Machinery and Equipment: 70km/h Fastracs get hydrostatic dual steering
The new models are the 8290 and 8330, building on the success of the 160-235 horse power Fastrac 4000 Series.
The most obvious changes are the distinctive styling and Command Plus cab.
Under the bonnet, the 8290 and 8330 have more power and torque, a new high speed approved hydrostatic steering system, and new tyre options.
A more compact front linkage and PTO package, and a larger deck behind the cab add to the tractors’ versatility and productivity potential.
JCB Agriculture General Manager John Smith said: “The new Fastrac 4000 Series has been very well received by seasoned and new Fastrac users alike.
“Now we are introducing several of that tractor’s appealing features to our biggest Fastrac models.”
The Fastrac 8290 and 8330 continue to use an 8.4-litre six-cylinder engine, but it now meets Euro Stage 4/US Tier 4 Final emissions standards.
The revised engine also delivers more power and torque, using a twin turbocharger installation for quick responses when the operator requires increased power.
Two turbos are arranged in series.
A relatively small diameter turbo that spools up quickly provides a lively response to the accelerator pedal, while the larger diameter unit ensures plenty of torque and power across the engine’s rev range.
At rated speed, the 8290’s engine develops 280hp to match the outgoing Fastrac 8310; engine power peaks at 306hp, as revs are pulled down under heavy draft or towing loads.
The 8330 however, takes the Fastrac to new heights, with a rated speed output of 335hp rising to 348hp under full load, a 14% increase in power.
At the same time, peak torque goes up by 10% to 1440Nm at 1500rpm, which gives the tractor greater ability to ‘hang on’ as conditions become more challenging, or when facing a climb, in the field or on the road.
John Smith said: “These figures give our flagship tractor a significant step up in performance with heavy draft equipment, demanding PTO-driven implements, and heavy trailers, tankers and spreaders.”
Different modes selected by the operator, using the Fastrac’s advanced touch screen display, prioritise optimum engine and transmission settings for power, economy, constant PTO speed, constant field speed or road travel.
This system can operate automatically or be used manually to deliver either seamless speed changes or in steps to emulate a powershift.
The new Command Plus cab includes a supportive driver’s seat that can swivel 50 degrees to the right and 20 degrees left, so that an eye can be kept on rear-mounted and trailed equipment, in comfort.
The operator sits a little further forward than before, which raises the ride quality to an even higher level, and the additional space liberated behind the cab allows installation of a mounted sprayer, supplementary seed or fertiliser hopper, or a gooseneck drawbar hitch for heavy trailed equipment.
The forward-raked cab structure adds to the sense of interior space, and improves visibility and cab access.
The near-vertical windscreen reduces heat absorption.
Deep door glass and side windows, and wide lower windscreen glazing, provide good visibility, and a fixed roof window option brings more light into the cabin.
Opening rear three-quarter windows offer natural ventilation in addition to the climate control air conditioning.
A comprehensive array of work lights maintain visibility, and an optional LED packagehas up to 18 lights in total.
This Fastrac 8000 Series continues with coil spring and damper front suspension and active rear axle suspension to maintain an even ride height, and the standard of comfort Fastrac operators enjoy. However, hydrostatic dual steering replaces the power-assisted mechanical system.
Effectively it is two hydrostatic systems in one, using an advanced control valve to continuously monitor pressures and flows in both systems.
First of all, this meets the crucial fail-safe requirements for a tractor capable of a 70kph top speed, in the event of hydraulic or engine failure.
Second, it provides the crucial combination of precision, feel and low effort, on the road at speed, or manoeuvring.
It also introduces the new selectable Rapid Steer, which halves the number of turns lock-to-lock from four to just two, making life easier during headland turns and other manoeuvres below 10kph.
The dual steering is compatible with GPS guidance.
The Fastracs have JCB’s LiveLink telematics as standard, for valuable location and operating information, as well as proactive service scheduling and remote fault finding in partnership with dealers and JCB’s technical support team.
