If versatility is the name of the game, then the Dutch-built 300XL Vario is very definitely a player. A flick of the spool valve transforms it from a disc and leg min-till machine into a set of discs for light cultivations. We stuck a 3m model in some Oxfordshire clay to see what it could do
Combining discs and legs in the one cultivator is now pretty much the norm for UK min-till gear. So, with this in mind, Dutch manufacturer Tulip worked with its British distributor, Teagle Machinery, to develop the XL Vario. Unlike many of its mounted cultivator competitors, however, the Vario slots its pan-busting legs in between the two gangs of discs. Teagle’s reasoning for this approach is simple: the front row of discs can chop up material such as lodged straw rather than it wrapping around the legs behind.
Adding to the machine’s versatility the soilloosening legs can be swung out of work hydraulically so you have a disc cultivator, while the increased distance between the two disc gangs allows you to travel faster, as there’s room for the soil throw to settle rather than smothering the rear discs. The mounted machine line-up comprises 2.5-, 3.0-, 3.5- and 4.0m models, and there are also 4.0-, 4.5- and 5.0m hydraulic folding trailed units.
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