COMBINE harvesters on tracks has become a commercial reality with the appearance of a new CLAAS Lexion 700 Terra Trac series in WA.
Demonstrations of the next generation header started at Ajana last week, organised by CLAAS dealer Wellard Rural Services.
The optional low impact hydraulic suspension Terra Trac rubber tracks are the world's first factory engineered-and-fitted tracked system for combine harvesters.
The revolutionary system replaces conventional front tyres in favour of 890mm (36in) or 630mm (25in) wide rubber tracks on an optional three metre (10.1ft) centre.
According to Landpower product specialist Steve Reeves, the Terra Trac delivers two critical benefits in improving operating speeds and reducing soil compaction.
"With more than three square metres of contact area, unique hydraulic suspension and solid rubber pads to absorb shock, the tracks can handle heavier loads with less sway," Steve said.
"Improved stability is extremely important, particularly with wide fronts and high speeds.
"Plus it's a whole lot more comfortable for the operator.
"Between paddocks, the Lexion can power down the asphalt at 40km/h.
"Combined with guidance systems, Terra Trac has an obvious role in controlled traffic and minimum tillage systems."
The 700 models also come with optional CLAAS Maxiflo draper fronts.
All four models in the 700 series have been completely reconfigured from the ground up, boasting new hydraulics, new electronics and a host of performance-optimising technology.
"The new electronics system and on-board data network improves real-time monitoring and optimisation of key operating systems, which are all controlled from CEBIS operating system with its upsize 215mm (8.5in) screen," Steve said.
"Likewise, the improved constant pressure hydraulics provide extra lifting power for bigger, heavier and wider fronts and smoother, faster control of all hydraulic functions."
Optional power plants are a Mercedes-Benz OM502 or Caterpillar C13 engine, both of which deliver up to 431kW (586hp).
"The new 700 series also incorporates numerous intelligent solutions, such as cruise control, auto steer and auto contour, that make work easier and reduce operator fatigue," Steve said.
The unique CLAAS Hybrid threshing system is standard across the range.
"This remarkably simple concept combines accelerated pre-separator (APS) threshing system with twin longitudinal rotary separators," Steve said.
"APS separates up to 30 per cent of the grain before it even reaches the concave while the Roto Plus rotary separators optimise residual grain separation under all conditions.
"Combined, the two technologies deliver maximum throughput with minimal grain loss and no increase in fuel consumption."
The top of the range Lexion 770 also boasts a 20pc larger sieve box, a massive 12,000 litre grain tank and a high capacity discharge auger that can empty the bin in less than two minutes.
This season also marks the Australian introduction of CLAAS Maxiflo draper fronts, which are ideal for the lighter crop conditions.
"Unlike conventional cutterbars, draper fronts use conveyor belts to gently channel the crop into the feed intake," Steve said.
"This ensures that even low quantities of material can be harvested with minimal grain loss."
A range of high performance CLAAS Vario variable cutter bars up to 12 metres (40ft) wide is also available.
According to Wellard Rural Services operations manager Terry Reilly, the company already has chalked up several sales.
"We're at the point where combine harvesters can't get much bigger because of transport issues, so now the focus is on productivity, reliability and efficiency," he said.
"The Lexion 700 puts growers and contractors even further ahead by delivering incredible productivity and efficiency in all crops and conditions.
"Every detail has been checked, improved where possible and integrated with the latest technologies."
