MFs new developments improve efficiency
MFs new developments improve efficiency
More efficient transmissions, improved hydraulics and front axle suspension are now
available for the latest versions of Massey Fergusons 6200 and 8200 tractors.
Andy Moore took a 6280 for a road test to spot the changes
WHY develop a continuously variable transmission when a semi-automatic powershift version can provide similar benefits but at a fraction of the cost, reasons Massey Ferguson?
The company says this is why it now offers two new gearbox control systems for the MF6200 and MF8200 series tractors equipped with Dynashift and Power Control transmissions.
Both series can also be fitted with front axle suspension, programmable spool valve management and a dual control front linkage system – additions claimed to improve operator efficiency and result in higher output.
To validate these claims, an MF6280 coupled to a loaded trailer provided a suitable combination for a road test.
The first system to be tested is Speed Matching which is standard on all 6200 and 8200 tractors fitted with Dynashift and Power Control transmissions. The system is designed to automatically select the correct Dynashift ratio according to forward speed when changing gear or range.
Speed Matching is engaged by a rocker switch positioned on the right-hand armrest.
Once activated, the transmission is operated by moving the steering column shuttle lever into Dynashift D ratio and the main gear lever – albeit notchy to operate – into gear one.
Pushing the foot throttle to the floor accelerated the tractor up to 13.2kph and a manual shift into second gear prompted the transmission to automatically select ratio A.
This process was repeated as gears four and five were selected, with Speed Matching pulsing smoothly up through ratios A to D until the maximum 40kph was reached.
Speed Matching also appeared to have its merits when lugging the loaded trailer up a steep hill in gear four ratio D.
When the engine cried out for a lower gear, the transmission was downshifted to gear three, allowing Speed Matching to think for itself and choose Ratios A to D for the best forward speed.
For those seeking more control, the AutoDrive function can be included in the same rocker switch. Available for both series with Dynashift and Power Control transmissions, AutoDrive is designed to automatically change Dynashift ratios according to engine speed and throttle position.
Flicking the rocker switch into economy mode, AutoDrive shifted up to ratios B to D when revs were increased over 1700rpm.
And when slowing down at traffic lights, with revs down to 1200rpm, AutoDrive sequentially downshifted from ratios D to A in gear four until the tractor stopped.
For heavier work – ploughing or subsoiling for example – AutoDrive can be set in Power Mode which changes down Dynashift ratios if revs fall below 1200rpm or up if they exceed 2100rpm.
Back on the road though, charging along at a swift 40kph with a heavy trailer also gave the chance to evaluate the tractors Quadlink front axle suspension.
Available on 6cyl 6200 and 8200 tractors up to 185hp, Quadlink suspension worked well at absorbing bumps and jolts.
Further handy features were discovered in the hydraulics department.
The Spool Valve Management System (SMS), operated by the armrest joystick, enables oil flow to be adjusted and pumped at a given rate.
Combined with SMS, the Dual Control Front Linkage System allows both front and rear linkage to be lowered and raised in sequence when starting or finishing bouts. *