JCB has upped the ante with higher payloads on its new Fastrac 4000 tractor series. UK correspondent Chris McCullough reports
New axles and tyre options on JCB’s new Fastrac 4000 Series tractors have the potential for increased payloads and durability, the British manufacturer says.
Delivering power from a stepless CVT transmission, the heavy-duty axles have load ratings 33 per cent higher than before, with increased durability thanks to larger hubs and bearings and larger kingpin bearings.
The JCB Fastrac broke a world speed record late last year – click here to find out more
Larger externally-mounted brake discs have been fitted to increase braking performance, while the axle differential at the front is a larger, hydraulically-engaged locking design to enhance tractive efforts when conditions are slippery.
JCB says these upgrades will be especially beneficial for tractors engaged in high-draft load work or when fitted with new tyre options that help deliver even higher levels of traction in the field.
More advanced ‘VF’ category tyres will let operators make the most of the Fastrac’s 50:50 static weight distribution, while enjoying the consistent ride height and in-work weight distribution provided by its front and rear self-levelling suspension.
To further enhance the ‘GPS complete’ technology available on Fastrac tractors, JCB now has both factory-installed Trimble ready and Agra GPS-John Deere steer ready.
JCB says the maximum power and torque outputs of the new range, set to arrive in Australia later this year, are unchanged at 235hp.
However, running costs will be reduced thanks to a new Auto-Stop feature, which eliminates unnecessary fuel use by shutting down the engine after a period at idling speed.
With engine oil and filter service intervals extended from 500 hours to 600 hours and a factory-fitted precision guidance option, the refreshed range has many features to help reduce the total cost of ownership