MS 8S Xtra Raises the Bar for Fuel Efficiency
With the rapid rise of diesel prices since the start of the Iran conflict, farmers and growers are taking fuel consumption seriously as their bottom line is being eroded.
The new Massey Ferguson S series line-up (MF 5700 S, MF 6700 S, MF 7700 S and MF 8700 S) ranging from 100 to 370hp, have a distinctive new style with a new bonnet design, decals, bar lights and headlights to create an up-to-the-minute look.
Inside, the tractors get a new darker seat cover and black armrest frame, and the Datatronic 4 console becomes silver, grey and black.
A key highlight of the S series is the option of the advanced Fieldstar 5 touch-screen ISOBUS terminal on all models in all ranges. This stand-alone 9-inch terminal combines the ease of use and touch-screen convenience of a tablet with powerful precision farming features.
The Fieldstar 5 builds into a complete precision farming package with products that provide mapping, automatic section control, variable rate applications, record keeping and comprehensive machinery monitoring with telemetry.
Complementing the existing Datatronic 4 screen with integral Auto-Guide and automatic steering operation, it also links to the Multipad joystick when fitted, enabling operators to assign ISOBUS control to individual buttons.
For operators using machine guidance, MF is offering the choice of two different GNSS receiver suppliers, either NovAtel or Trimble, who can offer a range of GPS receivers from basic free-to-air to more precise RTK systems, to select steering accuracy that best suit individual operations.
‘S’ tractors are also fitted with a raft of features to improve operator safety and comfort, including improved handrails and guards, clear safety decals and changes to the cab interior.
The Multifunction joystick offers a new switch layout for front loading, front linkage or hydraulic operations, using the joystick for shuttle control, gear ratio changes and 3rd/4th hydraulic functions.
To further enlarge payloads, some models have greater gross vehicle weight (GVW): for example, the GVW on the MF 6715 S Dyna-4 is now 11,000kg and the MF 6718 S -- with its outstanding power-to-weight ratio -- is now 12,500kg for the Dyna-VT model. The MF7722 has the option of 650/85 R38 or 710/70 R42 tyres.
Active mechanical suspension is introduced for the MF 8700 S, offering continuous damping control for ultimate comfort in the field and on the road. Already known on the MF 6700 S and MF 7700, the system provides optimum damping forces for all driving situations, reducing heave/pitch and roll movements and reacts according to vehicle behavior.
Dyna-6 and Dyna-VT models from MF 6700 S and above ranges are available with either 40 or 50km/h maximum speed.
Braking improvements see speed automatically limited to 40km/h if the pedals are not linked for road driving.
