As a crawler tractor designed to excel in hilly environments, McCormick’s latest addition to the Australian market is appealing to a new demographic of buyers
McCormick’s Australian distributor Clark Equipment is hailing its newest tractor as ‘the hillside specialist’ which is capable of reaching where others cannot.
The X4.120TM crawler tractor has joined its Australian product lineup, with its specialised nature marking a significant difference from the general-purpose nature of many of its others.
The X4.120TM is the largest model in the series, and the only one being brought into Australia, and offers a 112hp (82kW) engine that also produces 420Nm of torque.
Its design differences are immediately apparent thanks to the presence of steel or rubber tracks, which are available between 400mm and 450mm wide.
By operating with tracks, the X4.120TM is not only able to provide the traction and grip needed to handle steep grades and difficult terrain, but do so while maintaining a light footprint and minimising soil compaction.
Clark’s national product manager David Knoke says the extra horsepower offered by the X4.120TM compared to the smaller models was a big reason why the distributor was keen to bring this particular model into the country.
Knoke believes it will appeal to fencing contractors along with farmers operating vineyards and orchards, thanks to its versatility and ability to help with clearing small blocks.
“Going into a steep slope specialty tractor, it really opens us up to a few more markets,” he says.
“Customers are running discs, deep rippers, post drivers, backhoes and speeders on that particular unit, so it’s about having a bit more versatility.
“It also has front linkage so it allows for a few options on the front like mulchers, pruners or trimmers, while we can also run blades, grabs and buckets.
“It’s not a dozer or anything along those lines, but being a more compact skid style of machine is definitely going to be a big selling feature.”
Unique features
A tractor designed for use in these tricky environments needs a unique combination of features, including power, versatility, safety and stability.
As an Italian manufacturer with years of experience in building for hilly European environments, McCormick is well placed to deliver all of this.
The Deutz AG 2.9L, eight-valve, four-cylinder turbo aftercooled engine provides the responsive power needed to negotiate challenging conditions and maximise productivity in any situation.
Its mechanical transmission has been entirely designed and manufactured by McCormick.
Four gears in two ranges provide a total of 16 speeds forward and eight in reverse, and can be equipped with overdrive or creeper to extend the maximum speed range from 30km/h down to just 300m per hour.
This additional versatility means operators can be confident in the tractor’s ability to handle any agricultural setting.
Both the transmission and hydraulic system are designed for maximum configurability, with the highly customisable nature of the hydraulics being one of the tractor’s standout features.
A triple pump supplies 56 + 28L/min to the hitch and remotes and 28L/min to the steering system for maximum driving comfort.
It also operates up to five remote valves with six quick couplers and flow control system.
These rear remote quick couplers are high quality and conveniently located, while the oil cooler with auxiliary tank ensures optimum performance including under challenging conditions.
The tractor also features a Category 2 rear hitch which has a standard lift capacity of 3,150kg.
By adding twin assistor rams, this maximum lift capacity can be increased to 4,500kg.
An 85L fuel tank helps to ensure long working days can be completed without the need to refuel.
Maximum comfort
As a tractor designed for use in environments less flat than most broadacre paddocks, it is important that operator comfort has been considered.
Sound insulated and air conditioned, the cabin is iso-mounted on Hydro-Silent blocks to minimise vibrations while also providing protection from dust.
The driving platform is completely suspended from the wagon and engine compartment, which also helps to provide total insulation from both heat and vibrations.
A large driver’s seat offers air suspension, while operators will also benefit from a new dashboard and side console, ergonomically positioned controls, radio system and automotive-style suspended brake pedals.
Servo-assisted levers allow smooth direction changes.
The high-visibility cab of the X4.120TM is a six-post design with slightly protruding doors and telescoping mirrors that helps to provide all-round visibility and increase safety.
By maximising the ride comfort, McCormick aims to reduce operator fatigue and therefore increase productivity.
Clark Equipment plans to showcase the X4.120TM at upcoming field days including Tocal, FarmFest and AgQuip, giving customers the chance to see it in person.
The X4.120TM, along with the entire McCormick range, can be viewed online at www.clarkfarmequipment.com.au