At Agritechnica, JCB launched several new material handling products, from skid steer loaders to shovels and telescopics. The firm also unveiled its new Fastrac 4000 Series tractor, which will replace the current 2000 Series.

The heritage of the 4000 Series Fastrac can be traced back to the firm’s 1000 Series, which was introduced as a lighter, more compact and, ultimately, a more nimble machine for general agricultural work.

Late next year, the current Fastrac 2155 (165hp) and Fastrac 2170 (178hp) will be replaced by the new 4000 series. Cummins engines used in the 2000 series will be replaced by AGCO Power units (Sisu), featuring SCR (AdBlue) emission control.

ADVERTISEMENT

The current semi-powershift transmission is also replaced by a two-speed CVT unit, again from AGCO (Fendt). Top power output in the new range is expected to be 220hp with the entry level machine expected to be around 160hp.

Almost all aspects of the new Fastrac 4000 have been redesigned and improved over the previous series. In looks, it is not unlike a mini-Claas Xerion or Doppstadt tractor, albeit in JCB colours.

A new cab features a full windscreen, opening rear corner windows and an optional sun roof for loader operations. It is a 60kph tractor, achieved at a fuel sipping of 1,700 rpm and transmission controlled by JCB’s armrest mounted joystick.

With a narrower chassis and JCB’s quadtronic four-wheel steering, the Fastrac 4000 series has a tighter turning circle (under 10 metres) with the front wheels reaching 40 degrees of turn and the rear ones 20 degrees in four-wheel steering mode. The narrower chassis also provides a bit more room for mounting a loader, for which JCB says the chassis is pre-drilled.

A hydro-pneumatic suspension is used on both the front and rear axles, providing active machine levelling. This is a useful feature if the tractor is being used as a self-propelled sprayer. Double acting suspension is also available as an option on the front, but is standard when the tractor is equipped with JCB’s front linkage.

With a new three-point linkage at the rear, lift capacity is vastly improved, now at eight tonnes, and the hydraulic pump output is upgraded to 145 litre/minute. There is the option of fitting up to five rear spool valves.

A four-speed pto is also standard, doubled by eco-options in both 540rpm and 1,000rpm. Front linkage capacity also gets a boost of 3.5 tonnes, when specified.

JCB clearly has one eye on the municipal sector, previewing a municipal variant of the new 4000 series Fastrac at Agritechnica in addition to its agricultural version. With a 60kph top speed, ABS disc braking and a rear load platform, it is likely to find a home in both.