New Challenger MT500B tractors enhance productivity

Less than two years after the introduction of its MT500 Series tractors, Challenger has set a new benchmark in power, comfort and control with the MT500B Series. The first hint of change is in the new styling, redesigned cab interior and wider fenders. But as they say, “Beauty is more than skin deep.”

Beneath the tough exterior, customers will also find new Tier II Caterpillar engines, an advanced hydraulic system and Challenger’s new TechStar CVT (continuously variable transmission).

“Customers have to experience the new MT500B Series tractors for themselves to really appreciate the comfort and control,” says Doug Durand, Challenger general marketing manager for mid-range and high horsepower wheeled tractors. “Driving a TechStar-equipped MT500B is like driving a luxury automobile equipped with an automatic transmission; except there’s a lot more power at your fingertips.”

The new Challenger MT500B Series offers more than smoother, quieter operation, though. The series also includes two more models to fill out a full range between 95 PTO hp and 145 PTO hp. They include the new MT525B at the bottom end of the range at 95 PTO hp and the MT555B, rated at 130 PTO hp. The other models are rated at 105, 115 and 145 PTO hp. Productivity on all units is based on a 6-liter (366 cu. in.), 6-cylinder Caterpillar diesel engine that features electronic engine management and two pre-selectable engine speed memory settings.

The most exciting advance, however, is the new TechStar transmission, which has the potential to go from 0 to 32 mph while constantly adjusting for the most efficient combination of engine speed and transmission ratio, making it easy to optimize performance. Models equipped with the TechStar option, that do not have the optional front axle suspension system, offer the same productivity features, but are limited to a maximum speed of 25 mph.

“Despite its advanced technology, the TechStar transmission is surprisingly easy to operate,” says Durand. “The operator simply moves the power control lever, located on the left side of the steering column, to select the desired travel direction. This lever also serves as the shuttle control lever, which, when activated, causes the tractor to automatically slow to a stop, reverse direction and accelerate to the programmed speed shown on the dash display.

“A second lever on the armrest console controls the ground speed,” Durand adds. “The farther you push the lever, the faster you accelerate.”

If desired, the operator can also shift mode and speed selection to a foot pedal. Other features include two “speed and velocity” dials for pre-selecting often-used operating speeds; a range selector switch, and a supervisor function, which automatically adjusts the forward speed of the tractor in response to engine speed loss.

MT500B tractors with 2WD or 4WD can also be ordered with the award-winning AutoPower IV 32F X 32R transmission, which combines 4-speed powershift convenience with 8-speed synchromesh economy. Standard features, like automatic powershifts, speed matching and clutchless forward/reverse shuttle control optimize field and transport performance in a wide variety of conditions. The MT500B Series’ electronic engine management (EEC) system even regulates clutch engagement for smoother shifts and greater operator comfort.

Comfort was an even bigger priority, though, in the redesign of the MT500B Series cab. It starts with a maximum interior sound level of only 71 decibels, for reduced driver fatigue and enhanced productivity. Other creature comforts include an optional climate control system that automatically maintains temperatures at preset levels, and a standard exterior light control panel that illuminates lamps on a diagram to indicate which lights are on. Power adjustable mirrors with defrost are an option that further enhance operator convenience and safety.