Krone will introduce the new Big M400 self-propelled mower at Agritechnica 2009. Equipped with a 400hp Mercedes Benz engine, Big M400 performs extraordinary well in dense crops and on slopes.
More than that, the new engine operates at significantly lower speeds on the road and in the field. Like its predecessors, Big M400 features an automotive transmission that controls engine speed automatically to match it to the selected ground speed and the current load on the drive system. This means that unlike traditional hydrostatic systems, the engine on this machine is not revving constantly at high speeds, but reduces speed automatically when the machine is waiting at a traffic light or road junction – a concept that leads to substantial fuel savings and reduces wear on the engine and drive system.
What’s more, the overall level of machine specification reflects a clear focus on operator comfort. For example, Big M400 features the new HeavyDuty mower bed with its SafeCut auto-reset system, which centres on a roll pin that connects each disc to the drive shaft and that shears off as the disc hits an obstacle. The stopped disc jacks up on a thread and clear of the neighbouring discs while the sprocket keeps revolving, eliminating the risk of damage to the neighbouring discs. This patented system protects the mower bed and discs effectively from any damage and enhances the machine’s overall operational reliability. Replacing the bearing housing is straightforward and the mower is up and running again within minutes after the impact. The tripped bearing element may be reused after inspection and roll pin replacement.
Like Big M II, Big M400 is marketed with a choice of three conditioner versions. Tthe high-performance CV conditioner offers a 9.7m work width and uses freely pivoting V-type steel tines, which give extremely intensive conditioning. The rotor speed is set conveniently on the gearbox (700rpm and 1,000rpm).
Leafy crops such as alfalfa and clover should receive gentle treatment, which comes from the rubber processor rollers of the high-performance CRi conditioner from Krone, while a steel roller version is available to condition tall and dense crops such as Sorghum-Sudan grass. Both CRi versions offer a 9m work width and roller diameter is 25cm.
Feed augers are available for the two side mowers. This Krone Big Swath System transfers the conditioned crop from the conditioner to the middle of the machine without the material dropping to the ground and contaminating. This Big Swath merging system operates in combination with both the CV conditioner and the CRi conditioner and also when the auger hoods are opened for spreading the crop across the full width.
For additional versatility and machine utilisation, Big M400 also performs as a self-propelled topper, which works at a 9m width. An intriguing application, for example, is topping the stubble of a crop of maize to control the European maize borer.
The Big M400 cooling system, too, received an update to match the enormous engine power. The enhanced system comprises a bigger radiator including radiator sieve and an integral suction duct that takes in air from the top. The advantage of this design is that the air that is inducted from the top is much cleaner. To protect the radiator effectively from contamination, the automatic reverse fan cuts in periodically, the fan blade turning around its axis and freeing the radiator from debris and dust, which drop to the ground through the rear radiator flap that opens automatically. This automatic cleaning system prevents the engine from overheating and reduces downtime spent on cleaning.
Featuring the convenient Command Vision Cab, Big M400 stands out by its restyled, spacious, uncluttered and fully air-conditioned operator platform, where all major controls are within convenient reach. The transmission and the mower lift/lower functions are controlled from the established joystick and all major machine data are displayed on the colour EasyTouch display screen for easy and fast editing.
Innovative diamond treaded Cargo XBib tyres are available for Big M400 to run on in delicate crops such as Lucerne. This special tyre benefits from a substantially smaller contact area and a pressure as low as 1.0bar to minimize the load on the rootstock, protect the soil and ensure fast crop re-growth.
For more information visit: www.krone-uk.com.
