MF’s new 3 S fruit and orchard tractor range
THE new MF 3 S series tractors from Massey Ferguson unveiled for European markets have a number of enhancements over their MF 3700 predecessors, including a revised cab installation with interior and highgrade air filtration options, plus an expanded choice of transmissions and more power.
As before, the line-up caters for vineyard, orchard and top fruit growers who need a highly-compact but still robust and durable tractor for cultivations, mowing, spraying and other operations.
There are six configurations in all to suit different priorities, ranging from the ultra-narrow – from 1m wide – VI version for narrow vineyard and top fruit plantings, to narrow, standard and low-profile orchard tractors, and an Alpine configuration that optimises stability.
Further tailoring is available through a choice of cab and open platform variants, and Massey Ferguson’s familiar spec’-level equipment packages. Entry-level Essential models, for example, have a fully-mechanical transmission, 93-litre/min dual pump hydraulics and mechanical rear linkage control.
Electronically-controlled implement lift (ELC), a power shuttle and Speedshift two-speed splitter can be optioned if required.
These are standard features on Efficient variants, which also provide an uprated 120-litre/min triple pump hydraulics installation for more oil-demanding equipment, four electrohydraulic spool valves and a multi-function joystick. Front linkage, with or without pto, and a hydraulic loader can be added, together with Cat IV cab filtration to protect the operator from exposure to crop protection materials over extended periods.
Fuel for the 3.4-litre (MF 3.75) and 3.6-litre, fourcylinder engines – delivering 75-120hp on cab tractors and up to 105hp on open station and ‘Alpine’ versions – now comes from a 75-litre tank, with a 100-litre option introduced for longer working hours.
The new cab fitted to the MF 3 S tractors is said to provide increased headroom despite a higher seating position that improves visibility ahead to some extent and enables a very modest 3cm ‘hump’ in the floor over the transmission tunnel.
In addition to the base 15x15 mechanical shuttle transmission and the 30x30 unit with mechanical splitter, the 3 S models can be equipped with a new five-gear, three-range transmission. This incorporates a brake-to-clutch option that saves having to use the clutch pedal when bringing the tractor to a temporary halt – such as when using a loader, operating a round baler or pulling up to a road junction – and releasing the brake pedal engages drive once more for a prompt get-away.
Moreover, higher topspeed gearing means fewer engine revs are used to run at 40kph, resulting in a quieter drive and better fuel economy when moving between work locations. There is thumb-button shifting for the splitter, and the ease of a power shuttle with sensitivity adjustment for changes between forward and reverse.
Not all transmission configurations are available on all MF 3 S variants.