Lely Ireland has expanded its loader wagon range with the introduction of the Tigo PR.

These wagons replace the Lely Tigo R Profi, with three models in the 31 to 41 cubic metre (m3) capacity range called Tigo PR 50, 60 and 70.

The Tigo PR models combine the new features of the Tigo XR, such as movable bulkhead, with the tried and tested capacity of the Tigo R Profi.

After the introduction of the Lely Tigo XR last year, Lely has now applied the hydraulically adjustable front bulkhead system to the smaller Lely Tigo PR range, which allows the space above the drawbar to be used to carry a bigger load by creating an additional 6m3.

The company claims that this has allowed them to produce a shorter (by 1m) and more manoeuvrable wagon than comparable machines of the same capacity.

The system is designed to allow the crop compaction pressure to be adjusted within the machine, which the company claims ensures that the nutritional value and structure of the crop is maintained. This system also distributes the weight more efficiently during transport, which Lely claims gives the wagon better handling features at up to 40km/hr on the road. There is an optional cover plate available for all three wagons to cover the feed channel, which allows the wagon to be used as a silage trailer where grass is blown into the machine, in addition to using it to pick up grass.

Unloading benefits

The company claims that the moveable bulkhead also assists with unloading the silage at the pit by reducing pressure on floor chains and the drive mechanism.

By pushing the material rearward from the top by the movable bulkhead, it eases the pressure on the floor chain drive.

It is claimed that between 10% and 15% of the silage, depending on the model, is transported in the bulkhead.

The company claims that there is a significant reduction on the force required to get the material moving because of the ability to use hydraulic pressure to push back the bulkhead.

Knife spacing

The Lely Tigo loader wagons come with 25mm (1in) knife spacing.

The company claims that the crop is drawn along the knives rather than being forced through them, which it believes gives power and fuel consumption benefits.

It claims that the short feed channel behind the rotor eliminates mulching of wet material and allows the forage to be compacted in the wagon faster and more consistently.

Easy maintenance

The new 40-knife chopping system with 0/20/40 knife selection is easy to access. For maintenance, you swing the knife bank to the side of the machine using the control box, or the buttons on the left-hand side.

This process does not require tools. If any knives need to be removed, the new central lock unlocks all knives at the same time and they can then be removed without tools.