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The new MF 7700 Series is a workhorse.
With the new year comes a new range from the Massey Ferguson Camp – the 7700 series, which will take the place of the award winning 7600 series.
With nine models (140-255hp) the range should have a broad appeal, particularly in a market segment that amounts to 21% of the total, also because the engine power management system offered on all models gives another 25hp boost which pushes outputs to a range of 165-280hp.
Six-cylinder AGCO Power engines of 6.6 or 7.4L use a third generation Ad-Blue system to meet Tier 4 final emission regulations, doing away with the need for any diesel particulate filters.
A choice of transmissions sees the well sorted Dyna-4, Dyn-6 or Dyna-VT options offering 16F/16R, 24F/24R or continuously variable set-up with a maximum speed of 50km/h.
Upgrades over the outgoing series sees an increase in permissible gross vehicle weights by around 12%, the largest models capable of operating at 14 tonnes, thereby increasing their load capacity; the rear linkage can now carry up to 9950kg, and prove the boss of any job to hand.
The hydraulics use closed centre load sensing systems throughout the range, which offer flow on demand and outputs of 110, 150 or 190L/min dependant on model.
The operator centre gets a spruce up with new dashboard displays and the choice of 'essential' (base) or 'efficient' (mid-range) specification. A host of options such as auto-beacon activation, auto air-conditioning, electric de-icing and various communication and audio choices mean the tractors can be customised to meet operator requirements.
The cab can be equipped with either standard or new active mechanical suspension systems, the latter allowing more automation and allowing the operator to tweak settings for the best ride to suit conditions or differing terrain.
At the front end, as well as the option of an integrated front link system with a lift capacity of 4000kg the tractors have an all-new in-house designed and manufactured front axle suspension system, said to give a smoother ride, and more importantly maintenance-free.
They can be specified with the optional SpeedSteer system that reduces the number of turns required at the steering wheel to go from lock to lock, useful for loader work or repetitive headland turns. The system automatically disengages at speeds above 18 kph.
And, finally, surely a first for tractor manufacturers: the option of a unique key – rather than the traditional one-key-fits-all – so at the end of the day you can lock up your pride and joy securely.
AGCO has released details of the new SB.1436DB small square, or conventional baler, that rather unconventionally, produces two rows of bales per field pass, so doubling the output over a traditional single baler producing 14-by-18-inch bales.
Recently launched to complement the existing DM 8612 TL and DM 9614 TL machines, Massey Ferguson has added the heavy-duty 9614 TL and 10114 TL butterfly mowers to its DM range, with working widths of 9.6m and 10.1m respectively.
As a sign of the times, a sharp downturn in the global demand for tractors and machinery has seen some of the global players announcing lacklustre half yearly results.
Massey Ferguson has announced the launch of the new MF 9S Series, which includes six models with powers from 285hp to 425hp.
A tractor dealership celebrating 65 years selling Massey Fergusons, and other AGCO farm machinery, is still expanding, opening a new branch in Cromwell.
The golden age of orcharding in West Auckland was recently celebrated at the launch of a book which tells the story of its rise, then retreat in the face of industry change and urban expansion.
Everyone from experienced veterinarians and young professionals to the Wormwise programme and outstanding clinics have been recognised in this year’s New Zealand Veterinary Association (NZVA) awards. As part of a series looking at this year’s rural winners, Leo Argent talked with Ginny Dodunski, winner of the Veterinary Impact Award for raising the profile of the Wormwise programme.
Recently two of New Zealand's top Maori sheep and beef farms held field days as part of the prestigious Ahuwhenua Trophy competition. The two are: Whangaroa Ngaiotonga Trust, northeast of Whangarei, and the proprietors of Tawapata Onenui farm on Mahia Peninsula in southern Hawke's Bay. Reporter Peter Burke attended both field days.
The New Zealand hemp industry is hoping for quick and comprehensive reform of its legislative framework after a recent "historic" visit to sites in Canterbury by a big group of politicians, officials and industry stakeholders.
Resolving rural sector disputes constructively, fairly and with long-term outcomes in mind will top the agenda at a gathering of experts in Hamilton next month.
Among the regular exhibitors at last month’s South Island Agricultural Field Days, the one that arguably takes the most intensive preparation every time is the PGG Wrightson Seeds site.
