Claas has phased in several improvements for its Jaguar self-propelled forage harvesters for this coming season.
The latest 900 series machines get a new hydraulic pre-compression system, whereby the two rear springs on the feed-rollers (of the feeder housing) have been replaced by hydraulic rams with pressure reservoirs.
Different ‘characteristic maps’ are used to adjust the pre-compression force automatically, to cater for different crops and changes in the thickness of the crop-flow.
Also new for the latest 900 series machines is a new V-MAX chopping cylinder (drum).
It allows the knife carriers to be adjusted, in such a way that a “symmetrical crop discharge” can still be achieved when using a half-set of knives.
In this way, says Claas, it is possible to use a corn cracker (kernel processor) with chop lengths up to 30mm. This means that the new version of the drum offers an additional range of chop lengths – from very short with a full set of knives (for, say, biomass) to very long with half the number of knives.
A new payload detection feature enables the operator to programme payload quantities for up to three tractor-trailer combinations.
This is done via the on-board CEBIS computer system. When the set quantity is reached, the system gives a warning.
800 series updates
800 series machines also get a package of upgrades. Automatic filling is now available to the rear.
Previously, it could only be used when side-filling. A payload detection system, as outlined above for 900 series models, is also on the cards.
Attachment updates
In related updates, the new ‘PICK UP 300’ can be equipped with a suspended frame – for better ground following. All ‘PICK UP’ models can be equipped with a three-speed transmission, for better adjustment of crop-flow. Claas says that its roller crop press has also been improved.
Meanwhile, the ‘DIRECT DISC’ attachment line-up has been expanded with a new DIRECT DISC 600 P and 500 P. The new feature is the additional paddle roller (P in the model designation). This is intended to improve performance in short and medium-length crops.
Don’t forget, while you’re here, to check out our article outlining the history of the Claas Jaguar self-propelled forage harvester.
Also Read: Looking back: Where did Claas self-propelled foragers come from?It charts the story from the 120hp 60 SF (launched in 1973) right up to current-generation machines.
