At the World Ag Expo in California last February, New Holland rolled some of its newest equipment into public view for the first time. Included in that group of machines was the T7.300 Long Wheelbase with PLM Intelligence tractor, which is certainly a long name for a tractor.
“Our customers told us they wanted a tractor with more power without the downside of bigger frames and more weight, and they didn’t want to sacrifice manoeuverability,” said Oscar Baroncelli, head of tractors at New Holland, in a press release.
“We took up their challenge and developed the new T7.300 Long Wheelbase. It delivers greater engine power with larger tires, with no increase at all in overall dimension. It’s a design feature we call Ultimate Performance Density.”
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The wheelbase on the T7.300 LWB and the other previously introduced models in the line comes in at 113.5 inches (2,884 centimetres), which puts them in the middle of the existing T7 range, and slightly shorter than the T7.290 and 315, which stretch to 117.9 inches (299.5 centimetres). So, the Long Wheelbase moniker for the line seems a bit confusing.
Five models
The T7.300 LWB with PLM Intelligence line now includes five models with engine horsepower ratings from 200 to 280. Maximum horsepower boost specs push the range ratings up to 225 to 300.
With these models, particularly the new T7.300, New Holland engineers aimed to cram as much horsepower into as small a package as they could. Therefore, the new T7.300 keeps all of the manoeuverability of the other T7 LWB models but adds a bit more muscle.
Putting that much power in a relatively compact chassis means these tractors are ideally suited for PTO work, such as when mated to a large baler.
In fact, the new T7s come with integrated large square baler control as part of the TIM (Tractor Implement Management) system. It allows the tractor and baler to work together more seamlessly, reducing cab movement by 15 per cent. And it helps keep engine rpm and PTO shaft speed more consistent.
The tractors get other smart features as well, such as the enhanced data transfer capability of MyPLM Connect. There is also the IntelliSteer system that includes end-of-row automated turns. To simplify things for the operator, the customizable joystick can control up to six hydraulic remotes, making for improved ergonomics.
Across the T7 LWB line two hydraulic flow rates are available, 40 gallons per minute (150 litres per minute) or 45 gallons per minute (170 litres per minute). There is an optional front PTO and front linkage rated for 13,062 pounds (5,925 kilograms).
Comfort ride suspension
The tractors come fitted with NH’s Horizon Ultra cab package. To keep the ride smooth, the cab gets the new Comfort Ride suspension. It uses an active electro-hydraulics system that isolates some chassis movement from the cab. The Horizon Ultras offer a quiet 66-decibel interior noise level.
To further help smoothen the ride and improve traction, tractors can be upgraded from the standard or high-capacity front axle to the TerraGlide suspended version.
A 55-degree turn angle gives the tractors a tight 20-foot (6.1-metre) turning radius. Large rear tires with a height of 6.7 feet (2.05 metres) help improve traction and reduce soil compaction.
Power for all LWB models comes from an FPT 6.7-litre diesel that is compatible with biodiesel blends. And it gets mated to the brand’s AutoCommand CVT transmission, which is available in a 40- or 50-kilometre-per-hour-capable version.
If the tractor is going to be put to heavy towing jobs, such as pulling a grain cart or manure tanker, the T7 LWB tractors can be ordered with hydraulic or air trailer brakes and the intelligent trailer braking system.
