New Challenger MT600B series tractors score an "A+" in productivity and comfort

With new engines, new transmissions, greater comfort and more horsepower, the Challenger MT600B Series is more than a redesign - as the “B” implies - it’s almost a brand new line of tractors.

Beneath the re-styled hood and inside the cab lie a myriad of features not found on the previous MT600 Series high-horsepower models. Among its premier innovations is the new Challenger Endurance diesel engine for higher horsepower levels, a standard TechStar CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) for a smoother and more productive power to the ground, and exceptional cab comfort and control.

The redesigned MT600B Series consists of four power front assist (PFA) models that cover the spectrum from 180 to 240 PTO hp. Power is based on a pair of Challenger Tier II, 6-cylinder “Endurance” diesel engines that are new to both the MT600B Series and the Challenger line-up. Sized at 7.4 liters (452 cu. in.) and 8.4 liters (513 cu. in.), they feature numerous advancements in engine technology, including electronic engine management, four valves per cylinder, 40 percent torque backup and two pre-selectable engine speed memory settings.

“The Challenger MT600B Series is the next step in a continuous introduction of market-leading products,” said Adrian Crisp, general marketing manager for Challenger high-horsepower wheel tractors. “One of the most exciting aspects of the new MT600B Series tractors, however, is the incorporation of the innovative TechStar CVT transmission as standard equipment,” Crisp added. “When coupled with the Challenger electronic engine management system, this stepless transmission provides the operator with a virtually unlimited combination of engine speeds and ground speeds from 60 feet per hour to 25 mph. As a result, producers can utilize speeds and power reserves previously hidden between gears to precisely match field and crop conditions. Yet, the TechStar transmission is extremely easy to operate.”

A new engine and transmission are just the beginning, though, according to Barry O’Shea, sales engineer for Challenger wheel tractors. Other new features of the MT600B Series are a new Power Performance III monitor, greater operator comfort and a new line of convenience options.

“Today’s professional and commercial producers need a tractor that will help them make decisions, gather field and crop information and perform numerous tasks with a single command,” O’Shea related. “The MT600B Series will do all that and more. The new Power Performance III monitor, for example, incorporates new software that can memorize up to 21 tractor and implement actions for activation at the push of a button.”

Another feature of the Power Performance III monitor is the ability to store memory functions for up to six complete sets of data. Settings can even be stored and given a name for various fields, operators or implements, making them easy to recall when changing drivers or equipment.

Challenger engineers didn’t forget about the soft side of the MT600B, either. Comfort starts with a new cab design that features more headroom, better forward visibility and an industry leading 71 Dba maximum interior sound level. Customers can also select a VRS semi-active operator’s seat as optional equipment. Utilizing innovative computer technology and a special fluid that changes viscosity when exposed to a magnetic field, its specially tuned Motion Master™ damper system allows for automatic damping force adjustments based on terrain inputs. Coupled with dual comfort pneumatic cab suspension, Challenger has achieved one of the most comfortable and powerful rides in the industry.