Feed pad with rubber matting hailed as game changer
For Otago farmers Michelle and Rogan Borrie, a newly constructed feed pad on one of their three farms has been a game changer.
This is done using a new fully-integrated central tyre inflation (CTIF) system.
Available ex-factory on 8Rs fitted with independent link suspension, this in-house manufactured system uses an on-board compressor. This means that tyres can be deflated to increase their footprint by nearly 25%, while a reduction of up to 3psi in ground pressure results in 2-4% less wheel slip.
Other benefits of lower in-paddock tyre pressures include reduced compaction and fuel consumption as well as increased pulling performance.
Configured with large diameter fabric air lines for rapid inflation and deflation times, the internal pressure of a 710/75R42 and 650/60R34 combination can be increased from 0.8 to 1.8 bar in under six and a half minutes for road travel.
This offers improved driving behaviour, reduced rolling resistance and less tyre wear. Once back in the paddock, it only takes around four minutes to revert to the lower pressure settings.
An external compressed air connection makes it possible to connect an air gun for cleaning purposes or powering air tools.
