DULUTH, GA (August 2008) — Following the introduction of its new, redesigned Class VIII combine in 2007, Challenger is unveiling all-new, redesigned Class VI and VII combines for 2009. Closely modeled after the 680B Class VIII machine, the 660B and 670B continue Challenger’s goal of leading the way with unmatched productivity and improved features that help professional farmers and commercial producers harvest more acres in less time. And, with a two-year, header to spreader warranty with no cap on hours, the combines are backed by the most extensive coverage in the business.
“We understand that time is money when harvesting. This is why we’ve worked to design these new combines to work as simply and efficiently as possible,” says Kevin Bien, AGCO Corporation product marketing manager, combines. “And, why we are confident in our ability to offer an industry-exclusive two-year, unlimited hour warranty on these machines.”
Recognizing that both operator comfort and personal productivity are primary motivators during the long hours of harvest, Challenger designed the combines to be the most productive grain-handling systems in their class. Using only two augers with direct hi-flow unloading provides the fastest peak unloading rate (4.5 bushels/sec.), fewer moving parts, less horsepower requirements, less grain damage and less machinery wear and tear.
“No other threshing system has been designed to be so simple – there are very few moving parts,” Bien says. “This new grain handling system has taken out the need for a vertical auger that exists on most competitive models. Instead a 12 ft. cross auger feeds the 15 ft. high-capacity unloader auger.”
Bien highlights one of the combine’s most unique features to illustrate how simplicity and innovation work together. A redesign of the unloading system created the world’s fastest unloading rate, which is 35% faster than the nearest competition. The Direct High Volume (DHV) unloading system has a 4.5 bushels/sec. peak and a 4.0 bushels/sec. average, which is the fastest in the industry by almost a bushel per second. This allows the operator to unload the entire 300-bu. grain tank in less than 75 seconds.
The Class VI and VII combines also use the same grain handling system as the Class VIII combines, giving farmers the fastest unloading rate of any combine available today. Offering a standard 300-bushel grain tank on both the 660B and 670B; the 670B also offers an optional 350-bu. grain tank, the largest in the industry for a Class VII combine.
During harvesting, the crop is fed through two full-width helical vanes. The helical vanes ensure an even distribution into the rotor head; this smooth process results in minimal crop damage and greater throughput as crop is fed 360 degrees into the threshing area. These new combines also feature a 140 in. rotor, the longest in the industry. The high power, hydrostatic rotor drive offers automatic speed control, reversing and flexibility resulting in greater efficiency by moving materials quickly, using less horsepower and improving harvest quality.
“This patented front-feeder is positioned just below the rotor intake area. It runs at a constant speed and features opposed helical vanes that evenly feed the rotor and assure a smooth crop flow,” Bien explains.
Engine options include the Challenger Endurance 84CTA, Tier III diesel that delivers 300 hp with a power bulge of up to 321 hp in the Class VI, and 350 hp with a power bulge of up to 375 hp in the Class VII. The CAT C13 engine, delivering 425 hp and power bulge up to 459 hp, is featured in the Class VIII.
Visibility, Comfort and Accessibility
Challenger combines are now equipped with the most advanced, furthest-reaching lighting system in the industry; offering more lights standard than other industry models. They are the only combines featuring eight round-profile halogen field working lights as standard on all combines; operator nighttime visibility is increased up to 100 ft. farther than previous models.
“The eight high-capacity, cab-mounted halogen work lights, two more than what come as options on most combines, provide the most intensity and farthest reach you can get on a standard lighting packages,” Bien adds. “Adjustable extremity lights illuminate the ends of your header. A grain bin light, automatic unloading auger light and automatic back-up lights add to better nighttime visibility.”
Other upgrades include the operator control console, cab visibility and operator comfort. By redesigning the cab top liner, Challenger combines provide the largest, roomiest cabs in the industry, and the Sears air ride suspension seat improves comfort for long days in the field, and has a heated leather seat option. A redesigned control center, using the C2000 Virtual Terminal mounted on the command arm, puts all the combine’s controls at the operator’s fingertips. Auto steering capabilities are also available.
“The new C2000 Virtual Terminal provides a new level of simple operation and flexibility. Operators can program up to 20 different crop settings, and switch from crop to crop with the push of a button. All they really have to do is switch the header and go,” Bien says. “The combines are also equipped to handle two remote cameras with video capabilities in the cab. Our new designs are all focused on helping to take stress off the operator.”
Large service panels make it easy to access the drive systems and engine compartments. The combines feature only 13 major drive belts and three chains, which improve serviceability and reduce downtime. An optional auto lubrication system keeps the machine operating at peak performance levels by greasing 80% of the zerks automatically at pre-set maintenance intervals.
Additional combine features include new tire packages. As combines continue to increase in size, soil compaction is a growing concern. Challenger addresses this with its unique Michelin Mega-X bib low-pressure steel belted radial tires. This new tire technology, which has a flat tire print that is 19% wider than any other comparable size model, leaves a lighter footprint in the soil.
“Our goal with these machines was to make things easier for the operator,” Bien says. “We have taken every opportunity to improve efficiency, reduce the number of drives, and eliminate any needless drains on power. We are also able to provide the strong warranty package because we’re confident in the quality built into these machines.”
For more information on Challenger combines, visit www.challengerag.com and www.newfromchallenger.com.
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About AGCO
Founded in 1990, AGCO Corporation (NYSE: AG) (www.agcocorp.com) is a global manufacturer of agricultural equipment and related replacement parts. AGCO offers a full product line including tractors, combines, hay tools, sprayers, forage, tillage equipment and implements, which are distributed through more than 3,000 independent dealers and distributors in more than 140 countries worldwide. AGCO products include the following well-known brands: AGCO®, Challenger®, Fendt®, Gleaner®, Hesston®, Massey Ferguson®, RoGator®, Spra-Coupe®, Sunflower®, TerraGator®, Valtra®, and White™ Planters. AGCO provides retail financing through AGCO Finance. The company is headquartered in Duluth, Georgia, and in 2007 had net sales of $6.8 billion.
