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.
Metallica's charitable foundation, All Within My Hands (AWMH), teamed up with Meet the Need this week for a food packing event held at the New Zealand Food Network warehouse in Auckland.
After two years, Alliance Group has returned to profit.
According to Zespri's November forecast for the 2025/26 season, returns are likely to be up for all fruit groups compared to the last forecast in August.
Next month, wool training will reach one of New Zealand's most remote communities, the Chatham Islands - bringing hands-on skills and industry connection to locals eager to step into the wool harvesting sector.
Farmers' health and wellbeing will take centre stage with a new hub at the 2026 East Coast Farming Expo.
Dannevirke farmer Dan Billing has been announced as the new national chair of Beef + Lamb New Zealand's (B+LNZ) Farmer Council.