MX clone: a credible option
MX clone: a credible option
The introduction of McCormicks Maxxum clone has come sooner than expected and with more changes beneath the skin than just a different engine. Peter Hill reports on this and other recent tractor developments
GROWERS who like the performance and features of the Case-IH MX Maxxum now have a choice: buy the original or opt for the clone machine that carries the McCormick name on its flanks.
Engine and colour scheme apart, the two are pretty similar. But McCormick has taken the opportunity to make some improvements to the tractor it calls MTX.
When the new McCormick business announced it had an agreement to build its own version of the MX Maxxum, industry observers thought it would appear towards the end of a two-year agreement under which McCormick continues to produce the six-cylinder Maxxum for Case.
But engineering work required to replace Case-Cummins engines with Perkins six-cylinder units has been completed, and since there is a need to build volumes before the Case assembly agreement ends, McCormick has decided to get its MTX series into the market sooner rather than later.
Advantage
Engine specs put the initial five-model line-up some 10hp ahead of equivalent Maxxum models at rated engine speed. The Case machines claw back this advantage with "power bulge" characteristics that put them on a par a little lower down the rev range. Maximum torque figures are pretty much comparable.
Principal specifications are also much the same: both versions share a half-frame chassis, which is useful for operating heavy front-mounted implements, and a transmission providing four clutchless gear changes in each of four ranges. That makes 16 forward, 12 reverse gears in all, which are doubled when the optional creep gearbox is added.
But a number of specification changes and upgrades is reckoned to give the McCormick MTX the edge in some respects. A more substantial torsion damper on the flywheel is reckoned to cut vibration, especially as the clutch takes up drive, and a centre support bearing has been added to the four-wheel-drive transfer shaft within the transmission.
A new main brake booster provides fully-servoed braking without the engine running (a significant safety improvement, says McCormick) as well as better feel and responses through the brake pedal. In addition, tractors equipped with the Carraro independent front suspension axle can have disc brakes in the hub for more secure all-wheel braking.
Operators will also notice an improved working environment, says the company. Revised ventilation outlets are designed to improve window demisting, while a change of hydraulic pump and the lower, softer noise output of the latest-spec Perkins engines, results in cab sound levels reduced by up to 2dB(A).
Next spring, the McCormick MTX will gain range powershift, giving operators easier access to all available speeds.
McCormick has also revived a project to extend the MC range. As its model number suggests, the McCormick MC115 has an output of 115hp, using a turbo-intercooled version of the four-cylinder Perkins motor that powers others in the MC line-up.
The 13% increase in power and 19% lift in torque over the 102hp MC100 is tamed by lengthening the wheelbase by 95mm to maintain stability and traction with heavier implements.
The MC115 shares its transmission with lower order models from the MTX range so has the same complement of four ranges and four powershift changes plus powershuttle. Similarly, it shares the bigger tractors hydraulics – a variable output pressure-flow compensating system delivering up to 121 litre/min. Lift linkage capacity is 5871kg.
In brief
• NEW generation Deere engines increase maximum torque output on Renault Ares 500 and 600 series tractors while cleaning up exhaust emissions. Outputs are up an average of 11%, with the 110hp Ares 610 enjoying a 15% gain. The 90hp Ares 540 also gets a heavier duty rear axle and bigger wheels to complement a mammoth 1,530kg increase in implement lift capacity; 8,470kg maximum lift is now standard across the 500 and 600 Ares series.
• SAME Deutz-Fahr has extended its Mk3 specification to more Agrotron models. First introduced on four models from 120hp to 165hp, the package now includes the 106, 110 and 115, and the 175, 200, 230 and 260. Changes include electronic management of the six-cylinder engines for improved responsiveness, changes to hydraulic system components which provide a "power beyond" facility delivering full oil flow to implements, and an upgraded interior for the Agrotrons glassy cabin.
• LIGHTING up wide-working implements is one use for an optional illumination package for Valtra Mezzo, Mega and HiTech tractor models. Located on the cab front pillars, the new working lights are adjustable to light up either the ground ahead or implements working alongside. Additional lights are available for the tractors cabin steps and pick-up hitch/pto area.