Challenger MT800B series special application tractors provide unmatched power and productivity

Renowned for their performance in agricultural fields, Challenger MT800B Series tractors are proving to be just as valuable on the construction site, thanks to five new MT800B Special Application models that feature upgraded engines, higher horsepower and advanced technology.

"Scraper operators and special application customers have been asking for more horsepower," says Tim Miller, general marketing manager for Challenger track tractors. "So we responded with a new MT875B, which takes gross engine horsepower to a new level for modern-day production tractors. In the meantime, we raised the horsepower level in each of the other models by 10 to 20 horsepower, compared to its predecessor."

Much of the horsepower boost, Miller explains, can be attributed to new Caterpillar(r) ACERT Technology engines, which advance performance to Tier III compliance without sacrificing productivity, durability or reliability. The Challenger MT835B, MT845B and MT855B tractors each use a 928-cubic-inch (15.2 L) Cat(r) C15 ACERT Technology engine to achieve 350 (260 kW); 400 (298 kW), and 460 (342.8 kW) horsepower respectively. Meanwhile, the two largest models in the series boast a massive 1,105-cubic-inch (18.1 L) Cat C18 ACERT Technology diesel engine that cranks out 510 horsepower (380 kW) in the MT865B and 570 horsepower (424.7 kW) in the MT875B.

"Like all Challenger track tractors, the MT800B models continue to feature the exclusive Mobil-trac system, which combines the mobility and versatility of rubber tires with the traction, smooth ride and low ground pressure of tracks," Miller continues. "However, at 24.6 mph, MT800B models have a fast transport speed so more time can be spent on the job site and less on the road."

"Unlike self-propelled scrapers, MT800B Series tractors also have the versatility to pull disks, rippers, water tanks, rollers and other implements on the job site," adds Tony Kosolofski, sales engineer for Challenger track tractors. "With the high transport speed of these tractors, we also feature foot pedal-actuated, hydraulic trailer brakes for stopping massive loads that scrapers can amass."

Customers who operate on compacted and unbroken soils, like those encountered in towed-scraper applications, will also appreciate the special application belt option.

"Compared to the general ag belts and extreme application belts, these special application belts have tread bars that are a half inch shorter for less flexing and irregular wear," Kosolofski explains. "The belts are also thicker, having two additional layers of rubber added to the inner belt surface to reduce damage caused by debris.

"Thanks to a new feature of the Tractor Management Center, the operator can independently monitor and display the amount of pressure exerted on each track belt," he adds.

Customers will appreciate a number of cab improvements on the MT800B Series, too, including an average reduction in sound level by approximately 2.3 dB. New comfort and safety options include a FOPS (falling object protective structure); right- and left-hand side sunshades and a right-hand intermittent wiper. MT800B Series tractors can also be ordered with a semi-active operator's seat for real-time automatic damping based on terrain inputs.