powershift (P6-Drive) transmissions. The X7.417 has a four-cylinder engine delivering 165-170hp and

TECH SPECS Massey Ferguson 7S.180

Engine 6-cylinder AGCO Power 6.6 lit Power 180hp (rated) 210hp (Max with EPM) Max torque 860Nm @ 1,500rpm Transmission Dyna-6, 40 or 50kph (Dyna-VT option) Hydraulics 150lit/min (205lit/min option) Rear linkage lift capacity 9.6t Front linkage lift capacity 4t Fuel tank capacity 430 lit AdBlue tank capacity 43 lit Turning circle 9.5m Wheelbase 2,880mm Service interval 600 hours

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FOCUSON… MID-SIZED TRACTORS

is available with the P6-Drive transmission. The X7.418 also has a four-pot engine developing up to 180hp. It’s available with both P6-Drive powershift and VT-Drive continuously variable transmissions. McCormick says that its six-cylinder X7.617, in the same 180hp class, is ‘favoured’ for heavy field tasks. Lastly, the X7.618 is a six-cylinder tractor that slots in around the 170hp mark. McCormick Precision Steering Management (PSM) guidance is integrated into the DSM display on the X7 SWB. As a result, there’s no need for an additional display, creating a less cluttered cab environment. McCormick Fleet Management and McCormick Farm is included in the base specification.

New Holland The New Holland T7.225 AutoCommand is a six-cylinder tractor designed for intensive field and transport work, combining strong engine performance with refined CVT control, the manufacturer says. Powered by a 6.7 lit FPT NEF engine, it delivers 180hp rated power and up to 225hp with EPM, ensuring consistent output for PTO, hydraulic and haulage applications. New Holland says it uses its HI-eSCR2 after-treatment, providing efficient emissions control without exhaust gas recirculation. The AutoCommand CVT offers stepless travel from 0-40 or 50kph, with three virtual operating ranges optimised for draft work, PTO tasks and transport. Adjustable droop control and engine– transmission management maintain optimum rpm under varying loads, supporting fuel-efficient operation. The tractor’s CCLS hydraulic system delivers 140 or 160lit/min, supplying fast response for high-demand implements, while the rear linkage lifts up to 8.3t. The short wheelbase chassis provides stability with heavy mounted equipment, and the

TECH SPECS McCormick X7.418 SWB

Engine 4-cylinder FPT NEF 4.5 lit Power 159hp (rated) 166hp (Max) 170hp (with EPM) Max torque 700Nm @ 1,400rpm Transmission P6-Drive 24F/24R powershift or VT-Drive CVT 40-50kph Hydraulics 123lit/min (160lit/min option) Rear linkage lift capacity 7.2t Front linkage lift capacity 3.5t Fuel tank capacity 270 lit AdBlue tank capacity 38 lit Turning circle 9.7m Wheelbase 2,651mm Service interval 500 hours

TECH SPECS New Holland T7.225 AutoCommand Engine 6-cylinder FPT NEF 6.7 lit Power 180hp (rated) 225hp (Max with EPM) Max torque 840Nm @ 1,500rpm Transmission AutoCommand CVT 40-50kph Hydraulics 140lit/min (160lit/min option) Rear linkage lift capacity 8.3t Front linkage lift capacity 3.6t Fuel tank capacity 330 lit AdBlue tank capacity 48 lit Turning circle 10.5m Wheelbase 2,789mm Service interval 750 hours

Terraglide front axle suspension enhances ride quality on road and in the field. The Horizon Ultra cab offers ‘excellent’ visibility, reduced noise levels and intuitive control through the SideWinder Ultra armrest and IntelliView 12 touchscreen, integrating guidance, ISOBUS and machine management functions. Another popular option in our focus horsepower range, says the brand, is the long wheelbase T7.230 with 180hp rated power and up to 230hp with EPM. The brand says that its new T7 Standard Wheelbase tractors, announced in September 2025, are ‘coming soon’.

Zetor Zetor’s new-generation 6 series of tractors – distributed in the UK and

TECH SPECS Zetor 6160

Engine 4-cylinder Deutz 4.1 lit Power 131hp (rated) 171hp (Max) Max torque 564-699Nm @ 1,500rpm Transmission ZF TPT 16 Powershift 40kph Eco Hydraulics 120lit/min Rear linkage lift capacity 7.2t Front linkage lift capacity 3.5t Fuel tank capacity 300 lit AdBlue tank capacity 30 lit Turning circle 10m Wheelbase 2,750-2,850mm Service interval 500 hours

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Ireland by Axisplus Ltd – is said by the Czech manufacturer to be ‘a major step forward’ in design, engineering and operator comfort. The 6160 (the range flagship) is powered by a Deutz Stage V four-cylinder engine, delivering 131hp rated and up to 171hp maximum output, using a DPF and SCR system to meet emissions standards while maintaining the brand’s reputation for mechanical simplicity and low running costs. The engine is paired with Zetor’s new modular driveline, offering a choice of 30F/15R or 54F/27R powershift transmissions, giving operators flexibility for field, loader and transport work, says the manufacturer. A 120lit/min CCLS hydraulic system provides strong flow for modern implements, supported by up to five rear spools and a rear linkage capacity of 7.2t. The front linkage lifts 3.5t, making the tractor well-suited to front-rear combination work. The new chassis delivers improved stability, with a wheelbase of around 2,800mm and a turning circle close to 10m. Zetor claims that the redesigned Modular Comfort Cab introduces better visibility, reduced noise levels and optional 7-12in terminals with ISOBUS and guidance readiness.

RT Pro Arm Hedgecutter DESIGNED FROM EXPERIENCE BY CONTRACTORS FOR CONTRACTORS • User friendly machine • Unique stabilising system • Economical to run • Safe, fast and easy to mount • Tried and tested components • Strong construction, without unnecessary weight

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RT Hedgecutters FP.indd 1

03/07/2026 09:55

MAJOR Hedge Cutters “We’re saving £180 a week on fuel with the Major Hedge Cutter.”

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MODERNFARMING HEDGECUTTER HEADS/ATTACHMENTS

Bomford Turner Kestrel Evo S Power Plus hedgecutter equipped with Pro-Trim head

Engineering the cut

Hedgecutting has evolved into a multi-attachment job. FMJ explores the latest flail heads, cutterbars, sawheads and specialist tools transforming output, finish quality and efficiency for contractors and farmers WORDS KATHERINE WEIR IMAGES MANUFACTURERS

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oday, operators need cutting attachments that can cope safeguarded by an integrated overrun clutch and the with heavier growth, deliver a cleaner finish, and deep-sided deck contains the cut material, preventing switch seamlessly between verge, hedge and debris scatter and improving the overall finish. vegetation management. Available in 0.8 and 1.43m working widths, and As a result, manufacturers have expanded their compatible with both hedgecutters and 2.5-14t excavators, ranges to include specialist flail heads, the MJ39 range is versatile enough for dual-rotor systems, sawheads, ditch contractors, councils and large farms. cleaners and precision cutterbars, each Adjustable front hoods and full-length rear designed to tackle a specific challenge in the rollers (on the 1.43m models) offer precise field. control over cut height and material flow. The MJ39 hedgecutter head from Major is engineered The addition of Kuhn’s Motion Head 90 for the demanding realities of hedge and verge maintenance, said by the manufacturer to represent a shift away from traditional flail systems toward a cleaner, faster and more sustainable cutting method. At the heart of the MJ39 design is its rotary blade Kuhn’s Motion system – a configuration that slices rather than smashes Head 90 on the vegetation. Each rotor carries four overlapping blades, Multi-Longer 5757 spinning at 82m/sec, producing a crisp, tidy finish even in SPAL hedgecutter dense growth. Major claims that operators have confirmed that this cutting action is not only gentler on hedges but also reduces the number of passes required. The deck is formed from Strenx 700MC high-performance steel, while Hardox Kuhn Multi-Longer 6157 e-TPAL wear skids protect the underside from abrasion. The hydraulic motor is

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MODERNFARMING HEDGECUTTER HEADS/ATTACHMENTS

opening on the shackle or flail, to increase the safety of the connection. The rotor is also reversible, so the wear points of the lugs are even to increase longevity and rotor balance. The recently-launched 6157 e-TPAL comes with a standard 1.2m wide head, or optional 1.5m wide unit (24 or 28 T-flails respectively). Bomford Turner claims it offers one of the most comprehensive selections of hedgecutter heads and attachments on the UK market, giving operators the flexibility to match their machine to a wide range of applications. At the core of the range are Bomford’s flail heads, built around heavy-duty rotors, high-strength hood construction and a choice of flails to suit everything from light verge work to dense, overgrown hedges. With options such as adjustable rollers and high-performance belt drives to maintain output in demanding conditions.

Major MJ39-143 hedgecutter

McConnel hydraulic hood flail head

Biggest seller

McConnel TwinCut flailhead

on its Multi-Longer 5757 SPAL hedgecutter will improve work efficiency and the accuracy of trimming, allowing operators greater flexibility and control when cutting in tight areas, and an improved finish on banks and verges. Only available on the 5747 SPAL hedgecutter, it allows a 360-degree head rotation to aid flexibility when cutting in tight areas. For lanes and roads where it’s impractical to have the arm swung out to the side in the traditional way, the arm can stay folded behind the tractor, with the head simply turned to cut the material to the side. This still allows full height movement on the arm in tight areas, which isn’t always possible with the arm at the side. All the Motion Head 90 movements are controlled via the electronic proportional EP joystick, which enables quick and precise adjustments to the main and outer arms, pivot, and head position, to ensure accurate cutting. Features include a Fast-Fit rotor, that doesn’t require an

McConnel Multisaw HD sawhead

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The Kestrel Evo S Power Plus hedgecutter – said to be one of the biggest sellers for the brand – is often paired with a 1.2m Pro Trim flail head, fitted with either heavy-duty T or competition flails. Pro-Trim 1.2 and 1.5m models offer double helix shaft technology and belt driven protection and interchangeable shaft operations. The Pro-Trim ISMP 1.2 has all the features of the Pro-Trim 1.2 but with the addition of ISMP, which allows the entire shaft assembly to be changed for speedy flail changes. For operators requiring a cleaner, low-debris cut, Bomford’s Sheartrim cutterbar provides a precise slicing action using a reciprocating serrated knife. Its low power demand and reduced material throw make it ideal for annual hedge maintenance, amenity work and roadside environments, the manufacturer says. Bomford also supplies sawheads for heavier timber and mature hedgerows, using high-torque hydraulic motors and carbide-tipped blades to cut thicker branches safely from the reach of the arm. The Pro-Saw has widths of 1.6, 2, and 2.4m, comprising four circular saw blades capable of cutting through branches up to 20cm. Other attachments include rotary heads, ideal for longer material, available with blades or heavy-duty chain cutting options – operating in either a vertical or horizontal plane. Finally, the Bomford Ditch Cleaner designed for use with a range of side-arm mowers, simplifies the maintenance of roadside ditches and grips. Two models are available: manual or hydraulic.

McConnel Ditch & Grip Cleaner

MODERNFARMING HEDGECUTTER HEADS/ATTACHMENTS

Ryetec has a selection of flail and fingerbar cutting heads for its MP and SL Compact side-arm mowers, that are well suited to smaller tractors, narrow lanes, amenity work and farm boundary maintenance, where reach and manoeuvrability are essential. The firm’s flail heads are built around a heavy-duty rotor and welded steel body, giving a robust cutting solution for grass, verge material and general hedge growth. Depending on specification, operators can choose hammer or Y-flails. The flail rotor delivers a mulching action that leaves a tidy finish while managing material efficiently. Adjustable rear rollers help control cutting height and improve groundfollowing performance. Specialist guarding is required when using a flail head on tractors without cabs, Ryetec stresses. For operators prioritising a clean, low-debris finish, Ryetec offers fingerbar cutterbars as an alternative to flails, slicing material rather than shredding it. Fingerbar heads are ideal RT Pro Arm JA 2122T flail head for annual, lighter growth and situations where a precise, shaped finish is required. heavier and thicker wood, tree limbs, and precision Their low power demand also makes them a good match maintenance work. for the compact tractors typically paired with MP and SL Blade options include a heavy-duty 900mm Hardox unit arms. for maximum durability in punishing conditions. Alternatively, for lighter or more cosmetic work, fine-cut Head rotation blades can be supplied, ranging from 600mm to all sizes up Rytec says that the key to flexible hedgecutting is head to 1,100mm. These blades can also be purchased for other rotation. Their sidearms have the head fitted at one end of equipment. the head (MP) or behind the head (SL). This feature allows The saw head also has an easy turning radius to navigate the flail head to rotate up to 246-degrees to cut close to the tight angles and complex tree and obstacle profiles. tractor in the vertical position in narrow lanes and allow the machine to level top very high hedges. Machines designed primarily for grass cutting have the Hydraulic front hood arm mounted on top of the flail, limiting the head angle to a McConnel has expanded its attachment range with a maximum of 180-degrees. redesigned Multicut flailhead that features a hydraulically Co Kerry-based RT Hedgecutters offers the Pro Arm JA operated front hood to improve versatility and cutting 2122T flail head and the saw head attachment. performance. Available in 1.2, 1.5 and 1.6m working widths, The Pro Arm JA 2122T flail head is engineered for the new head is aimed at contractors and professional high-performance hedge and verge management. Designed operators. with durability, ease of maintenance, and ‘superior finish in Twin hydraulic rams control the hood, giving the mind’, it offers contractors and farmers a highly efficient flailhead a smooth, compact profile for close-in cutting solution for single-pass clearing, the manufacturer states. while allowing operators to adjust performance on the It’s available in 1.2 and 1.5m working widths to suit varying move. Opening the hood increases material flow to the rotor operational needs. for improved throughput in dense growth; while closing it RT says that it features a uniquely engineered hood shape retains material longer to produce a finer mulch and cleaner designed to maximise material infeed. This geometry is said finish. to ensure high-volume throughput and optimise the A hydraulic rear roller can also be specified for quick material flow in a single pass. swap between hedge and verge work. Compatible with A heavy-duty rotor construction, built to withstand 70hp-plus machines, the head can be fitted with Multicut or demanding conditions, uses robust 11mm thick tubing. The Tuffcut rotors, a choice of flails, or McConnel’s heavy-duty bearing housings are mounted externally, giving a full cut of Omega rotor for tougher applications. 1.2 or 1.5m – maximising the actual cutting width. This It’s now in full production and available through design choice, RT says, also ensures ease of service and McConnel dealers. access, and includes an integrated wire cutter to protect the Alongside this, McConnel’s TwinCut flailhead offers a drivetrain from debris entanglement. two-stage cutting system designed to deliver a heavy-duty The cutting head comes with F10 forged flails, which are cut and fine finish in a single pass. Using a dual-rotor layout, supported by a full-length bushing for stability and reduced the front rotor carries heavy-duty T-flails cutting downward wear. These flails are supplied by the manufacturer as spare to handle bulk material, while the rear rotor sits 50mm parts, compatible with RT heads, as well as any other major lower and cuts upward using competition flails to shape the brands. hedge and leave a clean finish. It comes standard with a manually adjustable domed Suitable for hedges with two to three years’ growth, roller to follow ground contours smoothly. For operator McConnel says, TwinCut reduces repeat passes, fuel use convenience and on-the-fly adaptability, RT says that a and wheelings, and its hoodless design improves material hydraulically adjustable option can be specified. flow and close-cutting accuracy. Alongside the standard cutting head, RT offer a highIt’s available in 1.2 and 1.5m widths for selected performance saw head attachment that’s designed for Power Arm models.

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Shelbourne Reynolds’ heavy-duty HC1600 hedgecutter head

RT saw head attachment

Specialist attachments McConnel also offers a wide range of specialist Power Arm attachments. The Ditch & Grip Cleaner uses a 600mm rotary head with four cutting blades and four throwing blades to clear silt, mud and vegetation from roadside grips and drainage ditches. Driven by a radial piston motor producing 12.7kNm of torque, it’s available with manual rotation, 70-degree hydraulic rotation or 120-degree hydraulic rotation, plus manual or hydraulic chute options. For heavier material, Multisaw HD sawheads in 1.5, 2 and 2.5m widths use tungsten carbide blades with cutting capacities up to 200mm. For hedge trimming, the MHL cutterbar offers a clean slicing action with a 30mm capacity, while the heavier-duty MHX cutterbar provides a 110mm capacity for overgrown hedges, bushes and tree pruning. Weaving Machinery has been the UK stockist of the Agrimaster brand since 2000, as well as stocking a collection of hedgecutter arm attachments including the Samasz Rotary Ditch Cleaner and the Samasz Branch Cutter for maintenance operations. Each hedgecutter is supplied with a heavy-duty T-flailequipped rotor and a three-belt drive flail head as standard. A handy feature is the dual-direction rotor; through a lever on the cable controls, operators can switch the rotor direction, which allows reverse drive for grass or hedges. The head’s belt driven to provide extra protection for the hedgecutter. Head float allows the cutting head to self-level allowing it to better follow the contours of the ground. Other attachments from Agrimaster include the Giraffe rear-mounted cutterbar. The reciprocating blade cuts and leaves material whole rather than mulching and throwing, Weaving says.

Ryetec SL320 with 1.8m fingerbar head

The cutterbar length is 1.2m, with maximum sideways reach of 3.3m and a maximum cutting height of 4.6m. Also featuring a reciprocating blade is the Samasz Branch Cutter that makes hedge maintenance ‘easy’. It has a robust hydraulic motor and sharp blades, effortlessly cutting through dense hedges, shrubs and bushes.

Ditch cleaner Samasz’ Rotary Ditch Cleaner is designed to fit a wide range of hedgecutters with the necessary bracketry. A throw of up to 3m is achievable by adjusting the chute. Flail heads from Shelbourne Reynolds are available in three ranges and come with either T or competition drop forged flails. Since the company’s trimmers were launched in 2004, the flail heads have been developed to produce a better finish in a shorter time and keep maintenance to a minimum. The SM1200 and 1500 heads are suitable for the entry level trimmers. The 1200 is standard on the 4000 and 6000 machines, while the 1500 is an option. The GP1200 and 1500 heads are for ‘general purpose’ use, suitable for grass or multi-year growth hedge. The 1200 comes as standard on the 7000 and 8000 series – and as an option on the 6000. The 1500 is optional on the 6000, 7000 and 8000 models. Lastly, the HC1200 and 1600 are described as highcapacity heads. The HC features the highest number of flails and is designed for single pass cutting. The 1.2m variant can be specified on the 6000, 7000 and 8000 ranges, and the 7000 and 8000 can be equipped with the 1.6m-wide head. The SM1200, GP1200 and HC1200 all have a cutting width of 1.2m. The SM1500 and GP1500 are 1.5m, while the HC1600 is the largest head at 1.6m.

Weaving Machinery Agrimaster R520W hedgecutter with 1.25m flail head

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AGRIMASTER R520 - From £13,800 + VAT

For the ultimate cut

• Intuitive electric controls as standard • Parallel arm for easy operation • Dual direction rotor with self levelling head float • From as little as 100hp

01386 49155 weaving-machinery.com R520 297 210 FMJ i dd 1 Weaving FP.indd 1

02/07/2026 11 32 32 02/07/2026 13:26

RUNNINGREPORT BUNNING LOWLANDER 175 HD MK2 HBD

“We wanted to spread the products as accurately as possible, just like the granular fertilisers”

MACHINE BUNNING LOWLANDER 175 HD MK2 HBD

A quality spread Back in 2024, S & R Burden invested in a high-spec Bunning Lowlander 175 HD Mk2 HBD to spread biosolids on their own land. FMJ went to find out how it was performing WORDS AND IMAGES DAVID LALEY

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p until the summer of 2024, biosolids and paper waste were spread on land belonging to S & R Burden by a neighbouring contractor, until the Rotherham-based family who farm and contract farm up to 1,215ha of arable land decided to purchase their own spreader and complete the task themselves. Andrew Burden, who looks after the day-to-day running of the business, says he was keen to bring the spreading operation back in-house so they could condition their clay loam and sandy clay loam soils on their own terms, exactly when they wanted to. “We were interested in maximising the benefits that the biosolids and paper waste provide our soils and

Above: Toby admits it might seem like a bit of a luxury and overkill running the spreader on a 458hp tractor, but it makes perfect sense when the smaller John Deeres in the Burden’s fleet are busier than the 8R 410.

Right: This sturdy access ladder folds out from the side of the body to allow maintenance to be carried out safely inside the body of the spreader.

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arable crops and wanted to spread both products as accurately and efficiently as possible, just like the granular fertilisers we apply,” he says. “This led us to purchasing the Bunning Lowlander 175 HD Mk2 HBD spreader in July 2024 from Ripon Farm Service’s Clarborough depot that also supplies our John Deere tractors. They provide us with excellent service and back up.”

Swapping tractors The spreader has been used with several of the Burden family’s John Deeres since it arrived and is operated predominantly by full time employee Toby Hewitt. “I originally ran the Lowlander behind a 420hp John Deere 8R 370 that was one of the first retailed in the UK by Ripon Farm Services in 2021,” says Toby. “However, if the 8R 370 ever needed to be used for its primary role as a frontline cultivations tractor during the spring or autumn, we could soon swap it onto one of our smaller John Deere tractors like the 6250R we run. “These are fitted with the same integrated StarFire 6000 receiver, AutoTrac, ISOBUS controls and in-field data sharing packages accessed, adjusted and monitored through the tractors’ CommandCenter terminals.” Earlier this year, the Burdens swapped their five-year-old, 5,500hour 8R 370 for a more powerful and advanced 458hp 8R 410. It’s equipped

with John Deere’s latest eAutoPowr transmission G5+ CommandCenter terminal and central tyre inflation system (CTIS). It’s shod on Michelin Axiobib 2 VF650/60R34 front and VF900/60R42 rear tyres. “It might seem like a bit of a luxury and overkill running a single axle spreader on a 458hp tractor, but it makes perfect sense when the smaller John Deeres in our fleet are so much busier than the 8R 410 and the 8R 370 that preceded it,” explains Toby. “Despite its size, it’s an incredibly versatile, nimble and economic tractor and is capable of sharing a lot more responsibility with the other wheeled tractors we run, just like the 8R 370 that was bought to replace an

RUNNINGREPORT BUNNING LOWLANDER 175 HD MK2 HBD

Right: The orange overload beacon flashes once the target weight (inputted by Toby) has been reached during loading.

Profile

S & R Burden Farmers and Contractors Location Maltby, Rotherham Business type Stubble to stubble contracting and grassland services Area farmed 1,215ha (arable)

Left: Regular operator Toby Hewitt has been very impressed with the build quality of Bunning’s Lowlander 175 HD Mk2 HBD and its advanced weigh cells and ISOBUS compatibility.

8335RT rubber tracked crawler; it was great for cultivation work but not much else. “The 8R 410 has already completed its fair share of fertiliser spreading this spring and will be expected to do its fair share of corn carting and straw leading when harvest commences. “It’s a great match for the Bunning Lowlander 175 HD Mk2 HBD spreader too because it’s always in charge of it, especially when we’re spreading biosolids on our steeper land or travelling to fields up to 20 miles away from our yard.” The Lowlander 175 HD Mk2 HBD is the largest and highest specification single axle spreader that GT Bunning & Sons manufacture at their facilities at Dereham in Norfolk. It has an

unladen weight of 9,500kg and has a rated capacity of 1,7500kg. It can carry up to 23cu.m of heaped material.

Heavy-duty The body’s also equipped with heavy duty 4mm thick side plates and a 5mm thick floor. It’s mounted to a robust, fully welded chassis fitted with an 18t capacity sprung drawbar and purpose built 150mm diameter axle. Hydraulic 420mm x 200mm brakes provide the Lowlander 175 HD Mk2 HBD with ample stopping power whilst a set of Alliance Agriflex + VF710/70R42 very high flexion tyres carry the full weight of the loaded spreader exceptionally well. Other notable features attached to

the body include a pair of large deflector plates designed to keep the mudguards free from debris whilst the spreader is being loaded. A decent sized toolbox is also fitted to the left-hand side along with a sturdy access ladder. The Lowlander’s comprehensive lighting package features an overload flashing beacon on the front along with road lights and a set of ultra bright LED strobes that are mounted to the side panels of the beaters. The Lowlander 175 HD Mk2 HBD’s spreading system comprises full width floor slats designed to eliminate the build-up and bridging of material between the chains and slats. The latter are rotated by a pair of heavy-duty Grade 80 20mm

Below: The Burden’s Bunning Lowlander is equipped with a whole host of optional extras including a hydraulically controlled boundary deflector that keeps material away from hedges and water courses.

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RUNNINGREPORT BUNNING LOWLANDER 175 HD MK2 HBD

chains and a set of high tensile sprockets. These are fitted to the 60mm diameter front floor shaft and the driven rear shaft that run through reinforced composite bushes with a graphite filler to ensure that they’re kept perfectly aligned during operation. A robust tensioning system is also fitted as standard. “Biosolids are heavy and dense at the best of times and can be challenging to spread, especially if the weather is against you,” says Toby. “However, the full width chain and slat floor on the Lowlander copes exceptionally well with this type of material and is simple to adjust too.” All types of manure, biosolids and soil conditioners are then transferred to the Lowlander’s horizontal beaters that deposit the material onto the spinning discs that propel it accurately between 12 and 30m. The 695mm dynamically balanced beaters are made from hardened Boron steel and are equipped with heat treated 10mm Boron flights and reversible cutters so that products are shredded evenly before being fed to the spinning discs.

consistently and accurately,” says Toby. “We spread at a constant 18m on our land to match up with our 36m tramlines.” Drive to the Lowlander’s spreading components is taken from the 8R 410’s 1,000rpm PTO that’s matched up to heavy-duty Comer T80 shafts equipped with 1 3/4 splines, capable of coping with the heaviest and densest products. The hydraulically driven floor drive gearbox can be reversed to stop any large foreign objects from passing through the beaters. It’s also equipped with an adjustable relief valve for additional protection. The horizontal beaters are driven by a set of heavy duty Renold roller chains equipped with solid rollers and bushes. These are resistant to major shock loadings and fatigue and provide owners and operators with excellent longevity, Bunning says. Power is transferred to the spinning discs via a heavy-duty one-piece

Different products The 1.1m diameter discs are manufactured from Hardox and come equipped with a quartet of reversible spreading vanes also made from Boron. The angle of the vanes can be adjusted through five different positions. This determines the spread pattern and spreading width for different products. Working in combination with the discs is the Lowlander’s fully adjustable hydraulic rear canopy. The lower section can be altered on the move to maintain the desired spread pattern if different types of material are being distributed or different densities of manure or biosolids are encountered. The entire canopy can also be opened to improve access for maintenance or to make compost windrows. The Burdens Lowlander 175 HD Mk2 HBD is also equipped with Bunning’s optional hydraulically controlled boundary deflector that redirects material to the ground and limits the spreading width on one side to ensure it doesn’t end up where it shouldn’t. “It’s a very impressive and rugged spreading system that’s capable of spreading different densities of biosolids and paper waste

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gearbox equipped with 54mm output shafts and precision machined castings. “We’ve not encountered any issues with the Lowlander’s driveline so far and always carry out routine preventative maintenance before and after a day’s spreading,” says Toby.

Right: Hydraulic 420mm x 200mm brakes provide the Lowlander with ample stopping power. The spreader’s also equipped with a purpose-built 150mm diameter axle and four 20t weigh cells.

Overload beacon It’s the Lowlander’s advanced weigh cells and ISOBUS compatibly that’s impressed Toby the most, however. Live weighing is carried out by four 20t weigh cells located on the spreader’s axle and drawbar. The information they provide is then displayed on the 8R 410’s G5+ terminal. Toby can input a target weight into the screen that can be monitored whilst loading takes place. If he’s loading and spreading on his own, he can view an overload beacon on the front of the spreader that flashes once the target weight has been reached. He can also enter the desired application rate and spread width

Below left: The spreader body is mounted to a robust fully welded chassis fitted with an 18t capacity sprung drawbar. Below: Working in combination with the discs, is the Lowlander’s fully adjustable hydraulic rear canopy. The lower section can be altered on the move to maintain the desired spread pattern.

Left: The Lowlander’s 17,500kg capacity spreader body can carry up to 23cu.m of heaped material. It’s fitted with full width floor slats designed to eliminate the build-up and bridging of material between the chains and slats. When conditions are dry, the Lowlander is loaded with this Kramer KT457 telehandler. However, if the rain arrives, Andrew and his team prefer using a loader tractor on proper agricultural tyres that provide a bit more bite at the heap.

Below left: The Lowlander’s performance is monitored and adjusted through the 8R 410’s G5+ CommandCenter terminal. Toby can input the desired application rate and spread width, which is then maintained automatically. A pair of large deflector plates keep the mudguards free from debris dropped whilst the spreader’s being loaded.

“It’s an incredibly accurate system that’s easy to monitor and fine tune”

Tech specs

Bunning Lowlander 175 HD Mk2 HBD Year 2024 Maximum carrying capacity 17,500kg Unladen weight 9,500kg Capacity (level) 18cu.m Capacity (heaped) 23cu.m Body dimensions 5,820 x 1,600 x 1,580mm Spread width Up to 30m Floor chain size 20mm Spreading system Twin 695mm horizontal beaters and 1.1m spinning discs Number of weigh cells 4 Tyres Alliance Agriflex + VF710/70R42

into the terminal that then monitors and accurately maintains them by automatically adjusting the speed of the floor slats. Variable application rate technology comes as standard on the Lowlander 175 HD Mk2 HBD whilst its operational set up, spreading and field data can be transferred and shared easily between the other John Deere tractors the Burdens run.

Accurate system “It’s an incredibly accurate system that’s easy to monitor and fine tune through any of the John Deere tractors we use the spreader with,” says Toby. “We normally apply 17 to 18t of biosolids per hectare and I can comfortably spread 1,000t per day if the heap is in the field where I’m working. “The Lowlander 175 HD Mk2 HBD’s size and efficiency allows us to spread significant amounts of biosolids on our land at our busiest

Above inset: Bunning’s fully adjustable twin horizontal beater and spinning disc spreading system allows Toby to apply biosolids accurately at 18m, fitting in with the Burden’s 36m tramlines.

times of the year, when our customers’ contract farming agreements come first,” Andew adds. “Since purchasing the Lowlander, we’ve received excellent advice from Bunning and it’s likely to remain in our fleet for many more years to come.”

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Thanks to Toby Hewitt and Andrew Burden for their time and assistance with this feature.

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17/06/2026 11:20

BEHINDTHESCENES KIDD FARM MACHINERY

Left: John Harvey bought the current Hopton House factory in January 2023 following the sale of Kidd’s former Folly Road site.

COMEBACK KIDD

Countless British brands have disappeared over the years, yet Kidd is a name that seems to keep coming back. FMJ delves into its history and brings the story bang up to date with an exclusive interview with the man who’s turning the business around WORDS TOM LAIGHT IMAGES TOM LAIGHT AND KIDD FARM MACHINERY

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here won’t be many operators that haven’t used a bit of Kidd kit at some point in their career; be it a concrete-filled flat roll, a topper or a bomb-proof tub-type straw chopper. Despite producing some iconic machines, such as the double-chop forage harvester launched in 1967, the Kidd business has been through some very turbulent times and has had numerous owners since Archie Kidd started building flat rollers in 1959. Yet it still remains very much part of the global machinery landscape today, thanks to new owner John Harvey Engineering. Kidd first changed hands in 1977 when Archie – convinced that trailed foragers and small grass kit had no future – sold out to Wolseley-Hughes (now Wolseley group, the parent company of Plumb Centre). At the time, Wolseley also owned McConnel and had just acquired PJ Parmiter. When Wolseley decided to divest itself of some of its manufacturing interests and instead focus on distribution in 1991, it was the Clipper drum mower that brought Kidd to the attention of Danish manufacturer Taarup. The new

owners re-branded the British firm as Taarup-Kidd and swapped the familiar blue livery for a red colour scheme. Production remained in Wiltshire until 2003, when Kverneland, that had acquired the Taarup business in 1993, announced that it wanted to sell off the Devizes factory that had been producing its straw choppers and diet feeders for sale across Europe, and transfer production to its facilities in Denmark and Italy. A management buy-out saw the old factory saved, but feeder production, and the Kidd name, still moved overseas.

Traditional products As a result, a new company, called KFM, was setup and aimed to revive traditional Kidd products. Unfortunately, a challenging marketplace meant this wasn’t the case. Luckily for the fledgling firm, Kverneland also faced challenges and asked them to recommence producing feeders in Devizes under contract; which they did. Sadly though, this wasn’t enough to sustain the business and KFM ceased trading in June 2006.

Below left: Kidd has a long association with the biogas industry, and the straw milling Kombi-Grind system allows them to re-enter that market, as well as compete with other machines in the agricultural sector. Below: John Harvey (left) with Kidd Farm Machinery operations manager Chris Gordon (right). Bottom: These two straw shredders being assembled are part of a batch of four destined for the US. Kidd currently exports to about 15 countries.

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Above: John Harvey Engineering specialises in building equipment for outdoor pig production, such as the feed dispenser (left) and the long trough (right), which is said to save 15% of feed simply due to its design. Left: Straw choppers have been a steadfast product of Kidd since 1974 and are still a staple of the business today. Top right: Despite Kidd Farm Machinery and John Harvey Engineering being run as two separate companies, there is occasionally some crossover. This circular steel offcut from a Kidd machine has had pegs for a pig tent cut out of it.

“I approached Archie Kidd for a job; he said I was too late as he was packing up” In another turn of fate, fellow Devizes firm Omitec, a maker of automotive testing equipment, was seeking someone to manufacture the steel boxes to house the electronic components it produced. KFM had the tools and the skills, so just a month after it disappeared, Omitec had purchased the business and factory, and most importantly of all, they bought the Kidd name back from Kverneland. Kidd went on to continue building diet feeders for Kverneland, with the KD prefix being a nod to the maker. By 2011, Kidd was again under new ownership, this time by a former Archie Kidd employee, Richard Burman, who had gone on to work for Twose of Tiverton, and later establish Twyman machinery – a range that was eventually integrated into Kidd’s. He and former Omitec director, John Watkins, together established Kidd Farm Machinery Ltd. Richard was instrumental in the development of the ingenious Smart Conveyor, a feature of the firm’s straw shredders introduced in 2019. During this period, Kidd continued to build machines for others including toppers for the Alamo brands; Bomford, Twose and Spearhead. They also produced straw choppers for JF-Stoll.

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Above right: Continually innovating, Kidd are evaluating a new type of rope for its post knockers that has a stretch of just 2-3% compared to 12% on the rope currently used.

However, despite this increased innovation and growth, the loss of the Folly Road factory site forced the business to close once again.

Step in John Harvey In steps John Harvey, an innovative engineer and businessman from Suffolk. The name John Harvey Engineering might not mean a lot to many, but in the world of outdoor pig equipment the firm is a very big player. They manufacture most things to do with free-range pig farming: from farrowing huts to troughs, to highly accurate tractor-drawn pig feeders. Everything except for a machine to bed the huts – and that’s where Kidd fits in. Whilst at a wedding in Wiltshire, John called in to speak to Kidd to see if they would be interested in building him a straw chopper. He was met by the news that the factory site had been sold, and they were looking to pack up. Undeterred, John made them an offer to buy the business, the factory tools, the designs and the remaining stock. All he then had to do was find alternative premises to work out of. In January 2023, he bought the current Hopton House site. “I did contemplate moving production back to Suffolk,” he says, “and we did try to make some things there during the changeover. “But the Devizes team are a solid, well-adaptable workforce, and most have been with Kidd for 30-40 years. “There is a synergy between the two though,” he adds. Most of the prototype testing is now carried out in Suffolk. It’s ironical that Kidd’s saviour should be John. “I approached Archie Kidd for a job once,” he laughs, “but Archie told me I was too late as he was packing up. “Instead, I took a job with Vicon to be part of the team demonstrating and testing the HP1600 big square baler that tied the bales with wire. “I was there for three years, and whilst working in the Wiltshire area I liked to keep an eye on what was happening with Kidd.” John, the son of a Suffolk farmer, graduated from Writtle college in 1980 after studying engineering and mechanisation. His father was a good friend of the late Roger Dowdeswell, which meant he was also able to spend some time working for the Warwickshire-based plough maker. His first foray into manufacturing started with the production of small pieces of equipment like log splitters. He

BEHINDTHESCENES KIDD FARM MACHINERY

established John Harvey Engineering Ltd in 1987 and began making pig feeders. The businesses’ big break came in the 1990s when BQP (now Pilgrims) approached him to make equipment for its growing pig rearing business. He attributes much of his success to his employees; and says that the right team will cope with any challenges. “Staff are key, as they know the nuances of the products.” He admits that the Government’s increase in the minimum wage makes it difficult to take on staff and he’s all too aware of the skilled labour shortage. Despite these challenges he isn’t tempted down the factory robot route and says that they can’t do the little jobs his skilled employees can do, although he does see AI as something to supplement the running of a business.

Kidd history

1959 Archie Kidd builds the first flat rollers in Seened, near Devizes 1967 The iconic double-chop forager is launched 1974 First straw choppers produced 1977 Kidd business sold to Wolesley-Hughes 1977 Clipper drum mower enters production 1991 Kidd acquired by Taarup forming Taarup-Kidd 1993 Taarup and Taarup-Kidd bought by Kverneland 2003 Kverneland announces sale of Devizes factory – management buy-out saves site and KFM is founded 2006 Automotive firm Omitec buys KFM, the factory and Kidd name from Kverneland 2011 Richard Burman and John Watkins acquire Kidd from Omitec and establish Kidd Farm Machinery Ltd 2019 Smart Conveyor introduced on straw spreaders 2023 John Harvey Engineering acquires Kidd Farm Machinery and buys Hopton House site. 2025 Wrag post knocker range acquired in March and added to the Kidd portfolio 2025 Bushpig wire netters brought under the Kidd banner in November.

Always something to do But while many manufacturers are struggling during the downturn with some even laying off staff, John takes a very different view. “There’s always something to do,” he says, “even if equipment orders are down, we take it as an opportunity to develop things, be it products or production processes.” Kidd employs a team of 14 in production, who seem able and willing to turn their hand to anything. They’ve recently employed a dedicated paint sprayer. Day-to-day running of the factory is handled by Chris Gordon, a graduate of Harper Adams University. Chris came to Kidd after working for Ktwo in Aylesbury. “We’d like to take on an apprentice,” Chris says, “but we haven’t found a college to partner with yet that shares our values.” The previous Kidd business model saw bought-in components ordered as they were needed, a policy that meant they were paying a lot more for each part than if they ordered in bulk, John explains. “Buying in bulk has meant that we have brought the price per unit down. “But I’m keen to manufacture as much as we can,” he says, adding that prior to his ownership, Kidd outsourced a lot of manufacturing processes such as machining. “If you outsource components, you are beholden to the supplier. “This can hold things up, meaning a delay for the customer, be it a whole machine or a spare part. “We decided to buy a CNC lathe from an auction so we could machine our own parts,” adds Chris, “but there were two in the sale, and we weren’t sure which one we were bidding on – so we bought both,” he laughs. Customer satisfaction is very important to John. “In terms

Below left: Kidd straw spreader bodies are one welded assembly. By having less bolted parts, this means there’s less chance of bits moving, John says. A high-quality two-coat paint is used. Below right: The purchase of the Wrag business in March 2025 provided Kidd with an extensive ready-made range of post knockers. Chris reports that they’re currently building two self-propelleds every month.

of warranty, if there’s a serious problem with a machine, I’d rather just send them another unit instead of swapping parts. That way you can have the faulty product back to see why it failed. “Every business has issues with its products,” he stresses, “It’s how you deal with them that matters. “Feedback is important too. If you listen to what the customers say, that way they take ownership of the product.”

Latest acquisition He’s taking the same approach with his latest acquisition. John was looking to expand the post knocker offering, something Kidd had been fairly prolific in under the Twyman name, when in March 2025, Chris received a phone call from a dealer. “They asked if we were able to supply them with post knockers as their current supplier was selling up,” he explains. Not wanting to pass on an opportunity, Chris tentatively asked who their supplier was. ‘Wrag’, he was told. The duo subsequently made enquiries and by the following week

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BEHINDTHESCENES KIDD FARM MACHINERY

they’d been to Derbyshire and struck a deal with owners Tim and Carolyn Wright to buy the name, product range and existing stock. “Wrag had the complete post knocker range, ready to go,” says John. “The only problem was there were no drawings. This meant integration was a bigger headache and has been a year-long process. Wrag now operates under the Kidd banner,” he adds. The team are currently in the process of tweaking the self-propelled range and hope to reveal some useful updates soon. Another exciting innovation the team has been working on, and one of Kidd’s most ambitious projects to date, is an autonomous post knocker. The Roto-Fence project is a collaboration between Kidd, Harper Adams University and Farmscan Ag, funded by Innovate UK. Initially, the venture aims to streamline the process of installing fences for rotational grazing systems, but John sees its application going way beyond that. Currently, the autonomous setup comprises a Kidd post knocker paired to the driverless Iseki tractor from the hands-free hectare project, Chris explains. The aim is to eventually autonomise a Wrag self-propelled machine.

“Announced at LAMMA 2026, Bushpig is the latest brand to join the Kidd fold” Announced at LAMMA 2026, Bushpig is the latest brand to join the Kidd fold, with production of the netters now moved to the Wiltshire factory. “It’s a top-end product and it has been a brilliant addition,” says John. “It adds another string to the bow.”

Future challenges Looking to the future, John is aware of the challenges facing the industry but says that you just have to deal with whatever’s ahead. “You must be able to adapt,” he adds. Exports is an area they hope to develop, with Kidd products currently shipped to about 15 countries that include the US, Canada, Germany and even Japan. “The market is steadily becoming more difficult,” John says, conscious that they face stiff competition from the far-east. “China is becoming a bigger player and what they produce is getting better,” he warns. “You can’t knock the quality of its products – in fact we’ve invested in several factory tools ourselves – because they’re tens of thousands cheaper than European-built equivalents.

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Above: Bushpig netters, the brainchild of Somerset-based fencing contractor Marc Preston, are now under the Kidd Farm Machinery banner. Right: One of the firm’s most ambitious undertakings to date is the development of an autonomous post knocker for the Roto-Fence project – a collaboration between Kidd, Harper Adams University and Farmscan Ag that sets out to simplify the installation of fences for a rotational grazing system.

Below left: John’s purchase also included the original hand drawn technical drawings for Kidd’s back catalogue of machines… Below: …which includes the firm’s iconic Clipper drum mower. This enables them to re-produce parts for long forgotten kit. Below right: They even have the parts books. Chris explains that they will still supply parts for legacy equipment.

“John Harvey Engineering has recently purchased a sheet metal roller for producing its own corrugated sheets for the pig arcs. The Chinese-made machine was a fraction of the price of the western produced unit. “We can’t compete on price, so we’ll drop things like lightweight pasture toppers, that China produces, and instead put our focus into things like heavy-duty mulching mowers – products that they don’t build.” As the Kidd name heads through its seventh decade, it’s fair to say the firm has got a lot on its plate with the broad range of products it now offers. It faces many challenges, but also opportunities. John Harvey’s excellent market knowledge, keen eye on costs and engineering prowess make him the ideal helmsman to steady a ship that’s been sailing on choppy waters for many years.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Thanks to John Harvey and Chris Gordon for their time and assistance with this feature.

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MODERNCLASSIC 25 YEARS OF JD AUTOMATED GUIDANCE

Along the right lines It’s 25 years since the green and yellow domes became the must-have accessory to adorn the roofs of machines of any colour. FMJ learns about the history of what was once a luxury but has now become a necessity of modern agriculture WORDS TOM LAIGHT IMAGES JOHN DEERE

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ohn Deere is celebrating 25 years of automated guidance, reflecting on the rapid evolution of precision agriculture technologies from early simple parallel tracking to today’s highly accurate, repeatable and connected field operations.

John Deere’s GPS journey began in 2001 with the launch of the first StarFire receiver and GreenStar display, which introduced visual guidance to help operators steer more precisely and consistently across the field. Their debut marked a turning point; for the first time, the in-cab display could show the operator whether they needed to steer left or right to stay on course. This greatly improved pass-to-pass precision. The next major step followed in 2002 with the launch of AutoTrac – GPS-assisted automatic steering that could keep machines on track without the operator touching the steering wheel. Initially, this was accurate to within 30cm. By 2004, it was possible to use AutoTrac with an RTK correction signal. This increased guidance accuracy to within plus/minus 2.5cm. This meant that tractors, harvesters and other self-propelled equipment were now able to follow the same tracks reliably over multiple seasons – an advantage for operations where repeatability matters, such as row-crop work like hoeing or soil-friendly controlled traffic farming activities. In 2020, John Deere launched AutoPath Rows, for accurate navigation of row-crops such as maize. The actual driven path of each row planted is recorded, enabling each subsequent machine to be guided down the same exact lines. Most recently, in 2024, AutoPath Boundaries has enabled the automatic calculation and creation of optimised guidance lines for the entire field (including the headland) based on its boundaries – either from the in-cab machine terminal or via John Deere Operations Center.

JDLink technology, first connected machines way back in 2002: it enabled telemetry, remote diagnostics, fleet management as well as efficient field operations. It certainly helped to lay foundations for connected farming. With the addition of Data Sync, any recently added guidance line or boundary, self-propelled machine or implement is automatically synchronised across the entire fleet and John Deere Operations Center, so critical information for executing field work is always up to date and accessible to all operators. As accurate documentation data was getting more foundational, in 2022, John Deere introduced the Work Planner tool where farm managers can easily store setup information online for upcoming field work and send it to any machine in the fleet wirelessly. Once the driver crosses the field boundary, the displays will automatically load all necessary information without operator interaction, and the machine is ready to go. Today, John Deere reckons that more than 1,000,000 machines globally are digitally connected, describing it as one of the largest connected fleets in the world and a key element of data-driven agriculture. The 25-year journey is also reflected in the evolution of key precision farming hardware. From the original GreenStar display introduced in 2001, display generations progressed through Generation 2 (2005), Generation 3 (2011), Generation 4 (2014) right through to Generation 5 in 2023. Receiver development has followed a similar path, from the original StarFire in 2001 to StarFire iTC first seen in 2004. The StarFire 300 was launched in 2008. This made way for the updated SF3000 receiver in 2010. Six years later, in 2016, the SF6000 was announced before the very latest SF7500 dome was released in 2024. “Over the past 25 years, precision agriculture has moved on from visual guidance and manual data handling to integrated, automated workflows,” said production system marketing manager for precision technologies, Peter Koch. “From keycards to cloud connectivity, and from steering support to highly accurate guidance and automated path creation, the aim has remained the same: to make fieldwork simpler, more precise and more efficient.” From the first generation of guidance displays and receivers to modern systems that combine automated guidance line creation, AutoTrac and AutoPath, John Deere’s precision technology development underscores how far the industry has come in a quarter century – and how connectivity and automation continue to shape the next steps in field operations.

“Precision ag has moved on from visual guidance to automated workflows”

Data and connectivity Guidance progress has been matched by equally dramatic change in data recording and connectivity. In the early days, digital field documentation could be as literal as ‘data in the pocket’; FieldDoc stored field work on a keycard that had to be downloaded and read manually in the farm office. Today, data transfer is designed to happen automatically. JDLink modems transmit information in real time to a smartphone, tablet or computer, allowing a more connected approach to decision-making and machine management.

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Automated assisted steering was once a luxury; now it’s a necessity for most operators, used in nearly every operation.

Where it all began… The first green and yellow StarFire receiver domes appeared on tractor cabs in 2001.

Key dates in the evolution of John Deere’s automated guidance

Below: The future: John Deere is already well on with the development of fully autonomous tractors.

Right: Such is the popularity of John Deere’s GPS; it isn’t just confined to green and yellow machines.

DAVID LALY

Left inset: The first GreenStar displays, also introduced in 2001, look very crude by modern standards. These could show the tractor driver whether they needed to steer left or right to stay on course.

2001 First StarFire receiver and GreenStar display launched; visual steering support enables parallel tracking. 2002 AutoTrac launched with 30-50cm accuracy. 2002 JDLink connects machines and enables telemetry/remote diagnostics. 2003 Yield mapping provides basis for precision farming decision-making. 2004 AutoTrac with RTK reaches +/-2.5cm accuracy. 2020 AutoPath Rows launched. 2022 Work Planner enables a much faster start to field work. 2024 AutoPath Boundaries allows the creation of optimised guidance lines across the field (including headlands) based on boundaries. 2026 More than 1,000,000 said to be machines digitally connected.

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03/07/2026 16:50

TECHNICAL // PLOUGHING MASTERCLASS

Brian Baxter, the 2021 British National Reversible Ploughing Champion, using his Massey Ferguson 6120 and Kverneland match ploughing outfit to plough a demonstration plot

The ins and outs of competition ploughing Reversible World Style ploughing is the most technical of the tractor ploughing classes in any match. The 2021 British National Reversible Ploughing Champion, Brian Baxter, from Forfar in Angus, explains to FMJ how he rose to the top and demonstrates his approach to ploughing a plot WORDS AND IMAGES SANDY COX

eversible World Style is not just ploughing up and down, but joining together three areas of ploughing, with one area running at an angle to the others. And being competition ploughing, everything (of course) has to be neat, straight and even. Brian Baxter, 2021 British National Reversible Champion, looks after the arable work on the farm of his in-laws, the Steel family, at Forfar. Cropping includes 100ha of seed and ware potatoes, as well as wheat, barley and oilseed rape. He explains how he got involved in competition ploughing. “I started competition ploughing when I was 14,” he recalls. “We lived down in Cambridgeshire where my Dad worked for an agricultural engineering business. He was interested in ploughing and we bought a petrol/paraffin Grey Fergie and a Ferguson plough. We moved back to Scotland in 1996 and I progressed up the classes. I always liked the modern ploughing, and we changed to an International B-250 and a Sellars plough for local matches.” Brian didn’t compete in any ploughing matches for a few years, but he’s always wanted to be involved in Reversible World Style ploughing. An uncle who used to do

R

reversible ploughing loaned him a Lemken plough, which he used behind a John Deere. “It got me into modern ploughing with two furrows,” says Brian. “Andrew Mitchell, who was six times World Reversible Champion, lives in the area, and he came out to show me and my friend, Gordon Beattie, what the judges wanted and how to do things. He got us started and has always been helpful with advice. The Lemken wasn’t really set up for ploughing the butts and technical bits, so I started looking for a Kverneland plough.” In 2017, he bought a two-furrow standard Kverneland reversible plough from Lincolnshire ploughman Ashley Boyles. Since getting his Kverneland plough, Brian has adapted it considerably, gleaning information from watching other ploughmen, from social media, YouTube videos and photos. Lots of practice, which he’s fortunate to be able to do on the farm, as well as taking part in lots of ploughing matches, have enabled him to hone his skills. “In this area, there are matches within a

40-mile radius every weekend from the beginning of November to Christmas,” explains Brian. “There are usually four or five ploughs in the class I’m in, and the standard is very high. At the recent Kirriemuir match, for example, there were only nine points separating the five of us in the class.” The first time Brian won his class was at the Glenbervie Ploughing Match in 2018, while his first ‘away’ match success came at Ireland’s National Ploughing Championship in Co. Carlow in 2019, where he was representing Scotland in the Five Nations Competition. He took the bronze position. He puts his success in the 2021 British Nationals down to lots of practice, attention to detail and picking-up any flaws in his work quickly in order to make the necessary adjustment. “My father comes to matches with me and helps and gives advice,” says Brian. “When he’s standing watching, he can pick-up things before I do. He takes videos and photos, and the camera can show up faults before you would see them with your eyes.”

“Since getting his Kverneland plough, Brian has adapted it considerably”

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PLOUGH MODIFICATIONS When Brian Baxter bought the Kverneland plough that he used at the British National Ploughing Championships it was a standard two-furrow reversible with vari-width, hydraulic front-furrow and auto-reset. He has since made a number of modifications to it for World Style Reversible ploughing. “The first thing I did was to add a front wheel assembly to steady the plough in work,” he says. “My friend, Graeme Smeaton, helped me with it as he is good at precision engineering. “The following season we changed the back furrow so that it can be lifted hydraulically, which makes it easier to do the furrows in the butt join,” he continues. “Then we made a double wheel for the back of the plough, which prevents it swinging about when you plough through wheel tracks. Lastly, I altered the mouldboards by adding steel to the back of them to make the ploughing firmer. It’s important when making changes to do only one thing at a time and get that right before moving on to the next one.”

1

Front wheel is adjustable

The first modification Brian made to his twofurrow reversible plough was to add a front wheel. This wheel runs in the furrow and steadies the plough so that it runs at an even depth and does not rock from side to side. It’s equipped with a hydraulic ram for adjustment to match ploughing depth.

2

Ram lifts the rear furrow

3

Rear wheels straddle ruts

4

Mouldboards are extended

5

Seven ways of fine-tuning

On this auto-reset plough, the bodies are designed to lift if they hit an obstruction. It was relatively easy to create a hydraulic mechanism to allow the rear furrow to be lifted out of the ground. This is particularly useful when ploughing the butts so that the ends of the angled furrows always line-up.

Competition rules allow ploughs to be fitted with up to three wheels, so a double rear wheel like Brian’s is a common modification. When ploughing across wheelings, it means that there is always one wheel on the level surface, so that the plough continues to stay level and produces even furrows.

He has extended the standard Kverneland mouldboards of his plough by welding-on additional metal at the rear. He has adjusted the shape of these mouldboard extensions to provide a firm finish to his ploughing. The additional adjustable stay fitted on the rear of the mouldboard keeps it rigid.

A block of seven spool valves at the back of the tractor is used to control and fine-tune the plough. They operate the hydraulic top link, plough turnover, vari-width, front furrow width, depth of the front wheel, rear furrow lift and a hydraulic stabiliser on the tractor’s left lower link arm.

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“When Brian bought the plough it was a standard two-furrow reversible”

TECHNICAL // PLOUGHING MASTERCLASS

PLOUGHING THE PLOT: STEP-BY-STEP

Before making his opening, Brian makes any necessary changes to the plough and adjusts and checks all its settings. He always carries a ‘little black book’ with him in which he has a record of the settings he uses for different stages of the ploughing and the different conditions.

PREPARING FOR THE OPENING

1

Setting out the ploughing

3

Note is kept of all settings

When walking down the plot to set up his markers, Brian takes the opportunity to note the depth of any wheel tracks on it. He sets his second marker three-quarters of the way down the plot then, after lining up his tractor against the first marker, removes that and places it quarter of the way down the plot.

While setting up the plough, Brian checks the list of settings for the opening that he keeps in a notebook. The front share is removed from the plough for the opening to ensure it doesn’t catch the ground, despite the front of the plough being lifted up when making the opening cut with the rear furrow.

4

2

Special opening rear share

The opening is made using only the plough’s rear furrow. Brian removes the standard rear share and replaces it with one that he’s made specially for the opening. It creates a furrow with a clean and level bottom. The standard share would leave a slope across the furrow at the shallow opening depth.

Set the plough accurately

Care is taken to set the plough accurately for the opening. Here, Brian takes measurements to set the plough to the correct depth. He says the opening is the crucial part. If not done well, it can be very difficult to correct mistakes, and errors in the opening may result in an unsatisfactory finish too.

5

Rules cover attachments

This ‘patter’ is fixed to the rear of the plough for the opening, to pat-down the soil, leaving a firm, flat surface. On the second run, to turn the soil back into the first furrow, the plough’s front wheel runs on the surface left by the patter. The size of attachments like this are set in the rules.

“The opening is the crucial part. If not done well, it can be very difficult to correct mistakes, and errors in the opening may result in an unsatisfactory finish too” AUGUST 2026 WWW.FARMMACHINERYJOURNAL.CO.UK 71

MAKING THE OPENING

It’s essential to get the opening right as any mistakes can be difficult to correct later. Brian watches his ploughing very carefully and stops to make checks and adjustments as necessary.

1

Making early adjustments

After going only a few yards with his opening, Brian stopped to make adjustments to the plough to make it run as perfectly as possible. He lifted the patter a little as it was pushing down slightly too hard and raised the plough depth a little by adjusting the rear wheel to make the opening at 3in deep.

4

Preparing for two furrows

Now the opening would be turned back over on itself into the furrow as the first two furrows were ploughed. The standard shares were put back on both plough bodies, the skims and discs were set and the front wheel moved in to run on top of the first furrow. Furrow width was made even before ploughing.

2

Opening cut is completed

5

Work depth a little deeper

The completed opening cut. The judges are looking for an opening that’s well cut, uniform and straight. In this opening, the edge of the furrow has been cut very cleanly and the turned-over soil has been firmed evenly down the furrow by the extended mouldboard while the patter has left a flat surface.

After making the opening with the plough’s rear body, ploughing continued with both furrows, working slightly deeper than the opening although at relatively shallow depth. The aim is to turn the soil displaced in making the opening cut back into the open furrow and lay the second furrow neatly against it.

3

Making the scratch mark

6

First two furrows ploughed

Next, when travelling back up the plot, a scratch mark had to be made parallel to and 16ft 6in from the edge of the opening furrow. This would act as a guide for the finishing point of the angled butt furrows. A small attachment was fixed to the landslide of the rear furrow to make the scratch mark.

For the first two furrows, the tractor wheels run in the opening cut and the plough’s front wheel runs on top of the soil displaced from it. The patter used on the rear of the plough for the opening cut was removed, but this time a patter was used on the plough’s front furrow for a flat level surface.

8

7

Eight furrows are ploughed

Now the rest of the crown could be ploughed at full depth. In total, it would be eight furrows wide and judges would look for uniform, level and straight ploughing. All trash needs to be buried and the furrows should be firm and well-packed, while being clearly defined and not running into each other.

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Ploughing the final furrows

When ploughing the final two furrows of the crown, Brian was careful to measure the depth of his work. It was at exactly the 10in he was aiming for. In a competition, the depth of ploughing is stated in the rules and the penalty for ploughing too shallow varies between competitions, but can be severe.

TECHNICAL // PLOUGHING MASTERCLASS

PLOUGHING THE BUTTS

GETTING STARTED

In Reversible World Style, ploughing on the main part of each plot is aligned at an angle to the work on the neighbouring plot. So that each plot can join up to the next, an area called the butts is ploughed at an angle to the rest of the plot. This is what makes this style of ploughing more technical compared to ploughing plots straight up and down.

1

Guide is for butt furrows

To plough the butt furrows, Brian attaches this guide to the plough’s rear wheel assembly. The two downward-facing pointers are the same distance apart as the furrow width. They pivot on the supporting horizontal bar so that they swing round when the plough is turned over and always hang downwards.

3

Guide keeps work in line

On the return bout, the guide marker attached to the plough’s rear wheel is used to start the furrows in line along the scrape mark. Brian lowers his front furrow when his inner guide is over the scrape mark and here he is lowering the rear furrow into work. Other ploughmen use varied types of guides.

2

Lifting out of butt furrows

4

Now for the joining furrow

The butt furrows start adjacent to and join the furrows of the neighbouring plot’s crown and approach the scrape mark made earlier at an angle. When the outermost guide marker reaches the scrape mark, the rear furrow is lifted. The front furrow is lifted when the inner marker reaches the scrape mark.

The completed butt furrows form a wedge of ploughed ground with all the ends of the furrows in a line. The next stage is to plough along the length of the furrow ends with a joining furrow, so that there’s no gap between them and the ploughing that will fill in across to the crown on the left.

THE FINISH

1

Work from butts to crown

After the joining furrow had been made, ploughing continued to complete the area between the butts and the crown. The ploughing had to be consistent and maintain the correct depth throughout. The height of the ploughing is as important as the depth as the final furrow height should match the first furrow.

2

“We need more younger people involved in competition ploughing,” says Brian Baxter. Here are his tips on how to get started in competition ploughing, whether you’re young or old. ● Contact your local ploughing associations. National ploughing associations can provide a list of local clubs and societies. For England, e-mail: info@ploughmen.co.uk; for Scotland, visit: www. scotplough.co.uk; for Northern Ireland e-mail: info@ niploughing.com; for Wales visit: www.welshploughing. com; and for Ireland visit: www.npa.ie ● Go to ploughing matches, watch the competitors and ask questions. ● You don’t need to plough to get involved. All ploughing associations need stewards and judges. ● Enter a novice class to begin with. ● If you have access to a normal farm plough, you can use that. ● If you want a tractor and plough of your own, starting off with vintage ones may be the most cost-effective option.

PLENTY OF PRACTICE IS KEY

Filling in with 19 furrows

The work between the butts and crown has to be 19 or 20 furrows. Brian was doing 19, and he measured each pass to check the width left to plough. By making small adjustments to the furrow width, he was able to fit the correct number of furrows in the space while keeping the ploughing even.

3

Ploughing the final furrow

There must only be one wheel mark showing at the finish, so the rear wheel of the plough is adjusted to follow directly in line with the tractor’s wheels. The rear furrow of the plough needs to cut precisely down the edge of the crown, with no unploughed land or any of the first furrow reploughed.

Brian modestly rated his practice plot, as “alright”. Practice is the key to reaching a high standard, he says.

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Best-selling mid-ranger WORDS HOWARD SHERREN IMAGES HOWARD SHERREN AND MASSEY FERGUSON

Massey Ferguson’s 7700 series can trace its roots back as far as the 6400 range that was revealed to UK farmers in May 2003. The 6400s themselves were an evolution of the 6200s and started with the 67hp 6445, up to the flagship 215hp 6499. Models up to 140hp used Perkins engines, while the heavyweights were fitted with either a 6.6 or 7.4 lit Sisu motor that benefitted from power boost. Other improvements over previous generations included better engine access, a new dashboard, modified console and armrest, and ‘Eco’ Dynashift. The SIMA show in 2003 saw the launch of the ‘Dyna-6’ transmission that had six powershift steps in four ranges. May 2006 saw the introduction of the Dyna-6, 50kph Eco transmission that was available on all 6400

Below: Massey Ferguson introduced the 7718S in 2016 as an update to the 7618, first seen in 2012. They met Stage IV emissions, and other than the engine, received a few other subtle changes. They were replaced by the 7S range in 2022.

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Massey Ferguson introduced the 7700 series tractors in 2016. Here, we assess the things to look out for when considering a second-hand 7718S; the most popular model in the range

models: from the 160hp 6485 to the 6499. These models were powered by a Stage IIIA Sisu common rail engine, with four valves per cylinder and extra horses unleashed over 2,000rpm. Transport speed was achieved at low engine revs. This was covered by a newly styled, pivoting bonnet that provided better access to the engine and cooling system. The new four-cylinder 6600 series was introduced in 2012, alongside the six-cylinder 7600. Started at the 120hp 6612, the 6600-range spanned to the 150hp 6616. Six-pot 7700s started at the 140hp 7614, rising to the 175hp 7618. Both saw the introduction of AGCO Power engines that met Stage IIIB regulations. Fitted with an SCR system to meet emissions, this was also claimed to improve fuel economy. Operators could shift through both Dyna-4 and Dyna-6 transmissions

without using the clutch pedal. Autodrive, Supercreep and Comfort Control were included as standard.

Background Four-years later in 2016, the 7600s evolved into the 7700 range that were equipped with uprated engines to meet Stage IV emissions. They also complied with Tractor Mother Regulations (TMR) that came into effect in 2018. Another tweak in 2019 saw them become Stage V ready. With the advent for the latter, service intervals were stretched to 600 hours, and the tractors donned new modern styling. Massey Ferguson’s Electric Power Management (EPM) provided an extra 20hp when required, meaning the flagship 7718, rated at 180hp, could top out at 200hp. Transmission options were either the 24x24 Dyna-6 or stepless Dyna-VT; both had eco options. The 7700s were also the smallest MF

T TO HIN OU LO GS T F OK OR …

BUYING GUIDE // MASSEY FERGUSON 7718S

The 6.6 lit AGCO Power engine that develops 175hp. With EPM, it pushes out 200hp. No major issues here, but check service history: intervals are 500 hours for Stage IV units and 600 for Stage V motors.

range to offer a 50kph top speed. Buyers could pick from three specification levels: Essential, Efficient and Exclusive, with a new multi-function controller – MultiPad – on the two higher-spec packages. A new Datatronic 5 screen was also more intuitive to use. Tractors boasted a tight turning circle and an excellent power-to-weight ratio.

Front suspension is standard on 50kph models. Rams were moved to the outside of the axles on a 7700 Series – wear should be easier to assess, although reliability here has been excellent.

Batteries are housed behind this cover – Take the cover off and ensure there’s no corrosion. There are some electrical components and fuses are under here too, which need to be in good condition. If starting’s sluggish then the batteries need replacing.

Right: There are plenty of used examples of the 7718S on the market; the 7714, 7715 and 7716 are rarer, due to the small price difference when new. Fans describe the short wheelbase 7700s as a good all-rounder with superb fuel efficiency.

AGCO Power six-pot The 7718S is fitted with a six-cylinder 6.6 lit AGCO Power engine, that initially met Stage IV emissions, and latterly Stage V with a few modifications. Emissions are reached using only SCR technology – there’s no EGR. Rated power was 175hp at 2,000rpm; 200hp could be achieved when the parameters for EPM were reached. EPM was determined by forward speed, transmission load and whether the PTO was spinning. It was developed to get the best out of the tractor. The engine’s maximum torque of 744Nm was reached at 1,500rpm. Fuel tank size was increased to 310 lit, and the AdBlue tank could hold 30 lit. Engine reliability is generally very good with users praising the lack of issues and the low fuel consumption. Odd complaints are predominantly failure of the water pump and AdBlue issues. The latter’s often due to

contamination, AdBlue pump issues or a NOx sensor failure. Front crank seals have been known to leak, fan shrouds have cracked and viscous fan couplings have failed, leading to over-heating. If buying from a main dealer then it’s best to ask them to look at the tractor’s history to check for regular servicing and any warranty work that’s been carried out.

Dyna-VT option As mentioned, two transmission options were available: either a semi-powershift Dyna-6 or a continuously variable Dyna-VT. Both could be had with a 50kph top speed. Dyna-6 is the most common find as it was the cheapest option when new. Rarer Dyna-VT tractors are fitted with

a Fendt-sourced ML140 transmission. Both are controlled using Massey Ferguson’s familiar Power Control shuttle lever or the MultiPad joystick. Power Control provides clutchless shuttling, but also left-hand control of gears and speed. Dyna-6 transmissions had 24 speeds both forward and reverse. Minimum speed was 1.03kph and 50kph could be achieved at 1,800rpm. The powershift unit is mounted in the front of the transmission with either two or three planetary epicyclic units controlled by a pair of clutch packs. Forward and reverse multi-plate packs follow next with the four-range box at the rear. Stepless Dyna-VT transmissions, on the other hand, had two ranges: the first spanned 0.003 to 28kph, and

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the second could travel right up to 50kph top speed at 1,600rpm. Autodrive (pedal mode) is standard on both variants and allows the operator to drive using the foot pedal up to the maximum speed or gear that’s set in the screen. On Dyna-VT-equipped tractors, the transmission and hydraulic oils are separate, whereas on Dyna-6 models it’s all the same. Expect to pay a £5,000-£8,000 premium for a Dyna-VT model as they often hold their value better due to their rarity. As a rule, transmissions have been very good; however, packs can fail if abused or aren’t serviced. A test drive with the oil hot should give a good indication of issues, with error codes or jumpy changes soon becoming apparent. Forward and reverse solenoids are known to give issues, as well as boost sensors. Transmission joysticks were known to fail under warranty and sometimes snap, however, careful checks when shifting up and down gears should throw-up any error codes.

Efficient or Exclusive

T TO HIN OU LO GS T F OK OR …

There were several hydraulic pump options depending on model and specification. Base Essential models

TECHSPECS Massey Ferguson 7718S Engine Six-cylinder 6.6 lit, AGCO Power Rated power 175hp Boosted power 200hp EPM Transmission 50kph, 24x24, Dyna-6 (Dyna-VT Option) Hydraulics 110lit/ min (190lit/min optional) Rear linkage lift capacity 8,100kg PTO speed 540/540E/ 1000/1000E Fuel capacity 310 lit AdBlue capacity 30 lit Wheelbase 2.88m Weight 6,300kg

had an open centre 100lit/min pump, but these are less common. Efficient and Exclusive tractors will likely have a 110lit/min closed-centre load sensing (CCLS) pump as standard, or an 150lit/min unit that was an option. Dyna-VT tractors had a 190lit/min pump. Up to four spools could be specified on the rear and two at the front. Three or four at the rear are usually the norm. Efficient-spec tractors had two electric and two mechanical valves with Exclusive models benefitting

from a full electric package. Tractors equipped with a CCLS pump had decompression levers as standard and the electric spools could be operated externally, via a switch on the fender. Linkage lift capacity for Dyna-VT models was either 8,100 or 9,600kg. The Category 3 linkage is robust, but seals in the rams have been known to fail prematurely and stabilisers take some punishment so may need changing. Base PTO spec was 540 and 1,000

“Expect to pay a £5,000-£8,000 premium for a Dyna-VT model as they’re rarer”

Right: Massey’s 7700 series benefitted from Electronic Power Management (EPM), which provides an additional 20hp when certain parameters are met.

Standard rear lift capacity is 7,600kg, with the option of 8,100kg. Dyna-VT models can hoist 9,600kg. Category 3 arms are robust; notable problems come from worn or abused stabilisers.

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It’s likely that an integrated factory-fit front linkage will be present on most used examples. There’s a 3.2 or 4t option, with one or two pairs of front spools. A front PTO will certainly command a premium. Check lower retaining pins are present.

Later 7700s had a darker cloth seat that helps the interior to look less grubby. Exclusive tractors benefit from a better-quality seat and climate control. Check for broken armrests as these aren’t cheap to replace.

BUYING GUIDE // MASSEY FERGUSON 7718S

on Essential models, but on Efficient and Exclusive models expect to find Eco speeds of both. The PTO was selected using pushbuttons on the B-pillar, although Dyna-VT tractors were known to have solenoid issues, indicated by the inability to change speeds – these are pricey, but simple to change. Quadlink front suspension was also upgraded on the 7700 tractors, with suspension rams moved to the outside of the chassis, instead of them being underneath. MF said that this gave greater suspension movement. Check here for wear in each of the ram pivots and axle mountings.

Compact and quiet Although the 7718S’s cab looks dated, it was one of the quietest on the market at 71dB(A) for the Dyna-6 and 70dB(A) for the Dyna-VT. Cabs could be specified with either mechanical or Active mechanical suspension (mechanical was the only option on Essential tractors). Mechanical was fitted as standard on 50kph variants. An air seat was standard as you’d expect, but there was the option of an Auto or a Super Deluxe air throne. Climate control was an option for Efficient tractors, but standard with the Exclusive package. Ensure this operates as it should as it can be

Both Efficient and Exclusive 7700s had the Multipad multi-function lever and spool joystick on the armrest. This setup was an option on Essential. The rubber on the joystick perishes and, in some cases, on higher-houred examples, it can snap.

MASSEY FERGUSON 7718S – TYPICAL USED PRICE GUIDE Year

Hours

Specification

2021

5,323

Efficient, D6, 50kph, front linkage. Good.

3,400

Efficient, D6, weights, 650mm tyres. Good.

5,600

Efficient, D6, 50kph, front linkage. Good.

2,215

Efficient, D6, 40kph, 580mm tyres. Good.

4,000

Efficient, D6, 50kph, front linkage. Very good.

1,485

Efficient, D6, 50kph. Very good.

2,655

Efficient, D6, 50kph, FL4327 loader. Very good.

2,500

Exclusive, D6, 50kph, guidance. 520mm tyres. Good.

2021

2021

2020

2021

2022

2020

2020

Price

expensive to replace if it fails. The lighting package could be upgraded to LED, with many owners switching standard halogen units for aftermarket LED lights to give extra brightness. Technology offerings were increased in the final 10 years, with more tractors equipped with either Datatronic 4 or 5 screens and some even full guidance. To assess if a used example is ‘Guide Ready’, see if there’s a guidance socket and tray on the roof – this extra will command a premium. Later tractors also had telematics, allowing their data to be tracked in the ‘MF Connect’ portal.

Efficient tractors have two mechanical and two electric spools – assess the electric remotes work, and the cable ones aren’t tight or worn. Check PTO speeds engage correctly and change. Also check linkage dials aren’t broken.

£54,995

£67,000

£67,500

£69,500

£75,000

£78,000

£80,000 £89,950

Cab issues are few. Door gas strut failures are the most common, and side light brackets can snap if used as a step. There were also reports of the odd water leak from the roof. If the cab knocks whilst on a test drive, don’t be alarmed, this could just be loose mounting bolts and re-tightening with a drop of Loctite should cure this. Exhausts and guards can corrode, and slimmer Stage V stacks are prone to damage. Look around the plastic roof for signs of cracks. Some sections can be replaced. Also look over the mirror arms and housings as these can also vibrate loose and wear.

Diesel and AdBlue tanks can hold 310 lit and 30 lit respectively. The in-built plastic steps on Stage V tractors are known to snap – check these are in good shape and mounted correctly. Check to see that the AdBlue hasn’t been turned off.

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High clearance of sale lots Halls Auctioneers reported a 76% clearance rate at its April Shrewsbury plant and machinery sale, that included a pair of tidy Claas Jaguar self-propelled forager harvesters WORDS HOWARD SHERREN IMAGES HALLS

Halls Shrewsbury Auction Centre, Shropshire In all, there was a total of 810 lots on offer to a good crowd of buyers who were either there in-person or watching from across the world on Marteye. Highlight of the day was undoubtedly a 2015 Claas Jaguar 870 self-propelled forage harvester showing 3,500 engine hours on the clock. Complete with a 3m Claas 300 Pick Up, it sold for £83,000. It was joined by another Claas Jaguar, this time a higher-houred 2012 950, also complete with a pickup header. Despite being a bigger chopper, the 5,600 engine hours meant it only achieved £59,000. A freshlooking 2023 New Holland T4.55 two-wheel drive tractor that had clocked just 1,300 hours sold for £17,000. On the machinery side, a 2016 Abbey 3,000-gallon vacuum tanker sold for an impressive £11,200, and a Pöttinger Hit eight-rotor tedder also did well making £10,000 for the vendor. Other grass kit included a Krone EasyCut 320 disc mower that sold to £3,700, a Lely Lotus 770 six-rotor tedder making £3,300 and another Lely implement; this time a Hibiscus 1015PR twin-rotor rake which seemed like a bargain at £3,200.

SALEINFO

Vendor Various Location Shrewsbury Auction Centre, Battlefield, Shrewsbury, Shropshire Auctioneer Halls Date 10 April 2026

Left: Highlight of the April Shrewsbury collective sale was this 2015 Claas Jaguar 870 forager that had clocked 3,500 engine hours. It sold for £83,000.

Below left: A bigger, but higher-houred and older Claas Jaguar 950 sold for £59,000. Below: With a low 1,300-hours on the clock, this two-wheel drive New Holland T4.55 realised a respectable £17,000.

OTHER LEADING PRICES Lot

Price

1989 Ford 7810 SQ, 9,800hrs, 30% tyres, good cab. Good.

£16,200

1994 Massey Ferguson 3670, 10,000hrs, front fenders and weights. Good.

£13,100

1983 Ford 7710 SQ, 7,171hrs, rebuilt engine two-years ago. Good.

£12,500

2014 Richard Western 9.5t rear-discharge muckspreader.

£10,000

2016 36m Chafer Sentry 2 G series trailed sprayer. Good.

£7,800

Ken Wooton 14t twin axle trailer. Good.

£6,600

2017 Nissan Navara pickup truck, 113,867miles, manual. Good.

£5,900

Maschio power harrow & Reco Sulky air drill. Good.

£5,500

Pöttinger NovaCat 3m trailed mower conditioner. Average.

£4,900

2017 Pronar NV 161/5 muckspreader. Average.

£4,400

Right: This 1989 Ford 7810 Super-Q with 9,800 hours on the clock, sold for a healthy £16,200 despite the balding tyres. Far right: A Massey Ferguson 3670 Dynashift dating from 1994 was in superb order for its age and came complete with front fenders and weights. The hammer fell at £13,100.

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AUCTIONS ROUND-UP

Small sale attracts buyers Market Drayton Market were favoured with instructions from Cheshire-based Messrs Whalley to disperse their remaining farm equipment following the sale of the dairy herd in 2025 WORDS HOWARD SHERREN IMAGES MARKET DRAYTON MARKET

Tabley Hill Dairy Farm, Cheshire The range of dairy equipment on offer had been meticulously maintained and was in superb condition, both factors that kept the buyers keen. Much of the machinery had been on the farm since new. The lot most in demand on the day was the Whalley’s 2022 Merlo TF33.7-115 telehandler showing a modest 3,450 hours on the clock. Combined with good tyres, this helped it take the sale’s top price of £37,000. A 2015 4,175-hour Massey Ferguson 6615 Dyna-4, equipped with a FL4121 loader, made £33,500. Complete with a full set of weights was a tidy 2018 Massey Ferguson 5713S Dyna-4 that finished at £28,000. Leading the machinery, was a tidy-looking 2021 Trioliet Solomix 2-1600 twin-auger diet feeder that hadn’t done much in the past 12 months. It got to £21,000. This was followed by a 2022 Redrock 2,500-gallon tanker that was dribble bar ready. It made £15,500. Complete with electric controls, the farm’s McConnel PA500E hedgecutter certainly wasn’t cheap at £5,400.

SALEINFO

VVendor TA JE & D Whalley Location Tabley Hill Dairy Farm, Tabley Hill Lane, Tabley, Knutsford, Cheshire Auctioneer Market Drayton Market Date 29 May 2026

This very tidy Massey Ferguson 6615 and FL4121 loader combination was bought second-hand by the farm recently. It sold to the trade for £33,500.

Above right: Bought new by the family in 2018, this Massey Ferguson 5713 had clocked 4,850 hours during their ownership. It seemed cheap at £28,000. Right: Top-selling lot was this Merlo TF33.7-115, that hadn’t quite reached 3,500 hours. It was in very tidy condition helping the Stage V model realise £37,000.

OTHER LEADING PRICES Lot

Price

2017 Hi-Spec 1000 Rotaspreader, 550mm tyres. Very good.

£4,500

2020 Solis 50 RX two-wheel drive, 3,270hrs, 30% tyres. Average.

£3,800

Henton 8t grain trailer, super singles. Good.

£3,600

Pöttinger Synkro 3020, packer. Very good.

£3,500

2020 Storth 7ft slurry pump. Good.

£3,200

Albutt 5ft shear grab. Merlo brackets. Good.

£1,600

2019 Strimech telehandler bucket brush. Good.

£1,550

2015 Vicon RotaFlow fertiliser spreader. Good.

£1,400

2004 Marshall tipping trailer. Good.

£1,250 Far left: This very clean Redrock 2,500-gallon tanker shod on 800mm-wide tyres was also dribble bar ready. It was in demand and made a healthy £15,500. Left: The hammer fell at £21,000 for this five-year old Trioliet 2-1600, twin auger diet feeder. Obviously, it hadn’t seen much work in the past 12 months following the sale of the cows. It was a good buy for one customer at £21,000.

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Rear Link Working Classic // JF-Stoll FCT1050 ProTec

Working Classic Michael and Conor Lawlor run this JF-Stoll FCT1050 ProTec trailed forager in combination with a New Holland T7.210 tractor. Two trailers easily keep up over typical haul distances.

Trailed forager loyalty Grass silage harvesting is almost exclusively undertaken by self-propelled foragers or forage wagons, with the (once common) trailed chopper almost completely extinct in Ireland. However, there’s still those who remain loyal to the concept. FMJ meets one of them

M

ichael Lawlor and his nephew Conor are the first to admit there are pitfalls to running a trailed forage harvester; the most obvious being the lower output and difficulties in coping with challenging weather conditions. But, based on their annual workload, it’s the ideal solution. The duo operate a beef and sheep farm in partnership, in addition to carrying out some contracting work from their base at Kilreekil, County Galway. Harvesting silage for over 50 years, Michael has amassed much hands-on experience with various machines over the decades, starting out with a double chop forager. Michael has fond recollections of a time when agricultural contracting ran at a different pace and farming was far from as intensive as today. “Back when I started cutting silage first, things were much different,” he recalls. “To start with,

WORDS AND IMAGES EOGHAN DALY

you had a much longer silage harvest season, and lower output machines such as trailed forage harvesters fitted into this very well. “Then things all changed and got more intensive with bigger farmers all starting to spread fertiliser at the same time, so all the crops came in together. There was then much more pressure on contractors to get through the work, with most of the silaging done

We’ve remained loyal to the trailed machine since it’s a low-cost option, yet it’s still capable of getting through work and harvesting quality silage within about three weeks at most. This is where the opening came for bigger selfpropelled harvesters. “But we’ve remained loyal to the trailed machine since it’s a much lower cost option, yet it’s still capable of getting through work and harvesting quality silage.”

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Trailed foragers have advanced considerably from Michael’s early involvement. The Lawlor’s most recent foragers have been Danish-built JF machines. Their current chopper is a JF-Stoll FCT 1050 ProTec purchased as a used unit, sourced from the UK by County Tipperary-based M&S Machinery.

Prior issues Prior to this, Michael and Conor ran a smaller JF FCT900, which they admit had its issues. Upgrading to the higher-output FCT1050 ProTec heralds some important design changes, making it a far more desirable machine. The Lawlor’s example is the last of this model to be produced before JF-Stoll replaced it with the FCT1060. They typically chop between 80-100ha/ year, which it easily copes with. Mowing is completed using a New Holland

Tech specs JF-Stoll FCT1050 ProTec Power requirement 140-170hp PTO speed 1,000rpm Cylinder width 720mm Number of knives 24 Chop length 8-32mm Metal detector Yes Pickup width 1.8m Transport width 3.3m Tyres 14/65x16/10 Trelleborg

Above: The in-cab control unit serves to reverse the rotor and operates the chute and flap movements for precise trailer filling. Below: All aspects of the machine are easily accessible for routine inspection and maintenance.

Above: (Left to right) Conor Lawlor with Fergal Mallon, Michael Lawlor who has been running trailed foragers for 50 years and Liam Hayde all form the 2026 harvesting team.

Before purchasing the JF-Stoll FCT1050, the Lawlors ran an FCT900, but this latest machine has been a much more reliable forager.

Disc Cutter C320F centre-pivot trailed mower conditioner allied to a veteran New Holland TS115 tractor. Delivering an even uniform swath, the mower is seen as the ideal accompaniment for the JF forager since the Lawlors pick up grass as it’s presented by the mower – they don’t ted anything out. Pickup width and feed capacity of the forager favours this approach as larger raked swaths would result in a lower ground speed and frequent blockages as well as increasing the risk of breakdowns due to the added strain on components. The swath produced by the 3.5m-wide mower is the ideal volume of grass for the FCT1050. Should a blockage occur, and is noticed promptly, the reverse auger function helps alleviate it and allows the machine to get back to work quickly without having to clear the obstruction by hand.

Like any machine, operating a trailed forager needs an intuitive operator who respects its operational limits; as stretching its capabilities can quickly lead to problems. “If a machine like this is run at a regular pace, a lot of problems can be avoided,” Michael explains. “Compared to the FCT900, the 1050 takes the grass better and it’s much more reliable.

Big difference “The differences in design may not seem major but they make a big difference to performance. “The FCT900 broke shearbolts all the time. Making adjustments by welding them up and running the belts slacker did make a difference, but it was far from ideal. “The FCT1050’s ProTec system uses clutches. These work much better and the bigger capacity crop feed system is much more on top of its job.”

Under typical working conditions in a decent first cut crop, the JF-Stoll FCT1050 ProTec can comfortably harvest 12ha in a typical working day. For Michael and Conor, this necessitates a total of four drivers, with the crop mowed the previous day to allow adequate wilting. The first harvesting of the 2026 season for the Lawlors has been on their own farm. With their silage harvest composed of clamp and baled silage, a series of fields close to the main farmyard were harvested for clamp silage as well as a few outlying fields to achieve the required volume. To meet the recommended 140-170hp power requirements of the FCT1050, the Lawlors pair the FCT1050 to a 2024 New Holland T7.210, rated at 165hp, but boosting to 210hp. Viewing side filling as being the most efficient system to ensure fast trailer turnaround in the field – and keeping the

AUGUST 2026 WWW.FARMMACHINERYJOURNAL.CO.UK 81

A New Holland Disc Cutter C320F centre pivot trailed mower conditioner works ahead of the FCT1050, with the Lawlors preferring to pick up straight out of the swath, avoiding tedding or raking.

Right: The forager’s hydraulic drawbar makes folding for road travel easy with the amount of setup needed being minimal.

Above: Rotating the chute for transfer to the next field as the Lawlors continue the 2026 harvest. Far right and right inset: The header features a suspension system and ground roller (inset), which assists with adaptation to ground contours.

forager working continually – coupling trailers to the forager isn’t practiced. There isn’t even a hitch on the forager’s rear. Conor’s endorsement of the system is clearly apparent. “Some believe towing the trailer behind a trailed forage harvester is the best option. But we’ve always seen side filling as the most efficient way of working. There are no time losses as the forager just keeps picking grass up all the time without a break – under normal haul distances. “We usually use two trailers, which is enough in typical crops over a normal haul distance. The two Redrock tandem axle trailers are the perfect match without being too heavy on the ground.” Requiring minimal setup, the JF-Stoll FCT1050 ProTec forager gets to work quickly with all controls conveniently activated both hydraulically through the tractor’s auxiliary circuits and via a dedicated in-cab control unit with electric joystick and switch for certain repeatedly used functions for greater convenience. With a responsible transport width, the FCT1050 moves to its working position easily thanks to a hydraulic drawbar. With the chute manually rotated from its transport position,

it’s soon ready for work in the capable hands of experienced operator Michael. Easing the forager into the start of the swath, consistent momentum is quickly built up with the machine running at a very consistent pace as the chute directs a steady flow of grass into the trailer alongside. As a true ambassador for the concept, Michael’s experience and ability to be at one with his machine is clearly inspirational as he succeeds in getting the most from its operation while still respecting its limits.

Pickup options Two pickup widths were available for the FCT1050; there wase a 2.1m-wide option or a narrower 1.8m variant as fitted to the Lawlor’s machine. The pickup could also be specified with carrier wheels, or without as is the case with this unit. Instead, the pickup on the Lawlor’s forager follows the ground precisely thanks to a ground wheel to the rear of the pickup while the mounting on a suspension system helps adjust to ground contours and ensures it travels over the ground in a smooth and precise manner.

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Ushering the swath into the machine, the pickup and upper auger directs the crop towards the feed system. Here, it’s received by four heavy-duty feed rollers, the geometry of which has been improved over previous generation machines, with notable 50% increase in performance.

The ProTec cam-clutch system that the 1050 is equipped with, immediately disengages the feed rollers in the event of a torque overload The ProTec cam-clutch system that the 1050 is equipped with, immediately disengages the feed rollers in the event of a torque overload. Drive resumes automatically once the load had passed. It’s seen to be a very user-friendly and effective system. At the time of this particular machine’s production, it was possible to specify a metal detector. Located on the front feed rollers, it prevents foreign ferrous objects passing any further towards the cylinder by immediately disengaging the intake drives. A signature element of the forager is the upward cutting, multiple-knife chopping cylinder. The system makes for efficient and

Rear Link Working Classic // JF-Stoll FCT1050 ProTec Far left: When new, the FCT1050 could be specified with either a 1.8 or 2.1m-wide pickup. This unit has the 1.8m variant. Left: Precision chopped silage from the FCT1050 ProTec forager is easier to handle and compact than grass chopped using a forage wagon, says Conor.

Below: The Lawlor’s FCT1050 isn’t fitted with a trailer hitch as they find side loading more efficient.

effective operation with the machine seen to deliver a consistently precision chopped crop. Running the FCT1050 with a full bank of 24 knives, it can also be operated with a lesser amount should a longer chop length be desired. The use of a multiple knife system is also seen to deliver cost savings. Instead of replacing a knife that runs across the complete rotor width, it may only be necessary to replace a single section that occupies a mere quarter of the total width. Conducting routine maintenance and running repairs are deemed very userfriendly since all key areas are easily accessed, as Conor explains: “Any machine is only as good as the maintenance it gets but it is even more true of a trailed forager like this. “Most years it just needs €500-600 spent on it to have it ready for the harvesting season. This year though, it was higher as it needed more wearing parts than normal, but the spend still didn’t go over €1,400. This included a full set of new knives, new

shear-bar and a new chute extension. “Compared to other silaging equipment, the costs of running a machine like this are minimal.”

Never a problem The partnership has little difficulty obtaining parts. “Even though this forage harvester is no longer in production,” Conor says, “getting parts for it has never been a problem. Even though we didn’t purchase the harvester from him, Alan Gethings of the JF Centre in Tullamore always has anything we need for the machine. Since it’s a simple machine, it’s possible to keep it going at minimal cost and everything needed to keep it running over the longer term is readily available and not overly expensive.” At a time when many farmers and small-scale contractors harvesting pit silage are looking at forage wagons or used self-propelled machines, neither of these options have ever been considered by these

County Galway-based operators who remain committed to the trailed forager principle. “We’re fully setup for running a trailed forager and wouldn’t consider any other option. The New Holland T7.210 is the ideal match and when it’s not silage harvesting it can run the baler or work on slurry spreading, so there isn’t a big investment tied up, which would be the case if we were to have upgraded to even an older used self-propelled forager. “The cost of a modern-generation forage wagon is off-putting, plus the grass from a wagon is more challenging to handle and compact when forming the clamp. “Our JF-Stoll trailed forager produces the ideal chop length and is a very cost-effective machine to run, from our point of view,” Conor concludes. The JF-Stoll FCT1050’s abilities are sure to meet the harvesting requirements of Michael and Conor as well as their farmer clients well into the future.

Working with a classic Is your classic tractor still putting in a shift that puts modern kit to shame? Prefer the bark of an old-school six-cylinder? Favour on-farm fixes without connecting a laptop? We want to see your older machines in action. Send details of your working classics, ideally with a photo or two, to editor@farmmachineryjournal.co.uk and they could feature in FMJ soon!

AUGUST 2026 WWW.FARMMACHINERYJOURNAL.CO.UK 83

Rear Link Gaming // Farming Simulator This Case IH Puma 230CVX has a Isaria Pro Active crop sensor activated on the front.

Virtual silaging

FMJ explores the realism and scope of silage production within Farming Simulator 25, examining how players are able to grow, harvest and process grass for silage WORDS ALEX COTTERILL IMAGES GIANTS SOFTWARE

hilst the video game franchise Farming Simulator, particularly its latest 2025 instalment, has featured in FMJ in recent years, the series’ continual attention to detail across both modern and classic agricultural machinery, farming practices alongside both arable and livestock systems cannot be overlooked. Previous features analysing FS have explored a variety of themes, including the franchise’s extensive range of machinery brands and equipment types, livestock behaviour and husbandry, agricultural commodities and the realism of its agronomy systems. Here, we take an in-depth look at the husbandry and operations involved with grass silage production.

W

nitrogen/pH levels within the crop and subsequently apply the optimum rate of lime, slurry, manure or chemical fertiliser. In addition, selected slurry tankers can be fitted with John Deere manure sensing technology to further improve yield potential and soil health. One example is the Fliegl PFW18000 MaxxLine Plus tanker. Similarly, players can improve both yield potential and environmental score by rolling grassland during its first growth stage using equipment such as the Dalbo Maxi Roll 630 Greenline. Working together, a Krampe Big Body 750S trailer, pulled by a Fendt 728, is being loaded by a Krone Big X 1180 self-propelled forager.

Baling and using a forage wagon As with arable operations, once the player has applied an initial fertiliser dressing to recently harvested grassland – or prior to reseeding – the FS 25 Precision Farming DLC introduces a range of realistic agronomy technologies. One such feature is the option to equip the Isaria Pro Compact system to the mirrors of selected modern tractors. When paired with the Isaria Pro Active crop sensor, the system can analyse existing

84 WWW.FARMMACHINERYJOURNAL.CO.UK AUGUST 2026

Whilst Precision Farming in FS 25 is particularly beneficial during the preemergence stages of both grass and arable crops, the system is equally effective for wider grassland management. Players are presented with a broad selection of contemporary front- and rear-mounted butterfly mowers from manufacturers including Claas, Kuhn and Pöttinger. Coupled with the Isaria Scout soil sampler, which measures soil type, nitrogen levels, pH and overall soil condition, the game’s GPS guidance system can automatically

Here, a John Deere 7530 Premium is mowing with a combination of Claas butterfly mowers – a Disco 3600FC is on the front whilst a Disco 1100C is hitched to the 7530’s rear linkage.

A John Deere 6930 operating an (unusual for the UK) triple rotor Krone Swadro TS 970 windrower.

Seen here is the Claas Axion 810 baling and wrapping in one pass with a Claas Rollant 455RC Uniwrap.

determine implement width, generate accurate autosteer lines and calculate suitable headland and field passes. The realism of mowing operations has also been enhanced significantly through improvements to terrain modelling and environmental effects. As tractor and mower combinations work across the field, freshly cut grass textures, dust and atmospheric haze are all highly visible during operation, further adding to immersion. In windy conditions, even the mower conditioner curtains and fabric protectors react dynamically to the environment. The range of windrowers available in FS 25 is equally extensive. The game includes everything from compact single-rotor machines through to large-scale four-rotor rakes, ranging from the Kuhn GA4731 and Krone Swadro TS970 to the flagship Claas Liner 4900 Business. As in real-life agriculture, machinery choice is largely determined by the scale of the farming enterprise, available tractor fleet and financial practicality of the investment. The Precision Farming DLC also integrates with windrowing operations, helping players determine efficient pass patterns and optimal swath layouts ahead of baling, loading wagon or forage harvesting operations. In terms of baling, players can generally pursue one of two operational routes. Smaller farms or businesses with tighter financial margins may favour a simpler machinery setup to reduce costs and maintenance requirements. In this case, players can opt for a standalone round baler such as the Krone Comprima V180XC or Kuhn VB7190, both of which allow bale size

Whilst a John Deere 6400 is wrapping with a Kuhn SW4014, a Case IH Puma 230CVX is baling with a Krone Varipack V140XC Plus.

adjustments through the machine’s control system prior to operation. Adding further realism, FS 25 now requires players to manually replenish both baler twine and wrapping materials. Conventional balers can then be paired with separate bale wrappers, such as the Kuhn SW4014. Alternatively, players seeking greater operational efficiency can invest in a baler/ wrapper combination. Machines such as the Claas Rollant 455RC Uniwrap enable baling and wrapping to be completed simultaneously, reducing labour requirements and increasing work rates. As an alternative to baling entirely, players may instead choose to operate a loading wagon system. Models from manufacturers including Krone, Pöttinger and Bergmann are available, allowing loose grass to be collected and transported directly to the silage clamp, where it can later be compacted and sheeted for fermentation.

Forage harvesting Forage harvesting remains one of the most popular aspects of agriculture amongst the FS 25 player base. As a result, attention to detail surrounding self-propelled forage harvesters was clearly a major priority for the developers of the latest instalment. Unlike earlier titles in the franchise, players can now purchase pallets of silage additive, which can be loaded directly into the forager to increase the yield potential of both grass and maize silage. Whilst online multiplayer gameplay is particularly well suited to forage harvesting operations, single-player users face certain limitations. Outside of maize harvesting,

players generally must operate the forage harvester themselves whilst simultaneously towing a trailer, rather than working alongside a separate tractor-and-trailer combination. This remains one of the few operational areas where the game’s AI and Precision Farming systems feel somewhat restricted. That said, the overall realism, machine dynamics and individuality of the forage harvesters themselves are exceptionally well executed. Details such as the functionality of in-cab displays, realistic auger movements, crop flow animations and grass pickup visuals all contribute significantly to the authenticity of the experience. In terms of machinery availability, the base game includes flagship models such as the John Deere 9900, Krone Big X 1180, Claas Jaguar 990TT and New Holland FR780. Meanwhile, the game’s extensive modding community has also introduced smaller and older forage harvesters, including machines such as the Claas Jaguar 900 series and the Rostselmash RSM1403. Header compatibility is similarly flexible. Whilst matching machinery combinations naturally provide the most authentic setup; for example, a Krone Big X 1180 paired with an EasyFlow 300S pickup, or a Claas Jaguar equipped with an Orbis 900 maize header. The game also allows players to mix brands and attachments. This means, for instance, that a Kemper maize header can be fitted to a John Deere forage harvester. The flexibility is certainly there from a gameplay perspective, although doing so can detract somewhat from the realism and authenticity that the series otherwise strives to achieve.

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01/06/2026 11:50

Rear Link Model Zone // Buying Guide

Farming’s top models

For nearly every working machine, there’s a model equivalent. Here, we have the latest scale models that won’t look out of place in any miniature fleet Fendt 314 Vario tractor USK Scalemodels 1:32 Beautifully engineered, USK Scalemodels’ latest Fendt 300 series tractor offers plenty of working features. The front wheels steer, there’s a functioning front linkage with folding arms and the bonnet also opens. Once open, radiator and engine detail can be seen. It’s supplied in a special Fendt branded tin box; and this first edition, limited to 3,000 models, is only available from Fendt and its dealer network. £109.09 ● https://shop.fendt.com/ ● Code: X991025303000

Cab detail Different drawbars USK provides four plastic height adjustable drawbars. For mounted equipment, there’s a three-point hitch with quick release ends and fixed length top link. Two rams support the lower link arms and a slide under the tractor rear axle locks them in the raised position. Hydraulic couplers are detailed and on the mudguards, there are tail lights, work lights and colour-coded buttons.

Cab detail includes folding mirrors, painted work lights and two detachable warning beacons. Both cab doors, rear window and roof panel open. Inside, the interior also has good levels of detailing with black patterned matting and dark grey seats. The digital dash is visible behind the steering wheel and to the right of the driver’s seat is the FendtOne armrest, joystick and monitor.

Buttons provided The high roof cab has folding driving mirrors, aerial, warning beacons and GPS receiver. Neither the cab door nor rear window opens, but the interior is detailed with Multicontroller armrest, black patterned mat and red seats visible. Plastic tail lights and buttons are provided on the rear mudguards. A slide under the rear axle locks the lower links in the raised position and the top link length adjusts.

Case IH Puma 185 CVXDrive tractor Universal Hobbies 1:32 This newly tooled tractor is smart, well-built and has good levels of detailing. It has a working front linkage, but the lower links don’t fold, and a steerable front axle with working dual-cylinder suspension. The bonnet doesn’t open either, but the headlights have a clear plastic lens as do the cab mounted work lights. Detailed beside the access steps, there’s a toolbox, black fuel cap and blue AdBlue cap. £80.00 ● www.accuratediecast.com ● Code: UH6811 (51210627)

AUGUST 2026 WWW.FARMMACHINERYJOURNAL.CO.UK 87

Rear Link Model Zone // Buying Guide

Working position

Kuhn SW 4014 round and square bale wrapper MarGe Models 1:32 MarGe Models’ beautifully engineered, largely metal model has good levels of detailing and many working features. The drawbar swings between work and transport positions. Tractor attachment is via a lower linkage drawbar and there’s also a hinged parking stand, hydraulic pipes and racks for holding extra rolls of wrap, of which there’s three supplied. Safety and instruction decals are detailed around the machine. £95.00 ● www.kuhn.co.uk/kuhn-shop ● Code: 9401386

The mainframe slides out into the working position and the bale loading arms – each with two pairs of rollers – can be positioned to pick up a bale. The satellite arm freely rotates, and there’s two silver wrap cutting knives also detailed. Dispensers come with two rolls of green wrap already installed, and safety arm detail includes the black and yellow curtains. The wheels have wide mudguards with good-looking tail lights.

Claas Arion 6.190 Tractor Britains 1:32 Claas’s new Arion 6 tractor joined Britains’ tractor line-up over the summer. Based on its earlier Arion 660 tooling, the new 6.190 tractor sports the latest style bonnet. It has steerable front wheels, working front and rear linkages, folding mirrors and a detachable cab. Moulded in light grey plastic, the interior features instrument panel, seats and an armrest with a monitor with active screen. £38.99 ● www.britainsfarmtoys.co.uk Code: 43435

Kubota M7-154 Tractor Britains 1:32 Britains’ first Kubota tractor is well built; it has a metal chassis and plastic body panels. It’s equipped with standard front linkage and steerable – linked to the steering wheel – front wheels. The bonnet has painted lights, black grilles and silver printed decals. The exhaust stack, cab steps, AdBlue cap and toolbox are also detailed. £34.99 ● www.britainsfarmtoys.co.uk Code: 43438

Standard hitch The fully glazed cab has folding mirrors, warning boards and painted-on beacons and work lights. There’s no access to the cab interior that’s moulded from light tan, grey and black plastic. Internal detail includes patterned matting, driver and passenger seats, dash and a monitor on the driver’s armrest. For attaching equipment, Britains has provided its standard two-point hitch with pickup hook.

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FARM MACHINERY TRADER BALERS & BALING EQUIPMENT

Claas Rollant 540RC round baler, 2021, 15 knife chopper, drop floor, 2.1m pickup, only 7,200 bales, wrapper drawbar, excellent cond, £24,500 + VAT. Tel: 07788 785871 or 01931 714676. Cumbria. [HW49]

CULTIVATION EQUIPMENT

Sumo Trio 3m, 6 shear bolt leg, c/w DD packer roller, £7,995+ VAT. Tel: 07884 495122. York. [HW22]

Edlington 8.2m Cambridge rollers, in excellent condition, £7,995 + VAT. Tel: 07884 495122. York. [HW17]

Terra Tec 5m combi cultivator, 2011, hydraulic tine angle rear roller. £POA. Tel: 07957 804652 or 07802 656177. Shropshire. [HW15]

Terra Tec 2.5m 4 leg, new, hydraulic auto reset subsoiler c/w discs & toothed roller. Ex stock. £POA. Tel: 07957 804652 or 07802 656177. Shropshire. [HW12]

Krone Comprima F155 XC baler, 560 tyres, auto lube, 30k bales. £POA. Tel: 028 37548971 or 07710 372273. N.Ireland. [HW88]

Gutler double press c/w 3 rows of leading tines. £POA. . Tel: 07957 804652 or 07802 656177. Shropshire. [HW3]

Simba 5.5m Double Press, 1993, c/w rigid tines, DD packer, £5,950 + VAT. Tel: 01371 830353. Essex. [HW33]

McHale C430 mounted bale shredder, 2018, swivel spout, self-loading back door, electric controls, stop/start belt driven knife rotor, GWO, serviced, £8,750 + VAT. Tel: 07788 785871 or 01931 714676. Cumbria. [HW66] Pro Forge 6m Maxi Tilla cultivator, 2017, crumble rollers. £POA. Tel: 07957 804652 or 07802 656177. Shropshire. [HW9]

McHale C460 trailed bale shredder, 2022, swivel spout, self-loading back door, electric controls, stop/start belt driven knife rotor, done very little work, £12,950 + VAT. Tel: 07788 785871 or 01931 714676. Cumbria. [HW52]

Kuhn EL121 rota tiller/spike, 1999, c/w crumble roller. £POA. Tel: 07957 804652 or 07802 656177. Shropshire. [HW14]

Simba 5.5m CultiPress, 1998, rigid tine example, £10,950 + VAT. Tel: 01371 830353. Essex. [HW43]

Simba 4m Top Tilth, 1997, folds to 2.8m for transport. £3,950 + VAT. Tel: 01371 830353. Essex. [HW46]

HeVa disc roller 300, 2010, 3m working width, V profile packer roller with scrapers, hyd depth control on second row discs, faded paint but low use £7,250 + VAT. Tel: 07788 785871 or 01931 714676. Cumbria. [HW62]

Simba 6.6m Culti-Press, 2000, Pro-active tines and hydraulic levelling boards. £24,750 + VAT. Tel: 01371 830353. Essex. [HW34]

Farmforce front press, 3m, flexi-coil roller, steering headstock, front frame for tines or boards, £1,150 + VAT. Tel: 07788 785871 or 01931 714676. Cumbria. [HW51]

Dowdeswell DAFP/M 26 ring furrow press, 2.5m working width. £1,750 + VAT. Tel: 01371 830353. Essex. [HW42]

Alpego RK-300 Rapido, cam clutch, new quick fit tines, PK5-300 packer roller, 90-250hp, £16,750 + VAT. Tel: 01305 889924 or 07831 470379. Dorset. [HW85]

LOADS OF MACHINERY FOR SALE IN FMJ ’S

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FREE TRADE AND PRIVATE ADVERTS LIVESTOCK EQUIPMENT

Norman Raw 3m, heavy duty pigtail, £985 + VAT. Tel: 07884 495122. York. [HW25]

GRASSLAND EQUIPMENT

Browns flat 8 grab, c/w Manitou brackets, in excellent condition, £895 + VAT. Tel: 07884 495122. York. [HW20] BVL VMix Plus 13-1S tub mixer, 2016, 13m3 capacity, RH door with chute, wide angle PTO, HL50 weigher, good working order, £9,950 + VAT. Tel: 07788 785871 or 01931 714676. Cumbria. [HW58] Amazone ZAM 1500 spreader, 18-24 discs, hydraulic controls. Good working order, £2,300 + VAT. Tel: 07884 495122. York. [HW19]

Krone TC880 trailed twin rotor rake, 2020, 7.6-8.8m hydraulic width adjustment, steering axle, individual rotor lift, wide angle PTO, £17,500 + VAT. Tel: 07788 785871 or 01931 714676. Cumbria. [HW64] Teagle Tomahawk 8100 trailed bale shredder,2018, swivel spout, electric controls, self-loading back door, been in everyday use at a good local home, £7,500 + VAT. Tel: 07788 785871 or 01931 714676. Cumbria. [HW61] Kuhn GA6501 trailed twin rotor rake, 2024, shop soiled, unused, 5.6-6.5m working width, steering axle, warranty, £16,500 + VAT. Tel: 07788 785871 or 01931 714676. Cumbria. [HW54]

MISCELLANEOUS

JF 1260 trailed forager, 2000, metal detector, 2.8m header, £POA. Tel: 01823 253808 or 07702 501272. Somerset. [HW27]

Murray 8ft grain bucket c/w Euro brackets. £POA. Tel: 07957 804652 or 07802 656177. Shropshire. [HW11]

Kuhn EL 121 90” rotavator, 2000, c/w discs & depth wheels. £POA. . Tel: 07957 804652 or 07802 656177. Shropshire. [HW7]

Primex bale grab, c/w Euro 8 brackets. Very good working order, £895 + VAT. Tel: 07884 495122. York. [HW18]

Watson 12ft ballast roller, good order, watertight, 30in barrels, £2,250 + VAT. Tel: 07788 785871 or 01931 714676. Cumbria. [HW63]

Kidd linkage mounted sawbench, runs up well, fitted with drawbar & tipping pipe, £950 + VAT. Tel: 01371 830353. Essex. [HW37]

Alpego IZ-300 stone buriers, 300mm working width, £23,150 + VAT. Tel: 01305 889924 or 07831 470379. Dorset. [HW87]

Toyota Hi-Lux Invicible X 2.8 Diesel, 3/2025, 8,063 miles, auto, 4WD, elec leather driver’s seat, sat nav, climate, line-x load liner, met grey, black alloy wheels, as new. £POA. Tel: 01823 253808 or 07702 501272. Somerset. [HW30]

MOWERS, FLAILS & TOPPERS

Kuhn PZ 190 2 drum mower, 2014. £POA.. Tel: 07957 804652 or 07802 656177. Shropshire. [HW6]

Claas Volto 55 tedder, 2021, 4 rotors, 5.2m wide, as new condition, headland curtain, £6,850 + VAT. Tel: 07788 785871 or 01931 714676. Cumbria. [HW55]

TO ADVERTISE HERE FREE SEE DETAILS AT THE END OF THE SECTION

FPM UM280 Pro + flail topper, new, front or rear mounted, 2.8m cutting width, hyd side shift, rear roller. £POA. Tel: 01823 253808 or 07702 501272. Somerset. [HW29]

FANTASTIC FREE CLASSIFIED AD SECTION

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FARM MACHINERY TRADER Kverneland 118 2 drum 6ft mower, tidy, £2,000 + VAT. Tel: 07771 852774. Somerset. [HW67] Claas Disco 28 plain disc mower, 2022, 2.6m/8’6’’ cut, hyd vertical fold, new type Claas Maxcut bed, serviced incl. oils changed, £6,750 service, £37,500 +VAT. Tel: 07788 785871 or 01931 714676. Cumbria. [HW59]

Alpego TL50-240 flail, 2.4m flail, ex demo, fully offset, 100-220 hp, £11,500 + VAT. Tel: 01305 889924 or 07831 470379. Dorset. [HW86] Bomag twin drum mower, Lister engine. £950 + VAT. Tel: 01371 830353. Essex. [HW32]

PLOUGHS & HARROWS

Amazone KX 3001 power harrow, new, 500mm packer levelling board. £POA. Tel: 07957 804652 or 07802 656177. Shropshire. [HW10]

Dowdeswell 250S 2.5m power harrow, fitted with rear drawbar. £2,450 + VAT. Tel: 01371 830353. Essex. [HW41]

Simba 2B 4.2m rigid disc harrows, 33 discs, rear drawbar and aux hydraulics. £3,250 + VAT. Tel: 01371 830353. Essex. [HW44]

Simba 2B 3.25m offset disc harrows, 1998, c/w rear drawbar, £3,950 + VAT. Tel: 01371 830353. Essex. [HW45] Dowdeswell 120 MA 5(4+1)f plough, 2015, c/w DD bodies and press arm, £4,750 + VAT. Tel: 01371 830353. Essex. [HW35]

Wessex RM24 8ft topper, very strong, £1,100 + VAT. Tel: 07771 852774. Somerset. [HW68]

Kuhn Varimaster 122 5f reversible plough, 2011, 4 + 1 beam, hyd auto reset, hyd vari width, hyd front furrow, skimmers, rear disc, not done a lot, £9,750 + VAT. Tel: 07788 785871 or 01931 714676. Cumbria. [HW60]

Dowdeswell 105 MR 5f auto-reset plough, 2010, fitted with slatted bodies. £4,850 + VAT. . Tel: 01371 830353. Essex. [HW47]

Dowdeswell DP120S 5f plough, very good metal, £2,750 + VAT. Tel: 07884 495122. York. [HW21]

LSM 6ft topper, £900 + VAT. Tel: 07771 852774. Somerset. [HW69] Lemken Variopal 7 5(4 +1)f plough, 2013, skimmers, recent new W52 boards, hyd vari width, hyd auto reset, £9,750 + VAT. Tel: 07788 785871 or 01931 714676. Cumbria. [HW53]

Lemken Heliodor 8-disc harrow, 2015, 3m working width, 2 rows of angled discs, 2 rear tubular rollers, £7,500 + VAT. Tel: 07788 785871 or 01931 714676. Cumbria. [HW65]

Kidd 180 6ft topper, in good order, £1,500 + VAT. Tel: 07771 852774. Somerset. [HW70]

Teagle Topper 8, 2022, very tidy, £2,950 + VAT. Tel: 07771 852774. Somerset. [HW71]

Horsch Joker 3 CT disc harrow, 2021, 3m working width, 2 rows of serated, angled discs, rear packer roller with scrapers, hyd depth control, £9,750 + VAT. Tel: 07788 785871 or 01931 714676. Cumbria. [HW56]

Dowdeswell DP105 MA 6f plough, 2011, good wearing metal, DDS bodies. £4,250 + VAT. Tel: 01371 830353. Essex. [HW40]

Lemken EurOpal 6 4f reversible plough, 2013, W52 bodies, skimmers, hyd auto reset, manual vari width, £7,950 + VAT. Tel: 07788 785871 or 01931 714676. Cumbria. [HW57]

SLURRY & MUCK

Belmac 9 cubic yard dung spreader, tidy, £4,250 + VAT. Tel: 07771 852774. Somerset. [HW73]

LOADS OF MACHINERY FOR SALE IN FMJ ’S

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FREE TRADE AND PRIVATE ADVERTS Joskin 2500G tanker c/w 7.5m dribble bar, 800 tyres, new, £36,500 + VAT. Tel: 028 37548971 or 07710 372273. N.Ireland. [HW88]

John Deere 740i sprayer, 2009, 4,000l, 24m, 12 mths MOT, JD dealer Serviced, Isobus ready, £9,995 + VAT. Tel: 07884 495122. York. [HW16]

Ken Wootton 12t grain/silage trailer, 2010, in excellent condition, £14,250 + VAT. Tel: 07771 852774. Somerset. [HW76]

AS Marston 8t silage trailer, very tidy, £POA. Tel: 07771 852774. Somerset. [HW82]

TRAILERS Fraser 700 dung spreader, in good order, £2,400 + VAT. Tel: 07771 852774. Somerset. [HW74]

Bailey 10t dump trailer on 435 x 19.5 c/w fold-down tailgate, £9,750 +VAT. Tel: 028 37548971 or 07710 372273. N.Ireland. [HW88]

AS Marston 12t grain/silage trailer, in excellent condition, £12,500 + VAT. Tel: 07771 852774. Somerset. [HW77]

Harry West Maelstrom 10 rear discharge spreader, new, side door, LED lights, wide angle shaft, £POA. Tel: 07957 804652 or 07802 656177. Shropshire. [HW1]

Marshall 12t grain trailer, ideal dung trailer, £POA. Tel: 07771 852774. Somerset. [HW80] Bailey 18t dump trailer, 2022, as new, air/hydraulic brakes, £14,500 + VAT. Tel: 028 37548971 or 07710 372273. N.Ireland. [HW88]

Teagle Titan 7 grain trailer, c/w hydraulic brakes, tidy trailer, £4,000 + VAT. Tel: 07771 852774. Somerset. [HW79]

Storth 20ft slurry mixer, in good order, £2,100 + VAT. Tel: 07771 852774. Somerset. [HW72]

SPRAYERS Bailey 20t flat deck low loader, 2025, tri-axle, 30ft, sp/drawbar, comm. axles, front & rear ladders, alloy ramps stored at rear. £POA. Tel: 01823 253808 or 07702 501272. Somerset. [HW28]

Rolland Rollvan RV64 cattle trailer, 21ft, hydraulic lowering, sliding partition, rear pen gates, £21,300 + VAT. Tel: 01305 889924 or 07831 470379. Dorset. [HW84]

Team 800l 12m mounted sprayer, high spec. Exc cond, £2,450 + VAT. Tel: 07884 495122. York. [HW23]

NEXT ISSUE ON SALE 14 AUGUST

Richard Western 11t grain/silage trailer, very tidy, not done much, £7,950 + VAT. Tel: 07771 852774. Somerset. [HW83]

Marshall QM 16t grain/silage trailer, 2015, air/hyd brakes, £15,000 + VAT. Tel: 07771 852774. Somerset. [HW75]

Collins 7t grain trailer, hydraulic tailgate & flotation tyres, very tidy, £5,950 + VAT. Tel: 07771 852774. Somerset. [HW81]

Harry West 14t 32ft trailer, new, c/w 445 flotation tyres, air and oil brakes, side drawbar. £POA. Tel: 07957 804652 or 07802 656177. Shropshire. [HW4]

Marshall QM11 silage/grain trailer, 2023, as new cond, hydr back door, sprung drawbar, front window, new type high-speed single tipping ram, 550/45-22.5 floatation tyres, £15,950 + VAT. Tel: 07788 785871 or 01931 714676. Cumbria. [HW50]

FANTASTIC FREE CLASSIFIED AD SECTION

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FARM MACHINERY TRADER WHEELS & TYRES

Weeks 4t high tip trailer, fitted with new tyres. £2,250 + VAT. Tel: 01371 830353. Essex. [HW31]

R & R 16t grain trailer, sprung drawbar and axle, hydraulic tailgate, float wheels, £8,950 + VAT. Tel: 01371 830353. Essex. [HW36]

AS Marston Mk9 9t grain trailer, good solid trailer. £3,500 + VAT. Tel: 01371 830353. Essex. [HW39]

Teagle Toucan 8 outfit, last used 3 years ago, £5,250 + VAT. Tel: 07771 852774. Somerset. [HW78]

VEGETATION CONTROL

Spearhead 650T hedge trimmer, 3pt, joystick, McConnel head. £8,500 + VAT. Tel: 028 37548971 or 07710 372273. N.Ireland. [HW88]

Bomford B58 telescopic, slew ram, joystick, runs well. £4,900 + VAT. Tel: 028 37548971 or 07710 372273. N.Ireland. [HW88]

Winton hedge trimmer, new, 1m head, adjustable roller, wireless controls. £POA. Tel: 01823 253808 or 07702 501272. Somerset. [HW26]

Vredestein AW 15.0 55 R 17 tyres, new, x 2, c/w 6-stud rims. 8-stud available. £POA. Tel: 07957 804652 or 07802 656177.Shropshire. [HW2]

McConnel PA90 & 4330 c/pact size hedgers new/used£POA Tel: 028 37548971 or 07710 372273. N.Ireland. [HW98]

BKT 8-stud 500 60 R 22.5 FL flotation tyre, as new. £POA. . Tel: 07957 804652 or 07802 656177. Shropshire. [HW5]

PROBABLY THE BEST EDITORIAL COVERAGE! Why not consider including an article reprint from Farm Machinery Journal in your marketing plans – the perfect testimonial. FMJ’s machinery tests are renowned for engaging and informing operators and owners of farm machinery, and provide a great n ag Big ague ague ue Clealeague marketing tool contender der greenend d n a for direct mail, e-newsletters, sales material for exhibitions and conferences, dealer support or for external and internal public relations. JCB ession // First Impr Fi

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4t wooden side high tip trailer, lifts and tips well! £1,750 + VAT. Tel: 01371 830353. Essex. [HW48]

below: Right and team The hydrogen six months had just the first to develop of a JCB e prototyp engine. hydrogen was The engine Lord to unveiled on 7 Bamford 2020 r Decembe

McConnel PA6570T, 1.5m head & revolution controls, £POA. Tel: 028 37548971 or 07710 372273. N.Ireland. [HW89]

COVER Y STOR

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Combined editorial reprints and /or digital packages are available. Prices on application. Ritchie trailed 56 bale transporter, all works as it should! £950 + VAT. Tel: 01371 830353. Essex. [HW38]

McConnel PA5570, 2012, electric controls, 3PL, 1.6m head, F14 T flails. £13,750 + VAT. Tel: 01579 370246 or 07702 661790. Cornwall. [HW101]

Please contact paul@sundialmagazines.co.uk or call +44 (0)20 8639 4401

LOADS OF MACHINERY FOR SALE IN FMJ ’S

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FREE TRADE AND PRIVATE ADVERTS FREE MACHINERY ADVERTS!!! With a readership of owners and operators of modern farm machinery, there’s no better place to advertise than the Farm Machinery Trader pages in Farm Machinery Journal. Trade and private machinery adverts are FREE and you can n also have a FREE picture!

FREE TRADE AND PRIVATE ADVERTS

CULTIVATORS

Gregoire-Besson HRWC8, 2014, ex-demo, hyd vari-w body, mixed skimm idth, no 8 er, rear disc, £25,500 + VAT. Tel: 07787 55433 Ben Burgess. 7. [IW72]

Overum 5 furro w plough, full spec, no weldi ng anywhere, £POA. Tel: 07976 702858. Andy Mellor, Powys. [IW35]

Complete the form below and post it to us with your photograph, email your advertisement to classifieds@farmmachineryjournal.co.uk or place your advert online at www.farmmachineryjournal.co.uk

Sumo Trio 3 cultiv ator, ex-demo, 2013, 3m c/w shear protection. £13,80 pin leg 0 + VAT. Tel: 01592 631291 or 07821 271622. [IW29]

Väderstad Swift 440 4.45m tined cultivator, excell ent condition, £19,000 + VAT. Tel: Randells, Norfo 07887 714430. lk. [IW66A]

If required, your photo (JPEG or PDF) should be sent as an attachment to your email message. In addition to the wording required, please provide your full name and address (not for publication).

Kongskilde traile harrow. Tel: 00 d germinator 353 2446272 or (0)87 (0)87 2575327. Padd Lacey, Co Wexfo y rd. [IW23]

Great Plains 3.5 metre Flatliner, 2013, 5 leg hydraulic auto-reset with DD acres since new, roller, 200 immaculate condition. £POA . Tel: 07803 599006 or 01592 263786. Kirkcady. [IW5]

Väderstad Rexiu s Twin 450, System Rapto r, Crossboard Heavy, excellent condition. £29,000 + VAT. Tel.07887 71443 Randells, Norfo 0. lk. [IW62]

Horsch Terra no 5FM traile d cultivator with steel packer, ex demo, excellent condition, ready to go. £29,500 + VAT. Tel: 0796 7 575007. RVW Pugh Ltd, Holm es Chapel, Chesh ire. [IW3]

Lemken Zirko n 8 power harro 3 metre, extre w, Horsch mely Pronto 4DC metal, Q-fit tines, nice on good disc drill, ex displa Mintill toothed packe levelling board r, eradicators, pre-e y, track s, £POA. Tel: 01926 mergence 640637. Ellis Farm markers, good Machinery, saving on new Warwicks. price, £46,500 + VAT. Tel: 0796 [IW56] 7 575007. RVW Pugh Ltd, Cheshire. [IW4]

Kuhn 3-metre power harrow, packer roller, 70% tine, mint condition. Tel: 00 2446272 or (0)87 353 (0)87 2575327. Paddy Lacey Tractors, Co Wexford . [IW22]

McConnel 6.4 metre hydraulic foldin g roller, used, 3 Section, CB Rings Cambridge break , 55cm (22”) er. £7,945 + VAT. Tel: 01584 873 131. McConnel, Shropshire. [IW64] Sumo Trio 2.5 cultivator, used, 2012, 2.5 metre cultivator, 5 leg machine, shop soiled ex demonstra tion condition. £12,000 + VAT. Tel: 01592 63129 or 07821 27162 1 2. [IW30]

Simba DTX300, 3 immaculate mach metre, DRILLS with Stocks AG ine, complete Wizard, may split. £POA. Tel: 01926 640637. Ellis Farm Machinery, Warwickshire. [IW55] Twose hydra ulic Cambridge rollerfolding 7.3 metre, hydra s, 2011, ulic folding, 24 inch rings with very little work, breakers, Väderstad Spirit £POA. Tel: 01823 600S, 6m 253808 or 0770 System Disc Aggre 2 501272. Parris ssive, excellent Tractors, Taunt cond, £45,000 on. + VAT. Tel: 0780 [IW18] 3 942400. Leeds . [IW67]

FANTASTIC FREE CL ASSIFIED

Väderstad Spirit 400C combi drill, ex demo machine, excel lent condition, £48,0 00 + VAT. Tel: 07973 542142. Jacobsens, Montrose. [IW66]

Vaderstad Rapid drill, 2000, Syste A 600S m Disc, only 905 hecta res pre-emerge mark from new, ers, levelling board, following harrow, £POA. Tel: 01823 253808 or 07702 501272. Parris Tractors, Taunton. [IW15]

Kuhn Accord 4 metre combination drill. Guest refurbished Andrew in 2012. Drille 2000 acres in d total, hydraulic coulter bar, 3 rows of Suffolk coulters and pre-e m markers, quick fit tines. Very genuine. 2015 low loader possi bly for sale also. £9,000 + VAT for combinatio n and £12,500 + VAT with the lowloader. Tel: 07889 474179. York. [IW47]

AD SECTION

SEPTEMBER 2016

FREE FARM MACHINERY FOR SALE CLASSIFIED FORM FMJ0916_108-1

13 v2.indd 109

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Advertise your farm machinery for sale in Farm Machinery Journal for FREE! We’ll include a FREE photo too. Advertising is easy, but hurry to catch the earliest possible issue.

Post the coupon and enclose your photo to: Advertisement Dept, FMJ, 17 Wickham Road, Beckenham, Kent, BR3 5JS, England. Email to classifieds@farmmachineryjournal.co.uk. Remember to include your full name and address details. Pictures can be sent as a JPEG or PDF. Online Place your advert online at www.farmmachineryjournal.co.uk

FREE ADVERTISING CONDITIONS Your name and address must be provided, but will not appear in the advert unless you request it. Advertisement wording can be sent on a separate sheet or photocopy of the form if you do not want to cut your magazine. I wish to place the following advertisement in the next 1 □ or 2 □ issues of FMJ

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The publisher cannot accept any responsibility for the quality of machinery advertised in Farm Machinery Journal or for failure in payment, etc. Contracts are between the individuals concerned and no liability can be attached to Sundial Magazines or its officers. Particular attention should be paid by advertisers to the requirements of the Trade Descriptions Act 1968 governing trade descriptions, especially when detailing accurate descriptions of goods offered for sale. The Business Advertisements (Disclosure) Order 1977 requires all advertisements by people who sell goods in the course of a business to make that fact clear. The responsibility for this lies with the advertiser. It is a further legal requirement that when VAT is to be charged, it is made clear whether VAT is included in the price shown or not.

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Rear Link Cereals 2026

The Tractor Twitcher

David Laley, AKA ‘The Tractor Twitcher’, has been photographing farm machinery of all types and ages for 30 years. Each month, he delves into his extensive archives to bring us a fascinating insight into the machines he’s captured at work

O

n June 10, David visited Cereals 2026, held at Jeremy Clarkson’s Diddly Squat Farm near Chipping Norton in Oxfordshire. Whilst there, he had a look around some of the latest tractors plus several modern classics.

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Zetor’s new 6 Series flagship tractor, a 6170, generated lots of attention. The 6170 is powered by a 4.1 lit Deutz engine that maxes at 171hp and is mated to a ZF TPT 16 powershift transmission. Amongst the McCormick models on Argo Tractors’ stand was an X8.631 that’s powered by a 6.7 lit, 313hp FPT NEF engine. The show model was fitted with a special edition Ryetec Workbox. This John Deere 6215R belongs to Outland Tracks and was fitted with the latest retrofit rubber track units from Canadian manufacturer Soucy. It was being demonstrated with a Moore Uni-Drill. Mercedes-Benz Unimog dealers Ibbets are celebrating their 175th anniversary this year, and were displaying this 354hp U435 with a Hauer weight box up front and Kverneland TL fertiliser spreader mounted on the load deck. UTV Products from Nantwich in Cheshire who specialise in high performance LED lighting systems were displaying this immaculate modern classic Fendt 820 Vario to showcase the lights they supply. The British Tractor Pullers Association’s stand featured the Whittingham family’s modified puller, Snoopy 3, that’s powered by a pair of 36.7 lit V12 Rolls Royce Griffon engines producing 6,000hp!

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30/06/2026 12:15