JCB Fastrac 8330 sows seeds of success for WA farmer

After two and a half years of putting the JCB 8310 through its paces, farmer Greg Curnow decided it was time to upgrade and set his sights on the new JCB flagship 8330 model released in 2016 in conjunction with the JCB Fastrac's 25th anniversary.

Curnow, who runs a wheat, barley and canola operation, said he went with JCB again because of the high performance of his 8310.

“The road speed and comfort were important factors as well, along with improvements to cab configuration.”

After harvesting about 5000ha with his new machine, Curnow is rapt with its performance and features so far, especially its ability to extend the axles with the help of spacers.

“The 3m cotton reel spacers make tramline farming much easier,” he said.

“The machine is neat and efficient, and the ground speed and stability are excellent.”

Curnow added the JCB Fastrac 8330 was capable of reaching a maximum speed of 70km/h while maintaining stability regardless of the implement it is towing.

According to JCB, the stability is due to the machine’s all-round suspension which also reduces compaction on the soil and provides a smooth ride.

The rear suspension is designed to respond quickly to added weight from rear-mounted equipment while maintaining stability, and the coil spring and damper suspension for the front axle eliminates wheel hop.

Improvements to the cab include a more spacious interior and larger doorway; as well as a near vertical windscreen design that reduces heat absorption during the day and gives operators excellent all-round visibility.

So far, the tractor has towed a 30-tonne chaser bin during harvest and has done some hours with a boom sprayer. While it hasn’t been tested on the full gamut of jobs around the property just yet – including clay spreading and row building – Curnow said he is confident in the Fastrac 8330's performance moving forward.

“It has been a great machine so far and performed really well.”