KUBOTA is making a big pitch into the commercial livestock, mixed farming and row-crop production markets.
And earlier this month, Bunbury Machinery showcased a M7171 model, which is part of the company’s M7-1 tractor series, unveiled last year as a pre-cursor to this year’s commercial availability in Australia.
The M7171 marks a new era for Kubota which has pushed horsepower offerings to 127kW (170hp) for the M7171 and adding two other mid-range models – the M7-131 (97kW, 130hp) and M7-151 (112kW, 150hp).
These new workhorses are specifically designed for small, medium and large-scale farming.
The M7-1 models are geared for heavy tillage and pulling, as well as spraying, fertilising, seeding, feeding and front loading.
The range suits dairy and mixed farms, among many others, as it offers a wide range of options for mowing and loading – tasks which usually require a heavy six-cylinder tractor.
Kubota brings to the market a four cylinder power plant – a V6108 Kubota turbo-charged diesel engine, which the company claims boasts the latest in clean air engine technology, advanced electronic fuel injection for greater fuel economy and less noise.
Premium models feature load-sensing hydraulics and semi-powershift transmissions or the Kubota Variable Transmission (KVT), which provides an effectively infinite number of forward and reverse speeds.
This smart technology provides operators with optimal speed for almost any job and also features dynamic braking, or engine-assisted deceleration, to help maintain control and constant travelling speed on slopes.
Optional front suspension will probably be taken up by most owners who know the value of a smoother ride negotiating lumpy paddocks.
Kubota also says the front suspension saves fuel, and minimises wear and tear on operator and equipment.
The wide cab, with only four corner posts and no centre pillars, allows unobstructed almost panoramic views with a choice of mechanical or air ride suspension.
Operators can quickly attach and detach all hydraulic hoses simultaneously using Kubota’s quick coupler, for easy installing or uninstalling the loader.
A single switch on the joystick grip controls numerous other hydraulic implements and functions.
At the rear, a four-speed, live-independent PTO (from 76kW, 102hp to 106kW, 142hp), meaning operators can use a huge range of rear-mounted gear on almost any job, while optional front PTO allows two powered implements to run at the same time.
PTO can be engaged and disengaged without stopping the tractor, using a single control switch with automatic modulation for smooth engagement.
Ken Wilson
Farm Weekly's machinery writer.
Farm Weekly's machinery writer.
