USED MACHINERY Challenger MT700 series: The four-model 235-306hp Caterpillar Challenger MT700 series tractor range was introduced back in 2002, superseding the Challenger 35/45/55 models. Today, early MT700 units are starting to appear on the used market, albeit in relatively small numbers. So, if you’re looking for a second-hand MT for 2009, put the feelers out now. James de Havilland reports
AGCO acquired the Challenger brand from Caterpillar in March 2002, this date neatly coinciding with the launch of the MT700 series.
From a used MT buyer’s perspective this change in product ownership may not seem to be much of an issue, but it is worth dwelling briefly on how Cat tracklayers have been sold into UK agriculture over the past few years. After all, the quality of local product support, as we all know, is critical. Up until the formation of Claas Cat Europe in Aug 1997, Caterpillar was responsible for the sale of all its farming-orientated machines. This included the Challenger 35, 45 and 55 tracklayers, first launched into the UK at Smithfield 1994 (see profi used machinery 05/01).
As part of the Claas Cat joint agreement, Challenger models sold into Europe from the beginning of 1998 would have been finished in Claas colours and sold through Claas dealerships, and this arrangement remained in place until the MT700 series was introduced.
Why is this relevant to a used Challenger buyer? In simple terms, MT700 models went on to be sold and supported by a different network, these including firms that may have once been solely Massey Ferguson and Fendt dealers. This helps to explain why the used vehicle park offered by existing Challenger dealers may seem somewhat slimmer than the pedigree of the ‘brand’ would suggest. Parts support though, is good for any Challenger unit, regardless of who originally sold it. Even today, Challenger 35/45/55 models continue to be sought after as a used buy. The range-topping 55 went on to become Cat’s most popular UK model, this 270hp tractor commanding a used entry-level price of £15,000.
That sounds exceptional value, but do bear in mind that this really is ‘entry’ money. A clean, late Challenger 55 still retails for £50K – proof that there really is a world of difference between tired and fresh examples. It is also fair to say that there is significant spec separation between the previous row-crop Challenger generation and the still current MT700 line. These later third- generation Challengers benefit from a more user-friendly work environment, the cab not just offering extra interior space but lower noise levels and more modern ergonomics, too.
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