Massey Introduces 2600 HD High-Clearance Tractors

With crops valued in the thousands of dollars per acre, vegetable and specialty crop growers need equipment that helps them complete their work without crop damage. That's why Massey Ferguson is introducing the HD Series 2600 High-Clearance lineup of heavy-duty utility tractors. These high-clearance machines feature factoryinstalled 50-inch wheels and are specifically built for vegetable and specialty crop growers who need additional ground clearance and increased maneuverability in the field to avoid damaging valuable crops.

"Maintaining crop quality in the field is a critical issue for growers of high-value vegetable and specialty crops," explains Rene Boivin, product marketing manager, utility, specialty and mid-range tractors. "We're pleased to bring these individuals a heavy-duty machine they can rely on to complete a multitude of tasks; but one that also affords higher ground-clearance to pass over crops without damaging or destroying them."

Ground clearance and maneuverability are paramount to minimizing crop damage and maximizing income potential per acre. For example, according to the University of California–Davis, an acre of iceberg lettuce in California's central coast is valued at $9,600 per acre. A five percent crop loss due to damage from tractor movement can create a loss of nearly $500 per acre. For a 250-acre operation, that quickly adds up to nearly $125,000 in lost revenue.

The HD Series 2600 High-Clearance tractors are ideal for environments that require maximum power and higher crop clearance. Three models are included in the new high-clearance line of utility tractors, ranging from 81 to 97 gross engine horsepower (70-83 PTO HP).

While these tractors provide serious horsepower, they're nimble enough to carefully navigate throughout the field. Maneuverability is optimized by combining a dedicated hydraulic steering pump with a front-wheel steering angle that can reach up to 50 degrees.

With a dependable Perkins 1104-44T 4-cylinder turbo-charged diesel engine under the hood — renowned for optimum fuel economy, quick starting, excellent torque, backup and raw lugging power — these utility tractors provide all of the muscle necessary, and then some, for a full-day's work.

"From sun up to sun down, you can count on the HD Series High-Clearance tractors to tackle just about anything you throw at them," says Boivin. "With taller, narrower tires for added crop clearance, growers can use these machines to complete nearly any job — from applying herbicides to sidedressing to tillage, and countless jobs in between."

These 4-wheel-drive machines are equipped with independent PTO and offer two transmission choices for smooth and easy shifting. The SynchroShuttle 8x8 transmission offers on-the-roll shifting to improve cycle times and walk through more work each day; while an optional partially synchronized 12x4 transmission is best suited for applications that require more speeds.

Long days in the field will be less tiresome for operators because of the innovative creature features designed to make HD Series comfortable and easy to operate. Shift levers are located to the side and out of the way, and controls are located at a natural reach. The machines feature a flat floor design and a new mat with an extra later of shock absorption to help minimize vibration, dampen noise and significantly reduce operator fatigue. A new and improved seat offers more cushioning for a softer ride, as well as weight adjustment, fore and aft adjustment and armrests. This introduction is yet another example of Massey Ferguson's commitment to providing growers equipment tailored to their specific needs.