AGCO brand Challenger has started with a clean slate for the next generation of MT700 series track tractors.
The line-up boasts not only a brand new continuously variable transmission (CVT), but also a new engine, undercarriage, hydraulics and cabin.
Challenger, product manager, Tim Oldaker said this was a significant step for the company.
“It’s been a complete re-design, the new transmission is an enormous change, but there is a lot more to talk about,” he said.
Today’s producers demand more than just power and flotation from their track tractors
- Tim Oldaker
“Today’s producers demand more than just power and flotation from their track tractors.”
Mr Oldaker said greater flexibility of use, was a key driver for the substantive changes to the MT700 series.
“Tracks have always been great for straight pulling work,” he said.
“But comfort has been a question mark.
“The re-design means it has almost become a utility tractor for big farms.”
Mr Oldaker said the MT700 is the first two-track machine with three stages of suspension and an oscillating midwheel.
This, he said, would increase comfort and suitability to tasks such as pulling the chaser bin, sprayer or fertiliser spreader, while maintaining effectiveness as big drawbar tractor.
“Operators experience great ride quality without sacrificing the in-field benefits of power, control and traction,” he said.
“Handling at higher road speeds has also been improved and ride comfort when travelling on the road is noticeabley better than previous models.”
Mr Oldaker said the primary suspension had been redesigned with rugged coil springs and high-capacity shock absorbers, for a more comfortable ride compared to hydro-pneumatic suspension systems.
“The MobilTrac System has also been redesigned by moving the hardbar further forward,” he said.
“Providing a longer wheelbase and more stability.”
Mr Oldaker said three new models were available in the MT700 series, ranging from 279 to 317 kilowatts (380 to 431 horsepower) powered by an AGCO 9.8L litre, tier-three diesel engine equipped with a concentric air system.
“It has a lower engine revolutions-per-minute (rpm) concept, with maximum engine rpm of 1700.”
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