HarvesTimes Autumn 2022

HarvesTimes

Rory Harrold, North Norfolk, May 2022

CLAAS

Reinhold

LEXION

LEXION 8900 – Finlay Hay, Perthshire

TRION 650 – Chris and Annalisa Heal, Gloucestershire

VARIO

Smart Farming

Higher density VARIANT 500 22 Customer Testimonials

JAGUAR 970 – James Mair, Ayrshire

JAGUAR 880 – Peter Hutchings, North Devon 26

New wide-working DISCO 1010 28

QUADRANT EVOLUTION 29 Customer Testimonials

QUADRANT 5200 EVOLUTION – Richard and Andrew Boughtwood, Dorset 30 Materials handling

TORION

SCORPION 746 – Tree Fella, Essex

Narrow

CMATIC – Garry Russell, Dumfriesshire

CMATIC – Nick Philp, Berkshire

ARION 660 CMATIC – David Dale, Cheshire

Finlay Hay, Perthshire, September 2022

Contact us on: 01284 763100 Email: cuk.reception@CLAAS.com or visit claas.co.uk facebook.com/CLAAS.UnitedKingdom

Reinhold Claas passes away

Reinhold Claas, the third son of CLAAS founder August Claas and a long-standing member of the Shareholders Committee and Supervisory Board of the CLAAS Group, passed away on 7 June 2022 at the age of 91. Together with his brother Helmut Claas, he played a sizeable role in building up the company after the Second World War.

“All those who knew Reinhold Claas appreciated him for his friendly and modest manner. People and the well-being of the family business always came first for him. Through his actions in important phases of the company’s history, he made a significant contribution to our success today,” explains Thomas Böck, CEO of CLAAS.

Reinhold Claas was a graduate industrial engineer and officially joined the company with his brother Helmut in July 1957. His main focus was on the development of balers and forage harvesters. Among other things, he was responsible for setting up baler production at the newly built factory in Metz, France. He was also the driving force behind the takeover of the renowned specialist for forage harvesting machines, Josef Bautz GmbH in Bad Saulgau, in 1969. Reinhold Claas was also active as an entrepreneur outside the family business, running two other companies until the 1990s.

Most recently, Reinhold Claas held a seat on the Supervisory Board and two advisory boards. In the CLAAS Group, his son Rüdiger Claas is now the third generation to succeed his father.

Prototype TERRA TRAC with pneumatic tyres on the CLAAS MEGA.

25 years of TERRA TRAC

The origins of the renowned TERRA TRAC crawler system began 35 years ago. Officially launched 10 years later, full scale production began and in the last 25 years over 35,000 units have been manufactured.

The introduction of the TERRA TRAC system for the LEXION in 1997 marked a milestone in combine harvesting technology. The friction crawler track system continued to develop and was extensively tested by CLAAS Industrietechnik (CIT) in Paderborn, setting a standard benchmark in the industry.

RAPID DEVELOPMENT

In 2004, driving comfort was significantly improved by the introduction of rubber shock absorbers on the axles of the running gear. The development of hydro pneumatic suspension in 2011 still provides excellent comfort characteristics today. This enabled significantly improved ground tracking, and a driving speed of 40 km/h on the road could be achieved for the first time.

Initially only 10% of combines were fitted with TERRA TRAC crawler track systems, but today it is more than 50 percent for the LEXION alone. In North America, more than 70 percent of LEXION combines are delivered with crawler track systems, while in the UK it’s more than 90 percent.

THE ONLY FULL-SUSPENSION HALF-TRACK TRACTOR ON THE MARKET

The TERRA TRAC drive system continues to be developed and expanded onto other CLAAS machines. In addition to being available on the LEXION 8000/7000/6000/5000 and more recently the new TRION, in 2019 series production of the AXION TERRA TRAC commenced. The AXION is still the only full-suspension half-track tractor on the market. At the end of 2018, CLAAS also added two JAGUAR forage harvesters with integrated crawler track systems to its product portfolio. These are fitted with drives that incorporate a patented headland protection system allowing the contact area of the drives to be reduced when turning at the headland, bringing the benefits of TERRA TRAC to grassland and other sensitive areas.

TERRA TRAC NOT JUST FOR CLAAS

But it is not only on CLAAS machines where TERRA TRAC is fitted. Other manufacturers have also recognised the soil compaction benefits they provide and TERRA TRAC is now to be found on a wide range of machines such as self-propelled beet harvesters, vegetable and potato harvesters and slurry application equipment.

Other applications now include TERRA TRAC versions of the AXION and JAGUAR

25 years of the CLAAS XERION

XERION TIMELINE:

1978

Project 207 is launched

1993

The Project 207 tractor is renamed XERION

1997

The XERION 2500 is fully launched onto the market

It’s 25 years since the XERION was first launched on the market and to celebrate this milestone, a limited edition machine has been released. Based on the colour scheme of the first XERION 2500 from 1997, the machines will be on display at shows and exhibitions, with a small number available for sale.

After more than 20 years of development, the XERION 2500 set new standards in terms of multi-functionality and versatility in high-horsepower tractors. Powered by a 250hp Caterpillar six-cylinder engine it used the HM08 continuously variable transmission developed by CLAAS.

2004

The 335hp XERION 3300 introduced using a ZF CVT transmission

2007

The higher powered 379hp XERION 3800 is launched along with a SADDLETRAC version

2009

The XERION 4500 (483hp) and 5000 (524hp) are introduced

2013

Change to TIER 4 Daimler Benz/MTU engines. XERION 4000 (429hp) added

Thanks to its four attachment and body areas, the enormous payload, the rotating cab and the two steering axles with equal sized drive wheels and as permanent all-wheel drive, the XERION was unique in many areas and opened up new fields of application.

Today, up to 400 XERION roll off the Harsewinkel production line every year and in the last three years alone sales figures have doubled. The XERION is to be found at work on farms around the world, where it offers a unique combination of versatility, efficiency, soil protection and performance, unrivalled by any other tractor.

2014

XERION launched in the US

2019

Stage V XERION 4200 (462hp), 4500 (490hp) and 5000 530hp) introduced

Further investment in AgXeed

CLAAS has broadened its cooperation with Dutch startup AgXeed for the development and commercialization of autonomous agricultural machines, and through its investment company, Seed Green Innovations GmbH, has participated in the company’s Series A financing round.

As an investment company within the CLAAS Group, Seed Green Innovations GmbH supports innovative companies that want to play a key role in shaping the future of agriculture and gives them access to CLAAS.

MUTUAL BENEFITS

The cooperation between CLAAS and AgXeed was established after the first investment in Spring 2021 and has been continuously expanded since then. With the followup investment, CLAAS secures further access to innovative technologies for autonomous agricultural machines. At the same

time, AgXeed benefits from the international network and the expertise of the CLAAS Group in many areas, from development to sales and service.

In addition to the 154hp tracked AgBot launched in 2020, a three-wheeled AgBot for orchards and vineyards followed in 2021, which was recently joined by the four-wheeled AgBot, both of which are 74hp. All vehicles are diesel-electric. Together with CLAAS and its other backers, AgXeed intends to further accelerate the development of efficient and holistic agricultural process solutions in the coming years.

Investing for future growth

Around €40 million is to be invested over the next few years in rebuilding the Bad Saulgau site, which is the main production centre for CLAAS green harvest machinery. The core objective is to adjust production capacities to meet increasing demand and future growth.

INCREASING DEMAND FOR GREEN HARVEST PRODUCTS

As part of an ongoing investment programme, the infrastructure of the site is currently being expanded and upgraded, while an existing 5000 m2 hall is being redesigned in order to create additional assembly space. In parallel, the entire energy infrastructure is being adapted and upgraded over several stages to meet future production capacity. This will be followed by investments in the areas of production logistics and assembly optimisation.

This will provide the additional production space needed to meet the increased demand for CLAAS green harvest products, especially the ORBIS row-crop header, in particular the ORBIS 900 which has significantly exceeded sales expectations. In addition, CLAAS will also be expanding, modernising and continuing to professionalise its range of mowers, tedders, swathers and balers with many new products over the next few years and many new innovations are currently being developed and tested to achieve this.

Robotic collaboration

CLAAS has a long history of being at the forefront of technological development, in an industry where research into the use of robotics, data connectivity and automation is expanding at an exponential rate.

In Germany a new technology community, the Agrotech Valley Forum, has been set up which, with €20 million in funding raised so far, has recently moved into new offices and workshops that have been developed at Gut Arenshorst, a farm based around an 18th Century manor near Osnabruck that is owned by the Claas family and today run by Patrick Claas.

Here, the new campus for research into artificial intelligence and digitalisation will enable companies involved in the fields of robotics, regenerative drives, sensor networks and mobile communication to work together developing pioneering new technology.

The development also includes space on the farm where new innovations can be put to practical work and the robots can safely operate on a field scale, while being monitored 24/7.

A positive influence

At the end of April, CLAAS UK held its first major ‘CLAAS in Grass’ working event based at the new Customer Experience Centre adjacent to the CLAAS headquarters.

Over two days, farmers and contractors from around the UK were able to see working demonstrations of the complete range of CLAAS Green Line harvest machinery and tractors.

This was followed by a special third ‘Influencers’ day to which a number of YouTube influencers from the UK and Ireland were invited. The day included the working demonstration plus the opportunity to try out the latest TORION 1511P and SCORPION 736 in the loading area. In addition, they were given a full site tour of the new CLAAS UK headquarters, including the Technoparcs, the CLAAS Academy and Parts Centre.

Between them, ‘Olly Blogs Agricontract Farmer’, ‘Olly’s Farm’, ‘Lord Muck’ and ‘George Sanders’ from the UK, and ‘Farmer Phil’ from Ireland, have nearly 370,000 subscribers to their YouTube channels.

The day proved a great success and resulted in a considerable amount of coverage and comment on the influencers social media channels.

Green Harvest Product Manager Dean Cottey (left) explains the JAGUAR chopping system and ease of access for servicing and changing blades.

Between them, the five YouTube influencers have nearly 370,000 subscribers to their YouTube channels.

All the influencers who drove the new TORION 1511P were impressed by its power and performance.

Norfolk farmer Olly Roberts has 103,000 subscribers to his ‘Olly’s Farm’ YouTube channel.

Dealers support industry leading apprenticeship

The new in-house Apprenticeship Scheme is fully supported by the CUK dealer network and the new course which started this Autumn boasts its maximum intake of 23 students.

PURPOSE BUILT FOR EXCELLENCE

CLAAS is the only UK machinery manufacturer to deliver a specific in-house apprenticeship scheme under the one roof of the manufacturer, using purpose built facilities. Opened earlier this year the new development is an integral part of the CLAAS ACADEMY at the Saxham site headquarters.

WELCOMING OUR NEW STUDENTS

Following the inaugural intake of students in February, a further 23 students from dealerships throughout England, Wales and Ireland arrived at Saxham for the start of their 4-year blockrelease course in September.

A further cohort of Scottish students were welcomed onto their course, provided by the Scottish Rural College (SRUC), Barony, Dumfries.

GROWING OUR OWN

The CLAAS Apprenticeship Scheme was introduced to help raise the standard of newly qualified engineers. By ‘growing our own’ CLAAS UK can ensure that the engineers of the future have been fully trained on the very latest CLAAS machinery and that they have the skill set to keep them abreast of technological advancements within the industry, including key franchises offered by our dealer network. During their apprenticeship, the students will study for a Level 3 Apprenticeship Standard in Land-Based Service Engineering Technician, delivered by dedicated CLAAS trainers alongside specialist product trainers from the main CLAAS ACADEMY.

The new Apprentice Academy with its purpose built facilities and specialist fabrication, engine workshops and classrooms, to break-out areas and on-site restaurant, provide the students with some of the best training facilities in the UK. The 3 million Euros development is a worldwide first for the CLAAS Group and is being used as a blueprint for the instigation of similar programmes within the company’s global operation.

Students from dealerships across England, Wales and Ireland started their studies at the new industry leading Apprenticeship Academy at Saxham.

From England and Wales:

Amelia Kitchen, Charlie Denny, Luke Newell (CLAAS MANNS); Daniel Simpson, Daniel Thompson, Finnlay Carson, Frazer Hornby, Ruby Cutts (CLAAS EASTERN); Ben Matthews, William Vellacott (CLAAS WESTERN); Alfie Hay, Andrew Spark, Archie Burkill, Finlay Stobbs, James Walker, Owen Clapham, William Hall (RICKERBY); Joshua Bailey (MORRIS CORFIELD); Oliver Lowe (OLIVERS); Joseph Wayte (RIVERLEA); Sam Whiteman (ALKMONTON TRACTORS).

And from Ireland, Ciaran Joyce and Emmet McKinley from KELLYS.

Joining the CLAAS Apprenticeship course based at SRUC Barony are:

Archie Kerr, Callum Adams and Luke McBurnie (GORDONS); Ivor Smith (GEDDES) and Lewis Bruce (SELLARS)

Ongoing investment in dealer premises

The past year has seen a number of CLAAS dealers investing in the expansion of their premises. This growth benefits customers and staff and provides the extra workshop space needed to accommodate the larger machines. It also gives extra storage space for increased stock of parts and provides more retail space for displaying machines, retail shop areas and offices.

RICKERBY

RICKERBY has opened its 9th branch at Burscough near Ormskirk. This new site will provide existing and new customers in South West Lancashire with the highest level of service and support for which the company is very well known.

Earlier this year RICKERBY were awarded both the CLAAS Dealer of the Year Performance award and the CLAAS Platinum Dealer Excellence Award, in recognition of their outstanding customer service and support, and overall business management.

CLAAS EASTERN

The CLAAS EASTERN branch at Ulceby Cross has been transformed following the complete redevelopment of the site and the construction of a new, purpose built premises. Conveniently located on the junction of the main A16 and A1028 in central Lincolnshire, the new site includes state of the art workshops, a larger parts storage facility and a new retail area selling a wide range of tools, clothing, maintenance items and sundry parts.

SELLARS

In Scotland, SELLARS has opened a new branch at Throsk near Stirling, replacing their temporary depot at Linlithgow. The branch will serve the area from Edinburgh west along the Firth of Forth and the Forth River, to the west coast.

The builders have also been busy at the SELLARS Huntly branch in Aberdeenshire. The investment in a new building on the long established Huntly site has enabled SELLARS to expand its workshop and office facilities.

B W MACK

The family owned dealership B W Mack has recently given both its main office and workshop buildings on its site near Downham Market in Norfolk a facelift, including the addition of the latest CLAAS dealership branding.

ends

TRION

Ed King, Cambridgeshire, TRION 750 TT.

Learn more about TRION.

Made for your unique challenges, your specific goals, your individual success –the new CLAAS TRION comes with choices, not compromises.

With TERRA TRAC and MONTANA options available across the model range, discuss your requirements with your CLAAS dealer today.

“What

up in the tank of the

is absolutely awesome – I have never seen a combine produce a sample like it.”

New cab, more power and new

Three years after the new Generation II LEXION was launched, 2023 will see an expansion of the range, new features and a number of technology upgrades. Joining the LEXION Hybrid line-up will be the new LEXION 8600 and 8600TT, plus new MONTANA versions of the LEXION 5500 and LEXION 7700. In addition, all LEXION will have a new cab, as well as some increased engine power and greater grain tank volume.

NEW ENTRY LEVEL HYBRID

Previously only available in the US, in European trials the LEXION 8600 and LEXION 8600 TERRA TRAC has been shown to offer high throughput levels but also unrivalled efficiency. As with current hybrid models, the LEXION 8600 has a drum width of 1,700 mm and is powered by a highly efficient 12.4 l MAN D26 six-cylinder Stage V engine delivering 549 hp and uses DYNAMIC POWER to automatically adapt the power output relative to harvesting conditions. The grain tank volume is 12,500 l on the LEXION 8600 and 13,500 l on the LEXION 8600 TERRA TRAC. At the same time, the LEXION 8800 and 8700 models are also getting more engine power. The LEXION 8700 gains 41 hp to 626 hp, while power output for the LEXION 8800 has been increased by 47 hp to 700 hp. In addition, the 16.2 l MAN D42 six-cylinder from the 8900 will now also power the LEXION 8800. The increase in output and optimised torque curves mean that a greater power reserve is available, which keeps the engine speed constant, particularly under difficult harvesting conditions.

TWO NEW MONTANA MODELS

Two new MONTANA hillside versions of the LEXION 5500 straw-walker and 7700 hybrid models join the six TRION models launched last year. This means CLAAS can now offer farmers and contractors an unrivalled choice of eight MONTANA machines for use on steeper slopes. Lateral slope compensation of up to

18 degrees and longitudinal inclinations of up to 6 degrees can be achieved via the hydraulic adjustment of the chassis. POWER TRAC all-wheel drive, electrically selectable differential lock for the front axle and AUTO SLOPE cleaning increase forward speed and optimise cleaning performance with automated adjustment to slopes and inclines.

LARGER CAB WITH ROTATING SEAT

The new generation cab introduced with the TRION in 2021 has now been extended to all LEXION combine harvesters for the coming season. The generous space around both the head and foot area, the addition of footpegs, as well as the optional leather seat, which can be rotated by 30 degrees on both sides, are particularly noteworthy for the optimal seating position at all times. The wider command centre offers an excellent view of the header and the surrounding area thanks to larger front and side windows, thinner A-pillars and a split mirror design. The 360 degree wiper ensures a wide field of vision ahead in wet and dusty harvesting conditions. The 12-inch CEBIS terminal with a high-resolution, high-contrast HD display guarantees excellent readability under all lighting conditions and offers three individually adjustable main display areas. The optional CEMOS DIALOG and CEMOS AUTOMATIC are also fully integrated here and operated by touch and the rotary/push control. In addition, all threshing and cleaning settings can be accessed quickly using direct access buttons on the right-hand side of the operating armrest.

New LEXION 5500 MONTANA

Updates to the LEXION range include a new cab and additional models.

CEMOS automatic functions

The CEBIS terminal and armrest can be individually adapted to the driver independently of one another. Thanks to the CMOTION multifunction lever, the driver always has the most important functions under control and can save up to seven individual settings. A 30 l cool box and a 360-degree LED light package are optionally available, as is a multimedia package with subwoofer and gooseneck microphone.

When specified with GPS PILOT for automated steering, the new CEMIS 1200 terminal is positioned on the right-hand side of the cab, which can also be used for online order management and documentation. A new option is DYNAMIC STEERING, which reduces the number of turns of the steering wheel by 40 percent when the steering wheel is fully locked, making it easier for the driver to cross back into the next run up the field while turning on the headland.

Another new feature on all LEXION is a “slow retraction” function. After the reversing process, the direction of rotation of the reversing motor can be easily reversed at the push of a button, so that the crop is transferred slowly and more evenly to the threshing mechanism. This allows peak loads to be avoided after reversing.

MORE GRAIN TANK VOLUME AND OPTIONAL SWIVEL SPOUT FOR ALL MODELS

On the LEXION 8800 there is now the option of a 18,000 l grain tank, while a 15,000 l grain tank is also available for the LEXION 8700. For greater control when emptying, a pivoting spout with a range of 60cm is now available on all unloading augers, operated via the favourites management on the CMOTION multifunction control lever.

NEW CEMOS FUNCTIONALITY

Additional functions within CEMOS include a new dialog-based loss measurement in CEMOS DIALOG so that the loss sensors can be calibrated more precisely. CEMOS AUTO HEADER is a further innovation for LEXION and TRION that automatically optimises the cutterbar settings, while the FIELD SCANNER has an additional cleaning function for extreme operating conditions, so that reliable optical detection of the crop is always guaranteed both for automated steering by detecting the crop edges and for CEMOS AUTO HEADER.

New cab

Clearly designed as a driver-friendly machine

Duly an order was placed in late 2020 for a new 8900 as well as a brace of CONVIO FLEX 1380s – one for the new combine, the second for the business’ four-year-old 780TT. That necessitated some fairly significant modifications to the machine’s intake elevator – a cost that was felt to be worth it given the potential for extra output.

WHY CONVIO HEADERS?

“The investment required to modify our 780 to run the CONVIO cutterbar was not insignificant. But being only four years old it was just halfway through its time with us and if it meant getting more from the machine it felt like it was a worthwhile outlay. There was never any doubt that we’d go the same way with the new 8900.

To that end the Perthshire business runs two top-end CLAAS combines – a 2017 780TT and a 2021 8900. Both are equipped with 13.8m CONVIO FLEX belt-fed headers which have significantly increased the machines’ acre-eating appetites.

“When it came to changing our older 780 – a 2013 machine – we once again wanted to go for the highest output model on offer to ensure we could clear crops within our increasingly tightening weather windows,” explains Finlay Hay.

“The demonstration combine that came to us was an 8900 with a standard VARIO header. It was seriously impressive, romping on ahead of the 780s. The bigger drum and concaves up front were clearly making a difference but it was the extra horsepower that was really pushing things along.

“But we’d heard that changing to a draper header could push the envelope further. We spoke to people running CONVIO cutterbars who said they were seeing 15-20% increases in daily outputs. That sealed the deal for us.”

“In just that first season the investment paid off. Not only does the belt header up output by the way it consistently presents the crop head first to the threshing drum, its ability to continue feeding it in as conditions deteriorate means we’re getting an extra two or three hours cutting in each day.”

The ability of the CONVIO FLEX to adapt and hug uneven terrain has proved another big plus-point for the operation.

“Sprayer ruts and headland furrows are no challenge for the flexible cutterbar,” says 8900 operator Dave McDonald.

“I can set it to shave the stubbles – particularly useful in laid and short crops – and it just swallows it up without taking in heaps of stone and soil. Getting crop to feed in the front of the combine was always the limiting factor for us at night. Moving to these belt-fed headers has meant we can just about go combining in the rain.”

The challenging harvest conditions in eastern Scotland mean the moment crops are fit to cut they need to be cleared. With some 2520ha (6235acres) of arable cropping, the team at Hay Farms needs high capacity machinery to make sure every tonne of grain ends up in the shed in peak condition.

Finlay Hay and Dave McDonald

IN-FIELD EFFICIENCY

That extra output isn’t just down to the header, threshing gear and engine. Changes to grain handling on the 8900 have had a significant impact too.

“The speed that the unloading auger runs at is seriously impressive – I can drop a full 15,000-litre tank load in under 90 seconds. That means the chaser bin is back to the other combine faster and there are no hold-ups.

“Having the ability to shut the discharge speed down to half rate is really useful when we’re unloading into trailers. I can top them off more accurately, ensuring each one goes away with a proper load on board.

“The 8900 has clearly been designed as a driver-friendly machine. A proper hatchway and ladder down into the grain tank make cleaning out a much safer task and little things like the hand-wash tank and retractable hose reel just make the job that much easier on the operator.”

HOW DO THE TWO COMBINES DIFFER?

“Output is obviously the biggest differentiator between the 8900 and the 780 but you’d expect that with the extra horsepower and bigger threshing gear,” says Mr Hay.

“But there’s another equally significant difference – the sample the new combine produces is extraordinary. The 780 was good but the 8900 is something else. When the trailers tip up in the shed you can clearly see which combine the grain has come off.”

WHAT ABOUT FUEL USAGE?

“Moving to CONVIO headers has seen both combines running that much more smoothly because the crop is presented so much more uniformly. That’s had a clear impact on fuel usage.

“Previously with its VARIO cutterbar our 780 was using an average of 2.62-litres/tonne throughout harvest. Switching to the draper header saw that figure drop to 2.17-litres/tonne.

“The 8900 is a step on again. Running alongside the older combine right through harvest, last year it averaged 1.93-litres/ tonne.”

WHY CLAAS?

“We’ve run CLAAS combines since 2004 and have always been impressed by the reliability, build quality and support from CLAAS UK.

“On top of that we’ve got a first class dealer in SELLARS –sales, workshop and parts all run really well together. They’ve got superb mechanics and storemen – the back-up is just great.

“We view SELLARS and CLAAS as crucial partners in what we do. It’s a relationship of trust – if they say a combine will do a job, we know it will do it. That’s critical when you’ve got over 2,500 ha to cut in adverse Scottish conditions.

“Without doubt the move to CONVIO headers has brought a massive improvement in output, both on an hourly basis and in extending the working day,” concludes Finlay.

“The 8900 has brought huge efficiency gains too resulting in less fuel burnt and a better quality sample in the shed – it’s been a very worthwhile investment.”

Maximum output with minimum wastage

Running a grain cleaning and treatment business that sees some 100,000 tonnes pass through the gates each year, the Heal family are kept pretty busy year-round. But it’s at harvest that the pressure can really ramp up.

With lorries coming and going, the treatment plant running flatout and some 300 ha of crops to cut of their own, the team have their work cut out. To ease the pressure somewhat last year the South Gloucestershire business upped its harvesting capacity, swapping out an eight year-old TUCANO 450 for a new TRION 650.

“We’d been looking at upgrading for a while and then I got a call from our salesman to say a 2021 stock machine had become available. It represented a massive saving over a 2022 machine, so an opportunity not to be missed, particularly given the attractive trade-in price for our old machine. It made good business sense.”

HOW HAS THE TRION 650 PERFORMED?

“We’re getting significantly more daily output due to the bigger drum and sieving area which means we’re better able to take advantage of the harvest weather windows. Our driver – Alan –keeps a very close eye on losses and happily reports very little grain left on the ground.

“We’ve always found that our CLAAS combines have produced an excellent sample and the TRION is no exception to this, saving on wastage and cleaning.”

Chris Heal

TELEMATICS

“Having TELEMATICS on the new combine has made a huge difference to me in managing harvest logistics,” explains Annalisa.

“Being mainly office-based, I can access the system any time of day from my PC. This is a great help during harvest, being able to locate the combine at any point so that we can plan, knowing when we’re going to need to refuel or have trailers ready for emptying.”

“For a number of years we’ve been doing variable rate drilling and fertiliser applications with the aid of soil mapping. Having yield maps generated through TELEMATICS now completes the circle for us, aiding us to build an overall picture of how the soil and crops are performing.”

STRAW AND CHOP QUALITY

“Being a six-walker machine the TRION 650 has the output we need but is still kind on the straw. That’s really important to us as it’s an essential income stream for our business,” says Annalisa.

“That said, in an effort to try and improve soil health through building organic matter, we’re now chopping more than ever before. To that end the chopper unit on the new combine is a revolution. It makes a really uniform job across the full 25ft cut width, actively blowing the chopped material down into the stubble so that it isn’t affected by cross-winds.”

DRIVER BENEFITS

“The new design of cab and controls have proved easy to master. Alan, our man in the driving seat, has been working with us for over 30 years and has taken to it very quickly. He’s particularly happy with the comfort offered by the new cab on the TRION.

“Having Fieldscanner steering means he’s able to concentrate on what the combine is doing rather than on where it’s going. We’re convinced that’s a big factor in why we’re getting so much out of the TRION. And, at the end of the day you come off the combine feeling relaxed, fresh and looking forward to the next working day.”

WHY CLAAS?

“We have an absolutely brilliant relationship with CLAAS WESTERN at Cirencester. I’ve dealt with them for over 30 years and the back-up is beyond expectations,” says Chris.

“Our sales rep Richard Hutchinson has become a close friend over the decades and the rest of the team are always on hand when needed. If we need parts one of them will generally drop them in on their way home – you can’t ask for better service than that.

“Off the back of that, not only do we run a CLAAS combine but we also have a full fleet of CLAAS tractors. Our drivers find them simple to operate and critically they’re solid, reliable machines.”

Business Facts

CG&D Heal Ltd near Bristol

Farmed area 300 ha

Cropping 2021

Winter wheat 162 ha Winter barley 35 ha Oilseed rape 28 ha Spring beans 27 ha Remainder in mid-tier stewardship, woodland and conservation

Contract grain storage

30,000 tonnes plus a further 100,000 tonnes/year grain cleaning and treatment

Staff

Chris, Di and Annalisa Heal plus 1 general manager, 1 combine/sprayer/tractor driver and 3 staff working at harvest or in grain treatment plant as required.

Annalisa Heal

New CEMOS AUTO HEADER

CEMOS AUTO has revolutionised combine performance and the ability for an operator to allow the combine to automatically alter settings as the crop and conditions change at a rate that no operator could ever manage.

Until now, the only missing link in this chain of automation has been the cutterbar, but with the new CEMOS AUTO HEADER system, which has been awarded a silver medal this year by the Agritechnica Innovations Commission, that is no longer the case.

a new reel drive for the three widest VARIO cutterbars, these features are now also available for the smaller working widths. The new rapeseed cutting knives feature powerful mechanical drives with an integrated overload clutch and a cutting force that has been increased by 50 percent. This means that even the most difficult areas on field edges and bends or with heavy weeds can be driven through reliably and without problems. Thanks to an ingenious plug-in system with quick couplers, fitting is possible without tools within a few seconds on each side. Installation is also made easier by the 33 percent reduction in weight. Thanks to a new clamping device, the assembly and disassembly of the stalk dividers for grain harvesting is also simplified.

The new reel is driven by a gearbox instead of the previous chain drive. As a result, the automatic traction control for the tractiondependent reel height adjustment is also finding its way into the smaller VARIO cutterbars. When using the automatic reel system, which automatically adjusts the reel speed relative to the driving speed, a sensor continuously measures the hydraulic pressure in the reel drive. If this increases due to high harvest quantities so that the drive can no longer maintain the required reel speed, the reel height is automatically increased slightly until the required speed is reached again. If the pressure decreases, the automatic system lowers the reel again. Both the level of drive torque for triggering the control and the response behaviour can be set separately in CEBIS.

AUTOMATED CUTTERBAR ADJUSTMENT

Instead of the operator needing to manually alter the table length or the vertical and horizontal reel position, at the press of a button CEMOS AUTO HEADER will automatically adapt the cutterbar settings to the respective harvesting conditions. The reel height is controlled on the basis of measurement data from a laser sensor within the FIELD SCANNER integrated in the cab roof. Vibration data recorded by a layer height sensor in the feed channel is also used to control the table length and the horizontal reel position.

As a result, crop flow into the threshing system is more even, which reduces the load on all units from the cutterbar to the feeder housing and the primary and secondary separation, further optimizing smooth running and at the same time improving the grain quality and ensuring constant outputs at maximum performance. The driver can fully concentrate on checking all machine data and quality parameters in CEBIS, as well as on the transfer process when unloading on the move. The FIELD SCANNER has an additional cleaning function for extreme operating conditions, so that reliable optical detection of the crop is always guaranteed both for automated steering by detecting the crop edges and for CEMOS AUTO HEADER.

NEW RAPESEED KNIVES AND REEL TRACTION CONTROL

After the introduction of new rapeseed knives and

INTENT DETECTION FOR ALL CUTTERBAR SERIES

Originally introduced on selected cutterbars a few years ago, header detection has now been extended across all combine cutterbar models. As a result, the basic data and settings of the respective cutterbar, such as the working width and the cutterbar type, are automatically adopted from the combine harvester so that the driver only has to make adjustments to the harvesting conditions if necessary. The FIELD SCANNER also automatically accepts the relevant information for automatic steering and for CEMOS AUTO HEADER (VARIO headers only).

New CEMIS 1200 standard terminal

Developed by CLAAS ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS, the CEMIS 1200 becomes the new standard terminal for the LEXION, TRION, JAGUAR and all CLAAS tractors. Capable of handling online documentation, ISOBUS and TASK controller applications, section control and variable quantity control, it replaces the previous S10 universal terminal. The design, graphics and operation using the 12-inch multi-touch screen are based on the CLAAS CEBIS, making operation intuitive and simple. The receiver and control technology used in the CEMIS 1200 was developed through a strategic partnership with Trimble.

The CEMIS 1200 has a 12-inch high-brightness display with multi-touch and manual day/night view switching. The working areas and views for automated steering, site-specific quantity control and documentation can be freely configured. Quick Access enables direct, easy access to important functional areas and menus.

MAXIMUM BANDWIDTH FOR AUTOMATED STEERING

The CEMIS 1200 comes with the SAT 900 multi GNSS receiver for a maximum range of possibilities. The SAT 900 supports all correction signals and enables the use of GPS, GLONASS, Galileo and BEIDOU. Receiver and terminal can be exchanged quickly and easily between different machines in a fleet.

The CEMIS 1200 comes with integrated CLAAS license management as standard. The CLAAS GPS PILOT is available for automated satellite-assisted steering. A 5-year license for the SATCOR 15 correction signal by Trimble RTX is included as standard, which enables an accuracy of +/- 15 cm. For more precise work, SATCOR 3 by Trimble RTX with +/- 3 cm accuracy is optionally available as an alternative to RTK correction signals.

Various RTK correction signals can be used via the RTK NET interface, especially for use in CTF controlled traffic farming systems or in strip-till tillage and planting processes, which allow highly precise repeatability in the range of +/- 2 to 3 cm over several years. A component of all RTK activations is the bridging signal RTK BRIDGING STANDARD, which provides seamless backup corrections at the centimetre level for up to 20 minutes in the event of a correction signal failure. A license for RTK BRIDGING PREMIUM is available for unlimited centimetre level backup corrections.

MULTIFUNCTIONAL ISOBUS OPTIONS

In addition to the GPS PILOT for automated steering, the CEMIS 1200 includes the ISOBUS UT / AUX-N and ISO Task Controller TC-BAS functionalities for controlling ISOBUS attachments as well as online file transfer enabling data transmission for documentation purposes as standard. TC-BAS allows the import and export of work orders with reference tracks, field boundaries and activities in ISO-XML format in conjunction with a farm management program. In connection with TELEMATICS or the FMIS systems 365FarmNet and Omnia, tasks can be exchanged online. Further functionalities are optionally available:

• TC-SC for Section Control part-width section switching with compatible ISOBUS attachments such as seed drills, fertiliser spreaders, crop protection sprayers or hoes. Up to 80 sections can be controlled.

• TC-GEO for data collection, data transmission and data mapping as documentation and basis for field planning.

• Variable Rate Application (VRA) for GPS-based application rate control when sowing, fertilizing or in crop protection. Application maps are transferred to the Task Manager as ISO-XML orders

New cooperation with Trimble

CLAAS has entered into a strategic cooperation with Trimble Inc to jointly develop a new generation of GPS PILOT guidance systems for CLAAS tractors, combine harvesters and forage harvesters.

The joint development includes the areas of satellitesupported steering as well as precision farming and the ISOBUS infrastructure including task management. In addition, Trimble supplies the SAT 900 GPS receiver specifically specified for the new generation of CLAAS GPS PILOT.

“Trimble, as an experienced, innovative and globally represented supplier of steering systems, was our first choice for a strategic cooperation,” explains Dr. Carsten Hoff, Managing Director of CLAAS E-Systems. “Trimble satellite guidance systems have been proven over many years in many regions of the world and offer highly accurate, reliable guidance and numerous functions such as globally available satellite signals, track transmission and track planning. In addition, Trimble - supported by the subsidiary Müller-Elektronik - brings excellent competence in the areas of ISOBUS and task management, which ideally complement our own competences and technologies”.

The first product to result from the cooperation is the new CEMIS 1200 ISOBUS terminal with a 12-inch touch display for the next generation of steering systems, which replaces S10 terminal. The steering systems developed together with Trimble will be used exclusively on CLAAS machines and cannot be used with other manufacturers machinery. Sales and service are provided exclusively via the worldwide CLAAS sales and dealer network. CLAAS TELEMATICS, CLAAS connect and the connection to 365FarmNet will continue to be developed exclusively by CLAAS. Previously available interfaces such as DataConnect and CLAAS APIs to external platforms such as Climate FieldView or OMNIA will also be adopted.

Higher density VARIANT 500

New for 2023 is the VARIANT 500 range of variable chamber round balers. Further development of functional areas such as the pressure control system have resulted in increased baling density and easier maintenance while at the same time meeting practical demands for tyres that protect the soil.

The VARIANT 500 range comprises four models. The VARIANT 560 RC and 565 RF can create bales from 0.90 to 1.60 m in diameter, while bale diameter with the VARIANT 580 RC and 585 RF is up to 1.80 m. The new VARIANT 560 RF and 580 RF both feature a spiral ROTO FEED rotor, while the VARIANT 565RC and 585RC both come with a spiral ROTO CUT four-star cutting rotor that ensures excellent forage quality and high baling density.

The VARIANT 565 RC and 585 RC also incorporate heavy duty drive components such as reinforced drive chains, a strong cutting rotor with 8 mm double-tine stars and special knife protection for where the baler is heavily used and primarily for silage. Both balers are equipped with a 17-knife cutting mechanism with a theoretical chop length of 60 mm. Also standard is the PRO rotor drop floor that lowers by 30cm to compensate for uneven swathes or can be lowered hydraulically to clear a blockage.

A key focus for the engineers from Metz-Woippy has been on the new baling pressure control. This includes a new hydraulic control block with independent lines for both belt tensioning arms. This means that both the position and the baling pressure can be measured independently for both arms. The newly developed control software not only optimises the baling process, so that perfectly formed bales leave the chamber even under difficult operating conditions in grass silage. It is also possible to achieve a higher bale density in the outer area of the bale, which better protects the bales from the effects of the weather. As a further effect, this allows an even more precise adjustment of the soft core if required, for example when baling hay. The dimensions and baling pressure of the soft core can be adjusted independently of one another for all operating conditions.

For safe and easy net wrap roll changes, the loading height is now 25cm lower than in the previous generations. Thanks to the

new net brake, which is independent of the roll diameter, a further improved feed plate and the new knife release guarantees a reliable and trouble-free completion of the tying process under all operating conditions.

Other new features include tyre options up to size 560/45 22.5, and Kennfixx plug-in colour coded couplers as standard. The adjustment of the pickup wheels has also been redesigned so that they can be more easily and finely adjusted to the operating conditions. The central oil lubrication works with a new oil tank and a new, mechanically driven oil pump, whereby the positions of the brushes have been changed for better lubrication with low oil consumption.

The VARIANT 500 is controlled using the CEMIS 700 ISOBUS terminal. In addition to 10 backlit ISOBUS hard keys, there is a rotary/push control on the terminal as a control element. The high-contrast colour display with touch surface offers a 7-inch screen diagonal and automatic day/night switching. The camera input can be used to display real-time images from up to two cameras, which can be switched at the push of a button or automatically.

Robust, comfortable and easy to maintain

Between every forager the Mairs have had, there has always been gradual improvements, says James: “It’s a lot of small changes over the years which add up to a big difference. It would be interesting to go back to the first 960 we had and compare it to the latest 970, because I think there would be a massive difference between the two.”

And it’s not just the foragers’ performance, reliability or features which get the thumbs up, as equally important to the Mairs is the consistently good backup they receive from their local dealer, GORDONS.

Based in Cumnock, Ayrshire, the contracting operation is run by father James Mair and his sons James and Ian. Founded 64 years ago by James Mair senior’s father, William, it is an operation that has seen much expansion over the years. Services currently include forage harvesting, round baling, slurry and fertiliser application, ploughing, cultivating, drilling and ground work, to name a few.

Equally as broad is the customer area, which is mostly within a 30 mile radius of the firm’s base, with the occasional job further afield. In this area, most of the Mairs’ contacting work is for dairy farms, making use of their silaging and application services. As such, the outfit will chop nearly 2,800 ha per year, most of which is grass, with about 160 ha of wholecrop.

In addition to contacting, the business also has a farming operation, run by James Mair senior, rearing 120 suckler cows and about 350 ewes.

HOW DOES THE JAGUAR 970 COMPARE?

As for the business’s recent forager history, the outfit has ran two JAGUAR 960s and two JAGUAR 970s. Their current model is the latest JAGUAR 970, now featuring a straight-six engine, as opposed to a V8 in the previous machine. In addition, as a support machine to the 970, the firm also runs an 09-plate 870, which helps out when the weather turns against them.

Now with one full season under its belt, crucially, how does the new JAGUAR 970 compare to previous models? Well placed to give an opinion is James Mair junior, who has been piloting choppers for the last 26 years. “It’s been absolutely tremendous in the first season - a big improvement. I didn’t think CLAAS could improve on its previous JAGUAR 970, but they have.

“The engine is the biggest difference this time. This new sixcylinder is far torquier than the V8, making it much more drivable.

“The old V8, if you hit a lump it would just die away and take a long time to build its revs back up again. In contrast, the sixcylinder just hangs on so much better.”

This greater range of usable torque also helps it cope with a wide variety of crop conditions, says James. “It has to cope with everything from light, multi-cut silage crops to heavy, single-cut customers. You can be chopping from anywhere from 12mph down to 4.5mph.”

James Mair

One of the options the Mairs went for this time was a 24-knife drum instead of the 20-knife unit. “We had a demonstrator last year fitted with the 24-knife drum and it was a much sweeter running machine. As well as smoother running, there’s a better chop quality with it, too, which allows us to cater for customers that want short chop lengths down to 12mm.

“For a long time people did want longer chop lengths, but they now seem to prefer shorter lengths, offering greater feed intake for the cows.”

The new forager was also specced with a longer spout compared to the previous machine. “This makes filling quite a bit easier for us, especially in the corners, and enables the trailers to be that little bit further away from the forager.”

QUIET AND ROBUST HEADER

Up front, the forager is equipped with CLAAS’ latest grass header, featuring a hydraulically-driven pickup reel. “This allows independent speed control between the auger and pickup, which for single cut silage crops is brilliant, as it enables me to tailor the flow of grass into the forager, avoiding big lumps being pulled in and keeping much more of a consistent crop flow,” explains James. “The header also seems more robust and quieter, especially when compared to the first JAGUAR 960 we had, where you couldn’t adjust that much on the header.

“From the side of the machine, you can see that there is much less movement in the feed rollers, compared to previous machines, where they would be dancing up and down.

“The hydraulically-dampened feed rollers also help a lot with crop flow control, which I can adjust to suit different crops.

“Overall, from the pickup to the accelerator, there is a lot more you can adjust and fine tune these days.

Now on their fifth CLAAS JAGUAR forager in 17 years, it’s fair to say W and J Mair contractors have been suitably impressed with the capability of the machines over the years.

“The engine is the biggest difference. This new sixcylinder is far torquier than the V8, making it much more drivable.”

An improvement in sealing around the shearbar has also made a big difference to in-cab noise says James: “It’s much quieter in the cab now. You actually have to get off the seat and open the door to hear if it is sharpening. And even when chopping, it is far quieter in the cab.”

INTELLIGENT CAB LAYOUT

Up top the new JAGUAR 970 comes with CLAAS’ latest cab layout, which now features a completely new set of armrest controls and CEBIS screen. “The screen, in particular, is great. The old one was in a fixed position, whereas this one you can now put it where you like. Even for simple things like hooking up to the header, it means you can swing the screen right out of the way to see what you are doing.

“It’s also touch screen now which makes it easy to set up the forager. Although you can use the physical controls to adjust the foragers settings, I like the convenience of just going straight into the screen. That said, the scroll wheel is useful to make adjustments when you are chopping.”

As for joystick choice, James has gone for the traditional ‘stick style, compared to the mouse-shaped CMOTION lever. “We have CMOTION in the combine which works well, but for chopping I just prefer the driving style that the more traditional ‘stick allows. For me, it just suits what I need for chopping.

“Overall, the switches and button layout on this new forager just seems a lot more simplified. Even where your arm sits, it’s a lot more comfortable than before.”

Speaking of comfort, James also specified a leather seat with this forager. “I didn’t know if I was doing the right thing or not, ordering this seat, but it’s turned out to be a great choice, and with it being ventilated, it also keeps you cool.”

In terms of maintenance, the Mairs specify Hardox wearing parts on the foragers, which they started doing with the last JAGUAR 970. “The only thing we ever change now is the blades and the shearbar. Everything else just lasts!

“The last forager we ran for four seasons and the only major thing we changed was the drum bottom and the back door - we never had to touch the spout.”

Maintenance access is also highly rated by James. “It’s easy to get at all the major components. For instance, you can just drop the header off, fold out the feed rollers and you are soon into the chopping cylinder, all within five minutes. This makes it simple to swap the blades and shearbar, with plenty of room to work.

“From driving the machine into the workshop to it leaving again, you can have all the blades and the shearbar replaced in under two hours.”

BACK-UP IS KEY

But like all machines, backup is key, says James. “CLAAS has always looked after us - they’ve been a great company to work with over the years. And GORDONS, our local CLAAS dealer, their backup service is tremendous - nothing is a problem to them, no matter what time of day it is.”

Overall, it’s fair to say the Mairs have been suitably impressed with the latest CLAAS JAGUAR 970 forager. “With every generation of CLAAS JAGUAR forager, we always see gradual improvements and this latest 970 is no exception,” says James. “And just when we think the foragers can’t be improved, CLAAS always manages to surprise us.”

James Mair

“The JAGUAR 880 has heaps more torque.”

Located deep in the steeply rolling countryside of north Devon, fatherand-son team Peter and Derek Hutchings made the switch to CLAAS forage-harvesters six years ago and are now on their third machine, putting some serious acreages through their JAGUAR 880 each season.

WHY A JAGUAR 880?

“Since the 1980s we’ve run choppers of all different colours and when we made the change to CLAAS we initially went for an 870 which proved to be a big step up from what we’d had before,” says Peter.

“But after three seasons with us it had clocked some 2000 hours

and our acreage had grown so we decided to trade up to an 880.

“We were initially concerned about the move away from a V8 to a straight six engine but those fears proved unfounded – it had heaps more torque. But the single biggest difference was the new grass pick-up. It revolutionised the way the crop feeds in, doing away with that surging effect and massively increasing our daily outputs.

“We stick with JAGUAR 800s because of their compact footprint on our narrow lanes. In truth we don’t need any extra capacity – this latest 880 has got so much go in it that we’re never really under pressure.”

FUEL USE

This season saw the arrival of a new 880 with an extra 20hp under the hood.

“Our latest machine is a step on again – that extra power has pushed things on. We can’t get it to drop back at all in maize to

Peter and Derek Hutchins

the point that we’re now wondering if we should switch from an eight-row to a ten-row header,” says Derek.

“But the big difference we’ve seen is fuel use. When we got our first CLAAS forager it dropped considerably and with each subsequent machine it’s just got better and better to the point where we’re now using 25-30% less than before. That’s helped us to remain competitive despite the ever-increasing price of diesel.”

PULLING POWER

“The other big change we’ve seen with the new 880 is its pulling power. Because the hydrostatic transmission runs at a much higher pressure than before, you’re never slowed up when you hit a steep bank.

“It’s particularly obvious when there’s a trailer hitched on opening up maize fields. It just keeps on pulling, even when you’re nearly fully laden.”

EXTRA PUSH

“Being in a part of the country where there’s barely a flat field, it’s essential to have four-wheel-drive. And that’s another area where the JAGUAR wins through – because it’s a proper mechanical driveline, it doesn’t give up when one wheel loses traction like the hydraulically-powered systems we’ve had on previous machines. It just doesn’t die back and never comes close to getting stuck.”

CAB AND CONTROLS

“The new touchscreen controls are much more user-friendly than before and provide familiarity between CLAAS tractors and foragers.

“But the big improvement is in how much quieter the new cab is. A good chunk of that is down to the engine and the fact that the crop feed doesn’t make the forager surge like it did before – it’s just a nicer place to spend the day.”

WHY CLAAS?

“When we first made the move to CLAAS foragers it was really based on their reputation. Friends of mine running JAGUARs really rated them for their performance and reliability and the last six years have proved it for us. But of course the reason why you stick with a particular make is the back-up you get when things go wrong. Our local dealer – HAMBLYS – always stand by the machine. If there is an issue there’s never any delay –their attitude is always ‘let’s get it sorted and get it back up and running.’ That means a lot when you’ve got a customer breathing down

neck!”

your

“…it’s just got better and better to the point where we’re now using 25-30% less [fuel] than before.”

Derek Hutchins

New wide-working DISCO 1010

The new DISCO 1010 TREND mower has the widest cutting width of any non-telescopic mounted mower on the market, mowing up to 9.90m in a single pass, yet can be used behind a tractor as small as 150hp.

In addition, a number of new features have been incorporated into the DISCO 8500 TREND and the 9200 TREND ahead of the coming season. Together with the new DISCO 1010 TREND, they are designed as powerful high output mowers without a conditioner and combine the highest cutting quality with maximum operational efficiency.

On the new DISCO 1010 TREND, the two booms are suspended at the centre of gravity which enables unrivalled compact and safe road transport thanks to the vector folding system presented in 2021. Two setting positions on the booms allow the working width to be adjusted from 9.70m up to 9.90m. In addition to the time and soil compaction benefits of running a wide mower, the MAXCUT mower beds can also be run at 850rpm, resulting in fuel savings of up to 20%. As with other mowers in the DISCO range, the new DISCO 1010 TREND is fully integrated into CEMOS for Tractors.

All three mowers use a new design of main frame and headstock, with the main gearbox moved slightly to the rear and the angular gearboxes facing the mower beds being slanted by 2°. This ensures that the drive shafts work in a straight line, which reduces the noise level and wear. Bevelled lower link brackets facilitate attachment by guiding the catch hooks/lower links. The mower combination is equipped with colour-coded, non-slip Kennfixx plug-in couplers as standard.

On the DISCO 1010, each mower bed has nine contra-rotating mower discs; on the DISCO 9300 there are eight and on the DISCO 8500 there are seven discs, all fitted with the SAFETY LINK module as standard. As with all DISCO disc mowers built after 2022, the caps and mower blades of the anti-clockwise rotating mower discs on the new DISCO high output mowers are also painted red. As a result, replacement blades can be immediately assigned to the appropriate mower discs. The practical blade box is divided into three compartments for red and black replacement blades and used blades.

An adjustable spiral spring ensures that the mower touches the ground evenly when lowered, and a vibration damper stabilises the mower bed when it is raised. The two pivot points of the boom, transverse to the direction of travel, guarantee optimum ground tracking on uneven surfaces. The hydro-pneumatic ACTIVE FLOAT system allows the ground pressure to be adjusted independently of the lifting kinematics from the tractor seat thanks to its own hydraulic circuit and keeps the ground pressure constant regardless of the mower bed position. The set pressure is displayed on a pressure gauge on the headstock.

For transport, the outriggers are first moved hydraulically into the 120° transport position, similar to the other models in the CONTOUR series. They then pivot slightly backwards via a ram combined with the hydraulic non-stop collision safety device and are automatically locked hydraulically. Due to the double slanted position, the mower combination remains below 4.0 m transport height, but at the same time lies diagonally behind the tractor on the headstock and thus shifts the centre of gravity to the tractor’s longitudinal axis. Compared to mowers that swivel backwards, this has a positive effect on the steering behaviour, especially in the case of light four-cylinder tractors with a short wheelbase.

Green Harvest

Optimised crop flow and front-mounted chopper ex factory for QUADRANT EVOLUTION

Updates on the QUADRANT EVOLUTION 4200, 5200 and 5300 include a new design of flywheel, the option of a hydraulic drive to the pick-up and POWER FEEDING SYSTEM, and a factory fitted front-mounted straw chopper from Müthing.

MORE FLYWHEEL MASS, FEWER PEAK LOADS

To cushion load peaks, especially when baling irregular swaths, and thus protect the power train of the baler and tractor, the mass of the flywheel on the QUADRANT 5200 and 5300 has been increased. Due to the new design, the inertia of the flywheel has been increased by 46% on the QUADRANT 5200 and 44% on the QUADRANT 5300. In order to effectively protect the drive against overload in extreme situations, a slip clutch which provides optimised automatic overload protection can be ordered as an alternative to the standard shear bolt protection.

OPTIONAL HYDRAULIC DRIVE

A new option on the QUADRANT 5200 and 5300 is hydraulic drive for the pickup and POWER FEEDING SYSTEM (PFS). While the speed of the 5-row pick-up, which is controlled on both sides, is constant at 135 rpm, the speed of the PFS feed roller can be adjusted from 200 to 250 rpm depending on the operating conditions. The increased maximum transmittable torque of the hydraulic drive of 1,000Nm is also fully available for reversing the pickup and PFS at reduced speed.

Another new feature is the hydraulically fully automatic folding pick-up guide wheels. These swing out automatically when the

pick-up is lowered and swing in fully automatically when the pick-up is raised. This means that prior to driving on the road, the driver does not have to dismount to manually fold in and lock the guide wheels.

FACTORY FITTED FRONT STRAW CHOPPER

It’s exactly 20 years ago that CLAAS introduced the pioneering and successful FINE CUT technology to the QUADRANT series which provides an unrivalled theoretical cutting length of just 2 cm. In addition to a higher bale density, FINE CUT straw is ideal for use in poultry houses and dairy cow cubicles, and is significantly more absorbent than conventionally chopped straw.

As an option, the QUADRANT 5200 and 5300 can now be factory-fitted with a new Müthing front-mounted shredder. The technology offers numerous advantages, especially for contractors:

• There are no excess stem lengths in the bales as the straw is chopped and not cut.

• The desired chop quality can be set using the shearbars.

• The front chopper expands the range of uses of the square baler.

The rotor is fitted with 88 oscillating knives and the chop length can be steplessly adjusted using two adjustable counter blades, each with 45 knives. When the front-mounted chopper is active, the crop flow is fed directly to the rotor via the roller crop press of the pick-up and pendulum flaps at the front offer effective protection against stone chips.

A true evolution in baling

The QUADRANT has been the baler of choice for Richard Boughtwood and his son Andrew for many years. New this year has been a QUADRANT 5200 EVOLUTION which, they say, has taken baler performance to a new level.

Changing their balers every two years, by which time they will have baled around 45,000 bales, the new QUADRANT EVOLUTION follows in the footsteps of three QUADRANT 5200s, prior to which were four QUADRANT 2200 and 2200 ADVANTAGES.

“The performance from the QUADRANT has always been good,” says Richard Boughtwood. “The move from the 2200 ADVANTAGE to the 5200 was a major step forward due to the increased density achieved by having the pre-packing chamber and longer bale chamber.

“But the change this year to the EVOLUTION has definitely been a move for the better. There is no doubt that it makes a very square, well-shaped bale and they do look very smart when stacked on a lorry.”

Richard (right) & Andrew Boughtwood

Andrew, who operates the baler, puts this down to a number of factors. Firstly, he says, because the new heavy duty pickup, which has an additional row of 18 double tines, runs slower this has made a considerable difference especially when baling thinner crops of grass or spring cereals.

“The combination of the slower pick-up speed and more tines, plus the slightly faster (PFS) feed roller, means it leaves a far cleaner finish and feed into the baler is very positive. It is noticeable how much better the bales are in thin crops. Also having the automatic tensioning and new lubrication system for the chain drive means it does not run nearly as hot, which was certainly one less fire risk this year.”

However, where Andrew has seen one of the biggest changes in the EVOLUTION is the speed with which the AUTO PRESSURE CONTROL (APC) system now reacts to changes in the crop.

“There’s no delay,” he says. “In silage especially as the moisture or crop changes, for instance under trees or on the shaded side of a slope, you can see the pressure instantly changing. But even going up a swath you can see the pressure changing all the time – you don’t appreciate how much the crop does vary. As a result, bale weights are very consistent and with the EVOLUTION we also don’t seem to have any problems with knots slipping.”

Another new feature on the EVOLUTION is in the bale chamber, which has been redesigned, in addition to having factory fitted side knives for a cleaner edged bale and deflectors to reduce material build-up. “There is no doubt that because the bale is compressed slightly longer in the chamber, that it makes a far better, square edged bale. Also the hydraulic bale ejector does a good job of clearing the chamber out.”

“Overall it’s a fantastic baler, but they always have been,” adds Richard. “But just as important is the service and support we get from the whole team at CLAAS WESTERN Frome – that is the strongest selling point of the QUADRANT. Nothing is too much trouble and if we have a problem, they will be instantly on it. Of all the dealers we deal with, they are by far the best and that is reflected in the fact that all our mowers, tedders and rakes are all CLAAS.”

The QUADRANT 5200 EVOLUTION is the latest in a long line of QUADRANT balers to have been run by the Boughtwoods

“There is no doubt that because the bale is held slightly longer in the chamber, it makes a far better, square edged bale.”

Richard Boughtwood

Power boost for mid-range TORION

Three new mid-range TORION 1285, 1611 and 1611 P models have been introduced which benefit from more engine and hydrostatic drive power, plus a new Z-kinematic with stronger lift arms and unique comfort features.

MORE POWERFUL ENGINES

Under the bonnet all three TORION models now come with more powerful engines and larger drive pumps and hydrostats for the VARIPOWER drive. The 157hhp TORION 1285 replaces both the previous TORION 1177 (137hp) and 1410 models (167hp), while the TORION 1611 has an increase in output to 207 hp (+23 hp compared to the previous TORION 1511) with a further 45hp increase to 252hp for the TORION 1611 P. Torque has also increased, in particular on the TORION 1611 P where the additional output is noticeable and pays off, especially when working in silage clamps and for fast straw handling.

IMPROVED DRIVING DYNAMICS

The more powerful components in the travel drive result in more traction and further improved driving dynamics. This and the use of the demand-dependent DYNAMIC COOLING engine cooling makes it possible to significantly increase the charging capacity with the same low fuel consumption. Nevertheless, the VARIPOWER drive, which can be used in three driving ranges, can still be controlled extremely sensitively, with both axial piston pumps being connected in series for maximum traction in driving ranges I and II. Thanks to the cruise control with speed memory, precise, comfortable work with hydraulic permanent consumers such as buckrakes and hydraulic sweepers is possible. For driving on the road in driving range III, only one pump is used and the engine speed is also lowered via SMART ROADING (TORION 1611 P: 40 km/h at 1,600 rpm), which significantly reduces fuel consumption.

NEW MAST WITH Z-KINEMATICS AND MORE LOADING CAPACITY

Following the upgrades on the TORION 1913 and 2014 last year, which included higher lifting and holding capacity in addition to greater loading height, these performance-enhancing features are now finding their way into the medium-sized TORION series.

In addition to its first-class reactivity, the newly developed Z-kinematic features reinforced and lengthened lifting arms with larger hydraulic rams and more powerful hydraulic pumps. This increases the lifting power and transfer height, with 100% parallel guidance being guaranteed at the touch of a button. Thanks to the new Z-kinematics, there is significantly more lifting power, especially in the lower lifting range, as well as more holding power in the upper lifting range, so that larger bucket volumes

and heavier bale grabs can be used. Lift volumes up to 4.5 m3 with a high bulk density and up to 7.0 m3 with a low bulk density are available with the light goods bucket, and up to 4.5 m3 with the high-tip bucket.

In order to be able to absorb the higher lifting and breakout forces, the steel construction of the front end has been reinforced. The new mast includes extra reinforcing, for example on the lift arms and the cross tube. At the same time, the axles on the TORION 1611 and 1611 P have also been reinforced. The operating weight increases accordingly to 15,810 and 15,200 kg respectively. The TORION 1285 has an operating weight of 13,570 kg. In addition to the standard version with Z-kinematics, all three models can be supplied with HIGH LIFT masts. Depending on the model, the bucket pivot point increases by 52 to 58 cm to 3.85 to 4.52 m.

UNCOMPROMISING LOADING COMFORT

However, the new medium-sized TORION series is not only strong, but also smart. In addition to the bucket return, the upper and lower end positions of the mast can be saved for two implements using the automatic lifting height and lowering depth control. The tipping assistant makes life even easier. All models can also be equipped with a weighing device with Load Assistance System, i.e. addition memory and back-weighing function.

The shaking function, which allows the bucket to be unloaded in a controlled manner, offers considerable added value. The automatic return of the HL high-tip bucket and the perfectly coordinated end position damping relieve the driver and enable fast loading manoeuvres.

Materials handling

SCORPION performance update

The SCORPION telehandler range has received a facelift to further improve operator comfort, while smaller models also have new engines with more power.

The six-model SCORPION range offer lift capacities from 3.2t up to 6.0t, stacking heights from 7.0m to nearly 9.0t and power outputs of 143 and 156 hp. While all are powered by efficient, powerful four-cylinder Deutz engines, the 3.6 l Stage V engine in the SCORPION 732, 736, 741 and 746 models have been optimised for greater efficiency and performance in cooperation with LIEBHERR. As a result, the SCORPION 732, 736, 741 and 746 models each have 50 Nm more torque and an increase in power output of 6 hp. On the SCORPION 741, 736 and 732 drive is through a hydrostatic VARIPOWER 2. The braking behaviour of all SCORPION has also been further optimised by new components such as the brake valve and brake pedal along with new software tuning. An automatic parking brake is standard as is a braking assistant for uphill and downhill gradients, which prevents the machine from rolling away.

INCREASED CAB COMFORT

Changes in the cab see the addition of a new air conditioning system with increased air volume. There is also a new, angleand height-adjustable steering column with automatic indicator reset, plus the steering mode switch-over has been optimised so that the four steering modes can be set even more reliably and precisely.

UPDATED HYDRAULICS

All SCORPION telescopic handlers feature a sensitive working hydraulic system on the telescopic arm and attachment with end position damping standard. Larger SCORPION 960 to 746 models also have automatic telescopic boom arm retraction when lowering. Together with the optional automatic bucket

return, loading cycles are child’s play for the driver. From now on, all SCORPION models will also have regenerative working hydraulics. The load-free lowering is decoupled from the engine speed and the speed adjustment dependent on the joystick deflection also reduces the noise level and fuel consumption.

First impressions count

For 6 months of the year, Bunting and Sons’ TORION 1410 has an easy life mainly handling grain and muck. But this ends abruptly in September when through to March it will clock up about 1,000 hours loading around 100,000 tonnes of sugar beet.

The TORION 1410 was bought three years ago to give Philip and Stephen Bunting extra handling capacity. Winning a large new contract brought their total tonnage to load and haul around to over 100,000 tonnes, spread over 15 farms. At the same time, they also bought a higher capacity CTM 9040 cleaner and they can have up to 8 lorries hauling to the factory. “We had always run another make of wheel loader and the TORION only really came to my attention when Simon Bloomfield (their Field Sales Manager at MANNS Norfolk) took me to Saxham to look at a sprayer, and there was one on display there. I sat in it and was very impressed with what I saw,” says Philip Bunting.

“We don’t need anything fancy for loading beet and the TORION is very straightforward. The cab is comfortable, visibility good and being built by Leibherr it has a good heritage. As soon as I saw it, I knew that it would be ideal for our needs. So when it came to buying a new wheel loader, I had already set my mind that the TORION was what we needed and, having discussed it with my brother, he agreed and we didn’t price anything else up.

BUILT FOR STRENGTH

“The TORION is definitely built for strength and when it is loading it’s worked hard. The build quality and reliability has been excellent. After three years there are no weak areas, no signs of wear and apart from one solenoid early on, it has been faultless.

“The TORION has shown that it is ideal for the beet job. Reliability is a must. Out of season the TORION and the cleaner are given a thorough check over, because once we start loading beet we are running six days a week, or as the factory dictates. We can’t afford to have the loader break down, because apart from upsetting the farmer, we speak to the factory every day to let them know what we plan to deliver, so any breakdown will affect their processing schedule.”

Stephen, James and Philip Bunting

Powered by a 155hp DPS engine which drives through a VARIPOWER transmission, the TORION 1410 weighs 13.9 tonnes and has a tipping load capacity of 9.1 tonnes, giving it more than enough capacity for the 2.0 tonne root bucket the Buntings had made for the TORION, which can hold 3.0 tonnes. This season has seen Stephen’s son James at the controls. “I love it,” he says. “There is no shortage of pushing power. It just doesn’t give up; it would push a house down! The visibility from the cab is excellent and its very smooth and easy to operate. Having the Smart Loading pre-set height function is useful when you are tired, but most of the time I do prefer to just ‘drive’ it myself.”

“Having the new MANNS branch just up the road at Fransham is great,” says Philip. “They have always looked after us very well and that’s why in addition to the TORION, a lot of our other machinery is CLAAS, including a combine and two SCORPIONs.” The only thing missing is a tractor, but not if Philip has his way. “I really think the AXION TT looks excellent. That’s definitely on my wish list. One day…..”

“There is no shortage of pushing power. It just doesn’t give up; it would push a house down!

“Reliability is a must and The TORION has shown that it is ideal for the job.”

Philip Bunting

Ideal operator’s machine

“For us the attraction of the SCORPION is its reliability and the fact that it is easy to operate and use. We have 11 people that are trained to operate it, so that’s important, but the cab layout is very good and CLAAS have obviously thought about the operator. It works; you get in it and all the main controls are just where you want them and the colour coding is very helpful.”

RESPONSIVE DYNAMIC POWER SYSTEM

The SCORPION is the third to be run by the company and responsible for all the general handling work at the company’s base near Shoeburyness in Essex. “Between this and a sister company, we cover all of East Anglia and down into London,” explains Nathan Steward. “We aim to be completely selfsufficient, so all the timber and green waste the six tree surgery teams generate is brought back here where the green waste and smaller timber is shredded. The smaller fines are then separated out for sale to the local domestic garden market and councils, while the larger arborchip mainly goes to the biomass power station at Thetford. Larger timber is processed for logs and we also sell topsoil.

“The SCORPION is going all day long and of the three it is by far the best. It’s usually the first machine to be started in the morning and the last to stop at night. Although most of its work is here in the yard, we do occasionally take it out on site to handle large timber instead of hiring in a crane.”

VARIPOWER AND SMART LOADING

The SCORPION 746VP, which was supplied by MANNS, replaced a smaller 741. With 136hp under the bonnet driving through a VARIPOWER transmission, it has a maximum load capacity off 4.6 tonnes and reach of 7.0m. Standard specification also includes Dynamic Power and the CLAAS SMART LOADING function.

In addition to being physically slightly bigger than their old machine, the new SCORPION also has a 200 litre/minute load sensing hydraulic system, which has made a big difference says regular operator Charlie Medynski. “The hydraulics are extremely good and there is no shortage of hydraulic power. It is incredible what it will lift considering the size of machine. It never struggles and because you do not have to rev the engine when lifting, it’s a lot quieter to operate. The Dynamic Power system on the engine is also very responsive, so when you put the engine under load the power is always immediately there when you need it. In addition, because it is slightly bigger, it is also noticeably more stable. Even when you have the boom fully extended loading an artic it feels very well planted.”

BREAKDOWNS NOT AN OPTION

Just as important for Jon Steward, who started the business in 1984, is the support and back-up he gets from the MANNS team. “The SCORPION is central to everything we do here. It will clock up over 1,200 hours a year just in the yard and the guys all like using it. Over the years I have used and tried most makes of telehandler, but I always come back to the SCORPION. I can’t afford breakdowns, so always change the machine when the warranty finishes, and this new SCORPION comes with a five year warranty which is great. But of all the dealers we do business with, the team at MANNS stand out. We do get extremely good service from them.”

A new SCORPION 746VP is key to the smooth running of Tree Fella’s extensive business, which covers everything from general tree surgery work to green waste handling and recycling.

Nathan Steward (right) and regular operator Charlie Medynski

Narrow width AXION TT track option

A new narrow width track option is now available for the AXION TERRA TRAC that will allow its compaction reducing benefits to be used in row crops.

Since the launch of the AXION TERRA TRAC in 2019, the fullsuspension half-track high horsepower tractors have appealed to more and more farmers and contractors throughout Europe. In addition to heavy and medium-heavy pulling work, e.g. soil cultivation, and thanks to their excellent soil protection, the unique ground contour following with 120mm suspension travel of the drives and the outstanding driving comfort up to 40kph top speed, the tractors also perform far more varied tasks, such as spreading organic and mineral fertilisers on fields and grassland, hauling grain or sugar beet or even the mowing of sensitive grassland.

In addition to the current 635mm and 735mm wide rubber belts, CLAAS now offers 457mm/18 inch narrow tracks that are ideal for use in row crops, for example spreading organic fertiliser in crops or working with hoes. These belts are ideal for further reducing soil damage and compaction on fields and grassland, and thanks to the active belt control when steering, there is no surface damage when making tight turns.

The 457mm/18 inch narrow tracks as well as the 635mm/25 inch and 735mm/39 inch wide standard tracks can now also be supplied with a 3.00m/120 inch track centre setting in selected markets such as Australia. This makes it possible to work in Controlled Traffic Farming applications and to further improve maneuverability.

As a further innovation, the AXION TERRA TRAC can also now be equipped with the CLAAS CTIC tyre inflation system on the front axle. The front tyres are filled using the air compressor for the air brake system.

Terranimo® aids soil protection

A new feature within CEMOS for tractors is the Terranimo® application, which provides operators with advice on potential compaction risk. This can then be used for recommendations for ballasting and tyre pressures.

CEMOS for tractors is still the only self-learning, interactive driver assistance and process optimization system, and the addition of the Terranimo® application will enable the tractor-implement setting to be even more focused on soil protection.

Terranimo® calculates and visualises the risk of harmful compaction using algorithms based, among other things, on decades of accumulated expertise. In CEMOS for tractors, they are combined with the current available parameters, such as soil type and soil condition, working depth, field condition (uncultivated, shallowly tilled or deep tilled), attachment, tyre type, ballasting, etc, so that there is no further effort involved in using Terranimo®.

Based on the combined information and the technical mechanics calculated by CEMOS (e.g. static and dynamic axle loads), Terranimo® calculates the compaction risk separately for three soil layers. On the basis of this risk assessment, CEMOS can provide the driver with further recommendations for ballasting and optimizing the tyre pressure in order to drive in a way that protects the soil. If the driver changes the settings for the tractor-implement combination, Terranimo® will provide the driver with direct feedback on the effect these changes will have.

“The move to CMATIC gearboxes has improved our work-rates and efficiency.”

Garry Russell

Operating from its base just outside of Dumfries, GTR Contracts offers a wide array of services, covering agriculture, forestry and construction.

Established in 2006 by husband-and-wife team Garry and Tanya Russell, the firm now operates nationwide, with work taking them across the UK. On the agricultural contracting side the business offers a full forage harvesting service as well as grass re-seeding and slurry application. As such, it is an operation which demands a lot from its machinery, which in many cases has to cope with a year-round workload.

The machinery fleet features a growing line-up of CLAAS tractors sourced from local dealer GORDONS. Among this are six ARION 600 models, two AXION 800-series machines and one AXION 960. Over half of these are specified with the CLAAS CMATIC continuously variable transmission option.

WHY CLAAS TRACTORS?

“It was the great backup of our forage kit by local CLAAS dealer, GORDONS, which gave us the confidence to try out CLAAS tractors,” explains Garry. “Our first – an ARION 620 – arrived in 2013, was quickly followed by another 620 and an AXION 920 in 2015.

“Now, with a predominantly CLAAS fleet, it allows our operators to easily switch between tractors. Most machines are equipped with CLAAS’ top-spec CEBIS control package which includes the touchscreen terminal and CMOTION control lever. This enables greater fine-tuning of the tractor, enabling our drivers to really get the most out of them.”

WHY STEPLESS CMATIC TRANSMISSIONS?

“We’ve now got five tractors fitted with the CMATIC CVT box. From a productivity point of view they are much more efficient, allowing the operators to concentrate on the job at hand, rather than having to worry about managing the engine and gears.”

The latest CMATIC tractor to join the fleet is a special edition CLAAS AXION 870, complete with gun-metal grey metallic paint job. Piloted by operator Rory McKinnon, it scores particularly highly for the ease of set-up.

“For each job I do with the tractor, I will create a profile through the CEBIS terminal, which I can save and then recall each time I do that task, saving a lot of time.”

Settings can include hitch position, spool-valve flow rates and timings, plus engine and transmission settings – it’s these last two that are critical in boosting productivity while maintaining a high standard of work.”

“When mowing, for example, I set engine ‘droop’ so that the PTO will not drop below 900 rpm,” says Rory.

“When the revs do start to drop, it is the CMATIC transmission which automatically ‘backs off’, to maintain PTO speed and therefore the quality of work. This enables me to simply set a cruise speed and just leave the tractor to sort itself out.”

The transmission control page also provides several operating modes which can be tailored to each job.

“You can pretty much drive the transmission how you like – on the pedal, via the CMOTION lever, or simply set a cruise speed. You can also tweak the upper limit of each of the three virtual ranges, allowing you to match the transmission to the job you are doing.

“Compared to a powershift transmission, CMATIC is much more controllable and easier to use. With a powershift, for the likes of mowing, you’re on the clutch pedal quite a lot at headlands. With the CMATIC, you can just back off smoothly and then pick the speed back up again.

“Similarly, for umbilical slurry work, reeling pipes in and out requires slow speeds. For this, CMATIC gives you that controllability. Even for the likes of hitching up to implements, it makes inching so much easier.”

DEALER BACK UP

As well as the tractors themselves, it is CLAAS’ customer service which impresses, says Garry.

“Over the nine years we’ve been running CLAAS tractors, the backup from GORDONS has been second to none.

“Due to the varied workload, all of our tractors work most days and will typically clock up about 2,000 to 2,500 hours per year. With that, dealer service is massively important to us.

“As well as our local dealer, the reliability of the CLAAS network means we are backed up wherever we go in the country. And, should we need any specialist help we have a good relationship with CLAAS UK.

Business Facts

GTR Contracts near Dumfries, South West Scotland

Work undertaken

Silage, slurry and grass re-seeding, civil engineering, plant and machinery hire, haulage, concrete and ground works

Machinery

AXION 960

AXION 870

AXION 830

Staff

ARION 660 ARION 620 and ARION 650 x 4

Garry and Tanya Russell, plus 65 others incl. management and administration staff, peaking at about 80 people during busy periods.

“Any issues we’ve had over the years have been dealt with promptly. And if the problem cannot be solved straight away, there’s always a machine on hand to keep us going, which for us as contractors, and also our customers, is tremendous service.”

WHAT MAKES YOU KEEP BUYING CLAAS TRACTORS?

“Over the last nine years with CLAAS tractors, we’ve been really impressed with them. With every new purchase, you can always see an improvement, whether it’s new features, software developments or greater comfort.

“One example is CLAAS TELEMATICS which proved a really useful tool in managing the fleet. You can simply access it via a smart phone app, allowing us to easily track machines, monitor work-rates and check fuel use. Especially for field work, it really helps us plan our jobs.”

“Over and above these small features, it is the move to CMATIC gearboxes that has improved our work-rates and efficiency, which for us as contractors is a huge bonus.”

A complete switch to CLAAS CMATIC

and daily outputs. On that basis we were able to take a step down in power, swapping 310 hp for an AXION 830 with just 235 hp under the hood. It proved a good decision, saving us yet more fuel and limiting our impact on the soil, having moved to a much less intensive crop establishment regime, mixing no-till and mintill where we can.”

CMATIC CVTs.

Nine years ago Philp Farming took delivery of its first CLAAS tractor – an AXION 940. Equipped with a stepless transmission, the 385 hp prime mover quickly established itself as a smoothworking, efficient performer both in the field and on the road.

For six years it worked alongside another cultivations tug of a different colour, equipped with a powershift gearbox. When that tractor was due for a change, there was little debate – its replacement would be another CLAAS CMATIC, this time an AXION 830.

CONVINCED BY CMATIC

“The 940 proved to us that CVT gearboxes are not only the way forward for primary cultivations and drilling tractors, but also for other work too. In fact they make these big lumps a whole lot more versatile.

“Having clocked 5,500 hours, the 940 had proved a solid, reliable machine and critically was ultra efficient both in terms of fuel use

Firmly convinced by the value in CLAAS’ CMATIC gearboxes, when it came to sourcing a light weight all-rounder last year, Mr Philp had little hesitation in selecting an ARION 660 furnished with the time-proven stepless transmission.

“Weighing in at 8 tonnes and being able to boost to over 200 hp the 660 is a genuine pocket-rocket and has surprised us by just how versatile it is. This Spring it’s been pulling our 6.0 m tine drill – that just wouldn’t be possible with a tractor of this size with a conventional gearbox.

DRIVING DOWN RUNNING COSTS

“Its versatility is going to prove very useful in driving down our machinery running costs. We’re hoping it will be able to take on a lot of the work of the bigger tractors, reducing the workload for the nine year old 940 and, hopefully, extending its working life accordingly.

“It’s brilliant for jobs like fertiliser spreading, but also on the road the CVT gearbox is just a pleasure to drive. From a comfort point of view these machines are simply fantastic – you could quite happily live in any of our tractors!”

To improve productivity and efficiency, one Berkshire contract farming business has switched completely from powershift gearboxes to CLAAS

Nick Philp

Business Facts

Philp Farming Ltd, near Maidenhead, Berkshire

Farmed area

1,200 ha

Machinery

ARION 660 and AXION 940 & 830

CLAAS LEXION 770

Cropping

Winter wheat 600 ha Spring beans 120 ha Spring wheat 120 ha OSR 100 ha

Winter barley 100 ha Spring peas 40 ha Spring oats 20 ha Spring barley 16 ha

Staff

Nick and David Philp plus two fulltimers and one extra at harvest.

The transmission gets top marks from both seasoned operators and less experienced drivers alike – all able to get the most from the CMATIC-equipped tractors.

“Our main guys will access the various settings menus to tweak gearbox settings and really push for that extra acre-per-litre,” says Mr Philp.

“But when I jump on, I just let the tractor run with the factory settings and the computer works it all out for itself. And, in combination with our move towards no-till, that’s had a huge impact on our overall diesel use per acre. Draft requirements are reduced and the CVTs mean the tractors are never stretched and screaming their nuts off – it’s a whole lot more refined.”

WHY CLAAS TRACTORS?

“Our guys actively want to drive CLAAS kit. They see it as a premium product, take pride in using it and look after it accordingly.

“We’ve had CLAAS combines since the early 1980s and know just how well the gear is put together. More important than that, we’re looked after by our local dealer – OLIVERS – incredibly well, whether it’s sales, service or parts. It’s that last bit that’s critical – the storemen are key and they really know their business.

“With all their staff we have strong personal relationships – we’re not treated like a number and if something needs sorting we just pick up the phone, talk to someone and we can consider it problem solved.”

“I felt really appreciated”

Looking back at the day David and Sam spent at Saxham with their sales rep Peter Baldini from MORRIS CORFIELD, David remarked that he was “really chuffed to be invited. I’m only a small customer – there are a lot of farmers and contractors who would be far bigger CLAAS customers than I am.

A MEMORY THAT WILL STAY WITH ME

“So to be invited by CLAAS to come to Saxham for them to hand over my new tractor and to see what they do was really special, and made me feel appreciated. It’s a memory that will stay with me and I look back on that day every time I now drive the ARION. “For me buying a new tractor is a big investment. So to be invited to Saxham showed that not only MORRIS CORFIELD but also CLAAS themselves really do appreciate my business and it makes me certainly feel that I am part of the overall CLAAS family. That we are all one and the same team and that they care for me.

“It’s very easy to just get caught up in your work and day to day running of your business. So to be able to take advantage of an offer such as this and to have a day away and be appreciated is extremely important. After all, it’s not every day that a company the size of CLAAS does something like this for me! Also ‘every day’s a school day’ and there is always something to take away from something like this, which was certainly the case.”

During his day at Saxham David’s new ARION 660 CMATIC was unveiled and he was presented with the keys and a CLAAS model in the Technoparc. David and Sam were then given a full tour of the CLAAS headquarters, Parts Centre and Academy. After lunch in Seasons, the in-house restaurant, they were able to take their new tractor out on the test track at the Customer Experience Centre and go through its functions and features. David also took the opportunity to test out a SCORPION on the clamp.

BOWLED OVER BY THE EXPERIENCE

From the moment he walked through the door, David says he was bowled over. “I had watched the video of Olly Blogs having a tour, so had a rough idea what to expect, but that doesn’t do it justice.

“Wow - what a building. The scale of it when you first walk in and then look up is really impressive and it’s the small touches like seeing your name up on the screen welcoming you. Everyone, starting with the person at reception, was so friendly and approachable. It was good to put some faces to names of

people I have spoken to and Emily (Baylis) who hosted us was fantastic – a lovely person.

“For the hand over of the tractor, the ARION was hidden under a cover that was pulled off to unveil it and then I was given a golden key for it, plus a model. Buying a new tractor is momentous and this made it really special.

“It was also good to see all the effort that goes into looking after their customers and what I am buying into. From the impressive training facilities for the engineers who will look after me in the future through to the parts centre. It was reassuring to see that they are as good as their word about looking after their customers.

“Would I recommend it? 100%. Apart from giving you the opportunity to step away from work for a day, you will definitely take away something from the experience that will help you. All in all what an experience. I came home grinning from ear to ear looking like a kid who had spent the day in a sweet shop!

“Many thanks CLAAS.”

In May 2022 MANNS invited customer David Dale and his son Sam to Saxham to thank them for their business and hand over the keys to their latest purchase, a new ARION 660 CMATIC in the special edition gunmetal grey livery.

We really enjoy meeting our customers – and you don’t have to buy a new CLAAS machine to visit us (but we won’t say no if you do!!).

If you are interested in visiting Saxham, either speak to your local CLAAS dealer or give us a call at 01284 763100.

David Dale

A tractor for every scenario

Cardiff Airport had an arrival of a different kind this Spring, in the shape of a new CLAAS AXION 830 which has proved ideal for their very specific needs.

“An airport is a unique place”, states Airport Operations Technician, Ben Cleave. “Unlike a farmer who will normally buy a tractor for a specific purpose, we are buying a tractor for a job that we hope we will hardly ever need it for.”

THE WORST CASE SCENARIO

“The AXION is a tractor for the worst case scenario and for the airport that’s snow and a repeat of the ‘Beast from the East’. We have to have the capacity and equipment in place to be able to handle that level of event, so that the airport can safely resume operations as quickly as possible.”

The airport looked at a number of different brands before opting for the AXION, which was ex-demo and specified to a higher level than they might otherwise have opted for. In addition to having

GPS steering, using a SATCOR 15 signal running through an S10 terminal, more specific was the need to have a third doubleacting spool added to the front of the tractor. Ben also had it fitted with tinted glass to reduce heat built-up when the tractor is left standing outside for long periods and an airhorn for bird scaring.

VERY EASY TO OPERATE

“The AXION is very easy to operate which is important. To ensure that we always have cover six people are trained to use it, including some of the airfield firemen. Because of its striking looks, the AXION has attracted a lot of attention. I’ve even had staff from the terminal coming over to have a look at it, so it’s a good opportunity to educate people in what we do.”

Having a 235hp tractor might seem excessive for their routine needs, but Ben explains that in the event of another ‘Beast from the East’ event, all that power will be required for the airport’s large front-mounted 2.97m wide Schulte snow blower that weighs 1.4 tonnes, requires the three double acting spools and has the capacity to clear 2,600 tonnes of wet snow an hour. However, it does also now give them the option to invest in larger machinery to further improve efficiency and reduce cost.

Airport

Ben Cleave

A more routine operation for the AXION is mowing, using a large 7.8m Schulte 5026 batwing mower and Ben is now looking at upgrading to a 9.0m machine to top the 120ha of grass. “CAA regulations require the airport grass to be kept at between 15 to 20cm which is the optimum level to deter birds. In a normal year I would generally be topping on a 2-week rotation, but that does depend on growth and this year has been exceptional. Other tasks for the AXION include hedge cutting and powering a woodchipper.

GPS STEERING ESSENTIAL

“It may look smooth, but in places there is uneven terrain so having good cab suspension is very important for operator comfort when mowing. It also helps having the GPS steering. In addition to having to keep an eye on the mower and looking out for lights and other obstacles, you also have to pay attention to the radio and messages from the tower, so leaving the tractor to steer itself is one less thing to think about.

“Another very useful feature on the S10 terminal is the section boom control. We have two Rau sprayers, one for broadleaf weed control for the grass and the second is used for applying Safe Grip anti-icer to the runway, taxiway and stands. This is extremely expensive and each time we go out we use about 4,000 litres.

“Apart from the cost, from an environmental aspect I am very conscious to not only avoid overlaps, but to also ensure that I use the right pressure and speed. By having section control the sprayer can look after itself and shut off sections automatically, allowing me to concentrate on where I am driving. It also makes it considerably easier to create the maps I have to provide to show where I have sprayed.

“The AXION ticks a lot of boxes and James Bramhall and all the team at RIVERLEA have been brilliant in working with us and setting the tractor up to meet our specific needs. We will certainly do more business with them in the future.”

In the event of heavy snow, snow brushes and a high capacity snow blower on the front of the AXION 830 are used to clear Cardiff Airport’s 11ha of runway surface.

Grass is normally topped on a 2-week cycle to keep it at 15-20cm as required by CAA regulations to deter birds.

The JAGUAR is easy to operate, it’s reliable, parts are readily available and the backup is brilliant.

Guy Darnbrook, CLAAS JAGUAR 950, Yorkshire, September 2022