JDLink Boost for NZ farms
Connectivity is widely recognised as one of the biggest challenges facing farmers, but it is now being overcome through the power of satellite technology.
John Deere's latest 5R series tractors offer a choice of four units in the all-important 90-125hp sector.
The 5090R, 5100R, 5115R and 5125R tractors are equipped with Stage IIIB compliant, 4.5L John Deere PWX engines, delivering 90, 100, 115 and 125 hp respectively. They offer an extra 10hp for transport tasks via their transport power management (TPM) system.
The manufacturer says the engines deliver up to 8% power bulge to respond to tough conditions, while a torque rise of up to 38% enables lugging as the engine drops below rated speed.
Transmissions start with the entry-level 16F 16R CommandQuad Manual with four ranges and four powershiftable gears in each range. Then follows the 16F 16R CommandQuad, then the 32F 16R Command8 transmission. The latter has eight powershiftable gears and an ECO mode that enables a top speed of 40km/h at only 1759rpm.
All three transmissions have a fully automatic clutch, individual start-up gears and an electric park. Auto shifting is standard on the Command8 and optional on the 16F 16R CommandQuad.
With the AutoClutch function, the operator does not use a traditional clutch to stop or control tractor take-off, although a clutch pedal is there for operators to use if they prefer it.
AutoClutch enables easy stopping, starting and take-off modulation using only the brake pedal. It enables the operator to stop without clutching but it does not overload the engine. It also enables ‘inching’ (‘creeping’) in forward or reverse on a level surface or an incline. And it enables acceleration back to normal speed when releasing the brake.
Optional mechanical cab suspension system is available for more comfort.
An air suspended Grammer seat is fitted, as found on the 6R Series. It has up to 15° of swivel, lumbar adjustment and optional heating.
Other new features include variable-ratio steering, and buyers may order tractors as AutoTrac Ready, allowing the future use of the latest guidance and steering technologies as they evolve.
Academic Dr Mike Joy and his employer, Victoria University of Wellington have apologised for his comments suggesting that dairy industry CEOs should be hanged for contributing towards nitrate poisoning of waterways.
Environment Southland's catchment improvement funding is once again available for innovative landowners in need of a boost to get their project going.
The team meeting at the Culverden Hotel was relaxed and open, despite being in the middle of calving when stress levels are at peak levels, especially in bitterly cold and wet conditions like today.
A comment by outspoken academic Dr Mike Joy suggesting that dairy industry leaders should be hanged for nitrate contamination of drinking/groundwater has enraged farmers.
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