JCB made two major announcements for 2014 at Agritechnica in November.

At the exhibition JCB previewed its much anticipated update of the popular Fastrac as well as launching a number of new wheeled loaders.

Fastrac

JCB’s preview its new 4000 Series Fastrac was a big draw at Agritechnica. It is 23 years since the Fastrac was launched on the market, JCB says preview is one of the most significant developments for the Fastrac since then.

JCB says the new-look machine will be launched next year and will replace the current 2000 Series. JCB claim there are improvements in all areas including design, performance and driver comfort and convenience.

The Fastrac 2000 series currently on the market has been updated over the years since the first Fastrac was released. JCB says the Fastrac 4000 will stay true to the original concept but steps up the performance potential with new engines giving outputs up to 220hp; a continuously variable transmission; more powerful hydraulics; and an even tighter turning circle with Quadtronic four-wheel steering that is unmatched by a conventional tractor of this size and power.

JCB also claims there have been major advances in suspension specification and control to add to the tractor’s high speed field and road performance will also be evident when the tractor is launched.

JCB TM180 and TM220

JCB says the main changes to these machines are the switch to the JCB Diesel by Kohler engine, which provides more power and torque, as well as lower running costs and cleaner emissions. It says the stage IIIB/Tier 4 2.5-litre engine meets emissions regulations without the need for a diesel particulate filter or external exhaust after treatment.

Other changes include a re-designed rear chassis that allows towing of up to 3.5 tonnes for the first time, and the introduction of a high-speed option for the TM180 that increases top speed from 20kph to 35kph for quicker travel between sites. The TM220 already has a 40kph top speed option, JCB claims.

According to JCB, the new option of a 100 per cent locking front differential on both machines adds to its traction potential. The TM180 lifts 1800kg to a full-height of 4.5m when measured with pallet forks and it can handle more than a tonne with the telescopic boom level and fully extended useful real world performance.

The TM220 has 2200kg maximum lift to about the same height and 1250kg fully out-stretched to off-load a trailer of fertiliser bags or place silage into a feeder.

Changes in the cab is a new joystick control with range-shift button and a more new instrument cluster in the cab, as well as fresh styling for the counterweight and engine cover.

JCB Farm Master 413S & 435S Agri

JCB claims increased engine and hydraulic power, plus an all-new cabin that will make life more comfortable for the operator, are key features of the new JCB Farm Master 413S Agri wheeled loader.

It says performance also improves with a 12 per cent increase in peak power and three per cent gain in peak torque by upgrading from the 4.4-litre JCB Dieselmax to the new 4.8-litre JCB Ecomax engine with 108kW (145hp) and 550Nm torque.

In terms of hydraulics JCB says a new load-sensing variable output piston pump with 23 per cent more output at 156-litres/min has been added. It also says it brings fuel-saving potential and less wear and tear by delivering only as much oil as the machine needs.

According to JCB, the new styling and cab, which bring practical improvements as well as giving the machine a sleeker, more modern appearance that will appeal to professional operators. The cab is significantly larger, quieter and more comfortable, with a new instrument display set in front of the driver providing more useful information

Visibility to the rear is better due to the compact, sloping engine cover, and the glazing should stay cleaner now that the chassis-mounted mudguards fully cover all tyre sizes.

The new JCB Farm Master 435S Agri replaces its predecessor the 434S Agri. JCB says the new version has improved traction, faster travel speed and greater comfort and convenience for the operator as well as significant reductions in fuel and other running costs.

Power output at 230hp and 945Nm of torque are unchanged for an unrivalled power-to-weight ratio of 16.8hp/tonne, and with more power and torque available at lower engine speeds than before.