Case IH launches new Tier 3 Puma Tractor at Fieldays
Case IH is expanding its popular Puma range in New Zealand, with a new model that was released at Fieldays.
The first production models of the Case IH Optum are now coming off the factory lines, the first examples expected to hit New Zealand in June.
This tractor, made in Austria, certainly turned heads at Agritechnica in November last year, where it won the coveted Machine of the Year 2016 Award. It fits between the Puma and Magnum ranges, compact in dimensions and lighter in weight.
It is powered by proven FPT 6.7L NEF engines to deliver 270 and 300hp at rated speed. This rises to a maximum of 313hp as the engine comes under load and is complemented by a maximum torque figure of 1282NM at 1400rpm. The engine meets the latest Tier4B emission regulations using SCR technology and is set up to carry 630L of diesel and 96L of Ad-Blue liquid.
The transmission is carried over from the LWB Puma range, upgraded with strengthened castings, a new rear axle and double planetary final drives to handle the increased power.
Speed is steplessly variable between 20m/sec and 53km/h and the Active Stop feature removes the need to hold the tractor on the brakes when stationary.
A load bearing sump assembly acts as a backbone for the tractor and keeps tare weight down; it allows operating weights up to 16,000kg, which helps get the additional power to the ground without compromising the agility of the tractor.
As part of the package a rear lift capacity of 11,058kg combines with the ability to lift 5821kg up front, and a CCLS hydraulic system gives up to 220L/min output. The steering and transmission systems are separate.
Completing the package, a new reactive steering system sees the steering wheel return to the straight ahead position after turns to make high speed work more comfortable; and a headland management function (HMC 2) takes care of repetitive tasks in the paddock, as well as offering a remote file transfer system. Connectivity with implements is by the Isobus 3 plug-and-play system.
Though this tractor is relatively high-spec, operators wanting high-speed transport ability might opt for the ABS or ABS Advanced option.
Managing director of Woolover Ltd, David Brown, has put a lot of effort into verifying what seems intuitive, that keeping newborn stock's core temperature stable pays dividends by helping them realise their full genetic potential.
Within the next 10 years, New Zealand agriculture will need to manage its largest-ever intergenerational transfer of wealth, conservatively valued at $150 billion in farming assets.
Boutique Waikato cheese producer Meyer Cheese is investing in a new $3.5 million facility, designed to boost capacity and enhance the company's sustainability credentials.
OPINION: The Government's decision to rule out changes to Fringe Benefit Tax (FBT) that would cost every farmer thousands of dollars annually, is sensible.
Compensation assistance for farmers impacted by Mycoplama bovis is being wound up.
Selecting the reverse gear quicker than a lovestruck boyfriend who has met the in-laws for the first time, the Coalition Government has confirmed that the proposal to amend Fringe Benefit Tax (FBT) charged against farm utes has been canned.
OPINION: Dust ups between rural media and PR types aren't unheard of but also aren't common, given part of the…
OPINION: The Hound hears from his canine pals in Southland that an individual's derogatory remarks on social media have left…