The first Farmalls were launched 90 years ago and became a worldwide success due to their reliability and versatility. Now Case IH has re-launched the famous name on a line of tractors that have those same qualities. The compact, lightweight Farmall C series comprises three models – the C55 (41kW), C65 (49kW) and C75 (56kW). They’re designed for livestock farming and specialist work on vegetable farms and in wide-spaced fruit orchards.
Highly manoeuvrable, with a turning circle of only 3,8m, they have an outstanding power-to-weight ratio and strong hydraulics.
Power comes from a 3,2l 4-cylinder engine from Fiat Powertrain Technologies (FPT). Standard transmission is 12×12 synchromesh with an optional 20×20 creep-speed version. A mechanical shuttle is standard, but the optional powershuttle
will no doubt prove popular, especially for loader work.
Top speed is 40km/h, while the creep-speed option allows for speeds as low as 123m/h. When it comes to the cab, Case IH engineers have focused on maximum driver comfort and ergonomics. The heating and ventilation components are located under the cab with outlets incorporated into the dashboard. This means there’s good visibility combined with a low overall height.
The integrated roof window, meanwhile, affords a good view of a loader in the raised position, and an optional loader joystick control aids efficient operation. Arno du Plessis, Northmec’s national sales manager, says the first batch of the new range will be here by the end of September.
The A series – powerful, with excellent ergonomics
The Farmall A series has six models rated from 49kW to 85kW and powered by 3- and 4-cylinder FPT engines, noted for their high torque rise, which means fewer gear changes, and better fuel economy. A wide range of transmissions is available, including an economical 12×4 constant mesh, 12×12 synchro, 20×12 creep-speed and 12×12 powershuttle. For tractor-powered implements there’s a 540rpm ECO PTO and a 1 000rpm PTO for bigger implements. Although the A series comprises relatively small tractors, the cabs are very spacious with easy access. The grouping of the controls also aids operational efficiency.
An all-rounder – the U series
The Farmall U series is designed to be an all-round performer equally at home on livestock or arable farms. It’s powered by a new 3,4l common rail engine that incorporates a wastegate turbocharger with intercooler and an external exhaust gas re-circulation system. There are three models in the range – the 95U (71kw), 105U (79kW) and 115U (86kW). Standard transmission is a 24×24 powershuttle with two-step powershift.
A three-stage rocker switch allows the driver to select the response speed of the shuttle. When using a front-end loader, for instance, the fastest response setting enables quicker direction changes, improving cycle times and productivity. Maximum lift capacity of the electronically-controlled linkage is 5 400kg with fingertip operation of all key functions including maximum hitch height.
