Case IH Farmall C Upgrade: More power, weight & precision
The Case IH Farmall C, well known across New Zealand, has just seen an upgrade including a new look, increased weight and hydraulic power, and a cab overhaul.
The first production models of the Case IH Optum are now coming off the factory lines, the first examples expected to hit New Zealand in June.
This tractor, made in Austria, certainly turned heads at Agritechnica in November last year, where it won the coveted Machine of the Year 2016 Award. It fits between the Puma and Magnum ranges, compact in dimensions and lighter in weight.
It is powered by proven FPT 6.7L NEF engines to deliver 270 and 300hp at rated speed. This rises to a maximum of 313hp as the engine comes under load and is complemented by a maximum torque figure of 1282NM at 1400rpm. The engine meets the latest Tier4B emission regulations using SCR technology and is set up to carry 630L of diesel and 96L of Ad-Blue liquid.
The transmission is carried over from the LWB Puma range, upgraded with strengthened castings, a new rear axle and double planetary final drives to handle the increased power.
Speed is steplessly variable between 20m/sec and 53km/h and the Active Stop feature removes the need to hold the tractor on the brakes when stationary.
A load bearing sump assembly acts as a backbone for the tractor and keeps tare weight down; it allows operating weights up to 16,000kg, which helps get the additional power to the ground without compromising the agility of the tractor.
As part of the package a rear lift capacity of 11,058kg combines with the ability to lift 5821kg up front, and a CCLS hydraulic system gives up to 220L/min output. The steering and transmission systems are separate.
Completing the package, a new reactive steering system sees the steering wheel return to the straight ahead position after turns to make high speed work more comfortable; and a headland management function (HMC 2) takes care of repetitive tasks in the paddock, as well as offering a remote file transfer system. Connectivity with implements is by the Isobus 3 plug-and-play system.
Though this tractor is relatively high-spec, operators wanting high-speed transport ability might opt for the ABS or ABS Advanced option.
A Local State of Emergency has been declared for the Waikato for a period of seven days as the region prepares for Cyclone Vaianu to hit the area.
Farmers will get an opportunity to hear about the latest developments in sheep genetics at the Sheep Breeder Forum this May.
Specialist horticulture and viticulture weather forecasters Metris says the incoming Cyclone Vaianu is likely to impact growers across the country.
A group of old Otago uni mates with a love of South Island back-country have gone the lengths of Waiau Toa Clarence from source to sea. Tim Fulton, who joined the group in the final fun to the river mouth, tells their story.
Operating with a completely different format from conventional tractors and combine harvesters, the NEXAT prime mover combines all steps of crop production in one modular carrier vehicle, from tillage, through seeding to harvesting.
Reports of severe weather forecast to move over the vast majority of New Zealand’s kiwifruit orchards this weekend will be very concerning for a significant number of growers.

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