New Massey Ferguson 500 series utility tractors

New looks and new features characterize the new line of Massey Ferguson utility tractors being introduced this month. The 500 Series includes seven new models ranging in size from 44 to 85 PTO hp. Along with upgraded design features, the new 500 series tractors contain a number of engineering improvements to give users more versatility for a wide variety of applications. "Whether farming 500 acres, operating a feedlot, landscaping a new housing development or keeping a municipal park in tip-top shape, any of these new models will fit the bill for functional, efficient power application," says Mike Hanson, Massey Ferguson product marketing specialist.

The heart of the new 500 Series tractors are the high-torque Perkins diesel engines; efficient 3-cylinder engines powering the 533, 543 and 563 tractors, with 4-cylinder Perkins engines in the 573, 583, 593 and 596 tractors. "Perkins diesel engines have been the choice for more than 15 million hard working applications, including Massey Ferguson tractors for more than four decades, so they were a logical choice for our new 500 Series tractors," Hanson says.

Massey Ferguson engineers designed a wider platform for the 500 Series to give the tractor operator more room and comfort. The new, wider platform also allows room for added heat shields to deflect engine heat away from the operator. The new dash panel design groups warning lights and digital hour meter for easy observation and quick checks of engine operation.

The new, improved cab includes a roomy interior with plenty of window glass for all-around visibility, and built-in HVAC controls in the headliner for easy reach. Platform models include a handy covered storage compartment at the operator’s left, for storing tools, manuals, etc. Larger 500 Series tractors have a side-mounted fuel tank that features 35 percent more capacity, plus the convenience of ground level refueling from a tank or five-gallon can. All 500 Series tractors feature hydrostatic steering and adjustable, spring-suspension operator seats.

Transmission options, for the 500 Series, give buyers a full range of choices to fit specific job needs. An 8x2 sliding gear transmission provides 8 forward speeds and 2 reverse speeds, with 2 slow gears, 4 fieldwork speeds and 2 transport gears. An 8x8 synchronized shuttle transmission provides the operator with ease of driving, especially in applications such as loader work. The shuttle lever is conveniently located on the left inside of the steering column. Cab models and 593 and 596 platform models feature a 12x4 partially synchronized transmission with 4 slow gears, 5 fieldwork speeds and 3 transport gears for a wide range of tractor applications. Four of the 500 Series models are available with a factory-installed creeper option, offering extraslow ground speeds for jobs like transplanting, livestock feeding, vegetable harvesting, etc.

The powerful Ferguson hydraulic system built into 500 Series tractors provides plenty of lift capacity for category I and II 3-point hitches, with lift capacity up to 4,200 pounds on the larger models. Hitch controls give the operator precise control of draft, depth and implement position. Live or independent PTO gives 500 Series tractors added flexibility for job applications. Remote hydraulics are standard on all but optional on the 533. 4WD and 2WD choices give the 500 Series buyer additional options.

Low profile models are available in the 573, 583, 593 and 596 Massey Ferguson tractors, for use in limited clearance sites such as orchards, vineyards, poultry houses and landscaping jobs. The horizontal exhaust system runs below the operator platform, near the rear axle. Fender line folding ROPS enable operation inside buildings or orchards with low clearance. A steel guard protects the forward side of the side-mounted fuel tank from low branches or debris. Integrated tail light/warning lights are mounted into the molded rear mud-guard for protection and lower profile.

Each new 500 Series tractor can be equipped with a custom designed loader, easily mounted to the tractor with the Massey Ferguson Quick-Attach System. Loaders add a multitude of capabilities to the tasks possible with the 500 Series tractors, including moving dirt, rocks, big bales, snow or pallets, scraping or leveling gravel or dirt.