2004 Tractor News

Full-size tractor styling, quieter and more durable engines and operator convenience from radiator to three point hitch sets the new 1500 Series from Massey Ferguson ahead of the competition. The 3-cylinder MF 1533 (33 hp) and turbocharged 3-cylinder MF 1540 (40 hp) are the first two models in this new series.

The new 8400 Series tractors from Massey Ferguson feature more power, more precise controls and the Dyna-Step transmission, the smoothest and most advanced power shift available on the market today. The 180 PTO hp to 240 PTO hp series of tractors with power front axles run quieter, cleaner and more efficiently than competitive tractors, thanks to sophisticated electronic control systems, powerful hydraulics and superior engine designs.

The popular Massey Ferguson 400 Series tractor line is now even more versatile with the introduction of four new low profile models. The MF 471 (60 PTO hp), MF 481 (70 PTO hp), MF 491 (77 PTO hp) and MF 492 (85 PTO hp) tractors were designed specifically to meet the needs of orchard and vineyard applications, but fit equally well into other situations where height is limited.

The new 7400 Series Massey Ferguson tractors with 95 to 155 PTO hp feature a smoother transmission, big, powerful engines, and a sleek design that delivers a tighter turning radius and better lines of sight. The 4-wheel drive tractors with their close centered hydraulics, electronic controls and options combine brute power and technology with a simplicity of design that makes it easy to master both, while the quiet, spacious and ergonomically designed cab offers a superior level of comfort and control.

The new four-wheel drive 3400 Series tractors from Massey Ferguson are designed specifically for orchards and vineyards. They will also be welcome additions to dairy and poultry buildings, as well as landscape and construction sites, anywhere space is at a premium.

John Deere introduces a new concept for ordering Large Row Crop and Four-Wheel-Drive tractors that simplifies specifications and codes, and offers customers greater functionality and value.

Building on 30 years of U.S. activity, Kubota is once again extending business capabilities in North America. Mr. Hatakake, President of Kubota Corporation, announced today that Kubota will expand its U.S. infrastructure by adding an additional manufacturing facility in Georgia.

Complementing an already comprehensive lineup of utility tractors, John Deere introduces the new 5025 Series Tractors, ranging in engine horsepower from 56 to 91 hp. These new tractors are designed with timesaving solutions to bring more productivity to the farm, ranch or worksite operation. Here are the models and specifications:

John Deere today re-emphasized that certain "gray market" machinery does not necessarily meet safety and customer requirements demanded in the U.S. market. In May, the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) moved to stop the importation of certain gray market machines.

Valtra's updated A Series has been given the same modern look as other successful Valtra tractors, such as the S, T, M and C Series. Beyond appearance, other improvements have also been introduced in areas of usability and safety. The A Series was originally launched with a fully synchronised transmission with 12 forward and reverse gears. The straightforward design made this transmission exceptionally efficient. The powertrain has now been further improved, so that the clutch for the four-wheel-drive operates the same way as in larger Valtra tractors. It is a multi-plate clutch that is disengaged by low-pressure hydraulics and engaged with a spring-operated mechanism. This allows automatic four-wheel braking in all driving situations.