Tractor test 

Lindner Lintrac 90 4RL:

For the April issue we head to the hills and test out the Lindner Lintrac 90. Not only does this little tractor have a stepless transmission there is also the option of four-wheel steer.

Practical test

Seven big square balers – Part 2:

Last summer we managed to gather big square balers from all the leading manufacturers, where they were put through their paces in a comprehensive comparison. On test are the Case IH LB434Xl RC, Claas Quadrant 5300FC, Fendt 1290S XD, John Deere L1534 HC23, Krone BP1290 XC and HDP VC models as well as the Kuhn LSB1290 ID OC.

Driving impression

Schãffer 8620T telehandler:

Last year the German handler maker updated its engine package and a host of other tweaks. We see how well it gels.

Vãderstad Tempo TPL 24 precision seeder:

Building on Vãderstad’s existing 12-, 16- and 18-row models but no wider in working width, the TPL 24 is the firm’s first high-speed 24-row precision seeder. Last spring we put it to work in maize.

Can-Am Outlander 6×6 450T ATV:

If you think a Can-Am Outlander 6×6 450T is pretty much an Outlander 450T with an extra rear axle and load bay tacked on, then you will not be far wrong. Although the engineering behind the six-wheeler is more involved than it looks, the more important question is what does an extra axle bring to the ATV party?

Livestock

Crutchley Farms impression on self-propelled feeding:

Switching to a self-propelled diet feeder from a trailed machine has cut costs, boosted efficiency and contributed to a more consistent feed ration for one Dorset milk producer’s high-yielding dairy herd.

Used machinery

Trimble precision farming hardware:

If you want a quick and easy ‘guidance guide’ to buying and installing pre-owned Trimble systems, you are out of luck. Unless you are looking for a direct ‘plug in’ replacement for an existing item there is every chance pre-owned hardware will need to be installed and set up by a specialist to ensure it functions as expected. Is buying used Trimble kit a non-starter then? No, but you do need to be careful and not be afraid to seek advice.

Machine management

High-tech focus at Netherley Farm Partnership:

Looking to future-proof its spraying operations, one Hampshire farm opted to take a high-tech route by choosing an ISObus-compatible, front/rear mounted sprayer combination with individual nozzle control to cut down on overlaps and boost application accuracy.

Report

John Deere Tango E5 Series II mower:

Autonomous mowers have become a lot more main stream in recent years with the likes of Husqvarna pushing the concept. But if you want to stick with a more familiar agri name, then John Deere has the Tango E5, now in its second generation. We have been trialling a unit since last summer.