Househam’s AirRide and Harrier self-propelled sprayers are now fitted with the state-of-the-art X10 cab from Claas, bringing new levels of refinement and operator comfort.
The move sees the replacement of the current Excalibur unit, which was built by ABT, and results in more space, a higher-specification interior and better visibility. In particular, views to the boom have been improved, with large, sweeping corner windows and a redesigned engine canopy with chamfered corners.
Standard features of the X10 cab include automatic air conditioning, a Bluetooth radio, three-way tilting steering column and adjustable sun blinds on all windows. There’s also a larger buddy seat with a 27-litre fridge underneath.
All of the vehicle and boom controls have been integrated into the cab’s original controls for a seamless operator experience, without the need to add additional switchgear.
Entry-level AirRide models will have a simpler interior spec with air-suspended cloth seat, while Harriers get a high-back leather version with climate control and heating. However, this will be available as an upgrade on all models.
On both sprayers, Househam’s engineers have redesigned the mirrors to improve operator access, fitted LED work lights and installed a hydraulic-folding ladder with a controller integrated into the park brake. An illuminated pressure gauge has also been included, for clearer visibility when working at night.
Sprayer functions and vehicle readouts are housed in the latest high-spec TMC V6 Terminal, which is set-up for auto section control and auto nozzle select as standard.
This has improved graphics and the option of NavGuide mapping software that uses less processor memory than the FieldMaster system it replaces. The result is considerably faster operation when using additional functions such as individual nozzle control. The NavGuide system is compatible with most GPS set-ups, and has the ability to import a variety of maps to suit different applications, such as variable rate application.
The AirRide sprayers can now be specified with four- or six-cylinder Stage V Mercedes engines with power outputs ranging from 170hp to 240hp. The 170hp option is a single-turbo four-cylinder; the 228hp version uses the same block with twin turbos; and the 240hp version is a six-cylinder with single turbo.
These engines power a hydrostatic motor that drives Poclain wheel motors on AirRide 3000 and 3500 models and heavier-duty Sauer Danfoss units on all larger versions. However, buyers do have the option to upgrade the smaller models.
Tank options range from 3,000 lit to 6,000 lit, and there’s a choice of 24m, 28m or 30m booms.
Unladen weight is from 6,700kg and ground clearance is 1.1m, with the option of increasing this to 1.7m.
Harrier models, meanwhile, now come with a six-cylinder 240hp Mercedes engine as standard and the heavy-duty Sauer Danfoss wheel motors.
Spray packs are integrated into the chassis and come with the option of 4,000 to 6,000-litre tanks and boom options up to 36m. Unladen weight is from 8,500kg and ground clearance is 1.1m.
On-farm prices for the updated models start at £150,000 for an AirRide 3000 with 24m boom and £178,750 for a 4,000-litre Harrier with 24m boom (prices correct at May 2021).
