New Holland TK-A tracklayers gets upgrade
New Holland has upgraded the engines in its agricultural tracklayer range with the introduction of the TK-A Series. Building on the company's long pedigree in tracked vehicle production, the latest models continue the process of innovation that started when it produced mainland Europe's first crawler tractor, the Fiat 700c, back in 1932.
The TK Series has evolved to offer the best stability, performance and ease of operation in its class, matching maximum productivity with comfort and safety. Available in the UK in all-purpose, vineyard and mountain versions, each has been designed to meet the diverse needs of specialist growers, farmers and contractors.
Meeting the latest Tier II EU emission standards, the new engines give operators more power compared to the previous TK models. The three engines on offer range from 76-94hp (55.5-69kW). A combination of lightly turbocharged and turbocharged three- and four-cylinder units, they have been designed to match perfectly the performance characteristics required for high traction applications.
When operating in extreme terrain, the ability of the engine to increase torque as engine speeds decrease is critical to ensure maximum performance. This is a key feature of the TK-A's engines which boast a massive torque rise of up to 36 per cent.
Optimum performance is matched by economy, with advanced fuel flow and injection systems helping to minimise diesel consumption. A fuel capacity of 80 litres on the specialist TK75VA model and 120-litres on the all-purpose TK100A machine provides the scope for extended working. The TK-A Series is fitted with two fuel tanks (one at the front and one at the rear), which share a single filling point and empty progressively to ensure even weight distribution is maintained at all times.
SINGLE-LEVER STEERING
The TK-A Series continues to feature New Holland's unique Steering-O-MaticTM system that gives single-lever control of steering using only the thumb and index finger. As well as providing both proportional and progressive steering, the system leaves the other hand free to operate the hydraulics or other controls. The Full DriveTM system adds track braking while steering for a tighter turn.
Power is transmitted to the TK-A's tracks via an 8x8 transmission which features a fender-mounted reverse shuttle lever to speed changes in direction. For low speed work, a 16x8 creeper transmission is available. New Holland's unique overcentre hand clutch allows progressive application of power in any gear. The operator pushes the lever forward to engage the clutch. When the lever meets resistance from the overcentring mechanism spring, the clutch is fully engaged but not locked in position. Releasing the lever will disconnect the drive, while pushing the lever past the spring pressure will lock it in fully engaged position.
A unique clutch braking system in the transmission adds to the safety and convenience of operating the TK-A. As the clutch is released, a brake is engaged on the gearbox shafts to stop them rotating. This makes it easier for the operator to select a different gear or reverse. As a result, turning between rows or manoeuvring in a tight spot is faster and easier.
DEDICATED HYDRAULIC PUMP
Hydraulic services on the TK-A Series are supplied by a dedicated pump for the rear linkage and remote valves. A 35.5 litres/minute pump on the TK75VA provides maximum rear lift of 3,535kg, while a larger 45.4 litres/minute pump provides a maximum rear lift capacity of 3,720kg on the TK90MA and TK100A.
Draft sensing via the top link is featured on the mechanical rear linkage control, which also employs the Lift-O-MaticTM system to raise and lower implements to pre-set positions using a single control. For ease of operation of trailed equipment, up to five remote valves can be fitted.
A two-speed selectable independent PTO is standard with a choice of either 540/750 rpm or 540/1,000 rpm. The PTO is engaged via a front console-mounted hand clutch lever, which allows smooth and progressive application of power to any implement.
There has been no compromise on driver comfort, with the TK90MA and TK100A featuring an operator platform that sits on 'silent block' isolation mounts to help reduce levels of vibration and noise. The TK75VA is supplied with a high-specification suspension seat and specially developed platform matting to help keep the operator comfortable.
