The Xtra name is back at Massey Ferguson as it freshens up the 8S series. It is more about refinements than a revamp – there are no changes to the power outputs of the six models which still span a nominal 205-305hp.
Instead, there have been improvements to the software to give better performance from the Dyna-7 and Dyna-E transmissions, and introduce some self-preservation into the mix as well, where constant flicking between ranges, and working through powershift steps led to unnecessary ratio movements.
Now if you operate the Dyna-E in auto mode, it will look to miss out overlapping powershifts so rather than stepping through the total of 28 powershifts, (four ranges, seven-powershifts) it will only utilise 21 in field and 22 in road mode. For instance, when on the road, it will start off in ‘gear’ five for example and then if you are looking at the overall speed chart as it comes out of 1E only use range two, powershift D before moving to 3B. Likewise, in field mode, it will do this same ratio skipping exercise. For the operator, the A pillar display will show which of the 21 or 22 speeds it is currently in. There is still the option to work the transmission in manual mode, but when the oil is up to temp, the auto Dyna-E shifts pretty smoothly with only the range changes being distinguishable. Giving the drive stick a push forward, increasing the target speed that the transmission is working to.
Dyna-7 does much the same with the new software, making use of the speed matching, but the robotised range changes are that bit more noticeable than the double-clutch arrangement in the Dyna E. Delve a little deeper into the transmission setting menus and you can tinker with the rate of acceleration and deceleration. You can also tell the box to not change range so when working under load with a cultivator it is not constantly hopping between ranges while also wrestling with high levels of torque.
This updated software has been rolled out to the existing 8S ‘mechanical’ transmission tractors.
But the Xtra moniker is not just about software. For the sharp eyed that have already peaked at the photos you will notice some other changes from the original 8S range that was launched in 2020. The more noticeable are the black side panels and top grille. The exhaust stack has also been slimmed down, so it is similar to the 9S, helping improve visibility.
To boost airflow, the vent at the rear of the bonnet (between the engine and cab) has been made bigger. A reversible fan has been added to the options list too, which can then be engaged from the cab. Not only does this help self-cleaning, but by matching required airflow to cooling needs it minimises the power required helping fuel efficiency.
Another Xtra change is to the work lights. The 8S gets new LED lamps with the option of enough of them to achieve all round illumination. One other change relates to the two manual spool valves, these now get pressure relief by the couplers.
One item that had changed on the later 8S models, but garnered some attention in its early days, is that the ignition key has been moved to the side of the steering column rather than at the front where it was prone to hitting your knee. That is about it on the details of the 8S Xtra which is entering production at Beauvais right now.
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