CaseIH adds models to the MX Magnum tractor line

Upgrades involving power, fuel efficiency, drive train and operator environment top the list of improvements announced for new Case IH MX Series Magnum row crop tractors.

"We’ve taken the proven performance of the Case IH MX Series Magnum to the next level," says Stacey Smith, marketing and training manager for over 100 hp tractors. "Using input gathered from our customers, we have created the next generation of tractors to the lead the row-crop market."

The new MX210, MX230, MX255 and MX285 offer 170, 190, 215 and 240 PTO horsepower (hp), respectively – as much as 10 additional hp over previous models. And, the added power does not come at the expense of added fuel consumption.

"Our updated iso-mounted engines continue to deliver 46 percent torque rise at 2,000 rpm, which results in reduced fuel consumption and longer engine life," Smith notes.

He goes on to explain, "We see our customers using larger implements with higher horsepower and hydraulic requirements, but they continue to stay focused on fuel economy and efficiency."

An electronic fuel system on the MX255 and MX285 further improves the efficiency of fuel usage. The system continuously monitors engine performance and adapts to ensure peak efficiency.

Technology enhances productivity Another electronic feature – auto shift – provides automatic control of forward gear selection, allowing the operator to maintain speed without shifting. In transport, the auto road operation function provides constant speed control.

"In the field, auto field operation automatically upshifts and downshifts to respond to varying load conditions, while maintaining engine speed," Smith points out. "Farmers we’ve talked with say they appreciate this feature most in tillage applications, where the tractor’s load can be constantly changing. The system saves effort and optimizes performance."

Other changes to the 18-speed, full powershift transmission include adding extra friction plates and increasing clutch pressure for smoother shifting regardless of the load.

Embedded electronic controls help to further improve operating efficiency. New Case IH MX Series tractors are ISO 11783 precision farming system compatible. ISO 11783 is a communication protocol that provides an interface between a tractor and implement. In addition, AFS antenna-mounting locations and inserts are built into the new cab roof, helping to reduce GPS installation time.

The optional performance monitor has been expanded to track the percentage of power used and to allow individual control of each hydraulic remote circuit. Individual remote valve timers can be preset for applications that require variably time hydraulic, like raising and lowering implement frames or planter markers.

Adapts to any cropping practice A wide range of tire, axle and hydraulic options help Case IH MX Series tractors address a variety of customer needs. Operators can choose from standard, heavy-duty, specialty, suspended, and heavy-duty suspended MFD front axles for all models, as well as 2-wheel drive axles for the MX210 and MX230. All models equipped with heavy-duty axles also are ready for front duals.

"We have seen tremendous acceptance and demand for front duals since we introduced them to the market in 1998," Smith notes. "Customers are telling us that the in-field advantages of tire systems combined with the excellent flotation of front duals far outweigh any advantages gained with two-track systems. That’s why front duals are offered for the entire Magnum line."

The newest axle offerings from Case IH – the standard and heavy-duty suspended MFD axles – provide increased stability, an improved ride and better traction.

"Case IH offers a simple suspended axle design with all the advantages of more complex competitive designs," Smith notes. "And the system maintains its 55-degree steering angle, even with front duals. That yields a 17.4 foot turning radius – still the best in the industry."

For improved performance in the field, the 2002 MX Magnum features a heavy-duty drawbar with an 11,000-pound tongue load rating, standard and high-flow hydraulic systems, and a three-point hitch lift capacity of 17,900 pounds. The new MX Series also features a ride control feature that cushions the shock loads to the tractor from the implements during transport, thus improving control of the tractor.

MX Series Magnum tractors also perform well in high-capacity material-handling applications. The LX192 offers a 5,195-pound lift capacity with mechanical self-leveling as a standard feature.

Cab refinements, too Case IH MX Series tractors offer the industry’s largest cab, the best visibility and quietest operator environment, and now the cab is even better. Farmers have a choice of three cab versions – standard, deluxe and luxury. The newest innovation from Case IH in cab comfort comes standard in luxury cabs and optional in deluxe versions.

"Positive Response seats use a sensor and controller system mounted inside the seat suspension to send electronic signals to the shock absorber. The shock absorber changes from soft to firm up to 500 times per second," explains Smith. "The system adapts instantly to each individual driver and terrain continuously and automatically."

The new MX Series cabs also make use of a revolutionary new material made from soybeans. The cab roof is made up of a soy polyol from Bayer. About 27 pounds of soybeans go into every cab roof.