Agritechnica 2011 marked the debut of a new range of mid-sized tractors from Case IH with the launch of the Farmall U EfficientPower series delivering 90hp, 100hp and 110hp.
The three new Farmall U tractors have been completely redeveloped and redesigned to meet the needs of agricultural and groundscare customers. In addition to a new design, the Farmall U series features the latest engine technology, the heart of which is a completely new engine with innovative EGR-based exhaust gas cleaning system.
The new Farmall U EfficientPower series also delivers an increase in power in all areas, including PTO and hydraulics, and is equipped with a number of valuable new features. These include a completely new 3.4-litre common-rail engine that incorporates a wastegate turbocharger and intercooler and an external EGR system.
The rear axle is available as a heavy-duty version (with 275mm flange) for 38-inch tyres. This axle can be equipped with a hydraulic differential lock.
Thanks to the new engine technology, torque increases of up to 51 per cent are achieved, depending on model, so that considerably more power is available at a lower engine speed.
To meet the Stage 3B exhaust emissions regulations, Case IH has employed exhaust gas recirculation on the new Farmall U EfficientPower tractors. In addition to the external EGR unit, a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) and diesel particulate filter (DPF) post treatment system is also used, with the latter featuring passive and active regeneration and being contained in a compact cartridge above the engine.
The Farmall U EfficientPower tractors also feature a high flow rate cooler system. This delivers greatly-improved cooling performance thanks to higher radiator capacity and cooling fans with a larger surface area.
The maintenance interval for the new engine is 600 hours. It also has a newly developed monitoring system that monitors oil quality to ensure long term reliability and performance.
The Farmall U’s PTO performance has been matched to the new power curve of the engine. |
A wide range of transmissions can be specified for the new Farmall U EfficientPower series. A 12F/12R powershuttle is standard, while options include a 24F/24R powershuttle with two-stage powershift or 20F/20R powershuttle with creeper gears.
At the rear, the tractors now provide a maximum lifting force of up to 5,400kg via an electronically-controlled linkage that provides comfortable operation of all key functions, including float, transport lock and maximum hitch height.
PTO performance has been matched to the new power curve of the engine so that maximum power is achieved at an engine speed of between 1,800rpm and 1,900rpm. This reduces fuel consumption and cuts noise levels when the PTO is in operation.
There are also a number of new hydraulic features on the Farmall U. A low-pressure circuit provide an oil flow rate of 36 lit/min for steering, while for operating the rear hitch and PTO there is a high pressure circuit delivering 61 lit/min. If required, an additional high-performance option is also available to increase the hydraulic flow rate to 80 lit/min.
Various control options are available for the rear hydraulics, including a new joystick for straightforward and comfortable operation.
The front of the Farmall U tractors has also been completely revised, and is now available with a front hitch. This is located close to the front axle, providing better tractor and implement control and reducing the load it imposes on the axle. Farmall U EfficientPower tractors can also be fitted with a front PTO if required.
Case IH has also implemented a number of design improvements on the Farmall U Series cab. These include a high visibility window integrated into the roof, improved all-round vision thanks to a larger rear window, and a better view of the work area to the front.
Inside the cab the new design offers a number of ergonomic improvements. It now features a larger and more comfortable driver’s seat with optimised low-frequency suspension, and a high-quality passenger seat. An integrated joystick ensures ergonomic and efficient control of a front loader or other front-mounted machinery.
The front window can be opened, and the controls for the 10-outlet air-conditioning system have been relocated to the B pillar. In addition, the front window can be opened for further ventilation.
The new Farmall U EfficientPower Series can be ordered from December 2011, with deliveries starting in the second quarter of 2012.
For more information visit: www.caseih.com.