New McCormick X7 tractor to debut at Yorkshire machinery show

The first Yorkshire Agricultural Machinery Show, being held on Wednesday, February 5 at York Auction Centre, Murton, will see the county's debut of the new McCormick X7 Pro Drive tractor on the stand of local McCormick dealer Yorkshire Handlers.

It was the launch of the new tractor that inspired the event, as organiser Richard Tasker explains: “The idea came about when Phil Robinson of Yorkshire Handlers came to ask whether he could hire our premises to put on an open day for the launch of the new McCormick tractor. The whole thing snowballed in a matter of weeks and every farm machinery dealership in the area and all the manufacturers they represent will be at the show.”

Phil Robinson and his wife Rhonda took on the McCormick sales, service and parts franchise in 2013, covering an area that extends from Scarborough to the Humber and westwards beyond York. Their territory is bounded by existing dealers Agriplus at Stokesley to the north, Moore Farm Services at Harworth to the south, and on the western flank by N&S Moorhouse, Barugh near Barnsley.

Stephen Moorhouse is also exhibiting at the 'YAMS' event, showing the new McCormick X50 tractor, which has replaced the T-Max. It features some cab upgrades and a new Perkins 850 series four-cylinder engine in 85-113hp tune with increased power, torque and fuel economy.

Phil Robinson
Phil Robinson

An example of the McCormick X10 series compact will also be shown; with its choice of mechanical and hydrostatic transmissions, the X10 makes an ideal scraper tractor.

The McCormick X7 Pro Drive will be the centrepiece of the Yorkshire Handlers dealership stand. It was a star turn at the recent LAMMA event, with a constant stream of people wanting to learn more about its features and try its new cab for size.

McCormick distributor AgriArgo UK announced pricing at the show and a full 24-month, 2400-hour warranty that covers the entire tractor throughout that period.

"That shows Argo Tractors’ confidence and commitment to its new machine – and the peace of mind that owners will enjoy," says Ray Spinks of AgriArgo UK.

The new tractor range comprises a trio of four-cylinder models from 131hp at rated speed and a maximum output of 143hp, and the same number of six-cylinder versions peaking at 175hp rated, 188hp max and 212hp with pto boost.

Power and torque are delivered through the 24x24 speed Pro Drive transmission with four-step powershift, with the standard 40kph version running at significantly reduced engine speed to help fuel economy. Creep speeds can be added and there is a 50kph option, together with cab suspension and the popular McCormick front axle with independent wishbone suspension.

The X7 Pro Drive clearly represents an important shift in design, specification and technology for the McCormick marque, which is particularly evident in the new Premiere cab where modern electronic controls will meet the expectations of drivers wanting fingertip operation of important functions.

The four-post structure is 180mm wider between the front pillars and the doors shut with a gentle push thanks to high-spec latches; adjustable hinges ensure a snug fit in the doorways and a one-piece windscreen contributes to the first-class all-round visibility.

Climate control air conditioning, all-round airflow ventilation and an audio system with MP3 and Bluetooth connectivity as standard will help keep operators comfortable and content.

“The fit, finish and interior materials used are to automotive standards, with a seat-mounted console bringing all routinely used controls close to the driver,” points out Ray Spinks of AgriArgo UK. “The designers really have pulled out all the stops to make this a comfortable and practical place to work.”