Tractortimes

Winter 2010

THE JOURNAL FOR PROFESSIONAL TRACTOR USERS

www.claas.co.uk

CLAAS

New XERION tops 500hp

Since its launch four years XERION sales have now exceeded 1000 units and one of the highlights of the recent Agritechnica Show was the launch of two new additions to the XERION range, the largest of which boasts a power output in excess of 500hp. The two new models, the XERION 4500 and the XERION 5000, offer maximum power outputs of 483hp and 524hp respectively and like the smaller XERION 3300 and XERION 3800, they offer a unique degree of flexibility and performance, making them the ideal machine for a wide range of contracting and farming operations. As high horsepower arable tractors, these two new models offer a number of distinct benefits over similar powered articulated or tracked tractors of a similar power. The XERION will be the first tractor in this power segment to feature a CVT transmission, which will offer users far greater flexibility than the Full Powershift transmissions normally found on tractors this size. The XERION is also the first tractor this size to have a maximum travel speed of 50kph, and for road and field work the four-equal sized wheel design will provide a far greater level of operator comfort and handling than has been seen before in tractors in this horsepower class. Four wheel steering also allows for compact headland turns without scuffing and provides excellent and safe handling on the road. Working in combination with the CVT transmission, the engine management system is designed so that the XERION can be operated at lower engine speeds, so saving fuel. reduced compaction. The XERIONs can be fitted with tyres ranging in size from 2050mm (800/70 R38) up to 2160mm diameter (710/75 R42), but still retain an overall width below 3.0 metres. There is also the option of a larger 900/60 R42 tyre, which results in an overall vehicle width of 3.30 metres. Drive to the two steered axles is through a well proven, heavy duty, ZF Eccom 4.5 constantly variable transmission (CVT) with a maximum travel speed of 50kph.

24-volt electrics
A particular feature of these two new models is that they are equipped with both 12-volt and a 24-volt electrical systems. The power is generated by separate alternators and the tractors are fitted with one battery for the 12v system and two for the 24v circuit. Aside from being used to start the engine and power the work lights, the 24-volt system will enable equipment manufacturers to utilise electric motors in place of complex hydraulic systems. This will reduce the number of hydraulic connections needed and so make implement connection to the tractor far simpler, allowing for far greater simplicity and accuracy of operation. For powered implements, there is the option of a 1000rpm PTO, which is driven at an engine speed of just 1730rpm, which is far lower than on other comparable sized tractors. This not only helps to lower fuel consumption but has the added benefit of reducing noise levels.

Three-fingered Multifunction control

In the cab, all the main operating functions are controlled using a new Multifunction control lever operated using just three fingers, and also incorporates a hand rest. The thumb is used to control functions such as the hydraulics, changes in direction, CSM headland management and GPS steering. The index finger is used for cruise control and two programmable buttons, whilst the middle finger panel incorporates a freely programmable rocker switch for functions such as engine speed or hydraulics. In addition, the whole lever can be moved forwards/backwards and sideways to change speed and wheel angle, for instance when crab steering. As on current XERION models, there are six possible steering programmes, including crab steering, and a number of programmable driving modes, including cruise control to maintain a constant speed with optimum fuel efficiency. Each of the new XERIONs will be available with the option of either a central fixed position cab or the unique rotating cab, which makes the XERION ideal for use with specialist applications, such as forestry equipment.

Optimum ground contact

Central to the XERION design is a full frame chassis, from which the major components are suspended. This allows the XERION to absorb far greater weights than a conventional tractor. Where additional weight is required to better balance the tractor, and so improve traction, there is the option to add anything from 13,400kg to 24,000kg to the front or back, or to the wheels as required. The four equal sized wheels provide maximum contact area to enable exceptional levels of grip, minimal wheel slip and 2

XERION 5000 named Machine of the Year

The XERION 5000 was awarded with the German publishing company DLVs prestigious Machine of the Year award in the big machine category. At the presentation of the award are (left to right): Bernd Feuerbord (DLZ); JanHendrik Mohr (member of the CLAAS Group Executive Board); Jan Christensen (Maskinbladet, Denmark); Cathrina Claas-Mhlhuser and Prof. Klaus Bohme (Neue Landwirtschaft).

system is also available, for instance where the tractor is to be used with a loader. Furthermore, diesel consumption and hydraulic load are considerably lower, because the tractor runs at lower engine speed. For enhanced comfort and precision, the ELIOS has up to four electronic spool valves, two of which can be operated using a joystick that makes using a front loader extremely easy. The cab on the ELIOS offers a high level of comfort, with an air-sprung seat and air conditioning fitted as standard. The rear linkage, which has a lift capacity of 3.1 tonnes, is controlled using the TCE 6 electronic control system. A one-piece engine cover means the engine and cab air filters are easily accessible, and a major advantage of the new ELIOS is its extra-long 600-hour engine oil service intervals to help keep downtime and cost to a minimum. Unlike other tractors this size, the ELIOS comes complete with a pick-up hitch and where a CLAAS front loader is to be fitted, this can be ordered for fitting in the factory, so that all the necessary hydraulic and electrical connections are incorporated at time of building.

ELIOS - the compact tractor with a big appetite for work

With power outputs from 72hp to 88hp, the new ELIOS range is designed to provide a more compact offering to the current AXOS range which has similar power outputs. With a low overall height of just 2.40m to the top of the cab, compared to between 2.5m and 2.7m on the AXOS depending on model, the ELIOS is therefore ideal for use in low livestock or similar buildings, such as glasshouses or polytunnels. Three models are available, the ELIOS 210, ELIOS 220 and the ELIOS 230 and with a number of different hydraulic and transmission options, each can be configured to the customers specific needs, such as for loader work. With a tight turning circle of just 3.73 metres, the ELIOS is ideal for yard work and in confined spaces. With power outputs of 72hp, 78hp and 88hp, the 3.2 litre fourcylinder engine on the ELIOS runs quietly, reliably and economically. The engines meet the TIER 3 emissions regulations due to internal exhaust gas recirculation, turbo, intercooler (except the 210) and a mechanical injection system. Maximum torque levels of up to 350 Nm ensures the ELIOS has plenty of power in reserve. The ELIOS comes with a 540/1000 and synchronised PTO but an optional 540/540E is available, designed for high diesel economy and low noise during light PTO work. Depending on requirements, the customer has the choice of four different transmission options: 12 forward/12 reverse with a mechanical reverser 24 forward/24 reverse with a mechanical reverser and splitter 24 forward/24 reverse with mechanical reverser and TWINSHIFT powershift 24 forward/24 reverse with REVERSHIFT hydraulic reverser and TWINSHIFT powershift As standard, the ELIOS comes with a two-pump, 59 litres per minute hydraulic system, but a three-pump 85 litres per minute

Narrow width NEXOS

To meet the wide and differing needs for which fruit and vineyard growers use narrow tractors, the new CLAAS NEXOS comes with a wide range of equipment options. The NEXOS is available in four models (210; 220; 230 and 240) and three variants - the VE, VL and F - with a minimum overall widths of 1.00 metres, 1.26 metres and 1.46 metres respectively. Each model offers an ideal combination of wheelbase, weight distribution and lift capacity, enabling the NEXOS to lift and pull heavy implements. The new NEXOS shares the same 3.2 litre engine as the larger ELIOS, offering power outputs of 72hp; 78hp and 88hp, plus a fourth longer wheelbase 101hp model is also available powered by a 4.5 litre engine. As with the ELIOS, there is the option of four different transmission options, ranging from 12/12 mechanical to 24/24 powershift. The NEXOS comes with a two-pump, 59 litres per minute hydraulic system, but a three-pump 85 litres per minute system is also available for more demanding situations. With up to four spool valves, two of which can be controlled using a joystick, it is possible to drive a hydraulic motor whilst operating a control unit and the rear linkage simultaneously. In the cab, in addition to an air-sprung seat and air conditioning, an activated charcoal filter is also standard on the NEXOS. 3

Multi-tasking AXOS
One of the first AXOS tractors to be sold in the UK was bought by farmer and contractor Shane Morgan. Replacing a 3000 hour, four year old 95hp CELTIS, and also running a 102hp ARES 557 RTZ, Shane opted for the more powerful 102hp AXOS 340CX as this would provide him with a slightly smaller tractor, but with the same power so that equipment could be used on either tractor. In addition to rearing 300 cattle for sale as stores on their 73ha farm near Abergavenny, Shane and his father Brian also provide a contract hedge cutting and round baling service, making some 8000 hay, silage and straw bales each year. The CELTIS was a very good tractor, and held its value well, but I just wanted a bit more power so that both tractors could do everything, explains Shane. I did look at one other make, but ultimately the back-up and service from Harold Johns has always been extremely good, which is worth a lot. Also the AXOS provides a good combination of simplicity and technology. For instance because we dont do any cultivation work, a simple, mechanically controlled linkage is fine for our needs. However by having the CX version, the electronic

Shane Morgan

(REVERSHIFT) shuttle is ideal for loader work and the TWINSHIFT transmission is good for jobs like baling. Also the air-seat provides a far more comfortable ride than the normal seat on the CELTIS. The AXOS is used for a wide range of jobs around the farm. During the summer, it is used for all the mowing, tedding and rowing up ahead of the round baler on the ARES, which if needed is also used behind the AXOS. It will also then be used to move the 2000 bales that they stack each year, 1300 of which are for their own use. During the winter months the AXOS is then kept busy feeding cattle, both out in the field and in the sheds, as well as for general handling tasks around the farm. The AXOS is extremely nice to drive and as a stockman type tractor is very good; I cant fault it, says Shane. Its ideal for loader work and well balanced, so theres no need for a weight on the back. It also pulls well and the engine certainly seems to be very economical.

Versatile powerhouse
As a one-man band, contractor Phil Oliver is very reliant on his ARION 640 CEBIS and the service and support he gets from his dealer. This is Phils second ARION 640. The first, which had CIS, was just over a year old when he changed it for the new CEBIS version last autumn. I use the tractor for everything, so am very dependent on it being reliable, but if I do have a problem that my dealer will be there to support me. Unfortunately with my previous make of tractor that was not the case, says Phil. I first dealt with Mill Engineers about five years ago when I bought a topper, and since then I have gradually bought more from them because they have always looked after me extremely well and been very helpful. I had previously tried an ARES 697, but was not too impressed. I then saw a brochure for the ARION soon after it was launched, and Martin Hume arranged for me to visit Saxham to see a tractor. I was immediately impressed with it and by the fact that everything I disliked about the ARES had been changed for the better. The ARION is a good, well thought out tractor and with the 4

power boost up to 180hp it is powerful, but not too big and fills a gap in the market. If you look at other makes, for that power the tractors are far bigger and heavier. The ARION is ideal, as for ploughing I can weight it up, but then drop off the weights when I need to keep the weight down, such as mowing, whilst for jobs such as hedgecutting it is very nimble and not too big Normally Phil aims to keep his tractors for about four years, by which time they will have done about 6,000 hours. However having been offered a good price to upgrade to the CEBIS version, he took advantage of it. In addition to the ARION, he also runs a VARIANT 360 and has just bought a new DISCO 3050C mower. I had always wanted CEBIS, but with the first ARION I could not justify it at that stage. CEBIS is very self-explanatory and ideal for measuring area and to accurately monitor fuel use. Also its easy to set up a headland sequence for the drill and other jobs. Phil comments that one of the great strengths of the ARION is the HEXASHIFT transmission and the fact that the engine is not only very economical, but will just keep pulling. My old 150hp tractor struggled to pick up five furrows and would empty a tank in a day. The ARION however happily pulls six furrows and will go for nearly two days on a tank. Also its pulling power is unbelievable, the engine never gives up; it can drop to 1400rpm but it will fight for all its got.

Paul Thomas

Service sells
Two ARION 620Cs and a SCORPION 6030 are the latest additions to Thomas Brothers (Nash) Ltds machinery fleet. The two tractors, which were delivered last summer, join a fleet of 11 tractors run by the company which, aside from farming 360ha near Newport in Gwent, also do general agricultural contracting, groundwork and sports field construction and drainage. The two ARION 620Cs, which have a maximum power output of 140hp, replaced two ARES 657s, and are used for general haulage and fieldwork. Also currently on order is another ARION 520 CIS and an AXOS 340, that have been bought specifically for sports field work, so have been specified with creep gearboxes and turf tyres. One of the main tasks for the ARION 520 will be to operate a Wizz Wheel drainer, so the ability, using CIS, to alter hydraulic flow, will ensure the operator can accurately fine tune the trencher. We have been very pleased with the ARIONs. The C specification is ideal, as we dont need any sophisticated control systems because they will mainly be used for jobs such as rowing-up, cultivations and trailer work, says Paul Thomas.

The tractors are comfortable and we have found the fuel economy to be extremely good. One of the main reasons for initially going with CLAAS was the service that we receive from Riverlea. In any purchase this is a big consideration, and as contractors for us its the service support that we receive that sells every time. In the two years we had them, the two ARES proved to be good, reliable tractors and ultimately they also held their value very well. The new SCORPION 6030 was bought to replace a different make of handler and chosen after the Thomas test drove it during maize harvest. One of the big advantages is the fact it has a 40kph transmission, but overall it performed well and the price was right. The driver loves it and it is definitely a step-up in terms of performance from what we had before, concludes Paul.

Somehow CLAAS seem to have got it right with the ARION. They have always made machines that are driver friendly and whilst CLAAS is not the cheapest, they are not the most expensive either. With a cheap tractor, the only way to make money is to use cheap components, which is then reflected in its reliability and the quality of service because there is nothing to reinvest in training and support, and that was the problem with my previous make, concludes Phil.

Phil Oliver

CLAAS establish RTK network

In order to enable farmers to benefit from the high accuracy potential of RTK, and as part of their long-term commitment to GPS steering systems, CLAAS UK has become one of the first manufacturers to set about establishing a network of RTK aerials. Following a successful trial last summer, CLAAS has bought four licences that allow them to potentially install masts anywhere within the UK. Initially 11 masts have been installed to provide RTK coverage throughout Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex, Lincolnshire and part of Leicestershire. In the next phase this winter, masts are to be installed to cover Kent and then the plan is to move westwards. However, CLAAS will also look at the feasibility of installing masts elsewhere in the UK where there is sufficient demand from customers. Depending on the topography, each mast will provide RTK coverage over a 20 to 30 kilometre radius. To use the network, customers pay an annual subscription, which will provide access to the whole network, not just a single mast. In addition prior to subscribing, a survey will also be conducted to ensure that there is RTK coverage of the farm. Aside from providing an RTK signal for CLAAS GPS PILOT steering systems, the network can also be accessed by those using an Omnistar HP signal with a Trimble receiver.

Keeping it straight and powerful

Needing a higher powered tractor for primary cultivations, Germany Farms have found the XERION 3800 provides the ideal combination of high power and traction, whilst not being too large for road work. Farming 1200ha spread over four blocks around Norwell near Newark, and with soil types ranging from mainly heavy clay through to blowing sand, the Germanys mainly rely on a 5m wide Simba SL for primary cultivations. Having previously pulled this with a 330hp tractor, it was the need for more power and traction to increase output that led the Germanys to approach Marsh for a demonstration of the 384hp XERION 3800. Whilst we use tracked tractors for secondary cultivations and drilling, I have always felt that wheels provide better grip for primary work, says Chris. The SL is ideal for our land, but working it at 16cm on heavy soils takes some pulling, especially on hills. Aside from oilseed rape, which is mainly drilled using a Stocks seeder on the back of the SL, for cereals after the initial pass, the land is left to green-up prior to a second pass with a Cultipress or similar before drilling. As soon as we tried the XERION we were convinced it was the right machine for our needs. Its very impressive and the traction is phenomenal. The four equal sized wheels provide

far greater grip and definitely transfer more power to the ground. Its fitted with 650-38 Axiobib tyres that we run at 14psi, which gives them the same footprint as a 710 tyre, but keeps the road width down and also means they will fit in the furrow should we need to plough. The XERION is the ideal sized tractor for what we want it to do, which is to provide brute force grunt, and the driver loves it. Driver comfort is fantastic and the ability using CEBIS to set-up the tractor for the job and conditions, makes it easy to find the ideal balance between economy and output. Chris has been using GPS guidance and steering for a number of years, and the XERION has been fitted with an RTK steering system, using a signal from a CLAAS mast at Marsh. In addition two other tractors and the sprayer are also fitted with either guidance or full steering systems. From July through to October the XERION will be used for up to 14 hours a day either subsoiling or pulling the SL, so systems like RTK definitely help improve machine output and efficiency. The ability to skip passes and do what you like, but still accurately match bouts is fantastic. Also we often use a Simba DTX on the headlands, so again having GPS means the two tractors can work separately but still match up without leaving gaps or odd angles where they meet. I would certainly not buy an other cultivations tractor without a steering system.

Chris Germany

New COPILOT TS controller

CLAAS Agrosystems has introduced a new entry level steering control terminal GPS COPILOT TS. The new COPILOT TS shares many features of the more advanced S3 control unit, but is designed specifically for use with tractors, and will provide either steering guidance or can be upgraded for use with an automatic steering system. COPILOT TS uses an Egnos correction signal to provide an
CLAAS GPS PILOT steering systems
Through its AGROSYSTEMS division, CLAAS is able to provide a complete range of guidance and automatic steering system solutions, with accuracies as little as 2-3cm. By avoiding overlaps and improved work efficiency, the increase in output and the resulting reduction in running and variable costs can result in savings of around 7%.

accuracy of 15-30cm and can be used for parallel tracking of either a straight or curved path. The COPILOT TS unit incorporates a large touch screen display and aside from providing track management, the terminal can be used to calculate and store information, such as the area covered, and has a USB connection to download information for further use.

Egnos Precision: 15-30cm With integrated eDif connection No licensing costs

Omnistar HP Precision: 5-10cm Dual frequency DGPS Differential connection signal is received from a satellite The differential correction signal is available on a quarterly or annual basis

BASELINE HD Precision: 4-6cm Unique mobile reference signal Range 3-5km License-free differential correction signal Signal can be utilised simultaneously by multiple machines

RTK Precision: 2-3cm Stationary reference station Reference signal can be provided by a CLAAS dealer if required Range up to 20km Licence-free differential correction signal

BASELINE cost savings

Investing in a BASELINE GPS system for their two AXION 820 tractors will help William and Robert Hay reduce operating and variable cost. Accurate to 4-8cm the unique CLAAS BASELINE GPS guidance system will enable the Hays to operate both the tractors, and their new LEXION 570TT, more efficiently by reducing short work, so saving fuel and operator cost. Ultimately, by using BASELINE in conjunction with yield mapping and the variable application of inputs, the brothers hope it will also help reduce their variable costs, especially fertiliser. The Hays farm 340ha near Turriff in Aberdeenshire is split between two units nine miles apart, most of which is cereals, mainly spring barley for malt and distilling but also winter wheat, barley and oilseed rape. In addition they have a 60,000 bird broiler unit and 18,000 free-range layers, and they are currently constructing their own windmill, which will ultimately generate 800Kwatt for sale into the national grid. We have used Egnos on the sprayer, but due to the hills the reception can be very patchy, and it then takes a long time to re-connect, says William. The great benefit of BASELINE is that it should provide a consistent signal and is a one-off cost. Ultimately by working more accurately it should help us reduce fuel, operating and input costs. Also when spreading muck from the chicken units, we should be able to more accurately match up the bouts and headland so as to achieve a more even application across the field The plan is that we will also fit a receiver to the new LEXION so that we can then also mark out fields more accurately and avoid short work.
William and Robert Hay

The combine also has yield mapping, so the next stage will be to look at variable application, especially of fertiliser on fields where we have applied chicken muck. The first AXION 820 CIS, which has a maximum power output of 232hp, was bought in 2008 to replace an ARES 816 whilst the second, an AXION 820 CEBIS, was delivered in December. The two AXIONs are responsible for all the main cultivation work on the farm. Having changed to minimal cultivations nine years ago, one of the main tasks for the older AXION 820CIS is to pull a Simba SL400 cultivator. The new AXION 820 will be mainly used with the Hays 4.0m Horsh Sprinter grain and fertiliser drill. Because the drill has a hydraulic fan, the tractor has been specified with the optional 150 l/min load sensing hydraulic system and using CEBIS we can then easily alter the flow rate to the fan. We have been very pleased with the AXION. The transmission is great and the engine just keeps pulling; it never gives up. Also the fuel consumption is noticeably less than the ARES 816 and by having more power you can cut the engine speed back. Whilst we did try some other makes, we have always got on well with Bruce Farm Machinery and for its specification, the AXION is very well priced, states Robert. Also we know and trust CLAAS and are confident that they will stand by us if we have a problem with either the tractors or BASELINE.

Mountainous reliability
Reliability is an essential element in W J Fraser & Sons choice of tractor, and the main reason why they have been running Le Mans built tractors for over 20 years. Currently the Frasers have four CLAAS tractors a 100hp CELTIS 456, a 96hp ARES 546RZ and two 155hp ARION 630 CIS both of which are equipped with loaders on the farm, plus an old Renault. The two ARIONs are key tractors during the winter months on the Frasers two farms totalling 850ha near Tomintoul, which is the highest village in the Cairngorms. Whilst the 300 sucker cows are mainly housed during the long winter from September through to late May, the 5000 ewes remain outdoors. We have a telehandler on each farm for use around the cattle courts, but during the winter the two ARIONs will be out twice a day, every day transporting feed to the outlying stock, so we are very reliant on them, explains Colin Fraser. You can have the fanciest tractor in the world, but its worth nothing if its unreliable. Whilst we do have dealers for other makes that are closer, we have found nothing to match the reliability of CLAAS tractors and the service and support we receive from Bruce Farm Machinery, even though they are 60 miles away. In addition to clamp silage for the cattle, the Frasers also make over 3000 round silage bales, of which 1000 come from seasonal land that they take every year, which is about 10 miles away.
Colin Fraser

Therefore the other main requirement for the tractors was that they should be good on the road, as apart from hauling bales, the tractors are also used to collect cattle feed from a mill 35 miles away, and draft (spent grain) from the local Tomnavoulin distillery. The ARION 640s are ideal for roadwork. They have more than enough power for the hills, the engines just keep pulling, are economic and the (HEXASHIFT) transmission is great for both loader work and on the road, especially when going up hills. One of the tractors is also used on the baler in the summer and here again the transmission is ideal. Just as important is the fact that the tractors are well balanced and have plenty of grip, as we have a lot of steep land. The DRIVESTICK makes changing gear very easy, and all the main controls are at your fingertips, so the tractors are simple to use. We have also noticed that the (load sensing) hydraulic system is far faster and more reactive than on the Renaults. One of the great strengths of the tractors is the engines and over the 20 years we have never needed to touch one. The change to CLAAS has been very positive; all the old strengths of the Renaults are still there, but there is no doubt that the overall quality and the cab finish have improved, concludes Colin.

AXION fuel saver

Two CLAAS AXION tractors have helped contractor Steve Anning to slash his fuel usage. The first of the tractors, a 246hp AXION 840 CEBIS, was bought last January, and was joined by the smaller 189hp AXION 820 CEBIS in the summer. The difference in fuel consumption between the AXIONs and our previous make of tractor is considerable, states Steve whose business, Wye Valley Farm Services is based near Whitney-on-Wye in Herefordshire. For mowing, I previously ran a front and rear combination on a 152hp tractor which used 6.8 litres/acre. With the AXION 840 I am running a butterfly triple, and the tractor only uses 2.27 litres/acre. Fuel consumption is a big issue and the saving in fuel is unbelievable. One of the other main jobs for the tractor is to power a triple bed tiller, which demands a lot of power and is heavy work. We often work as part of a team, and it is noticeable that compared to the other tractors, the AXION does use far less fuel. Its power sapping work, but the AXION handles it far better than most of the other tractors which do seem to breakdown fairly regularly! One of the main reasons for changing to the AXION was due to reliability issues with his previous tractors, plus the need for a higher powered tractor in order to increase work rates, especially when mowing on hilly ground to keep ahead of his Jaguar 880 Profi forager. The AXION has a good name and you see an increasing 8

number around. Also even though they are 80 miles away, the service and support from Riverlea at Cowbridge is outstanding. If there is a problem they will address it, and their technicians take a pride in their work. Riverlea understand how contractors work and will work with you. For foraging, the windows of opportunity are not great, so one of the reasons for changing to a more powerful tractor and triple mower was to be able to have the output to get in and do the job quickly and efficiently. The drivers love the tractors and I cant get them out of them! Its impressive how well the AXIONs perform and the power boost is ideal when working on banks. With the axle and cab suspension they are very comfortable the ride is like being in a car, and the climate control is ideal. All of Steves five full time staff drive the AXIONs, and the fact that they are easy to operate is one of the strong points. CEBIS is very straightforward to use and the drivers now have various (CSM) headland sequences jobs stored, making it quick and easy to recall a sequence and set-up the tractor for each job. Also the ability to monitor fuel use is extremely useful so that I know exactly Steve Anning what we have used for billing. I definitely feel that CLAAS is the up and coming tractor manufacturer due their fuel economy and comfort, plus the fact that they will stand by you.

A CLAAS act in The Golden Vale

Contractors Sean and Joe OReilly run both a contracting and farming business in the heart of The Golden Vale region at Ballinree, Cashel, Co. Tipperary, Ireland, which is a fertile stretch of land in the basin of the River Suir, which crosses the county from north to south. Farming in the area is quite mixed with both tillage and cattle being the main farming enterprises, but not forgetting the horse industry as well. Tipperary is also the heart of the horse industry in Ireland, with for example, the world renowned Coolmore Stud located there as well. The OReillys themselves rent about 200 ha on top of their own 61, where they grow winter and spring barley, maize and fodder beet. Contracting has been a part of the family business for about 60 years, Sean explains. Sean and Joe operate entirely in County Tipperary, and cereal and grass work makes up the bulk of the brothers business, with about 400 ha of cereals, mainly spring barley, to harvest and in the region of 1200 ha of silage, including 120 ha of maize, to pick up. They have an extensive fleet of CLAAS products including four CLAAS tractors. The oldest is a 2005 ARES 836, next an ARES 697 and two 2008 tractors, a ARION 630 and an AXION 820. The harvester line-up includes a 2008 LEXION 550 combine with C660 header and 2001 JAGUAR 890 forage harvester with both pick-up and maize heads. Complementing these CLAAS key mover products are two fixed chamber, chopper round balers, a ROLLANT 254 and 354, a VOLTO 770 tedder and LINER 880 twin rotor rake. Outlining the reasoning behind their commitment to CLAAS, We have had CLAAS combines ever since we bought a new Standard S from Barlos in Clonmel in 1971, states Joe. Their tractor commitment stems from their historical usage of Renault tractors from local dealers Breen Farm Machinery in Cashel. Sean explains, We were Renault users before CLAAS and when CLAAS bought Renault, the local dealer, Breens stayed with the product under the CLAAS banner, and so we continued on with CLAAS. He adds, We bought our first CLAAS tractor in about 2005 and basically we like the CLAAS tractor and we get a good service from the dealer. None of the tractors are idle explains Joe, We put an average of about 2000 hrs a year on each tractor and keep them for about five years before changing. Even at this time of the year they are busy cleaner-loading and delivering fodder beet, which they grow for a 500 cow dairy farm. We sow, grow, harvest and clean it, then deliver it as needed during the winter, Sean says. The various tractors carry out a certain amount of fixed duties, The 697 ARES drills around 320ha of cereals with an Amazone power harrow and Fiona 3 metre drill combination, Sean says. During the silage season and harvest, it pulls one of the CLAAS balers. Equipped with GPS, The ARION 630 spreads all the fertilizer with a trailed Bredal 85 (approx 8 tonne capacity) bulk spreader both for themselves and customers plus a local coop. We spread bulk fertiliser for Centenary Co-Op in Cashel. Its thousands of acres, you couldnt put a figure on it as a lot of the ground we would be covering over and over again, explains Joe. The main task for AXION 820 is mowing for pit and baled silage plus hay with front and rear 3 metre mowers. Sean says, Its a super system, were fierce happy with it. We can mow 48ha a day with the AXION 820 and mowers no problem, all on a tank of diesel. It works very, very well especially when you are not running after it with diesel all the time. The ARES 836 does the bulk of the ploughing with a 5 furrow reversible Gregoire Besson fully mounted plough, with back up from the ARION 820 with another 5 furrow Gregoire Besson plough when required. We are very happy with our CLAAS tractors, they provide a comfortable environment to work in and all the tractors have cab and front suspension. Performance wise, Sean states, We work them hard, we can put up to 2200 hours a year on some of them, no problem and theyre reliable. He adds, We also get great support from our local dealer, Breens. Looking to the future, there are plans to buy a new AXION 820 or 830. A deal to replace the LINER 880 rake with a new LINER 2900 is already done. Even further down the road, Sean says they will look at changing the Jaguar after the 2010 silage season. 9

Philip Trim

Specialist spreader
A specialist liquid waste handling system built around a XERION 3800 has given Philip Trim the ability to quickly and efficiently spread in excess of 100,000 litres a day. Specialising in liquid waste handling, in addition to offering a more general contracting service, Philip took delivery of the 388hp XERION, fitted with a 15,000 litre SGT tank system, last autumn. Based near Bere Regis in Dorset, aside from handling general dairy and pig unit waste, he also specialises in handling commercial factory waste, in particular hauling milk waste from seven cheese and processing plants for spreading on the land, using a fleet of five 30,000 litre articulated tankers, that run seven days a week. The waste milk is then stored in purpose built lagoons prior to spreading using either the XERION or umbilical systems. The reason for investing in the XERION based system is that with farmers becoming more concerned about 2012, and also facing tighter restrictions, both the processors and farmers are looking for long-term commitment and seeking a professional, precision service, explains Philip who bought the XERION through Vaughan Agri. One of the big benefits of the SGT system is that the metering system is linked into the CEBIS unit. This allows us to load the farmers field maps into CEBIS, and then when we have finished spreading we can download everything onto a memory stick and provide him with a complete breakdown of exactly what has been applied and where. When I was looking at the various options, I knew that I needed to go self-propelled for the output, and because of the

land type that it needed to be a mounted system, not trailed. The ability of the XERION to crab steer and by running it on 800 wide tyres, soil damage is kept to a minimum. Also with an umbilical system, because you are restricted to how far from the lagoon you can pump, these fields are now high in P and K, so working with the farmer we can use land more appropriately and be able to spread on outlying fields and in line with cropping. It also gives the option for larger dairy farms and pig units with no land to export their slurry. In order to provide a complete service throughout the year, the tanker system is used in combination with either a 7.0m grassland injector or a 6.0m trailing shoe, plus for arable farms Philip has adapted a 4.0m Simba Xpress, so he can work straight into stubble, so all the customer then needs to do is drill the crop. In order that the XERION can work at maximum capacity, three 14,500 litre capacity nurse tankers are used to ferry between the lagoon and the field. In the field, using a loading arm on the front of the XERION, it can be refilled in about two minutes without the driver needing to leave the cab. The operator absolutely loves the XERION, particularly its power, but also having previously driven a purpose built machine, he finds that CEBIS makes the XERION far easier to set-up and operate. The whole unit is extremely stable and the visibility is excellent, plus it has plenty of power for the hills. And being CLAAS I know that the back-up from Vaughan Agri will be good. The XERION is tried and tested and by going for the reversible cab, rather than the front mounted cab, when it comes to changing the XERION at about 6,000 hours, it should retain a high resale value.

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Bob Rowe

Some days we can end up loading over 25 lorries, so because of the number of loading points, I need that number of machines for flexibility and avoid time wasted moving machines between farms. Also in the last couple of years, because of the conditions we have often ended up having to double or triple handle grain. During harvest I mainly use the SCORPION myself as I look after the grain store at home, so I end up driving it a lot but find the SCORPION far less tiring that other machines. For me the best feature is the (VARIPOWER PLUS) transmission. Due to a leg injury, constantly using a brake can be tiring, so the ability to completely control the transmission using the joystick, and stop at the press of a button, this avoids the need to use the foot brake so much, which is far easier. Cycle times are very quick. Our longest store is 36 metres long, but when loading lorries due to the speed of the transmission and the fact it is infinitely variable, the SCORPION is quickly in and out, so reducing loading time. For grain handling, the SCORPION is fitted with a large 2.5 tonne capacity bucket. Having previously run a machine with a 110l/min system, Bob says that the higher capacity 150l/min load sensing hydraulic system on the SCORPION 7045 VP+ makes a considerable difference. He adds that it is also noticeable now much more stable the SCORPION is, which is an important factor when loading lorries. At harvest I spend a lot of hours in the SCORPION. The joystick makes operating the SCORPION easy as its very sensitive and positive. The SCORPION is extremely well built, comfortable and the curved screen is great for loading, as you can clearly see the raised bucket without having to lean forward to see past any obstructions. I love it, concludes Bob.

High capacity loading

Now on his third SCORPION telescopic handler from Vaughan Agri, Bob Rowe has found there is no comparison between it and competitive makes he has used. Comfort, smoothness, performance and the ease with which it handles a big 2.5 tonne capacity bucket, are all aspects of the SCORPION 7045 VARIPOWER PLUS that Bob says sets it apart from other machines. Bob farms a total of 1860ha spread across his own farm at Gussage St Michael in Dorset, and a further nine blocks of land that he contract farms. With both a LEXION 600TT and a LEXION 580TT feeding into five different stores, in addition to his own two handlers, Bob also hires in a third machine at harvest to help handle the 15,000 tonnes of wheat, barley and oilseed rape he produces.

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CLAAS

Saxham, Bury St EdmundsSuffolk IP28 6QZTel: 01284 763100www.claas.co.uk Tractortimes is published for Claas UK Ltd by Four Seasons Publicity.