Challenger redesigns and expands popular MT500B tractor series

Challenger put more of everything into the redesign of its popular MT500B Series tractors, including more models, more power and more technology… not to mention more productivity. One key element is the new Tier III 6.6-liter Caterpillar engine, which has 10 percent more displacement in the same size package as the previous 6-liter engine. When combined with a new large frame on three of the six models, it allowed Challenger engineers to expand the line by an additional model rated at 160 PTO horsepower. In addition to the MT575B, which is now the largest model in the series, other choices include the 145-hp MT565B, the 130-hp MT555B, the 120-hp MT545B, the 110-hp MT535B and the MT525B rated at 100 PTO horsepower. Those ratings reflect a 5-horsepower increase from the previous horsepower level on each of the three smallest models.

“The 100- to 160-horsepower range represented by the new MT500B Series is already a popular choice with row-crop farmers, hay and forage producers and North American ranchers,” says Todd Stucke, vice president, Challenger professional producer marketing. “We believe the changes evident in the MT500B redesign will make these tractors even more appealing to those groups.”

In addition to the larger engine, which is accompanied by new styling and a single-piece, lift-up hood that provides easy access for routine maintenance, the redesigned MT500B Series also features a sculpted front axle support for excellent turning capabilities. Another new feature is the expanded cooling package, which allows individual components to be tilted up in a “fanned” configuration for quick access and easy cleaning.

The redesigned MT500B Series additionally provides customers with a choice of two award-winning transmissions. One option is the TechStar CVT that offers stepless speed choices from 0 up to 32 mph with the available Quadlink front axle suspension system or 0 to 25 mph with the standard configuration.

The other choice is the AutoPower VI transmission, which offers 24 speeds in each direction via six power shifts that can be shifted under load without clutching within four mechanical ranges. Shifting between ranges is also clutchless. An autoshift feature even shifts between powershift ratios and gear ranges automatically in the transport mode. In field mode, a rotary dial controller allows the operator to select the desired engine speed for automatic upshifts or downshifts within a selected range.

“Despite their advanced technology, both transmissions are extremely easy to operate,” says Stucke. “The benefits include better fuel economy, more productivity and more attention to the field by the operator.”

Of course, the MT500B continues to boast the comfort of the quietest cab in the industry, as well as high-performance features like its electronic 3-point hitch with a lift capacity of up to 14,700 pounds and the 29-gpm closed-center pressure- and flow-compensated hydraulic system. Add even more versatility to any of the six models with options like the Power Performance Display, which monitors 20 different functions; Auto-Guide satellite-assisted steering; automatic climate control; pneumatic cab suspension; front 3-point hitch, and more.

The MT525B and MT535B are even available with an integral Little and Company brushcutter or mower for roadside mowing and brush control. The unique Roadside Mowing System incorporates a 52-gpm, PTO-driven hydraulic pump linked to a powerful hydraulic drive motor, as well as a bi-directional, breakaway boom and five-function joystick.