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cropsey, il 61731 | If we look to recent history, tractors like the 7xxx magnums and even 4x60 JD's seem to last a long time. They even sell at a premium against the newer tractors. I've often thought there should be a base level of machine that was more or less equal to those tractors. Electronics could be added in the form of sensors and switches to talk to the guidance and other add on systems. I'm pretty sure no one has serious injury from moving a lever 4" vs. pulling up on a switch. Frankly the mechanically linkages could continue to be improved to eliminate binding and other issues. On combines, electronic control of some functions could just be addons - I'm thinking about adding a motorized chaffer system to my 1680 - but it's my choice and can come off if it doesn't work out. The electronics meant for convenience probably should be options to some extent (some might be give aways to smooth out production variation at the plant). We have grown to desire more monitoring features - better planter monitors, steering control, reporting for various operations. Most of this can be accomplished with addon systems - tractor could come wired with switches/sensors to show hyd lever, throttle, shift, pto, 3 point, steering position to connect to fancier monitors if desired.
In all this I'm bothered that the cost just keeps going up. The electronics should make costs go down after the initial development is done.
On the engine side, until we cancel the EPA, I don't think there is much hope for a simplier engine and still meet requirements - seems the epa to engines is like hsus to hog production.
Naturally this assumes more than 3 of us will farm any given state.
Thanks,
Pat | |
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High houred combines, pt. 2
