New Holland lifts cover off T9 SmartTrax series

New Holland has expanded its tractor offering to include the T9 SmartTrax models with outputs of up to 670 maximum hp.

The new line-up complements New Holland’s existing T9 wheeled tractor series and offers two models- the T9.615 with 615 maximum horsepower and T9.670 with 670 maximum horsepower.

“Since more and more manufacturers came on board with tracked offerings, we’ve seen up to a 30 per cent uptake in tracked solutions over wheeled solutions in the last five years,” said New Holland’s High Horsepower Tractors Product Manager, Marc Smith.

“It’s great to be able to now offer both and harness the full potential of the market.”

Recently making its debut at Queensland’s leading agricultural field days, FarmFest, the T9 SmartTrax range is fitted with four tracks at the factory supplied by tracks expert ATI in the US.

“The theory behind tracks on tractors is providing an increase in traction, flotation but with reduced soil compaction,” Smith said.

“(SmartTrax) is a direct drive system which gives us the largest drive wheel in the industry.”

Each of the track modules has an agricultural lug tread design with a tread height of 50mm spaced 6 inches apart for improved traction in a variety of soil conditions.

The tracks have a standard width of 36 inches offering 2,800 square inches of ground contact per module, for a total footprint of 11,200 square inches. This is particularly useful for when pulling large and heavy seeders and tillage equipment.

“They have a shorter footprint than competitor models but they still give the overall surface contact that we’re looking for,” Smith said.

“That shorter footprint really helps with turning.”

The oscillating track design ensures the tracks follow the contour of the ground and that all four tracks remain on the ground at all times.

With eight drive lugs engaged at all times, the load per lug is reduced for extended durability. An integrated scraper helps reduce soil build-up between the drive and belt lugs to maintain alignment and drive lug engagement.

The T9 Series SmartTrax models come equipped with additional Camoplast 5500 Series 36-inch track belts. The 5500 Series tracks work best for operating on side hills and abrasive underfoot conditions.

New Holland said the Camoplast 5500 tracks feature an improved carcass construction that greatly reduces damage reaching the main cables. By reducing the damage that reaches the main cables, track life is improved and overall cost of operation is decreased.

“The tensioning system on the belt is a completely self-contained system consisting of a nitrogen filled accumulator with a hydraulic cylinder,” Smith said.

“All we need to do on a daily or weekly basis is just check the pressure.

“Anyone who’s got applications in loose and sandy soil or in wet conditions, tracks lend themselves really well.”

The T9 SmartTrax range is powered by 6-cylinder IVECO engines feeding power to the ground via 16-speed powershift transmissions.

Both models come standard with cab suspensions for smoother rides in the paddock as well as the latest telematics for increased operation visibility.

Those interested in catching a glimpse of the impressive new rigs can expect to see them at major field days around the country later this year.

“We’re certainly encouraging dealers to do demonstrations with the SmartTrax because we really want to validate how well this machine will go in the field for people,” Smith said.

“I think it’s the best way to get the message out there and get people excited about tracks on articulated tractors.”

Pricing for the T9.615 starts from $630,000 plus GST, while the range topping T9.670 comes at a cost of around $680,000 plus GST.