The biggest, most powerful tractor ever to carry the McCormick name will be exhibited for the first time at the FTMTA Farm Machinery Show on February 7-9th at Punchestown Event Centre, Naas, Co Kildare.
Distinctive styling adds to the sheer presence of this 10.8-tonne, 310hp tractor, which is clearly aimed at large tillage farms and contractors operating cultivations and high-output grass harvesting equipment, who need a power unit that can turn its hand to transport operations as well as heavy field work.
Will Doyle, McCormick national sales manager for Ireland, highlights the tractor’s unique combination of proven powertrain and other components.
“You have a bullet-proof ZF stepless transmission coupled to an FPT engine renowned for its power and torque characteristics and efficient use of fuel, plus a Carraro suspended front axle and Bosch Rexroth hydraulics, so its technical credentials are second to none,” Will points out.
“These are topped off by a cab designed, engineered and built by McCormick manufacturer Argo Tractors to provide a comfortable working environment and a commanding view all around the tractor.”
With seamless speed control from the VT-Drive stepless transmission, high capacity 5.5-tonne front and 12-tonne rear lift linkage as standard, and large tyres helping put the power down, the new McCormick X8 tractor can tackle a range of demanding tillage and grassland work.
Ploughing, cultivations and drilling for tillage crops, operating a wide triple mower-conditioner or large self-loading forage wagon for harvesting grass.
Also on show at the FTMTA event is the newly-launched 141hp McCormick X7.440 P6-Drive four-cylinder tractor making its first appearance in Ireland.
“This tractor provides a four-cylinder higher horsepower solution for the mixed enterprise farmer, with the capability to adjust to the work load,” says Will.
It’s one of a trio of four-cylinder X7 Series tractors featuring cab upgrades, Euro Stage IV / Tier 4 Final engines with just a DOC added to the urea injection emissions control system, and with ‘boost power’ on all models for pto and transport work, taking the range to 176hp.
There are VT-Drive versions with CVT transmissions and P6-Drive versions with a new 30×15 transmission with six powershift steps for versatile speed control that can be automated for field and on-road use.
ISOBUS implement operation through a 12in touch-screen terminal and advanced Topcon precision farming equipment, including auto steering up to high-definition RTK, are available on all McCormick X7 Premium and X8 Premium tractors.
Completing the FTMTA Farm Machinery Show line-up is an example of the popular 114-140hp McCormick X6 Series – complete with hydraulic loader – representing a range with three power output, ‘base’ and higher spec models with different hydraulics and equipment options, and Powershift or VT-Drive stepless transmissions.