DRIVING IMPRESSION: Predator is Househam’s new class of self-propelled sprayer, which will sit above its current range-topper, the Merlin. Ahead of the Predator’s Cereals Event launch, we take a close look at a pre-production model.
Househam has gone back to the drawing board to produce an all-new self-propelled sprayer that’s capable of taking advantage of the very latest in tyre technology. It’s designated the Predator, and, with a new design of chassis, this machine allows the use of 380/ 90 R46 rowcrop tyres without compromising on stability and manoeuvrability says its maker. As a result, ground clearance is 1.10m on rowcrops and 1.05m as seen here on 650/60 R38 Michelin XeoBib rubber for our 5,000-litre, 36m pre-production model. Househam recognises that it has been losing sales to its competitors offering higher capacity machines on larger wheel and tyre equipment. And, in those instances, the firm’s existing Merlin simply doesn’t measure up.
So what have we got? Predator will be marketed with three tank capacities: 4,000, 5,000 and 6,000 litres in stainless steel, accompanied by a range of twin-fold and trifold steel booms extending from 24-36m. Booms and tank sizes match those of the Merlin.
At the rear end, the boom is now carried on a pantograph linkage in place of a mast. Househam says this has reduced weight and complexity, and eliminates the need for up to 20 rollers, which the company uses on a tri-fold boom mast.
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