New Pottinger Novacat comes with automated curve control
Triple 'butterfly' or dual mower combinations have become increasingly popular, offering increased output and better utilisation of tractors that keep gaining horsepower.
Austrian manufacturer Pottinger has added the NOVACAT 402 ED to its range, claiming that with a working width of 3.88 metres, it is the biggest rear-mounted mower with conditioner on the market.
The ED (Extra-Dry) conditioner features V-shaped tines of hardened steel, mounted on rubber blocks and said to guarantee an extended service life. A round, high-volume conditioner hood and adjustable guide vanes deliver a loose and airy full width spread to promote a rapid and uniform drying, or a compact box-shaped swath for following machinery, while also featuring adjustable conditioning intensity.
Weight saving is achieved on the wide machine, with the conditioner hood partially constructed from aluminium.
Mower mounting is aided by a hydraulic lower linkage arm offering easy mounting without having to adjust the tractor hitch struts. When the cutter bar is raised, it is held firmly in place by a stabiliser cylinder, making it easier to drive over swaths and providing greater stability during transport. During transport the mower is pivoted hydraulically to the rear by means of a double-acting cylinder, meaning there is always a clear rearward view.
The swivel mechanism also doubles as a collision protection device.
With safety and good weight distribution in mind, a counterweight delivering up to 600kg is available as an option, increasing the load on the tractors rear left tyre, while at the same time reducing the torsional loading on the machine’s drive shaft assembly.
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