Case IH’s latest Farmall U Pro tractors made their UK debut at the 2013 Lamma Show. Targeting livestock operations, mixed farms and smaller contractors, the U Pro range includes three, four-wheel-drive models from 99-115hp, all of which are said to provide outstanding versatility, performance, economy and comfort. The new tractors fit into the brand’s range between the existing Farmall 95U, 105U and 115U models and the larger Case IH Maxxum 110, Maxxum 120 and Maxxum 130 models.
Designed, developed and manufactured at the company’s St Valentin factory in Austria, alongside Case IH’s larger Maxxum and Puma models, the U Pro is the successor to the highly-respected CS Pro. The 95U Pro, 105U Pro and 115U Pro all feature four-cylinder, 3.4-litre FPT common-raildiesel engines that are electronically governed to deliver more power and torque while using less fuel.
Developing 99hp, 107hp and 114hp respectively at a rated speed of 2,200rpm, these turbocharged/intercooled Stage IIIB–compliant power units also deliver constant power from 2,200rpm down to 1900rpm, with 407Nm, 444Nm and 461Nm of torque at just 1,500rpm.
The power curve of the engines is perfectly matched to the four-speed PTO that offers both Power and Economy settings. In the former, PTO speeds of 540rpm and 1,000rpm are developed at 1,805rpm and 1,880rpm respectively for applications that require maximum power delivery, while Eco mode reduces the engine speeds to 1,542rpm and 1,606rpm respectively, providing significant fuel savings for light duties such as spraying and fertiliser spreading.
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The Farmall U Pro tractors feature a new four-step 32 forward/32 reverse powershift transmission. |
A key feature of the tractors is the totally new four-step, 32 forward/32 Reverse Eco Powershift transmission that incorporates a true Powershuttle facility and was exclusively developed, designed and produced by ZF for Case IH. Featuring direct line power transfer to optimise efficiency and performance, it provides an Eco facility that allows the tractor to travel at 40km/hr with the engine turning at just 1,730rpm for maximum fuel economy. The Powershuttle, which is controlled by a steering column-mounted lever, enables safe and predictable manoeuvring during loader work or tight headland turns.
In keeping with their premium specification, U Pro models provides sophisticated hydraulics that incorporate a Bosch Electronic Hitch Control (EHC) system, two large-diameter (80mm) external lift rams, Cat 2 link ends, a maximum lift capacity of 5,600kg and a hydraulic push-back hitch. As an option to the standard 60 lit/min open centre gear pump, buyers can specify a high-capacity 100 lit/min version with a pressure and flow compensation circuit that improves hydraulic response, gives faster loader cycle times and greater oil flow to power hydraulic motors. Up to three rear remote and two mid-mounted valves can be specified, while a separate 33-litre oil reservoir is available to enhance external services, enabling even the largest trailers to be tipped with ease.
All U Pro models are available with a chassis-mounted, fully-integrated front linkage capable of lifting 2,250kg, together with a 1,000rpm front PTO to maximise versatility and operating efficiency. They can be ordered loader-ready from the factory, complete with a loader sub-frame with rear–axle reinforcement, electrical connector, electrical and mechanical mid-mount valves and quick coupler. Case IH LRZ loaders, offering lift capacities up to 2,540kg and a maximum lift height of 4.07m, are available for the tractors.
A key feature of the new models is the premium-specification cab that provides a superb environment for the operator and best-in-class visibility, with unobstructed views in every direction. Featuring a distinctive black interior finish in place of Case IH’s usual wheat- coloured trim, the cab is exceptionally quiet offering sound levels of just 72db(A).
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The Case IH Farmall U Pro models feature a premium-specification cab with a distinctive black interior. |
Incorporating full air–conditioning, with cool air being directed to the operator’s face/upper body and warm air to the feet for optimum comfort, the cab includes a comfortable driver’s seat, with the option of a full passenger seat. The ergonomically situated controls, that will be familiar to existing CS Pro users, include a newlydesigned Multicontroller, thatis used to operate the transmission, hydraulic linkage, front linkage and some remote valves.
Weighing from 4,700kg, with a maximum permissible weight of 7,400kg, U Pro models have a 2.42m wheelbase, an overall length of 4.166m, are 2.673m high and 2.1m wide. Supplied on 480/65R24 front and 540/65R38 rear tyres, they are fitted with a new front axle that has a capacity of up to 4,500kg and a 60-degree steering angle – five degrees better than most competitors – allowing a turning radius of just 4.05m.
Available to order from June 2013, with deliveries scheduled to start in September 2013, Farmall U Pro models are priced approximately 10-15 per cent above the equivalent Farmall U, and will range from about £46,000 to £52,000.
For more information visit: www.caseih.com.
