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Multidrive Forward Control
Combining the technical assets of the proven Multidrive workhorse with the latest Kelland forward control cab from the versatile Agribuggy, a new forward control tractor is currently under development and will be available in the autumn of 2012.
The chassis and running gear is taken from the Multidrive 6195 and the cab from the latest Agribuggy. By adding the 360° visibility forward control cab with its tinted, curved glass, this new model maintains Multidrive’s excellent engineering pedigree whilst the air suspension, as standard, provides great comfort and allows high working speeds.The new, larger cab will be fitted with the latest Multidrive control panel, climate control and additional storage for documents and tools. Features from the recently introduced Sixtrac will also be incorporated including a new hydraulic braking system with improved feel together with electrically operated handbrake and diff locks. The step will be retractable pneumatically and it folds up neatly alongside the cab. The design is extremely robust and will break back should an obstruction be hit when it's in the lowered position.
This3D moving image of the FC may take a little while to load - When it has you can double click it to view full screen
The longer load space allows for the fitting of longer, lower spray tanks which in turn will lower the centre of gravity and improve the weight balance - this will be very close to the perfect 50/50 on each axle. Even with a reduced overall ground pressure the FC will still be able to carry higher capacity sprayers of up to 6,000 litres. A new axle will be fitted to the front of the FC to allow for the additional front axle loads.
The 3.8 mete wheel base Multidrive chassis will be used and will give a much bigger load space than the 4.2 metre chassis normally used for sprayers of over 4,000 litre capacity. This keeps the turning circle to a minimum which is further aided by the Pentronic, four wheel steering system. The long load space behind the cab also helps to reduce the overall transport height of the machine quite considerably by allowing the spray booms to fold behind the cab - this also avoids any drips from the boom contaminating the cab area.
CAD image of the new Forward Control |
The engine cooling pack has been relocated to one side and above the engine and will feature a variable speed, thermostatically controlled, hydraulic fan. All engine installations on the Multidrive are rigourously tested by John Deere's installation engineers to ensure that they are capable of working in ambient air temperatures of up to 50ºc. However, with a constant speed cooling fan this means for the majority of the time the cooling system is over-engineered and the fan is absorbing much more engine power than necessary. The new cooling system reduces power requirement considerably, improves fuel consumption and reduces the airflow which, in turn, reduces noise and the amount of dust pulled into the radiator. The fan is however, also fitted with a reversing system to allow any dust build up to be blown back out again.
Multidrive are also working very closely with Chafer Machinery to produce a demountable sprayer to suit the new Forward Control. Units will be available in time for the official launch of the FC later this year. Please watch this space for further details!
Mockup with a Chafer 36m spray pack
For a chance to put your own mark on the new forward control Multidrive, come and see us at Cereals, Stand No. SS111 and let us know what you would like to see on this latest model.
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