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Top 5 Gift Ideas to Get a Farmer this Holiday Season

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If you are looking for inspiration on what to get that farmer in your life this holiday season, look no further than the list below:

5) An IDEAL Combine Harvester

We heard from many of our followers that they are hoping to be gifted the AGCO IDEAL combine – wow that’s quite a request! If you are looking to splash out on the latest in harvesting technology, the state-of-the-art AGCO IDEAL combine harvester available from Fendt and Massey Ferguson is the perfect gift for the arable farmer. With the longest rotor in its class, the largest threshing area and the quickest unload speed, this is certain to be the perfect choice…given you can get it under the tree.
If you aren’t ready to invest in the full-size IDEAL, maybe the Fendt or Massey Ferguson IDEAL 9T model is the way to go. Both are available online at the Fendt Shop and Massey Ferguson Shop.

4) Farming Simulator 19

For the gaming farmer, there is no better choice than newly released Farming Simulator 19 from GIANTS Software. We at AGCO have again partnered with GIANTS Software to bring you all the latest and greatest from AGCO and our brands. With over a million copies sold worldwide it is no surprise that this stocking stuffer made the nice list.

3) A New Car

It looks like tractors, combines and implements aren’t the only equipment our farmer followers are hoping for this year. According to the feedback we received, some would like a truck, while others prefer something a little fancier such as a “brand new Mercedes” or Tesla. We can’t argue as all three sound like pretty good gifts to us.

2) A Relaxing and Peaceful Time of Year

With the long hours that farmers put in all year round, it was nice to see not only material items as many said they would simply like to have a relaxing and peaceful time during the holidays as their gift. For all those that are wanting this over the holiday period, we hope you have a nice break from all the hard work you put in to feed the world and enjoy time spent relaxing with family and friends.

1) …and the number one choice this holiday season (cue the drum roll)…A BRAND NEW TRACTOR!

This should come as no surprise at all, our followers told us LOUDLY that they want a new tractor; sounds good to us. We heard a lot about Challenger, Fendt, Massey Ferguson and Valtra tractors (and a few others we won’t mention 🙂 ). You will be pleased to know that this is an area of speciality for AGCO.

Regardless of what you gift each other this holiday season, everyone at AGCO and our brands wishes you a safe and joyful holiday and a prosperous new year. Happy Holidays everybody!

The post Top 5 Gift Ideas to Get a Farmer this Holiday Season appeared first on AGCO Blog.


International Women’s Day 2019 – Elisabeth Charron

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Here at AGCO, we are very proud to be part of this and to mark this special day we share with you the stories of just some of the inspiring and dedicated women in our AGCO Aftersales team. 

Our first story comes from Elisabeth who started working at AGCO eleven years ago as Customer Services Coordinator for our Distribution network across Central and Eastern Europe. Elisabeth has successfully developed her career and is now Manager, Customer Services Parts, leading teams across four European locations. Elisabeth tells us just a few of the highlights of her role.

Elisabeth says “In 2016 I had the opportunity to apply for the role of Customer Services Manager, Parts and progress in my career and today I can wholeheartedly say that I love my job and the new challenges this has opened up to me. My key highlights working in this role are managing a diverse team of people and sharing my experience to help them succeed in reaching their goals and supporting their growth and development.”

Overcoming Challenges

The agricultural industry is working towards greater gender equality in what is seen as a mainly male sector.

As a woman working within this industry Elisabeth has faced and overcome certain barriers, here she explains more, “Many of the dealerships we work with have a mostly male presence and when they phone us with Parts issues they can sometimes be concerned with a woman’s understanding of agriculture.

But we have a wealth of expertise across our Customer Services teams and by working together to harness this knowledge we provide the highest level of aftersales support to our dealers. By successfully resolving Parts issues, we demonstrate through action how highly efficient our teams are.”

Balance for Better

The campaign theme of International Women’s Day 2019 is ‘Better the balance, better the world’; a call to action for us all to help drive gender balance and Elisabeth is a firm supporter of this. She explains, “I believe that gender equality and diversity in the workplace bring an important balance to an organization. It allows for more open communication and different approaches to problem solving.”

For women seeking to pursue a similar career path, Elisabeth advises them to “have confidence in yourself and your abilities as you can bring such positive value to a company.”

The post International Women’s Day 2019 – Elisabeth Charron appeared first on AGCO Blog.

International Women’s Day 2019 – Anca Urdareanu

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Anca now works with AGCO’s multi-brand distribution partners across five key export markets. She tells us “My job involves travelling to visit my accounts across Europe, supporting their development while following the AGCO path. The main goal is for us to grow and prosper together”.

Anca gives us an insight into why she chose to take up this career; “I can’t say it was a straight forward path; With a University Diploma in European Studies and International Relations, prior to this role I worked in various fields such as Marketing, Finance and Technical Support, whilst always using my foreign language skills obtained through University.

When a Business Manager role was advertised at AGCO, I looked at my previous experience and decided I was ready for a new challenge. I must say that looking back I am very happy I took that step. This is a role that fulfils my professional aspirations, keeps me on my toes and learning something new every day.”

Challenge as opportunity

When asked about any barriers she had faced as a woman in the workplace, Anca has very positive news. Change is happening and gender equality is becoming a reality for many.

“I like to see every challenge as an opportunity to learn something new and for today to be better than yesterday. I have not faced any barriers due to gender so far. I believe we are all lucky to live in a free and open part of the world, in a modern European society where gender stereotypes have disappeared or at least are less noticeable than in other parts of the world. From my experience so far, my field of work is one with equal opportunities for those who want to grow as a professionals. I truly believe the gender doesn’t make any difference good or bad.” Let’s keep this momentum going and keep driving the change across the world.

Better the Balance, Better the World

Within her chosen career in Business Management Anca believes that there are equal opportunities for men and women across Europe. Rather than focusing on gender, employers are looking for professionals and the most qualified individual to do the job.

Anca is an advocate of diversity in the workplace, “I believe diversity is a very important source of balance and that this balance and sharing of knowledge is important for businesses to thrive.”

For women seeking to pursue a similar career path, Anca advises that “everyone, regardless of gender, should pursue a career which suits their abilities, skills and dreams and most importantly aspire to a job that they are happy doing every single day.”

The post International Women’s Day 2019 – Anca Urdareanu appeared first on AGCO Blog.

International Women’s Day 2019 – Emma Honey

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Emma started working at Alan Snow Ltd five years ago as Service Manager where her role included managing the flow of work through the workshop, as well as booking in all service and break down repairs. On returning to work after maternity leave last year Emma was offered flexible hours to suit her family commitments and has recently been promoted to Aftersales Manager. With great support from her employer and flexible working hours, Emma is an example that women can develop a successful career and raise a family. 

In her new role as Aftersales Manager, Emma supervises the workshop and aims to offer more aftersales support to customers to make sure their needs are fully met. Here she gives us an insight into why she chose to take up this career path and some of the key steps to her current management position, “I am a farmer’s daughter and wanted to have a career in the agricultural industry. I was offered an apprenticeship within automotive parts at an agricultural engineering company I previously worked for. I chose this career because I knew that I could gain further qualifications and progress in the industry to management roles which have been very rewarding.”

Emma adds, “It is a rewarding career and it gives you great job satisfaction that you can succeed in a male dominated environment. It would be great to see more women in the industry.”    

Overcoming Challenges

The agricultural industry can be perceived of as a predominantly male sector and Emma explains that she has faced and overcome barriers within the workplace. “I find customers and mechanics do assume you can’t do the job and that you don’t know anything about agricultural machinery. But with my experience and knowledge I prove that I can do the job successfully and gain their respect.” Emma has often found herself as the only woman present at service meetings and training sessions but she is unfazed and advises, “You just need to have confidence in yourself and contribute, don’t just sit there quietly.”

Balance for Better

Reflecting on gender equality within the agricultural industry, there is positive news and the sector is building a better balance. Emma explains, “There are equal opportunities in the industry. I think it needs to be promoted more so that women are aware that they can pursue a career path like mine. Importantly you can still have a successful career when you have a family.”

Emma agrees that diversity is an important factor influencing the modern business environment. “It brings more talent and skills to a business, it would be great if jobs weren’t perceived in terms of ‘male’ and ‘female’ roles.”

For women seeking to pursue a similar career path Emma advises, “From my own experience my advice would be you need to be willing to learn and listen to others. Also be strong minded, stand your ground and persevere. It was difficult when I was training as I didn’t have the knowledge or experience but now I have that, I can prove to mechanics and customers that I understand what they are talking about which gives you great job satisfaction.”

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International Women’s Day 2019 – Lea Virnekäs

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We recently spoke to Lea Virnekäs, an Apprentice Agricultural Machinery Technician with BayWa AG Bamberg (Technik) in Germany, who told us about her experiences during her training year.

What does your job involve day to day?

“Every day I deal with different, new and exciting tasks. I get to know new systems and learn different repairs to a range of AGCO brand machinery. Whether a customer service or a certain repair I look forward to taking each task hands on. We always start with a careful inspection, take a closer look, and then determine which genuine parts we need before carrying out the work.

“Finally, all functions are checked again. We then discuss with the customer of all the work we have done, because the most important thing at the end is that the customer is satisfied.”

Why did you choose your current career?

“My enthusiasm for tractors started in my childhood. I was interested in how a tractor can drive and how it all works. I wanted to learn an exciting profession with the best opportunities. Being able to enjoy customer contact and implement customer-oriented thinking was also a factor.”

Why do you think more women should pursue a similar career path?

“The profession is rich in knowledge, you can learn so much there. If a woman has no problem with dirty and oily hands to go into the evening, she is just right for it! In these professions you can grow beyond yourself and get to know new sides of yourself. Women have strengths that are less common in men. For example: order, patience, sense, dexterity and an eye on the bigger picture. Only together does the perfect team emerge.”

What is the most important piece of advice you would give to a woman starting a similar career?

“You must not be afraid of not making it. Anything is possible. Ambition and will are compelling. Every success is strengthening your self-confidence, and even if it does not work out at the first attempt, never give up!”

Why do you think diversity is so important in the workplace?

“Diverse willingness to learn leads to diverse knowledge. Diversity means a lot to me.

“First of all, I think of knowledge, because knowledge is unlimited and far-reaching in every direction. In my profession it is the various tractors, attachments but also the small appliances such as lawnmowers and chainsaws. The mix of mechanics and advanced technology is also a big part of it.”

Do you think there are equal opportunities for women in your field of work?

“I do not think so, as this profession is made up of 99% men. Nevertheless, it is already a big step that women are accepted in the profession.”

What barriers have you faced as a woman in the workplace, and how have you overcome them?

“The biggest hurdle for me personally was the courage to take up the challenge.

“The team of the workshop immediately welcomed me well, so that I felt directly comfortable

“The doubt not to make it or to have too little power both physically and emotionally can be difficult to overcome, but it turned out that these were completely misplaced.”

The post International Women’s Day 2019 – Lea Virnekäs appeared first on AGCO Blog.

Straightforward. Dependable. Connected. Meet the New Massey Ferguson MF 8S Series High HP Tractor Range

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Designed for farmers by farmers, following seven years of testing around the globe and extensive customer consultations, the MF 8S Series delivers exactly what operators want. While equipped with superb specifications, at the same time it offers exceptional value for money by ensuring owners will only pay for what they need.

“Our MF NEXT visionary concept, shown for the first time at Agritechnica in 2019, is now a reality,” says Thierry Lhotte, Vice President & Managing Director Massey Ferguson, Europe & Middle East. “Last November we were celebrating the 50th anniversary of the moon landing, which made the impossible become possible. Now it is time to deliver that vision landing on earth. We are not launching just a tractor, but also marking a new era for our brand.”

There are 4 completely new MF 8S Series tractor models all featured by the unique “Protect-U” cab/engine installation and a radical ‘neo-retro’ design. Built on a 3.05m wheelbase they offer maximum power from 205hp to 265hp, all with an extra 20hp from Engine Power Management (EPM).

At the same time, Massey Ferguson introduces new, straightforward numbering. Taking as an example the MF 8S.265 model: the 8 stands for the Series, the S stands for the specification level and the last three digits are the maximum power.

More than just a tractor

The launch of the MF 8S Series heralds a completely new era for Massey Ferguson, introducing an enhanced user experience encompassing the benefits of connectivity and smart farming technologies.

To meet the demand of modern, sustainable farming Massey Ferguson combines state-of-the-art machinery with a comprehensive range of fully connected services to help customers manage their businesses more effectively.

Finance, extended warranty, and courtesy machines can be fully integrated into the package. With MF Connect Telemetry and the new MyMF Customer Portal (depending on countries) users can manage their fleets with MF cloud-based solutions.

“This completely new design delivers the next level of straightforward and dependable tractors that operators asked for,” says Mr. Lhotte. “They told us they need a tractor that is comfortable, with unrivaled visibility, efficient, easy to use, and smart. Massey Ferguson has responded straight to the point with the MF 8S and the associated services.”

Massey Ferguson MF 8S series specifications

MF 8S.205 MF 8S.225 MF 8 S.245 MF 8S.265
Engine AGCO Power – Stage V – All-in-One technology
Engine capacity                             6-cylinder, 7.4 liter
Transmissions New Dyna E-Power Dual Clutch or Dyna-7 Semi-Powershift
Max. power @ 1,850rpm   205hp 225hp 245hp 265hp
Max. power EPM 225hp 245hp 265hp 285hp
Max torque @
1,000 ÷ 1,500rpm
900Nm 1,000Nm 1,100Nm 1,200Nm

MF 8S Series – Introducing a new era

  • A completely new 3.4m³ volume cab. With its unique shape and the four-pillar structure, this cab has unrivaled visibility. It offers the next level of space, comfort, controls, and connectivity.
  • Thanks to the unique “Protect-U” design it reduces noise, heat, vibrations and enables clean and cool airflow to be aspired by the rear and delivered to the engine air filter. This cab is positioned as one of the best in the marketplace in terms of noise levels.
  • Optimum control and smart farming capability are provided by the “MF vDisplay” digital and intuitive dashboard, Datatronic 5 terminal, and a new comprehensive MultiPad control lever with “Control Centre” armrest.
  • The MF 8S Series introduces a choice of two completely new and efficient transmissions, delivering maximum power to the ground while reducing power losses by 26% and improving fuel economy by up to 10%.
  • The new Dyna E-Power dual-clutch transmission combines the benefits of today’s available technologies: the feeling of a CVT and the efficiency of a directly mechanically-driven transmission. Alternatively, the new, super-efficient, Dyna-7 Semi-Powershift now offers 28 forward and reverse speeds.
  • A new, rear axle combined with more oil flow improves efficiency and versatility. With up to 10% more traction power and 20% more flow, it enables the use of wider, more productive implements and machines to improve performance and reduce costs.
  • Complete connectivity offering to improve profitability and sustainable farming. MF 8S comes standard with MF Connect Telemetry and optional MF Task Doc data transfer software allowing users to make management decisions to maximize efficiency and productivity.
  • Choice of Exclusive or Efficient specification packages and options enable users to tailor their tractors to suit at best their specific needs.
  • *MF Always Running courtesy tractor fleet service, included as standard, offers industry-leading service to maximize uptime.*in participating markets

High comfort cab – combining comfort, visibility, and connectivity

With its 24 cm. gap separating the cab from the engine, the “Protect-U” concept completely insulates the cab from noise, heat, and vibrations. Noise levels of just 68dB make it one of the quietest in the market and, with an interior volume of 3.4m³, it is also one of the most spacious.

With a 6.6m² glass area, it is a light and airy workplace boasting unrivaled space and visibility. Replacing the dashboard with the new digital “MF vDisplay” terminal fitted to the right pillar, leaves just the steering wheel and Power Control lever in front of the driver, providing exceptional forward visibility over the slim, super wasp-waisted bonnet.

Inside the cab, operators will feel the exclusive environment, with real leather on the seat (optional), a leatherette finish on the steering wheel and trim (optional). The new high-quality seat is auto-air suspended, heated, ventilated, and equipped with lateral damping. There is, of course, an efficient automatic air-con, which is supplied through 14 outlets. Mechanical active cab suspension further enhances comfort on Exclusive models.

The “MF vDisplay” digital dashboard shows all the tractor information at a glance. Easy to read and with intuitive operation, its clear display can be personalized and changed by simply scrolling through settings with a rotary knob by the steering wheel.

The new Control Centre armrest fitted with the latest easy-to-use MultiPad lever provides complete fingertip control. This ISOBUS compatible lever operates all the tractor functions and includes an integral micro-joystick to control two spool valves.

The updated Datatronic 5 (new “glossy” front glass and user interface) is mounted on an adjustable arm. This 9-inch touch-screen terminal is as easy and intuitive to use as any mobile phone or tablet. It is a single screen system for controlling the tractor functions and manage all MF Technologies such as MF Guide, MF Section, and Rate Control as well as MF Task Doc data capture and transfer.

MF 8S.245 with Horshe Srayer in Chatillon Sur Indre

High performance and efficiency

Latest Stage V AGCO Power 6-cylinder / 7.4-liter engines deliver more power, torque, and performance at low rpm reducing operating costs. Massey Ferguson’s straightforward All-In-One after-treatment technology along with hydraulic tappet adjustment, which is both maintenance-free, helps reduce running costs.

These robust engines develop 205hp to 265hp, with Engine Power Management (EPM) providing an extra 20hp for transport, PTO, and hydraulic applications. Maximum power is generated already at 1,000 rpm and it is constant up to 1,500 rpm – providing high performance at low engine speeds that cuts fuel consumption by 10% and noise by up to 6dB.

All-In-One integrated Selected Catalytic Reduction (SCR) with a Soot Catalyst (SC) is a fully integrated system that does not require the use of a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) or complex Variable Geometry Turbocharger. Designed to last the lifetime of the tractor, this compact unit, mounted outside the tractor, ensures visibility remains completely unimpeded and the exhaust pipe is even slimmer than before.

Unique encapsulated engine

The distinctive “Protec-U” design with its 24 cm. gap between the cab and the engine installation sets the MF 8S Series apart from all other tractors. As well as reducing heat, noise, and vibrations being transmitted to the cab, the unique encapsulated engine position improves cooling and performance.

Air drawn in from the middle of the tractor, behind the engine, is cleaner than that from the standard position. This clean air helps reduce the load on the main air filter while optimizing engine performance.

This innovative design greatly improves accessibility for cleaning the radiators too. Making it easier to carry out regular maintenance will improve reliability and help reduce downtime.

New highly efficient, easy to use transmissions

With the launch of the MF 8S Series, Massey Ferguson is introducing the next level of highly efficient transmission technology.

Designed and developed by its in-house experts, the Dyna E-Power, Dual Clutch gearbox combines the advantages of a continuously variable transmission (CVT) with the ability to transmit power as efficiently as a mechanical transmission. This new unit even further reduces power losses versus previous MF 7700 S Dyna-6, by up to 26% at higher speeds, delivering fuel savings up to 10%!

Dyna E-Power provides more than a full powershift, using Dual Clutch technology for ranges shift allowing anticipation and seamless changes. It offers four ranges with seven gears, with semi-overlaps ideally designed for maximizing in the field and on-road performance.

Operating fully automatically or manually using buttons on the MultiPad or Power Control lever, it is also possible to adjust how aggressively and quickly fully automatic changes are made to match work and conditions.

Gears change seamlessly, smoothly, and efficiently, with only a 9% gear ratio difference between each speed in fieldwork applications from 5km/hr to 20km/hr.

To further improve fuel efficiency, cut noise and improve comfort, top speeds are achieved at very low engine rpm. 50km/hr (where permitted) are reached at 1,500rpm, while 40km/hr just need 1,200rpm.

Alternatively, users can choose the new Dyna-7, semi powershift gearbox, which is the latest development of the renowned and reliable Dyna-6, with the same straightforward operation. This provides not only one extra powershift gear and smoother shifting, but it is also 10% more efficient than the Dyna-6 for the same engine horsepower in-field application.

Dyna-7 offers the easy and efficient operation of a total of 28 forward and reverse speeds in four ranges and seven seamless gears. This cost-effective transmission delivers smooth and intuitive operation in manual mode or can even be operated fully automatically.

For those requiring the comfort and control from a continuously variable transmission (CVT) the MF Dyna-VT will be available for the MF 8S Series in the future.

High performance and efficiency

Massey Ferguson MF 8S Series tractors are built on a 3.05m wheelbase that provides stability and improves traction when working with wide, demanding implements, offering up to nearly 10% more traction power.

Power is efficiently transferred to the ground through a new, immensely strong rear axle, with a choice of flanged, short, or long bar axles, to suit all operations.

New wheel specifications now include the ability to fit up to 2.05m diameter rear tires, including the brand-new option of VF650/75 R42 Trelleborg TM1000 PT.

The tractors retain the well-proven standard suspended front axle. Offering a tight, 5.7m turning radius. Now equipped with suspension lock, it also equipped with brakes for tractors fitted with all 50km/hr transmissions.

Three-point linkage capacity is increased by 7% to 10,000kg and, with powerful new hydraulics, these tractors handle and operate large, wider implements. A 150 liter/min closed-center, the load-sensing hydraulic system is standard, providing 36% more flow compared with the previous system. A 205 liter/min flow is an option, which can also be supplied as an ECO version, generating the flow at 1,650rpm (230l/min at max at rated engine speed). Up to five electronic rear spool valves can be specified.

All models come with a four-speed PTO as standard, providing a choice of 540, 540ECO, 1,000, or 1,000ECO, which means operators can always select the right speed for power or economy.

A new 4,800kg capacity front linkage option, fully integrated into the tractor, comes with the option of an ISOBUS socket.

100% Connected

Connectivity is the standard on the MF 8S Series, which comes with MF Connect Telemetry including a three-year subscription license. This uses mobile data to transfer information to the MF Connect Cloud, providing easy access to useful management information on machines.

As well as logging the machine’s position and data it can also send error messages and upcoming service requirement alerts to users and dealers (with permission).

This is fully integrated into the ‘MyMF’ customer portal where users can view and manage the information and data in real-time, remotely from any internet-enabled device. (MyMF will be available soon in the UK, Ireland, France, and Germany and will follow later in other countries).

All MF 8S Series tractors can also be equipped with a full range of Sustainable Farming Technologies.

Heart of the system is the intuitive Datatronic 5, touch-screen terminal, this does not only manage the tractor functions, but it allows complete control of all ISOBUS compatible implements.

A new antenna rail, positioned at the front of the cab, enables easy mounting of a choice of GPS receivers up to RTK precision. For security and risk avoidance, the antenna is locked in place with a key as standard.

An optional Fieldstar 5 terminal can be used to manage all the MF Technologies– including MF Guide, while MF Section and Rate Control can now handle up to 36 sections and five products. It now also records the field boundaries and provides automatic field detection.

MF Task Doc and Task Doc Pro automatically record and wirelessly transfer the gathered information and data. This is a fast, easy, and secure way to create accurate documentation to help operators comply with regulations and store useful information.

MF Task Doc Pro will also create application plans and fully synchronizes with farm management software. With NEXT Machine Management data can be simply and securely transferred wirelessly via the Agrirouter Cloud.

Best by design

The new MF 8S Series combines radical designs with a practical purpose. The striking ‘neo-retro’ design pays tribute to the brand’s heritage, illustrated by a new interpretation of the iconic MF grey saber stripe on the side and horse head collar motif on the bonnet, which dates back to the MF 100 series.

Superb specifications

MF 8S Series Exclusive specification models are available from now. These powerful offerings will be expanded with the introduction of the Efficient versions in early 2021, along with the Dyna-VT (CVT) transmission option for all models later in 2021.

The Exclusive specification is a comprehensive package providing operators with exceptional comfort and ease of use as well as genuine performance-enhancing features to increase productivity and efficiency.

As well as a choice of the Dyna-E Power or Dyna-7 transmission, Exclusive models come equipped to a high specification, including MultiPad control lever, five electric spool valves with fingertip switches and joystick. It is MF Guide ready, with MF Task Doc recording and, in common with all MF 8S Series, it includes MF Connect telemetry with a three-year subscription.

MF Always Running offers industry-leading dependability since 2019

All owners of MF 8S tractors will benefit from the peace of mind that comes with the MF Always Running courtesy tractor fleet service, which is included as standard. This unique service provides a temporary replacement of the same power and specification.

The post Straightforward. Dependable. Connected. Meet the New Massey Ferguson MF 8S Series High HP Tractor Range appeared first on AGCO Blog.

Tillage Study in Wheat

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AGCO puts farmers first, and that means discovering ways to unlock yield potential while farming more efficiently and sustainably. AGCO’s Agronomy and Advanced Farm Solutions team is hard at work bringing the latest research from fields around the globe to the farmers who feed the world. Check back every Tuesday for a new agronomic research study as the team explores different crops, equipment, pathogens, and growing practices.

The objective of this study was to show the effect of tillage treatment on wheat yield. During the 2018/2019 cropping season, a Massey Ferguson 320 seed drill was used to plant wheat in a ripped plot and in a no-till plot at the Martin Richenhagen Future Farm in Zambia, Africa, and the yield was compared at maturity.

Results:

Overall grain yield was lower than average due to very low precipitation in this region during the 2018/2019 cropping season. Planting wheat with no-till resulted in a 20% increase in grain yield (4.1 t/ha) over the ripped plot (3.4 t/ha).

This yield increase was attributed to two factors, which led to greater moisture conservation:

1) Enhanced soil cover from last season’s maize straw.

 

 

 

 

 

2) Less soil disturbance.

Figure 1: Wheat yield in tons/ha dry matter at harvest. Wheat was planted with a wheat drill in a ripped field and in an untilled field.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Figure 2: MF 320 seed drill used for the experiment.

 

 

 

 

 

Figure 3: Wheat seeded directly – no till (left) vs. seeded on a ripped field (right). There is less soil disturbance and more soil cover in the no till field.

Additional Observations:

Most soils in Zambia are very low in organic matter and sandy, which results in poor water-holding capacity. Less soil disturbance and more soil cover are great moisture management practices that can improve yield, especially when precipitation is insufficient.

Recommendations & Equipment Solutions:

Moisture management is very critical for crop production in Sub-Saharan Africa. Therefore, the selection of a tillage system must be done with care to reduce soil disturbance as much as possible. Irrespective of tillage, the MF 320 seed drill performs well for seeding.

Payback:

The tillage trial showed a 0.7t/ha difference between ripped and no-till plots. This equates to $245/ha revenue and saving the cost of ripping – $50/ha, totaling $295/ha. Assumptions: Price of wheat is $350/t.

Study contact:

Sheila Zulu, Agronomist, and Trainer, AGCO Corporation. Connect with Sheila on  LinkedIn

If you enjoyed learning about this topic, check out more research studies by our Agronomy team by clicking here.  

 

The post Tillage Study in Wheat appeared first on AGCO Blog.

Running a New Massey Ferguson 8700 S with a Best Way Sprayer

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Buying a new piece of equipment is an exciting time on the farm. However, no machine operates entirely on its own, so it’s important that it fits well into the existing fleet, otherwise integration can be a major source of frustration.

Massey Ferguson and AGCO’s Fuse Smart Farming team are working closely with farmers and dealers to ease the transition to a new piece of equipment.

Farmers looking to the inspired design and optimized efficiency the MF 8700S won’t be disappointed by the tractor’s easy-to-use precision ag and integration capabilities.

Flowerree Hay & Grain based in Christmas Valley, Oregon recently traded in a couple of John Deere tractors for two new 8700 S Massey Fergusons.

As a newcomer to the Massey Ferguson brand, Flowerree Hay & Grain needed help from their dealer, Robbins Equipment, to figure out how to run their Best Way sprayer and get all the controls to run through the new Datatronic 5 terminal on the new MF 8700 S.

About a week before Flowerree Hay & Grain needed to start spraying, the team at Robbins got the break in the weather they needed to put everything together and try it in the field.

To get the two pieces of equipment running together, the Robbins team had conducted previous research before the sale took place to ensure compatibility and the right solution.

The Section Control unlock on the Datatronic 5 terminal of the MF 8700S tractor

Flowerree Hay & Grain had been running the rig using a JD2000 rate controller on the old tractor. To integrate the Best Way sprayer with the new tractor, the team installed a Raven Rate Control Module (RCM), due to its ease of use and reliability. The Raven RCM is plug and play and worked very well in this application. The Robbins team then performed a simple section control unlock in the MF 8700 S.

Datratonic

The Raven Rate Control Module (RCM) work page on the Datatronic 5 terminal of the MF 8700S tractor

Fuse Smart Farming experts walked the Massey Ferguson product specialist and the Robbins Equipment technician through the nuances of wiring harnesses, RCM screens, and Best Way sprayer specifics over the phone. The team onsite was able to get the MF 8700 S set up with the Best Way sprayer later that day for the farmer to try out.

Massey Ferguson 8732 S Tractor

The happy couple: a new MF 8732 S with a Best Way sprayer powered by a Raven RCM

The Robbins Equipment team was pleased to see that the layout of the RCM liquid system was so similar to the Deere setup that the customer had no trouble operating the new setup from the start. Factory fit MF Guide with a Smart-7 receiver from Novatel and Terrastar-L sub-meter correction signal ensures that the tractor is exactly where it should be, and the variable rate and section control features maximize the accuracy and efficiency of the grower’s application while protecting his crop yield.

When the Robbins team checked in with the customer after using the RCM for a couple weeks, Flowerree Hay & Grain said they prefer the layout and function of the RCM over the older Deere system.

Massey Ferguson dealers are trained and ready to deliver on their promises to integrate new equipment into existing fleets. With access to some of the best precision agriculture specialists with a broad knowledge base across manufacturers and precision ag suppliers, they can confidently help you create the best setup for your specific needs.

Learn more about Massey Ferguson 8700 S series row crop tractors here or talk to your local Massey Ferguson dealer to find the best technology solution for your farm.

Best way sprayer pulled by Massey Ferguson 8700 tractor

How’d they do that? Watch a video from in the cab.

The post Running a New Massey Ferguson 8700 S with a Best Way Sprayer appeared first on AGCO Blog.


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