AGCO debuts RT tractor lineup

By Larry Dreiling

Two storied names in the tractor business have become one and drawn under a new umbrella. AGCO has brought together the best of Allis-Chalmers and White to create the new AGCO lineup of tractors.

Celebrating the new accord of technologies and styling are AGCO's RT tractors. Introduced to the farm media during special events at recent fall shows, the tractors offer a different look, but it's not until you get under the hood or behind the wheel that you see how different they really are.

From the bigger engine to the high-tech, PowerMaxx CVT (continuously variable transmission), AGCO says the RTs deliver engine power to the ground smoother, quieter and more efficiently.

"They have to be driven to be truly appreciated," said Todd Stucke, general marketing manager, AGCO tractors. "The new Cummins engine puts out more power with less fuel, and the PowerMaxx CVT uses that power more smoothly and efficiently than tractor operators will believe possible. The new design also allows a tighter turning radius, while improvements in front axle and cab suspension make you feel like you are riding on a cloud."

The RTs incorporate the 6.7-liter, six-cylinder, liquid-cooled Cummins engine as part of the frame itself. This "structural design" reduces engine sound levels, while the waste gate turbocharger equipped engine uses fuel more efficiently. The new design also improves turning radius by up to 20%. Like all AGCO tractors, the model number indicates PTO horsepower. The new RTs are available in 100, 120, 135 and 150 PTO HP.

"We are really excited about our new PowerMaxx CVT transmissions, and these RTs are the first of our AGCO tractor line to offer them," said Wade Stewart, sales engineer for high horsepower tractors. "PowerMaxx CVT equipped RTs will go from 0 to 32 mph while constantly adjusting for the most efficient combination of engine speed and transmission ratio, whatever the load. We think it's better than farming with an automatic transmission."

The PowerMaxx CVT is an option on all RT models equipped with power front axle (PFA). The new transmission option allows the operator to increase or decrease ground speed simply by pushing a speed lever on the right-hand console forward or back. Two preferred forward speeds can be set with console controls. Once set, the speeds are shown on a digital screen on the dash display.

"It's really simple to set those speeds, using a couple of toggle switches," Stewart said.

Another feature is foot pedal control. This allows control to be shifted from the armrest speed lever to a floor throttle. The Power Control shuttle lever mounted on the left side of the steering column controls speed and direction. Shuttle speed forward and reverse can also be preset. Activate the power shuttle, and the tractor will automatically slow, stop, reverse direction and then accelerate to the programmed speed shown on the dash display when at rated engine RPM.

"PowerMaxx CVT acceleration and deceleration is not only smooth, but it is also extremely efficient, all because of its stepless variable-speed design," said Matt Rushing, another AGCO sales engineer for high horsepower tractors.

RTs with 2WD or PFA are also available with the Auto Quadrashift 32F x 32R transmission. This AE50-award-winning transmission combines four-speed powershift convenience with eight-speed synchromesh economy. Automatic powershifts and speed matching make fieldwork and transport more economical in all applications. Its electronic control system regulates clutch engagement to shift smoothly and reduce shock loads to the drivetrain.

A completely redesigned cab--standard equipment on all new RTs--is supposed to bring a new level of comfort to RT operation. Models equipped with HydraMaxx front-axle suspension and AirMaxx pneumatic cab suspension are built to be even more efficient, stable and comfortable in and out of the field.

"The HydraMaxx front suspension, combined with the AirMaxx pneumatic cab suspension system, make for a much more efficient, smoother ride," said Stucke. "The new cab is also much quieter with a maximum interior sound level of only 71 decibels. Less noise and more comfort translate into reduced driver fatigue and enhanced driver productivity."

Other new options in comfort and control available with the new cab include optional climate control. Once a preferred temperature level is set, the cooling/heating system maintains the temperature at that level. Power adjustable mirrors with defrost further add to operator convenience.

For more information on AGCO RT tractors, visit www.agcocorp.com.

Date: 11/3/03

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