Ziegler is better known for grassland machinery, having taken over the Niemeyer business several years ago. Recently, however, it has tiptoed into the arable tool sector with cultivators and disc harrows, which Abrey Agricultural now imports alongside the firm’s header trailers. We test the Pro version of the Disc Master 4501 over the course of a season

The Disc Master Pro harrow comprises five models: the rigid 3.0m and folding 4.0 and 4.5m, which can be either fully or semi-mounted; and, for those desiring something bigger, there are the semi-mounted 5.0m, 6.0m and 7.0m units. All six widths use 560mm diameter concave discs — serrated or scalloped.

Our test subject was a Disc Master Pro 4501, which, as you will have deciphered from the
model number, is the 4.5m version. This fully mounted machine was kitted out with the scalloped discs that we used for cultivating everything from maize to a secondary pass
through rape and cereal stubble.

The 3,400kg unit wasn’t a problem for 160hp plus tractors to handle. The headstock is Cat
III compatible, with the top link attachment providing a choice of three holes and two for
the lower links. All couplers give a sturdy impression.

It sits on four parking stands and is left in its folded position. The stands are awkwardly
positioned and were at risk of getting bent whenever the wings were folded up during
the test. Ziegler recognises there is a problem and is looking for a better solution.

The headstock is also home to a reasonable hose and electric socket holder. A neat detail
on the electric wiring for the lights is that the vulnerable section running between the tractor and headstock can be replaced rather than having to renew the complete harness.

Two oil hoses look after hydraulic folding and another two the optional depth control system (£1,420). Sadly the hoses are not labelled or colour-coded, but each pair is grouped in
spiral wrap. Pipe routing is good, and there is a small amount of clearance in between
the hoses and the harrow frame — very useful for cleaning.

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