Twin-axle slurry tankers on debut
French manufacturer Pichon, imported and retailed in New Zealand by Norwood, has introduced two new twin-axle ‘Slurry Vacuum’ SV slurry tankers.
Hence importers marketing products from Europe, where understanding and practical knowhow on dealing with FYM have been around for a lot longer.
One such company is CB Norwood, importing the Pichon Muckmaster range from NW France. With a range from 8 to 24m3 there should be a machine to suit most enterprises, though the 10-12m3 machines (M8-M12) are proving the most popular.
A key point of difference is the galvanised frame and body which should result in a long life in this harsh environment. The body is designed narrow with high sides, allowing a high rear frame with oversize beaters that give a superior spread pattern. The configuration also allows large diameter wheels with less rolling resistance, making fully laden units easier to pull.
A PTO drive from the tractor directly takes power to the shear bolt protected rear beaters, and the floor chain drive is powered hydraulically with a variable rate motor. The floor chain is made from 16mm marine grade steel and carries ‘oversized’ 70 x 40mm slats to move product to the rear beaters. Interestingly the chain is fitted with heavy duty protection plates that allow lime spreading and increase the versatility of the machines.
The package also includes a guillotine style door, with front mounted indicator, in front of the beaters that allows a clear start-up, and controls the flow of looser slurry-type materials onto the spreading elements.
To aid travelling and operator comfort a sprung drawbar is standard, and commercial grade axles withstand the high loads placed on these machines.
Safety features include a full lighting kit, rotating beacon at the highest point and a hydraulic braking system. A park brake is included for safe storage when not in use and an access ladder aids entering the body of the machine.
Other features: mudguards, air brakes and flow meters that combine with GPS signals for traceability where required.
Paul Collins, Norwood agriculture manager says, “When we saw the Pichon Muckmaster we knew it would be a good fit for the NZ market. With the use of galvanised steel and commercial grade axles they are built for the long run”.
Kiwi users will want to put on some deeper ‘greedy’ boards to further increase the capacity.”
Same again please
Gavin Ltd provides a range of agricultural services from its base at Gordonton, north of Hamilton.
With increasing demand for cleaning out herd homes and goat barns, and a general interest in manure spreading, the company bought two Pichon Muckmaster 8 around two years ago.
On the choice of Pichon, Gavins spokesman Ron Voschezang says they “researched the machines available and Pichon caught our eye. We liked the heavy duty construction and that all the main components were galvanised and bolted up for easy replacement when required”.
“We spoke to a number of users around the country who gave us valuable feedback. We bought two machines that have worked extremely well, with a great spread pattern in a range of manures, and also able to deal with foreign objects such as stones, rocks and fence posts.
“The only modification for us has been adding man sized ‘greedy’ boards to increase capacity.”
Would they buy the brand again?
“Without a doubt,” says Ron.
“They’ve performed well, been reliable and given us good service.”
