The new frontier in farm tractors

32
photos: Ben White
ReSeaRch RepoRt
4WD AnD TrACKeD TrACTOrS
At a glance
The main specification to
consider when buying a 4WD
tractor is power output.
With most drawn implements
requiring hydraulic
connections, ensure the
flow capability of the tractor
exceeds the requirement for
high demand applications.
Today most articulated 4WD
and tracked machines now
come only with a semi-, or
full-powershift option.
powershift transmissions
allow rapid shifting for
operations such as headland
turns and transport but most
notably, have the ability to
shift under load.
Group Talk March/April 2011 No. 14–15 www.kondiningroup.com.au
packing power with
4WD and tracked
tractors
the latest release four-wheel-drive (4WD) and tracked tractors offer
high power outputs for heavy tillage or wide broadacre machinery
operations. engineer Ben White provides a specification comparison of
these powerful machines.
Purchasing a high power output four-wheel-drive
or tracked tractor is a substantial investment. In
order to make the correct 4WD or tracked tractor
buying decision, farmers need to contemplate what
will be required of the tractor and match it to the
available specifications. Specifications vary across
make and models with a range to suit all operations
with a serious power requirement.
power
At the top of most specification requirements is
power output. The following pages detail the rated
engine power output, but peak power output levels
can be between 10 and 15 per cent higher. This
power reserve is available when sections of a
paddock may require additional power to continue
without stalling or having to modify the depth of
operation. For example, when ripping a paddock
through sections of heavy clay or compacted soil.
It is important to establish the
power requirement before
starting to look at manufacturer
offerings.
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With the engines in most modern 4WD tractors
designed to operate at about 75% of maximum
power for longevity, build in a power buffer to your
requirements. Fuel economy will also typically
improve when operating at about 75% of maximum
power, as opposed to further up the power curve.
Hydraulic options
With most drawn implements requiring hydraulic
connections, ensure the flow capability of the tractor
exceeds the requirement for high demand
applications. Air-seeders typically demand high
hydraulic flows, particularly when many of the
implement hydraulic functions, including fans and
rams, need to work concurrently.