Jonathan Papworth farms 485 ha near Peterborough in Cambridgeshire, splitting his land between cereals, root crops and grassland for hay.

He relies on the services of several of tractors, including three MF 6400-series models. Of these, two are MF 6475s and one is an MF 6480. All three were purchased from Chandlers in 2009 and the 6480 has clocked-up about 2,700 hours. “Our 6480 is used for everything, from ploughing and drilling to hauling trailers,” he says.

The 6480 is a quiet tractor, very comfortable and the climate control system is excellent, says Mr Papworth. “You never get steamed-up windows in it.”

He also rates the Datatronic 3 management system. “It’s simple to programme and offers comprehensive information at a glance.”

Mr Papworth’s 6480 is fitted with a front linkage that’s operated by a single joystick. This can alternate between the front and rear linkage at the press of a button and makes it easy to control all linkage-mounted implements.

He also likes the tractor’s engine speed control system, which using two pre-set switches, allows for PTO or working engine speeds to be obtained at the flick of switch, rendering the standard hand throttle virtually obsolete.

Neither tractor has experienced any problems with the engine or transmission and he and his staff universally acknowledge they are well built machines.

Summary

• Excellent Datatronic 3 Management System
• Superb in-cab climate control system
• Accurate, easy-to-use on-demand hydraulic system
• Engine speed control system

The only significant mechanical failures have been the compensators on the front axle suspension. “These failed on both the 6480 and one of the 6475s, but were replaced under warranty.”

He also had a problem with leaking air conditioning pipes in the cab roof. These were allegedly the result of a factory oversight and were also quickly fixed under warranty.

Although he generally rates the tractor’s performance, Mr Papworth reckons the MF6480 could do with a bit more power, particularly when hauling heavy trailers.

“Pulling away from a junction with a heavy load can be laborious. The transmission is a little sluggish when changing up ranges and, although the engine is working hard, it takes quite some time to accelerate to travelling speed. But that’s my only real gripe.”

Summary

• Sluggish when pulling heavy loads
• Hydraulics need to be activated after engine re-start
• Difficult to relieve line pressure on front linkage hydraulic spool valves
• Compensator failure on front axle suspension

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