Many of you may have seen this but i thought it was brilliant, certainly a new use for tractors
Posts Tagged ‘Tractors For Sale’
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.
Agriculture Contributes To Recovering Economy
June 27th, 2011In March, the total lending to agriculture increased by 2.8% on the year before, which built on the growth of 6.2% for the previous 12 months. This compares favourably to the widely reported view that there is an overall contraction in lending by UK banks to small and medium sized businesses.
Lloyds TSB Agriculture leads the way in provided support to agriculture, lending an extra 14.9% to British farmers in March 2011 compared to March 2010.
“Agriculture is a key business for the Lloyds Banking Group not just because of its unrivalled credit history, but because of its future potential,” says Gareth Oakley, Agriculture Director at Lloyds TSB. “Most importantly, the large majority of the growth in our lending to agriculture is being invested in making farms more profitable and efficient with modern farm machinery and methods”
“Because farming has been such an important business for us for so long and we have an extensive network of specialist agricultural bank managers, we understand the everyday needs of farmers as well as their longer term business aspirations. We are committed to developing our team as we know they provide a service that is increasingly valued by farmers who are building their businesses.”
The growth in lending to agriculture is mirrored by a growth in total lending to SMEs by the Lloyds Banking Group. In the 12 months to March the group increased lending to businesses by more than 2% which compared to a fall for the overall banking industry sector. Under Government targets the Lloyds Banking Group is committed to lending £10.3 billion to SMEs in 2011. In the three months to the end of March it had already lent £3.3 billion.
“We have made clear commitments not only to lend, but to encourage enterprise,” says John Maltby, managing director commercial at Lloyds Banking Group. “We approve more than 80% of the loan and overdraft applications that we receive.”
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.’
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.
John Deere Releases Tractor For Orchard Growers
May 6th, 2011John Deere has released a 5105ML tractor, specifically configured for producers who grow nuts and fruit in orchards. According to John Deere product marketing manager Owen Frederic, the new model is compatible with a John Deere 553 or 563 Loader, increasing its versatility.
“Its low profile lets customers operate under tree limbs and in between tree rows so it’s ideal for nut and fruit growers,” he said. ”It has plenty of hitch-lift capacity and at 3492 kilograms the 5105ML has additional weight that provides added stability to pull large implements. You won’t find a tractor that works harder or that’s more capable in its class.”
The heart of the 5105ML is a John Deere PowerTech four-cylinder diesel engine that produces up to 78kW (105hp) and 67kW (90hp PTO).
Customers can choose from two transmission options – a 12F/4R SyncShuttle Plus or a 16F/16R PowrReverser, with left-hand electro-hydraulic reverser.
“The power and weight combination of this tractor helps customers be more productive in a wide variety of applications and conditions,” Mr Frederic said.
Standard components of a wet PTO and wet-traction clutch, provide simplicity and reliability that are built with a minimal amount of electronics so they’re easy to operate and maintain.
“Operator comfort is superb and visibility from the seat is outstanding,” Mr Frederic said. The 5105ML is available in a two-wheel-drive, or four-wheel-drive configuration and comes equipped with adjustable full-coverage rear fenders, a differential lock and fuel-saving economy PTO.
“The full-coverage, composite rear fenders protect both low-hanging tree limbs and low-hanging fruit from damage by guiding them over the rear wheels when the tractor is being operated in an orchard,” Mr Frederic said.
“They won’t rust or dent like metal fenders, or crack or shred like fibreglass fenders. They also can be adjusted up or down with 127 millimetres (5in) of fender travel to accommodate different tyre sizes. Rear brake lights are built into the fenders.”
Colour-coded operator controls are strategically mounted between the right-hand fender and low-profile seat for easy reach, yet hidden from low-hanging branches and fruit.
Additional standard equipment consists of dual-rear work lights, breakaway indicator lights, a low-profile tilt/telescoping steering wheel, two hydraulic remotes and a reinforced fuel tank with protective guarding. The foldable mid-mount ROPS can be lowered without tools when a John Deere Loader is attached for easy manoeuvrability in low-clearance areas.
The open-centre hydraulic system has a 69.6 L/min flow rate for fast hydraulic cycle times and muscle to handle large implements with ease.
