McCormick B-MAX 2024 Review

McCormick Tractors has enjoyed an illustrious history dating back over 180 years. In fact, the brand, now based in Italy, had close ties with Australia back in the day when a range of McCormick tractors, including the iconic Farmall, were produced at a facility in Geelong (Vic) until the 1980s.

In recent years, the brand has gone through a resurgence in Australia thanks to distributor Clark Equipment, which has multiple models in its line-up as it goes up against some of the big guns including former brand mate, Case IH.  

The McCormick range is expansive, with models ranging from 60 to 310hp. The latest addition, the B-MAX, straddles the low- to mid-horsepower territory with two models on offer: the B-MAX 85 and 110.

The B-MAXs fill a gap for sturdy units with long wheelbases and plenty of power. They feature McCormick’s iconic red paint job and a modern design in addition to ample dimensions to tackle the trickiest on-farm tasks.

The wheelbase of the tractors is 2.3m, they are 2.58m high, and have an operating weight of 5.3 tonnes.

The B-MAX 85 and 110 are rated at 84 and 102hp respectively. Other than output, the key difference between the two models is the operator station, with the 85 featuring a ROPS (Roll Over Protection Structure) canopy and open operator platform while the 110 comes with a fully enclosed air-conditioned cabin.

Powering the B-MAX is a 4.4-litre Tier-3 compliant Perkins engine, with maximum torque of 416Nm at 1400rpm.

Fuel tank capacity is 97 litres, and there is no AdBlue or engine emission reduction systems to worry about thanks to the Tier-3 compliance.

Power is transferred via a power shuttle transmission with 12 forward and 12 reverse speeds. While it’s a manual transmission that requires clutching to change gears, the addition of a power shuttle lever means operators can simply flick between forward and reverse without clutching.

The B-MAX range is available with up to two rear hydraulic remotes and two PTO speeds – 540 and 1000, providing versatility across a range of rear implements.

Maximum lifting capacity is 3.1 tonnes, which can be upped to 4.5 tonnes with the help of twin assistor rams.

Thanks to the utility design, the B-MAXs can be fitted with a front-end loader to attach buckets or other implements.

The B-MAX 85 is a ROPS unit with an open platform, sun canopy and suspension seat. Steps and a grab rail allow for easy and safe ingress and egress.

There’s ample space and leg room in the platform, while a suspension seat is standard fitment for both models. The 110’s seat is fabric.

The B-MAX 110 obvioulsy offers more in the way of comfort with an air-conditioned cabin and some extra creature comfort features such as a radio.

There’s also the abovementioned reverse power shuttle control lever, as well as a new dashboard that offers clearer readouts of key information.

The controls of the B-MAX are simple and ergonomically sound, which is a plus so operators of varying experiences can hop on and take the wheel with ease.

There isn’t much in the way of tech in the B-MAX, as it is designed to be a simple, basic unit offering value for money.

The view from the cab is decent, but with a front loader installed visibility is restricted.

The B-MAX has four-wheel drive and differential lock for assistance in tricky or sloping terrain.

The power shuttle lever is great for quick direction changes, but some effort goes into clutching and manually changing gears – as opposed to a powershift or CVT transmission where gear and range changes are automatic.

Pulling and pushing the levers requires a bit more effort than I’d like. For example, putting the transmission lever into gear requires some force, so fatigue may be an issue after several hours in the saddle.

The fully enclosed cabin on the 110 is very comfortable and my pick, but for the more budget conscious – and even those who prefer to feel the wind in their hair and hear the implements working behind them – the 85 is a solid option.

The turning circle on the duo is also on the wider side, which is not a problem if you have wide gates and massive amounts of space to work with. However, in tighter spots or between rows that could prove to be tricky.

Pricing for the B-MAX series starts from $65,000 plus GST, with Clark Equipment offering a two-year or 2400-hour warranty.

The B-MAX is a wonderful mid-size utility tractor with plenty of weight and stability to carry out general farming duties, including fencing, loading and stacking bales.

For a European-built tractor, it exudes class yet sits at a very affordable price point. While not without its flaws, it is no doubt rugged and well-equipped to handle Australian conditions and deserves to be considered as a well-rounded workhorse.

Engine: 4.4-litre Perkins

Power: B-MAX 85 – 84hp, B-MAX 110 – 102hp

Transmission: Power shuttle

Gross vehicle weight: 5.3 tonnes

PTO speeds: 540/1000

Lift capacity: 3.1 tonnes, or 4.5 tonnes with optional twin-assistor rams

Pricing: From $65,000 plus GST

Warranty: 2-year/2400-hour warranty