Transmissions factory for big brands
Italian tractor manufacturer Argo Tractors, builders of the McCormick, Landini and Valpadana marques, has opened a new factory to develop and manufacture transmissions for those brands.
A new generation of McCormick tractors, aimed at livestock operators, is now available in New Zealand.
The new X5 Series, offered in three models, is powered by a 3.6-litre Deutz four-cylinder engine – delivering max outputs of 99hp (X5.35), 110hp (X5.45) and 113hp (X5.55).
All models feature a simpler emissions control system in the form of a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC).
This, unlike a diesel particulates filter (DPF), requires no fuel-burn offs to clean, no maintenance and no operator intervention.
Power is channelled through a new 24x24 transmission with a splitter operated by a button on the gear selector. This permits easy up-and-down-shifts to cope with changing loads. In addition, the new Eco Forty feature offers reduced engine revs once a 40km/h cruising speed has been attained – saving fuel and reducing noise.
A four-speed PTO system also helps save fuel, by offering an economy setting for each of the normal 540 and 1000rpm speeds.
The hydraulics see a 63-litre/min gear pump (complemented by a 32-litre/min pump dedicated to steering and ancillary clutches), supplying the three, double-acting spool valves fitted as standard.
Meanwhile, a separate, dedicated 32l/min pump looks after power steering and transmission lubrication.
Other standard equipment in the X5 Series range includes interchangeable ball and claw ends for the 4500kg rear linkage lift arms, electronic rear hitch control, air suspension seat and a tilt and telescopic steering wheel.
Farmlands says that improved half-year results show that the co-op’s tight focus on supporting New Zealand’s farmers and growers is working.
Horticulture New Zealand (HortNZ) says that discovery of a male Oriental fruit fly on Auckland’s North Shore is a cause for concern for growers.
Fonterra says its earnings for the 2025 financial year are anticipated to be in the upper half of its previously forecast earnings range of 40-60 cents per share.
Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) is having another crack at increasing the fees of its chair and board members.
Livestock management tech company Nedap has launched Nedap New Zealand.
An innovative dairy effluent management system is being designed to help farmers improve on-farm effluent practices and reduce environmental impact.