Massey Ferguson introduces bigger, smoother shifting, advanced control 8400 series tractors

The new 8400 Series tractors from Massey Ferguson feature more power, more precise controls and the Dyna-Step transmission, the smoothest and most advanced power shift available on the market today. The 180 PTO hp to 240 PTO hp series of tractors with power front axles run quieter, cleaner and more efficiently than competitive tractors, thanks to sophisticated electronic control systems, powerful hydraulics and superior engine designs.

"Our new high horsepower tractors combine power and technology with easy to learn control systems," says Rene Boivin, general marketing manager, Massey Ferguson. "The Dyna- Step transmission, touch pad screens and optional Datatronic III terminal reduce complex tractor and implement functions to simple steps. Repetition and operator fatigue is reduced and operator and tractor productivity are enhanced."

All four MF 8400 Series models are equipped with the revolutionary Dyna-Step transmission. Operators can move to any of 21 forward and 15 reverse speeds in the transport range or to any of the 21 forward and 18 reverse speeds in the work range (17 speeds below 8.5 mph) without clutching. If equipped with the optional creeper transmission, operators have an additional 21 speeds to choose from, all below 6.2 mph. Other features include the park lock and shuttle speed settings. The park lock, located on the shuttle lever, prevents the tractor from moving and locks the shuttle as well. Shuttle speed aggressiveness can be adjusted to one of four settings, dialing up for faster cycle times, such as loader applications, or down when towing a heavy implement.

"With the Dyna-Step transmission, operators have practically unlimited speeds from which to select," says Boivin. "Within the range, they can move smoothly, without the speed increases common to shifting gears, to find the most efficient and effective balance of engine rpm and ground speed for any job. Eliminating the clutch also reduces maintenance, wear and potential breakdown."

Power used by the Dyna-Step transmission is produced more efficiently for the MF 8400 Series by two new Sisu Diesel engines. The 7.4-liter ETA SisuDiesel powers the MF 8450 (180 PTO hp) and MF 8460 (195 PTO hp). The MF 8470 (220 PTO hp) and MF 8480 (240 PTO hp) are powered by the 8.4-liter ETA SisuDiesel. Both turbocharged and inter-cooled engines are Tier II emission compliant. All four MF 8400 Series tractors are equipped with Electronic Engine Management (EEM) controls on the right console. Operators can select either of two preset engine speeds with the push of a button and adjust engine speed independent of the hand throttle.

Hydraulic oil pressure on the MF 8400 Series is supplied with three separate pumps for optimum efficiency. A powerful closed center pump with 39 gpm maximum flow provides oil to four hydraulic remotes (a fifth is optional) and the 3-point hitch. Steering and braking oil flow is supplied by a second pump. To reduce potential cross-contamination, a third hydraulic pump with a separate sump supplies transmission and lubrication needs.

Electronic controls on the hydraulic remotes make it possible for the operator to control two electro-hydraulic spool valves through the Remote Valve Management System (RMS) joystick mounted in the armrest console. Using the Dot Matrix Display screen on the lefthand side of the dash, operators can also precisely adjust hydraulic flow and timed control for the two remotes. A memory function on the RMS allows it to memorize, set and recall flow rates for each spool valve.

"The Dot Matrix display also monitors engine functions, wheel slip, fuel use, sequencing the transmission for speed of shifting and controlling flow to the 3-point hitch," explains Wade Stewart, sales engineer, Massey Ferguson. "Combined with the RMS, it offers operators a simple to operate headland management system."

If an MF 8400 Series tractor is equipped with the optional Datatronic III color monitor, the operator can monitor and control time and flow rate for all hydraulic remotes as well as other tractor and implement functions. It offers a headland management system that will store and recall a timed sequence of instructions to all valves for tractor and implement operation and stores up to six sets of instructions for hydraulic systems, by operator, field or implement.

"The Datatronic III monitor takes complex sets of actions such as slowing down or speeding up engine rpm, ground speed, PTO or 3-point hitch functions, remote valve rate and speed of engagement or disengagement and reduces them to the press of a button," says Boivin.

Operator productivity is enhanced with noise and vibration deadening elements of engine and cab design. Features such as a cab post position for the exhaust pipe and rubber rollers and mounting pads for the cab that also reduce vibration have reduced cab interior sound levels to an industry low of 71 decibels. Operator comfort is further enhanced with a large operating area, excellent visibility, convenient control placement on the dash and the right hand console and a smooth ride. The optional pneumatic cab suspension system, Dyna-Ride, offers an even smoother and quieter ride. Overhead controls for climate and sound system and placement of the Datatronic III terminal within the driver line of sight add to operator efficiency and comfort.

"The Dyna-Step transmission and the advanced control systems take a powerful tractor filled with the latest technology and make it easy to manage for maximum operating efficiency," says Boivin. "Reduced noise and vibration and enhanced operator convenience combine with operating efficiency to reduce stress and fatigue and maximize operator and tractor productivity with the new MF 8400s."