Krone XDisc 710 Now Fits John Deere, New Holland Foragers
Krone's XDisc 710 direct-cut header can now be used by John Deere and New Holland forage harvesters, as well as the Krone Big X it was originally designed for.
New Holland is now offering its Auto Command continuously variable transmission on the T9 Series tractors.
The eight-model series includes five agricultural models, two scraper models and a 4WD track model. The line-up develops maximum outputs from 429 to 605 boosted horsepower in the range-topping T9.600 AC. It also uses the ZF developed CVT transmission already seen in the Case IH Quadtrac CVX Drive, which is configured to deliver at least 60% mechanical drive in all situations.
The Auto Command transmission provides seamless speed changes via the CommandGrip multifunction handle in the SideWinder II armrest, with integrated IntelliView IV ultra-wide colour touchscreen interface. The CommandGrip handle uses force-based logic to control the tractor’s speed and acceleration, working with the transmission to deliver a stepless range of speeds to exactly match the application.
Automated functions enable the operator to switch between three target speeds and four driving modes: Auto, Cruise, PTO and Manual, to optimise the task or fuel efficiency. In operation, the transmission adjusts engine power and ground speed for maximum productivity to match the work in hand; in transport mode the AC allows acceleration to 40km/h at 1650 engine rpm.
In PTO mode, speeds as low as 500m/hr can be achieved, which should suit the machine to heavy duty applications such as slurry injection, bed tilling or wood chipping.
The intuitive automatic control of engine power and ground speed, seamless speed adjustment and clutchless braking are said to dramatically reduce operator fatigue and boost productivity.
Auto Command also offers the maker’s Active Stop Start safety feature that prevents the tractor moving backwards or forwards when it is brought to a standstill, even with a heavy load, while also removing the risk of roll-back when stopping on steep inclines.
Converting a longstanding cropping farm to dairy was the only way to ensure the land stayed in the family long term, says new dairy farmer Rod May.
As the election heats up, Organics Aotearoa New Zealand (OANZ) has launched its election scorecard designed to help voters wanting to support policies that grow organic and New Zealand's organic sector.
A 'tsunami' of milk from key exporting countries is winding down and this may be good news for New Zealand dairy farmers.
Will the good times last? That's one of the key issues to come out of the latest Federated Farmers confidence survey.
Outgoing Fonterra Co-operative Council chair John Stevenson says that it has been a privilege to represent the co-op's farmer shareholders.
Have a plan in place for your cows and staff.

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