Electric spools and cab/front-axle suspension may not be features you’d expect to find on a Zetor, a brand that has a reputation for minimal sophistication. But here we are with the Forterra HD, which jumps up the spec table to put it on a technology par with many of its 150hp mainstream rivals.
While the Forterra HSX certainly opened fresh sales doors for Zetor, potential customers accustomed to a higher level of spec still wanted just that little bit more — so say hello to the HD. The three-strong Heavy Duty or HD line of four-potters churn out ball park figures of 130hp, 140hp and 150hp. For the existing Zetor user the HD is seen as a natural progression to a higher level of spec, comfort and extra power.
The HD models source their power from a Zetor-developed four-cylinder engine, bored out to 4.2 litres with four valves per pot but still working with a Stage IIIB system using a diesel oxidation catalyst and particulate filter. The electronic in-line Vermi injection pump is reserved for the top model where it’s said to optimise the torque curve and reduce consumption. With this in mind we were keen to see if the Forterra 150 HD is indeed a sipper or a guzzler.
On with the testing. The DLG bods measured 93.6kW/125.5hp at the shaft on the dyno, while the Zetor spec sheets state a 108.2kW/145.1hp rated output (to 2000/25/EC), suggesting horses are getting lost on their way to the back. The 2,200rpm rated speed is also the maximum so there’s no extra power
on tap.
Instead, operators have to content themselves with a near 28% torque increase at a 33% speed drop. Also on the low side is the 78% drive-off torque. Pulling away was not always the smoothest, as the clutch was sometimes difficult to modulate. Yet once a few revs were added, the four-pot motor started to wake up, becoming more nippy and finding stamina in heavy going.
For more up-to-date farming news click here and subscribe now to profi and save 47%.
