Conversion does work of two separate units
Conversion does work of two separate units
CONVERTING a tractor into a self-propelled spreader produces a handier, more manoeuvrable outfit than a tractor and trailed unit, says contractor Adrian Marsh, based near Market Drayton, Shropshire.
That is why he commissioned the New Holland 7840-based conversion which arrived at the lime demonstration fresh from the workshops.
"Id seen another contractor using a similar machine and thought it made sense," he says. "It should tackle wet and steep ground with less mess than a tractor/trailer combination, and is more compact and manoeuvrable."
Good resale value
He chose the New Holland 7840 partly because he already runs several tractors of the marque and because of good resale values.
"I reckon the complete outfit will cost us around £45,000, and eventually the plan is to convert the machine back to a standard tractor, which we reckon will take two men about a week. Then well get a good price for it, and transfer the conversion to a new one," says Mr Marsh.
Local engineer Ed Royle carried out the work, fitting substantial framework to carry the standard cab up-front and a KRM-Bredal spreader over the rear axle. The four-speed powershift was chosen, partly for the advantages of this type of drive, partly because there are fewer linkages to re-route.
A turbocharger added to the naturally aspirated engine lifts output to around 115hp, and bigger wheels and tyres help spread the load – Goodyear Terra-Tires on the back, Michelin XM108s on the front.n
Contractor Adrian Marsh commissioned this New Holland 7840-based forward control spreader – a more compact and manoeuvrable outfit than a tractor/trailer combination, he says.