Challenger ups ante in controlled traffic

The company says the new model hits the “sweet spot” in power ratings required for controlled traffic farming, while remaining one of the most “universal” tractors in the market.

New owners and farmers were given an update on the new models at an information day held at Gibson by Esperance Challenger dealer Brian Kerr, PH Kerr & Co.

“You don’t have to wait to get into controlled traffic to use this tractor,” Brian said.

“It will easily handle a 60ft (18.2 metre) seeding rig while you transition to 40 feet (12.2m) to accommodate the run lines.

“It can be used for spraying, chasing and the deep rip work a lot of guys are doing before moving into controlled traffic.

“Extra versatility is provided with a standard 1000rpm PTO so you can do spreader and hay work.”

According to Brian, the appeal of the Challenger tractors has always been their longevity.

“The SISU engine is well proven and that longevity gets the cost of ownership down,” he said.

“Plus it’s also about the reliability factor and confidence of using a tractor year-round without too many hassles.”

The MT765E is equipped with a 9.8 litre SISU engine developing 336kW(450hp) – a sizeable leap of 56kW (75hp) over the old model – linked to a 16-speed powershift transmission.

And to enhance its universality, Challenger has made a 150 per cent increase to the unit’s hydraulic capacity with a 320 litre a minute flow with Power Beyond (control valve) to easily handle hydraulic requirements.

According to Challenger, the seven-cylinder engine is backed by five years of rigorous field testing and features common components across the AGCO POWER family engine line and an extended engine service interval with flexible oil requirements to simplify routine maintenance.

Quick hitch linkage is standard with a Cat IV maximum lift of 10,000kg.

The company also says its Mobil-trac puts more power to the ground with a patented undercarriage design. And, oscillating mid-wheels outperform rigid competitive track designs, leaving a lighter footprint to reduce compaction.

The Mobil-trac system also offers the industry’s widest array of track offerings with easy-to-adjust gauge and tension settings, adapting easily to any application.

The MT700E series tractors feature the distinctive Pinnacle View cab.

Positioned at the centre of the tractor, there’s 360 degrees of visibility, with clear sight lines to the tracks, drawbar and implements.

The standard lighting package is LED array.

The cab is loaded with features, intuitive controls, several seating options and an ergonomic layout.

The MT765E will hold great appeal to South Coast farmers looking for a tractor to handle sloppy paddocks, particularly when spraying.

And at seeding, distributors AGCO report feedback on the SISU power plant indicates it’s only operating at between 70 and 80pc power in most applications.

So you’re getting power to the ground, without over-stretching the engine – hence the longevity claim.

More information: Contact your local AGCO dealer or

www.challenger-ag.com.au