Increased stability from SAM Hillsider
Sands Agricultural Machinery Ltd (SAM) have taken their latest SLc self-propelled sprayer to new heights with the launch of the 'Hillsider' (to be seen for the first time at Sprays & Sprayers.)
The machine based on the SLc 4000 skid unit makes high clearance spraying across a 1 in 3 slope a reality, according to the company. Utilising the tried and tested Poclain 'Smart' Drive Traction Control System and the unique SAM tilting tank function the Hillsider is able to safely spray in fields previously out of bounds to high clearance machines.
Simply by automatically tipping the spray tank to maintain a centre of gravity within the vehicle wheelbase keeps the machine upright whilst the 'Smart' Drive Traction Control System maintains 4 wheel drive capabilities even when one of the wheels starts to spin. An in-cab inclinometer informs the driver of the severity of the slope and an audible warning sounds when the tank tilts to its maximum angle. "These exceptional features ensure the Hillsider is one of the most capable and safest machines available to those who farm land that is steep or has dangerous cross slopes," said Neal Sands, Sands Agricultural Machinery's managing director.
The Hillsider also features the new generation of Deutz air-cooled diesel engines, which has an output of 175hp and almost a 20% increase in torque from the previous model. All the standard features of the current SLc are fitted to the Hillsider together with a wide range of options.
The first Hillsider SLc was recently delivered to Dorset based farmers and contractors, Julian Lownds for W G Benjafield & Son. The machine replaces an earlier SAM Hillsider, which was bought in 1997 and had amassed over 5000hrs of spraying over the counties of Dorset, Wiltshire & Hampshire.
Their decision to buy another SAM machine was based on its ability to safely spray land which they considered caused problems for other high clearance machines together with its exceptional reliability and the service and back-up they receive, according to the contractor.
