Many of you may have seen this but i thought it was brilliant, certainly a new use for tractors
Posts Tagged ‘tractors’
Tour De Tractor
July 8th, 2011John Deere Unveil 7R Series
June 29th, 2011Designed as versatile workhorses for contractors and medium sized to large arable farms, John Deere’s newly styled 7R Series tractors feature more power, better manoeuvrability and operator comfort than their 7030 Series predecessors. There are five models in the range, developing a maximum of 230 to 310hp with Intelligent Power Management (IPM), according to 97/68EC ratings.
For added security, 7R Series tractors are fitted as standard with CESAR Datatag and immobiliser systems, with a unique transponder based key. In addition, new models will be supplied with complimentary JDLink Ultimate telematics plus Service ADVISOR remote monitoring and diagnostics systems for the first year.
Having optimised the performance of its field-proven and operator-friendly high-pressure common rail (HPCR) PowerTech Plus engine technology, which consistently achieves leading fuel efficiency results in independent tests, John Deere has maintained the single fluid, diesel-only approach on these latest models to conform to Stage IIIB emission standards.
The 9-litre PowerTech PVX engine on the three larger models ’ 7230R, 7260R and 7280R ’ features a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and exhaust filters, which include a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) and a diesel particulate filter (DPF). The two smaller models ’ 7200R and 7215R ’ are powered by 6.8-litre PowerTech PSX engine using series turbochargers, which combine a low-pressure fixed geometry and a high-pressure variable geometry turbocharger. With IPM, both engines deliver an additional 30hp for transport and non-stationary pto applications.
The electronically controlled viscous fan cooling system automatically adjusts fan speed to match load changes. To maximise efficiency of the cooling system, air is pushed into the engine compartment instead of being pulled in. This helps to minimise dirt intake and keeps the radiator clean, as well as increasing fuel efficiency by 3 to 6 per cent, depending on the application.
There is a choice of four transmissions, including PowerQuad Plus with speed matching and AutoQuad Plus with FieldCruise and EcoShift functions. The newly designed CommandQuad transmission includes an Efficiency Manager, which makes sure that the gear and throttle work hand in hand to optimise fuel efficiency, with automatic range shifting on the road.
There is a choice between a fully automatic mode, with gear and engine rpm selection depending on load, and a manual dial-up mode for targeted speed applications, which includes five ranges with four power speeds per range. In addition to the convenient CommandArm control, this transmission features 42kph Eco and 50kph options and a left hand reverser for easy direction changes. For maximum fuel efficiency, the AutoPowr continuously variable transmission has been completely redesigned, with all new hardware and control software.
The 7R Series tractors feature the same newly designed CommandView II cab as the 8R Series machines. New levels of comfort are provided by the spacious interior, the armrest controlled and roof-integrated air conditioning system, all-round visibility both day and night from an increased glass surface area and 360-degree lighting pattern, which delivers a 74 per cent increase in available luminescence, and more storage space than ever before.
For maximum operator comfort, these new tractors are optionally available with either ActiveSeat suspension to compensate for up to 90 per cent of the tractor’s vertical movements, or HCS Plus hydraulic cab suspension. This is a semi-active dampening system that anticipates loads and braking to maintain the overall balance of the cab, while still providing the driver with an accurate feel for the tractor and ground surface.
The new right-hand CommandArm console with its integrated CommandCenter display puts all the key tractor functions within easy reach. The 7in CommandCenter display is ISOBUS compatible and includes Access Manager as standard, while the optional touchscreen version also includes video capability. Both standard and touchscreen versions accommodate key applications such as the CAN-bus controlled SCVs and intelligent Total Equipment Control (iTEC), which allows the operator to automate multiple functions simultaneously.
In addition, important GreenStar precision farming applications can now be operated via the display, including AutoTrac and SprayerPro. The CommandArm console also incorporates the settings for cruise control, iTEC, transmission and pto settings, hitch functions, air conditioning and radio controls, mechanical front wheel drive (MFWD) engagement and the light controls. Tractors equipped with PowerQuad Plus or AutoQuad Plus transmissions feature an alternative right-hand control console. The optional GreenStar 2630 display enables the use of AutoTrac and Guidance Pro modules, and provides ISOBUS capability, documentation, video functionality, Access Manager and a stand-by mode.
The newly designed structural chassis of 7R Series tractors takes advantage of the high power density to cope easily with demanding load and draft applications. For putting maximum power onto the ground, the tractors are equipped with TLS Plus triple link suspension, in combination with MFWD. TLS Plus features self-levelling and automatic adjustment of axle sensitivity.
Also optionally available for these new tractors is John Deere’s exclusive ActiveCommand Steering system, which reduces steering effort in order to minimise operator fatigue and improve driving comfort and control. This fully electronic steering control system automatically adjusts the road wheel angle based on the lateral acceleration of the tractor.
This improves control when cornering at transport speeds, as well as the tractor’s ability to hold a straight line. Furthermore, the system’s Variable Ratio Steering module reduces lock-to-lock turning in the field, for quicker headland turns. Compared to a conventional steering system, ActiveCommand Steering produces a 75 per cent reduction in typical hand movement.
New large capacity pumps deliver increased oil flow and lift capacity from the closed-centre, pressure and flow compensated hydraulic system, which can operate a maximum of eight SCVs, up to six at the rear and up to three at the front of the tractor. Maximum lift capacity of the rear hitch is 9562kg on the 7200R, 7215R and 7230R and 10,788kg on the 7260R and 7280R, while the fully integrated front hitch (with pto) has a lift capacity of up to 5200kg. The tractors also feature a new pick-up hitch.
John Deere 7R Series tractors have a slightly longer wheelbase than previous models, and the top two models can be fitted with larger Group 49 tyres with a maximum diameter of 215cm. There is also the option of a flanged or rack & pinion rear axle for extra versatility, and the shorter overall length of the tractors has improved turning radius by 18 per cent.
Farm Machinery ‘Arson’ near Bournemouth
May 31st, 2011Farm machinery was set on fire in a suspected arson attack at a field near Hurn Forest on Thursday evening.
Fire fighters from Christchurch and Redhill were called to the blaze around 6.20pm, which involved farm machinery, farm netting and 700 wooden pallets.
Crews tackled the fire using two hose reel jets and a main line and stayed to turn the area over and damp down.
It is believed the fire was started deliberately. Anybody that has any information should contact Dorset Police
Being Stuck Behind a Tractor is ‘Inevitable’
May 27th, 2011I saw this article in the Daily Mail and thought it was worth sharing, even though it’s completely pointless
When drivers experience the familiar frustration of being stuck behind a tractor on a country road it is natural to ask ‘Why me?’.
But according to research it is not down to bad luck – it is virtually inevitable.
Anyone who drives along a rural minor road for at least 80 minutes during the spring or summer months will end up following a slow-moving farmyard vehicle, according to scientists.
However, the good news for country drivers is that the average hold-up will only last between two and four minutes.
The motoring myths report was carried out by experts at University College London and commissioned by breakdown firm Greenflag.
The transport experts have determined that if you end up behind one of the UK’s 250,000 tractors, on any of the UK’s 132,352 miles of rural minor roads, it will only be for between 1.2 and 3.1 miles.
And it will only add between 1 and 2 per cent to a driver’s journey time. The study focused on the period March to September, when the majority of road usage by tractors is undertaken.
Henry Topham, head of Green Flag, said: ‘Many of us end up behind a tractor either directly or as part of a queue of traffic. While it can be frustrating it’s worth noting that it won’t delay your journey for too long, so getting impatient and undertaking risky manoeuvres to overtake the vehicle on a narrow, rural road is not worth it.
‘With blind bends, narrow roads and overgrown foliage obscuring visibility overtaking in rural areas can be fraught with danger.’
Professor Benjamin Heydecker, from the Centre for Transport Studies at University College London said: ‘Our calculations have enabled us to prove that drivers are indeed likely to end up stuck behind a tractor on a country drive through minor rural roads.
‘However, we have shown that when this does happen, it typically causes only small delays to a journey.
‘While a car is following a moving tractor, it is travelling more slowly than desired but it is still progressing.
‘For this reason, not all of the time spent following counts as delay.’
Sharp Eyed Farmer Spots Stolen Tractor
May 17th, 2011This story really highlights how careful you need to be when selling farm machinery...
A New Holland TM140 stolen from Enniscorthy Motor Company in Ireland has been recovered in England after an eagle-eyed Meath farmer spotted it at one of Europe’s biggest tractor auctions.
While gardai from the Stolen Vehicle Unit have confirmed they are working with their British counterparts to examine and identify a tractor impounded there last week, they declined to give any further details about the tractor in question, adding that the investigation was ongoing.
“We are following a line of inquiry and liaising with our British colleagues,” said Detective Sergeant Eugene O’Sullivan. However, Enniscorthy Motor Company’s Larry O’Shaughnessy confirmed that the stolen tractor is due to be returned to Wexford this week and paid tribute to the gardai for their handling of the case.
“It was great police work. They really followed it to the ends of the Earth,” said Mr O’Shaughnessy.
The TM140, which was stolen in Mullingar by a buyer who paid with a bogus bank draft, was offered for sale at a monthly machinery sale in Cambridge, England, last week.
Fortunately, an observant former customer of the Enniscorthy Motor Company spotted that a New Holland TM130 he was looking at in the sale actually had the spec of a New Holland TM140 and contacted the machinery dealers to alert them.
The tractor had been fitted with fictitious Mayo registration plates and serial numbers, as well as new TM130 stickers. It’s believed that the thieves have also been successful in stealing two other tractors in the past.
Farmer Uses Tractor To Put Out Fire
May 11th, 2011This was the moment a desperate farmer tried to stop his livelihood from going up in flames after a suspected arson attack threatened to destroy a large amount of hay and animal feed.
As these dramatic images show, the man drove his tractor into the inferno in a bid to stop the fire from destroying the feed that would sustain his stock this coming winter. The farmer, who has not been identified, is thought to have used the tractor to clear the burning bales as fire fighters poured water on them.
Darren Crain, who was photographing wildlife in a nearby field at the time of the fire, spoke to the farmer at the scene and said: ‘Unfortunately the fire was the farmer’s winter feed.
‘With this dry weather farmers are struggling to feed their livestock at the moment as there is limited grass so this is quite a blow to the business.
‘It was very hard for him to watch his livelihood go up in flames.’
The fire was eventually left to burn out under the supervision of fire fighters and the farmer, according to reports.
Fire crews were called to the farm near Christchurch, Dorset, at 8.25pm yesterday. A spokesman has since confirmed the fire was believed to have been deliberately lit and that an investigation was under way.
Farmers Ditch Tractors For Oxen
May 10th, 2011An article in the Daily Mail today focussing on two farmer’s in the US who could no longer afford to run their tractors…
When farmers Danielle and Matt Boerson realised they could no longer afford to run their tractors, they took the bull by the horns – and ditched them for oxen. Soaring petrol prices had become so high that the couple, who run an 80-acre farm near Madison, Wisconsin, were forced to get rid of their two tractors, hay baler, plough and rotavator.
So they took a course at the agricultural institute in traditional farming techniques. ‘It gave me the confidence that, yes, I could do this’, Danielle told the Times. ‘It just required a lot of concentration and a firm voice.’
Their instructor was former peace core volunteer Dick Roosenberg, 64, who learned the trade while working for the UN in West Africa. He took the skills he had honed back to Michigan and set up Tillers International. At first the company was aimed at helping Third World farmers harvest in the cheapest way possible.
On the side, he also helped historically-themed villages but his specialist knowledge is now enjoying a new wave of interest with farmers from Wisconsin to Alaska now joining his courses.
He is already teaching up to 20 farmers every weekend. ‘People want to get away from petroleum fuels where they can, because it’s getting more expensive,’ he said. A pair of plough-ready oxen cost $3,000 (£1,800) – roughly the same as a second hand tractor but younger cattle are a snip at $150 each. They only eat grass and can work for up to 14 years.
They are also a handy source of fertilizer and can be eaten when they die. The only downside is that they are slow and are not viable on a large farm. They are however perfect for ‘small farms, with high-value garden crops’, said Mr Roosenberg.
Todd Juzwiak, 42, bought two oxen after learning how to command them with Mr Roosenberg. ‘We are definately saving on fuel. Though it’s not necessarily easier. Tractors don’t often jump over fences.’
Tractor Pull Raises £1500
May 9th, 2011Young farmers from Devon completed an exhausting 27-hour tractor pull for charity on Sunday.
Members of the Withleigh Young Farmers Club (supported by advisory members) pulled a Massey Ferguson 35 from James South Molton to Tiverton in a very commendable eight hours.
Their pulling powers helped raise £1,500 for their charity of the year, the Hospiscare day centre in Tiverton.
