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.
With the current situation in the European farm machinery market being described as difficult at best, it’s perhaps no surprise that the upcoming AgriSIMA 2026 agricultural machinery exhibition, scheduled for February 2026 at Paris-Nord Villepinte, has been cancelled.
The Meat Industry Association of New Zealand (MIA) has launched the first in-market activation of the refreshed Taste Pure Nature country-of-origin brand with an exclusive pop-up restaurant experience in Shanghai.
Jayna Wadsworth, daughter of the late New Zealand wicketkeeper Ken Wadsworth, has launched an auction of cricket memorabilia to raise funds for I Am Hope's youth mental health work.
As we move into the 2025/26 growing season, the Tractor and Machinery Association (TAMA) reports that the third quarter results for the year to date is showing that the stagnated tractor market of the last 18 months is showing signs of recovery.
DairyNZ chair Tracy Brown is urging dairy farmers to participate in the 2026 Levy vote, to be held early next year.
Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) is calling for nominations for director roles in the Eastern North Island and Southern South Island electoral districts.