Power Packed
Word is out that the upcoming launch of new Massey Ferguson® tractors features a groundbreaking 3-cylinder, 3.3-liter AGCO Power engine.
By Tharran E. Gaines
For use in all 4600 Series models, as well as the two smallest 5600 Series models, a new high-performance power plant will deliver the same standard of performance for which Massey Ferguson is known, with exceptional fuel economy and emissions output.
Massey Ferguson 5600 Series
There are definitely times when less is more, and that’s certainly the case with the new Massey Ferguson 5600 Series tractors, according to Matt McDonald, advanced product marketing manager for Massey Ferguson tractors under 100 horsepower. “Sometimes downsized can be the ‘right size,’” he says of the new 5600 Series, a mid-range tractor that’s ideal for hay production, loader work and general on-farm use.
Set to replace the 5400 Series, these new tractors are even better suited for today’s demands for greater efficiency and power. Planned for production this fall, the first two models in the series—the 90-hp MF5609 and the 100-hp MF5610—will include a newly designed 3-cylinder engine.
“Advancements in materials, technology and manufacturing have allowed engineers to use lighter components that are more durable and built to tighter tolerances. And, by better managing engine operation using turbochargers, direct-injection systems and electronics, manufacturers can produce a smaller, more efficient engine with the performance of a larger engine,” he adds, pointing to the Ford EcoBoost engines and Volkswagen’s 1.6- and 2.0-liter diesel engines as other examples.
The new 3-cylinder engine meets Tier 4i emissions requirements, and its smaller size also allows room for a newly designed one-piece sloped hood and a larger, more comfortable cab. “Identical in size to larger, high-horsepower Massey Ferguson tractors, the cabs on the MF5609 and MF5610 use a six-post design to increase visibility, and feature a new right-hand console and pillar console that combine convenience and functionality with intuitive design,” McDonald adds. “The newly designed front dash offers a narrow cross section to improve forward visibility.”
Other advanced features on the MF5600 include improved hydraulic performance for increased loader cycle times and faster hydraulic functions, as well as new transmission features for quicker response times—all of which allow the operator to get more done in a day. While the standard hydraulic package consists of an open-center system with a flow rate of 15 gallons per minute, customers also have the option of a Twin Flow system with a total flow of 26 gpm.
“We’ll continue to feature the rugged and reliable Dyna-4 transmission in the 5600 Series for 16 speeds in each direction,” McDonald adds.
“However, one new feature is Auto-N, which will be especially valuable in loader applications where the simple action of depressing the brake pedals will automatically shift the gearbox to neutral. Activation of this feature is operator controlled and can be selected for certain applications.”
Deluxe versions of the MF5609 and MF5610 will be introduced in 2013, as will additional models equipped with an extremely fuel-efficient AGCO Power 4-cylinder engine that will take the 5600 Series lineup to 130 horsepower. “The bottom line is that with the introduction of the MF5600 and its lineup of powerful and efficient engines, there’s no other tractor in this market segment that can compete,” McDonald concludes. “And it will only get better in 2013, with more new models and even more features.”
Massey Ferguson 4600 Series
Set to arrive in dealerships during the first quarter of 2013, the new Massey Ferguson 4600 Series will offer the same power, versatility and reliability for which the brand is known. Replacing the MF2600HD Series, the new tractors will maximize utility and value for the long haul in a crowded marketplace ripe with tractors that aren’t always built to last.
According to Taylor Grout, product marketing specialist for Massey Ferguson tractors, the series will consist of three models—the 75-hp MF4608, the 85-hp MF4609 and the 95-hp MF4610. All will be powered by a new Tier 4i-compliant AGCO Power 3-cylinder, 3.3-liter engine. Other features that boost power and productivity include the following:
- 12 x 12 power shuttle transmission—two gear selector levers with shuttle lever on dash.
- High-capacity, 17-gpm hydraulic system for fast loader cycle times and responsive hydraulic operation.
- Both 540 and 1,000 rpm PTO capability.
- Choice of 2- or 4-wheel-drive power train with cab or open station platform with folding ROPS.
- Integrated factory joystick controller for outstanding loader tractor performance.