Summary of Bourgault Vibra-Master VM24-28 (7.8 m) (Evaluation Report - PDF File - 0.74 MB)
Overall functional performance of the Bourgault VibraMaster was very good for light secondary tillage such as seedbed preparation and herbicide incorporation, providing mounted finishing harrows were used. Its performance in heavy secondary tillage and light to intermediate primary tillage was very good. Weed kill was very good if 254 mm (10 in), or larger, sweeps were used. It was unsuitable for heavy primary tillage, very hard soil or very heavy trash.
The spring cushioned shanks could lift 253 mm (10 in) to clear stones. Shanks were sufficiently rigid to be suitable for all secondary tillage as well as light to intermediate primary tillage. When equipped with sweeps having a 46° stem angle, sweep pitch varied from 0 to 2° over the range of normal secondary tillage draft. Shank cushioning spring preload was exceeded at drafts greater than 4.8 kN/m (330 lb/ft), occurring well within the primary tillage draft range. Furrow bottom ridging occurred only in hard soils. Penetration was very good in all soils. Plugging occurred in very heavy or damp trash. The Bourgault Vibra-Master buried less trash than most heavy duty cultivators, but buried slightly more than most light field cultivators. The sweep pattern was symmetrical and sideways skewing was evident only in very hilly conditions and was never severe enough to affect weed kill. Weed kill was good as long as sweeps with adequate overlap were used.
The Bourgault Vibra-Master could be conveniently placed in transport position in less than five minutes. The 152 mm (6 in) sweep-to-ground clearance, in transport position, was occasionally inadequate. Due to its large transport width, transporting on public roads had to be with extreme caution and high transport speeds should not be used as the tires were overloaded in transport position. The 7.8 m (25.7 ft) wide test machine had a transport height of 2.9 m (9.5 ft), permitting safe transport under power lines in the three prairie provinces. Transport height of the 11.0 m (36 ft) wide model of the Bourgault Vibra-Master is 4.6 m (15.1 ft) which is high enough to contact some farmyard service lines.
When equipped with optional finishing harrows, hitch weight was negative, but did not make hitching inconvenient. Adequate adjustment was provided for both lateral and fore-and-aft levelling. Tillage depth was uniform across the width of the cultivator as long as the centre frame and wing section hydraulic cylinders were kept synchronized and cylinder adjuster nuts were set for field conditions. In soft, loose fields, excessive sinkage of centre section wheels resulted in non-uniform tillage depth.
Average draft for the 7.8 m (25.7 ft) wide test machine, in light secondary tilage, at 8 km/h (5 mph), varied from 6 kN (1350 lb) at 40 mm (1.5 in) depth to 16 kN (3600 lb) at 100 mm (4 in) depth. In heavy secondary and light primary tillage, at 8 km/h (5 mph), average draft varied from 11 kN (2470 lb) at 40 mm (1.5 in) to 29 kN (6520 lb) at 125 mm (5 in). In heavy primary tillage, at 8 km/h (5 mph), average draft varied from 14 kN (3150 lb) at 50 mm (2 in) to 38 kN (8450 lb) at 100 mm (4 in).
In light secondary tillage, at 10 km/h (6.2 mph) and 75 mm (3 in) depth, a tractor with 65 kW (87 hp) maximum power-take-off rating will have sufficient power reserve to operate a 7.8 m (25.7 ft) wide Bourgault Vibra-Master. In heavy secondary or light primary tillage at the same depth and speed, a 94 kW (126 hp) tractor is needed while in heavy primary tillage a 141 kW (153 hp) tractor is required.
The Bourgault Vibra-Master was equipped with wing transport locks and a slow moving vehicle sign to aid in transport safety. No mechanical transport locks were provided for the master depth control cylinders. The operator's manual was clear, concise and well illustrated.
Only minor mechanical problems occurred during the 313 hours of field operation, none of which seriously affected cultivator operation.
Summary of John Deere Series 1000 Field Cultivator (11.4 m) (Evaluation Report - PDF File - 0.72 MB)
Overall functional performance of the John Deere Series 1000 field cultivator was very good for seedbed preparation and herbicide incorporation, providing mounted finishing harrows were used. Its performance for second operation summedallow was good with acceptable weed kill if 203 mm (8 in) sweeps, or larger, were used. As with most light duty field cultivators, the John Deere 1000 was unsuitable for first operation summedallow or in moderate to heavy trash.
The spring cushioned shanks could lift 255 mm (10 in) to clear stones. As with most field cultivators, the shanks were very flexible. When equipped with recommended sweeps, having a 42° sweep stem angle, sweep pitch varied from 9 to 14° over the range of normal secondary tillage draft, resulting in furrow bottom ridging. With 152 mm (6 in) shank spacing, shank cushioning spring preload was exceeded at drafts greater than 3.3 kN/m (230 lb/ft), occurring at the upper end of the secondary draft range. Penetration was adequate in previously tilled soil, but inadequate for harder soils. Plugging was a problem in moderately heavy trash. The John Deere 1000 buried less trash than most heavy duty cultivators. The sweep pattern was symmetrical and sideways skewing was not a problem in normal field conditions. Slight skewing occurred on hillsides. Weed kill in summedallow was good as long as sweeps with adequate overlap were used.
The John Deere could be conveniently placed into transport position in less than five minutes. The 108 mm (4.25 in) sweep-to-ground clearance, in transport position usually was adequate. Due to its large transport width and height, transporting on public roads had to be with extreme caution and the manufacturer's maximum recommended transport speed of 16 km/h (10 mph) should not be exceeded. The 11.4 m (37.4 ft) wide test machine had a transport height of 4.4 m (14.5 ft) permitting safe transport under power lines in the three prairie provinces. Transport height of the 13 m (42.5 ft) wide model of the John Deere 1000 is 5.4 m (17.7 ft) which is higher than minimum power line height in all three provinces.
When equipped with optional finishing harrows, hitch weight was negative, making hitching inconvenient. Adequate adjustment was provided for both lateral and fore-and-aft levelling. Tillage depth was uniform across the width of the cultivator as long as the centre frame and wing section hydraulic cylinders were kept synchronized.
Average draft for the 11.4 m (37.4 ft) wide test machine, in light secondary tillage, at 8 km/h (5 mph), varied from 9 kN (1 80 lb) at 40 mm (1.5 in) depth to 23 kN (5080 lb) at 100 mm (4 in) depth. In heavy secondary tillage, at 8 km/h (5 mph), average draft varied from 16 kN (3520 lb) at 40 mm (1.5 in) to 34 kN (7480 lb) at 100 mm (4 in).
In light secondary tillage, at 10 km/h (6.2 mph) and 75 mm (3 in) depth, a tractor with 94 kW ( 126 hp) maximum power-take-off rating will have sufficient power reserve to operate an 11.4 m (37.4 ft) wide John Deere 1000. In heavy secondary tillage at the same depth and speed, a 137 kW (164 hp) tractor is needed.
The John Deere 1000 was equipped with wing transport locks, a slow moving vehicle sign, and reflective tape at the frame ends, to aid in transport safety. The operator's manual was clear, concise and well illustrated.
Some minor mechanical problems occurred during the 185 hours of field operation. Two shanks bent in hard soil. Several finishing harrow mounting brackets bent or broke.
Summary of International 645 Vibra-Chisel (10.2 m) (Evaluation Report - PDF File - 0.78 MB)
Overall functional performance of the International 645 Vibra-chisel was very good for light secondary tillage such as seedbed preparation and herbicide incorporation, providing mounted finishing harrows were used. Its performance in heavy secondary tillage and light to intermediate primary tillage was very good. Weed kill was very good if 254 mm, or larger sweeps were used. It was unsuitable for heavy primary tillage, very hard soil or very heavy trash.
The spring cushioned shanks could lift 330 mm (13 in) to clear stones. Shanks were sufficiently rigid to be suitable for all secondary tillage as well as light to intermediate primary tillage. When equipped with recommended sweeps, having a 47° sweep stem angle, sweep pitch varied from 7 to 10° over the range of normal secondary tillage draft. With 248 mm (9.75 in) shank spacing, shank cushioning spring preload was exceeded at drafts greater than 4.1 kN/m (290 lb/ft), occurring well within the primary tillage draft range. Furrow bottom ridging occurred only in hard soils. Penetration was very good in soft soils, good in moderately firm to hard soils and poor in very hard soils. Plugging occurred in very heavy or damp trash. The International 645 buried less trash than most heavy duty cultivators but buried slightly more than most light field cultivators. The sweep pattern was symmetrical and sideways skewing was evident only in very hilly conditions and was never severe enough to affect weed kill. Weed kill was good as long as sweeps with adequate overlap were used.
The International 645 could be conveniently placed in transport position in less than five minutes. The 248 mm (9.75 in) sweep to ground clearance, in transport position, was adequate. Due to its large transport width and height, transporting on public roads had to be with extreme caution and the manufacturer's maximum recommended transport speed of 32 km/h (20 mph) should not be exceeded. The 10.2 m (33.25 ft) wide test machine had a transport height of 4 m (13.1 ft), permitting safe transport under power lines in the three prairie provinces. Transport height of the 12.6 m (41.5 ft) wide model of the International 645 is 5.3 m (17.5 ft) which is higher than minimum power line heights in all three provinces.
When equipped with optional finishing harrows, hitch weight was negative, making hitching inconvenient. Adequate adjustment was provided for both lateral and fore-and-aft levelling. Tillage depth was uniform across the width of the cultivator as long as the centre frame and wing section hydraulic cylinders were kept synchronized and the hydraulic stop collars were used on the master cylinders.
Average draft for the 10.2 m (33.25 ft) wide test machine in light secondary tillage, at 8 km/h (5 mph), varied from 8 kN (1760 lb) at 40 mm (1.5 in) depth to 20 kN (4400 lb) at 100 mm (4 in) depth. In heavy secondary and light primary tillage, at 8 km/h (5 mph), average draft varied from 14 kN (3080 lb) at 40 mm (1.5 in) to 38 kN (8360 lb) at 125 mm (5 in). In heavy primary tillage, at 8 km/h (5 mph), average draft varied from 16 kN (3960 lb) at 50 mm (2 in) to 50 kN (11000 lb) at 100 mm (4 in).
In light secondary tillage, at 10 km/h (6.2 mph) and 75 mm (3 in) depth, a tractor with 84 kW (113 hp) maximum power-take-off rating will have sufficient power reserve to operate a 10.2 m (33.25 ft) wide International 645. In heavy secondary or light primary tillage at the same depth and speed, a 122 kW (163 hp) tractor is needed while in heavy primary tillage a 149 kW (200 hp) tractor is required.
The International 645 was equipped with wing transport locks, a slow moving vehicle sign, and reflective tape on the wing frames, to aid in transport safety. No mechanical transport locks were provided for the master depth control cylinders. The operator's manual was clear, concise and well illustrated.
Only minor mechanical problems occurred during the 204 hours of field operation, none of which seriously affected cultivator operation.
Summary of White 485 Field Cultivator (9.7 m) (Evaluation Report - PDF File - 0.78 MB)
Overall functional performance of the White 485 field cultivator was good for seedbed preparation and herbicide incorporation, providing mounted finishing harrows were used. Its performance for second operation summedallow was fair with acceptable weed kill if 203 mm (8 in) sweeps, or larger, were used and if trash conditions were light. The White 485 was unsuitable for first operation summedallow or in moderate trash.
The spring cushioned shanks could lift 178 mm (7 in) to clear stones. As with most field cultivators, the shanks were very flexible. When equipped with recommended sweeps, having a 40° stem angle, sweep pitch varied from 0 to 12° over the range of normal secondary tillage draft, resulting in furrow bottom ridging in firm soils. With 165 mm (6.5 in) shank spacing, shank cushioning spring preload was exceeded at drafts greater than 1.6 kN/m (110 lb/ft), occurring midway within the secondary tillage draft range. Penetration was adequate in previously tilled soil, but inadequate in harder soils. Plugging was a problem in medium to heavy trash. The White 485 buried less trash than most heavy duty cultivators. The sweep pattern was symmetrical and sideways skewing was not a problem in normal field conditions. Slight skewing occurred on hillsides. Weed kill in second operation summedallow was good with 203 mm sweeps, providing the weeds were small and shallow rooted.
The White 485 could be conveniently placed into transport position in less than five minutes. The 160 mm (6.25 in) sweep-to-ground clearance, in transport position, was usually adequate. Due to its large transport width and height, transporting on public roads had to be with extreme caution. Although the White 485 towed well at speeds up to 32 km/h (20 mph), this was unsafe, since the tire loads in transport position exceeded the Tire and Rim Association maximum rating by 84%.
The 9.7 m (31.9 ft) wide test machine had a transport height of 3.8 m (12.3 ft) permitting safe transport under power lines in the three prairie provinces.
No hitch jack was provided. Adequate adjustment was provided for both lateral and fore-and-aft levelling. Tillage depth was uniform across the width of the cultivator in all conditions, except when cultivating over hill crests. The wing lift linkage limited downward wing flexibility.
Average draft for the 9.7 m (31.9 ft) wide test machine, in light secondary tillage, at 6 km/h (5 mph), varied from 6 kN (1760 lb) at 40 mm (1.5 in) depth to 19 kN (4180 lb) at 100 mm (4 in) depth. In heavy secondary tillage, at 8 km/h (5 mph), average draft varied from 14 kN (3080 lb) at 40 mm (1.5 in) to 29 kN (6380 lb) at 100 mm (4 in).
In light secondary tillage, at 10 km/h (6.2 mph) and 75 mm (3 in) depth, a tractor with 61 kW (109 hp) maximum power-take-off rating will have sufficient power reserve to operate a 9.7 m (31.9 ft) wide White 485. In heavy secondary tillage at the same depth and speed, a 117 kW (157 hp) tractor is needed.
The White 485 was equipped with wing and depth control cylinder transport locks, to aid in transport safety. A slow moving vehicle sign was not supplied. The operator's manual was concise and well illustrated but lacked information on the hydraulic wing lift system.
Some minor mechanical problems occurred during the 197 hours of field operation: One wheel rim loosened and was damaged, while a few assorted bolts and clamps loosened.
Summary of Hesston Model 2210 Field Cultivator (10.1 m) (Evaluation Report - PDF File - 0.75 MB)
Overall functional performance of the Hesston Model 2210 field cultivator was very good for seedbed preparation and herbicide incorporation, providing mounted finishing harrows were used. Its performance for second operation summerfallow was good with good weed kill if 203 mm (8 in) sweeps, or larger, were used. As with most light duty field cultivators, the Hesston 2210 was unsuitable for first operation summerfallow or in heavy trash.
The spring cushioned shanks could lift 240 mm (9.5 in) to clear stones. As with most field cultivators, the shanks were very flexible. When equipped with recommended sweeps, having a 47° sweep angle, sweep pitch varied from 3 to 21° over the range of normal secondary tillage draft, resulting in furrow bottom ridging in firm soils. With 178 mm (7 in) shank spacing, shank cushioning spring preload was exceeded at drafts greater than 2.1 kN/m (147 lb/ft), occurring midway within the secondary draft range. Penetration was adequate in previously tilled soil, but inadequate in harder soils. Plugging was not a problem in most trash conditions. Plugging occurred around the wing wheels in heavy trash. The Hesston 2210 buried less trash than most heavy duty cultivators and left a smooth, unridged soil surface, particularly if mounted finishing harrows were used. The sweep pattern was symmetrical and sideways skewing was not a problem, however, sideways movement of the shanks in the shank holders caused some heavy stalked weeds to be missed. Weed kill in second operation summerfallow generally was good as long as sweeps with adequate overlap were used.
The Hesston 2210 could be conveniently placed into transport position in less than five minutes. The 255 mm (10 in) sweep-to-ground clearance, in transport position, was adequate. Due to its large transport width and height, transporting on public roads had to be with extreme caution and the manufacturer's maximum recommended transport speed of 16 km/h (10 mph) should not be exceeded. The 10.1 m (33.3 ft) wide test machine has a transport height of 4.5 m (14.9 ft) permitting safe transport under power lines in the three prairie provinces. Transport height of the 14 m (46 ft) wide model of the Hesston 2210 is 5.4 m (17.7 ft) which is higher than minimum power line height in all three provinces.
When equipped with optional finishing harrows, hitch weight was negative, making hitching inconvenient. Adequate adjustment was provided for both lateral and fore-and-aft levelling. Tillage depth was uniform across the width of the cultivator as long as the centre frame and wing section hydraulic cylinders were kept synchronized.
Average draft for the 10.1 m (33.3 ft) wide test machine, in light secondary tillage, at 8 km/h (5 mph), varied from 8 kN (1760 lb) at 40 mm (1.5 in) depth to 20 kN (4400 lb) at 100 mm (4 in) depth. In heavy secondary tillage, at 8 km/h (5 mph), average draft varied from 14 kN (3080 lb) at 40 mm (1.5 in) to 30 kN (6600 lb) at 100 mm (4 in).
In light secondary tillage, at 10 km/h (6.2 mph) and 75 mm (3 in) depth, a tractor with 84 kW (113 hp) maximum power-take-off rating will have sufficient power reserve to operate a 10.1 m (33.3 ft) wide Hesston 2210. In heavy secondary tillage at the same depth and speed, a 122 kW (163 hp) tractor is needed.
The Hesston 2210 was equipped with wing transport locks to aid in transport safety. A slow moving vehicle sign and mounting bracket were provided. The operator's manual was clear, concise and well illustrated.
Some mechanical problems occurred during the 188 hours of field operation. Four shank holders bent requiring replacement, while many other holders loosened. A number of harrow tine bar compression springs broke and attaching bolts loosened. Two tire valve stems sheared in trash. The left outer frame member broke.
Summary of Co-op Implements 204 Heavy Duty Cultivator (8.3 m) (Evaluation Report - PDF File - 0.67 MB)
The overall functional performance of the Co-op Implements 204 heavy duty cultivator was good. Its performance was reduced by inadequate shank lift heights of the shank cushioning assemblies.
The spring cushioned shanks could lift only 95 mm (3.8 in) to clear stones. This limited clearance resulted in several bent shanks when operating in stony land. When equipped with sweeps having a 44° stem angle, sweep pitch varied from 0.5 to 3.5° over the range of normal primary tillage draft, if the shank cushioning springs were at their maximum setting. At this setting, with 305 mm (12 in) spacing, shank cushioning spring preload was exceeded at drafts greater than 7 kN/m (544 lb/ft), occurring at the upper end of the primary tillage draft range.
Penetration was very good in all conditions. The C1204 was very stable and did not skew appreciably. Skewing was never serious enough to affect weed kill. The CI 204 followed the contour of rolling land very well. Weed kill was very good providing sweeps with sufficient overlap were used. Furrow bottom ridging was only slight, as long as the shank cushioning springs were at their maximum setting. The C1204 was capable of clearing most heavy trash, but in wet, heavy trash, plugging occurred next to the centre section wheels.
The CI 204 could be conveniently placed into transport position in less than five minutes. The 178 mm (7 in) sweep-to-ground clearance, in transport position was adequate. The Cl 204 could be safely towed at speeds up to 16 km/h (10 mph). Caution had to be observed when towing on public roads due to large transport width. The test machine had a transport height of only 3.0 m (9.7 ft), permitting safe transport under power lines in the three prairie provinces. The 11.9 m wide model of the CI 204 has a transport height greater than some power lines.
Adequate adjustment was provided for both lateral and for-and-aft levelling. Tillage depth was uniform across the width of the cultivator providing the frame had been properly levelled. When equipped with optional finishing harrows, hitch weight was negative, making hitching inconvenient.
Average draft for the 8.3 m (27 ft) wide test machine, in light primary tillage, at 8 km/h (5 mph) varied from 14 kN (3060 lb) at 50 mm (2 in) depth to 31 kN (6860 lb) at 125 mm (5 in) depth. In heavy primary tillage at 8 km/h (5 mph), average draft varied from 15 kN (3330 lb) at 50 mm (2 in) to 54 kN (12160 lb) at 125 mm (5 in).
In light primary tillage, at 10 km/h (6.2 mph) and 75 mm (3 in) depth, a tractor with 100 kW (134 hp) maximum power-take-off rating will have sufficient power reserve to operate the 8.3 m (27 ft) wide CI 204. In heavy primary tillage, at the same depth and speed, a 122 kW (164 hp) tractor is needed.
The CI 204 was equipped with wing transport locks and a master cylinder transport lock to aid in transport safety. The operator's manual was clear, concise and well illustrated.
Some mechanical problems occurred during the 377 hours of field operation. Seven shanks were bent and one was broken. Two hydraulic hoses failed and two welds failed.
Summary of Lely Model S-8-6 Walking Shank Chisel Plow (6.6 m) (Evaluation Report - PDF File - 0.89 MB)
Overall functional performance of the Lely S-8-6 Walking Shank Chisel Plow was good in stone-free conditions. Its performance in stony fields was reduced by frame interference on some paired shank assemblies, not permitting all shank releases to be fully operative. Its performance in hard soil and in heavy trash was very good.
Performance of the paired shank release assemblies was fair. Maximum shank lifting height, to release stones, varied from 0 to 400 mm (0 to 16 in) depending upon how the shanks were paired. Shanks adjacent to wheels could not release due to rigid frame stops. The geometry of the paired shank arrangement necessitated the cultivator frame to lift during shank movement for stone release. When equipped with sweeps having a 43° stem angle, sweep pitch in uniform soils varied from 6 to 14° over the full draft range normally experienced by heavy duty cultivators Sweep pitch variation, due to pivoting shank action was much greater in non-uniform soils, resulting in both soil surface and furrow bottom ridging. With 330 mm (13 in) spacing, shank pair connecting rod spring preload was exceeded at drafts greater than 3.4 kN/m (240 lb/ft), resulting in greater sweep pitch, at higher drafts, than for most heavy duty cultivators.
Penetration was very good in all conditions. Depth of tillage was even across the cultivator width. The Lely S-8-6 buried large amounts of trash. It was capable of clearing very heavy trash and plugging seldom occurred. The Lely S-8-6 was very stable and did not skew appreciably. It followed the contour of rolling land very well. Weed kill in all conditions was good as long as sweeps with adequate overlap were used.
The Lely S-8-6 could be conveniently placed into transport position in about five minutes. The 240 mm (9.5 in) sweep-to-ground clearance, in transport position, was adequate. The Lely S8-6 towed well at transport speeds up to 40 km/h (25 mph), however, this was unsafe, as the tire loads in transport position exceeded the Tire and Rim Association maximum rating by 58%. Caution has to be observed when towing on public roads due to large transport width. The 6.6 m (21.7 ft) wide test machine had a transport height of only 3.2 m (10.5 ft), permitting safe transport under power lines in the three prairie provinces. Some large models of the Lely have transport heights greater than minimum power line heights.
Adequate adjustment was provided for both lateral and fore-and-aft levelling. The hitch jack had insufficient lift for hitching in soft fields.
Average draft for the 6.6 m (21.7 ft) wide test machine, in light primary tillage, at 8 km/h (5 mph) varied from 11 kN (2420 lb) at 50 mm (2 in) depth to 24.5 kN (5390 lb), at 125 mm (5 in) depth. In heavy primary tillage at 8 km/h (5 mph), average draft varied from 12 kN (2640 lb) at 50 mm (2 in) to 43 kN (9460 lb) at 125 mm (5 in).
In light primary tillage, at 10 km/h (6.2 mph) and 75 mm (3 in) depth a tractor with 79 kW (106 hp) maximum power take-off rating will have sufficient power reserve to operate the 6.6 m (21.7 ft) wide Lely S-8-6. In heavy primary tillage, at the same depth and speed, a 97 kW (130 hp) tractor is needed.
The Lely S-8-6 was equipped with transport lock pins for safe towing. No slow moving vehicle sign was provided. No operator's manual was available.
Some mechanical problems occurred during the 224 hours of field operation. One shank stop and three shank connecting rods bent. The left slave cylinder anchor lug interfered with the tire when operating at maximum depth. One slave cylinder began to leak internally.
Summary of Friggstad C5-43 Heavy Duty Cultivator (13.1 m) (Evaluation Report - PDF File - 0.96 MB)
Overall functional performance of the Friggstad C5-43 heavy duty cultivator was very good in all working conditions.
The spring cushioned shanks could lift 254 mm (10 in) to clear stones. When equipped with sweeps having a 50 degree stem angle, sweep pitch varied from 2 to 4° over the range of normal primary tillage draft. With 305 mm (12 in) spacing, shank cushioning spring preload was exceeded at drafts greater than 9.8 kN/m (762 lb/ft), occurring well beyond the range of normal primary tillage drafts.
Penetration was very good in all conditions. The Friggstad C5-43 was very stable and did not skew appreciably. Skewing was never serious enough to affect weed kill. The Friggstad C5-43 followed the contour of rolling land better than most heavy duty cultivators. Weed kill was very good, providing sweeps with sufficient overlap were used. Furrow bottom ridging was only slight with 50° sweeps. The Friggstad C5-43 was capable of clearing heavy trash and plugging seldom occurred.
The Friggstad C5-43 could be conveniently placed into transport position in less than five minutes. The 115 m (4.5 in) sweep-to-ground clearance in transport position was usually adequate. The Friggstad towed well at transport speeds up to 32 km/h (20 mph). However, this was unsafe, as the tire loads in transport position exceeded the Tire and Rim Association maximum rating by 30%. Caution had to be observed when towing on public roads due to large transport width and height. The 13.1 m (43 ft) wide test machine had a transport height of 4.5 m (14.75 ft), permitting safe transport under power lines in the three prairie provinces. Some larger models of the Friggstad have transport heights greater than minimum power line heights.
A hitch jack was provided for convenient hitching. Adequate adjustment was provided for both lateral and fore-and-aft levelling. Tillage depth was uniform across the width of the cultivator when the depth control linkages and stabilizer caster wheels were properly adjusted.
Average draft for the 13.1 m (43 ft) wide test machine, in light primary tillage, at 8 km/h (5 mph) varied from 22.3 kN (4910 lb) at 50 mm (2 in) depth to 48.5 kN (10670 lb) at 125 mm (5 in) depth. In heavy primary tillage at 8 km/h (5 mph), average draft varied from 23.6 kN (5190 lb) at 50 mm (2 in) depth to 85.2 kN (18740 lb) at 125 mm (5 in) depth.
In light primary tillage, at 10 km/h (6.2 mph) and 75 mm (3 in) depth, a tractor with 158 kW (212 hp) maximum power-take-off rating will have sufficient power reserve to operate the 13.1 m (43 ft) wide Friggstad C5-43. In heavy primary tillage, at the same depth and speed a 193 kW (259 hp) tractor is needed.
The Friggstad was equipped with transport lock pins for safe towing. No slow moving vehicle sign was provided. No operator's manual was available.
Only minor mechanical problems occurred during the 210 hours of field operation, the most serious of these being the depth control chains breaking on two occasions.
Summary of Massey Ferguson 128 Heavy Duty Cultivator (10 m) (Evaluation Report - PDF File - 0.93 MB)
Overall functional performance of the Massey-Ferguson 128 heavy duty cultivator was good. Performance was reduced due to an inadequate hydraulic lift system and skewing about the hitch point.
The spring trip shanks could lift 300 mm (11.8 in) to clear stones. When equipped with sweeps having a 54° stem angle, the sweep pitch varied from 2 to 5 degrees over the full draft range normally experienced by heavy duty cultivators. When equipped with 50° sweeps the sweep pattern varied from 6 to 11°. Shank cushioning spring preload was exceeded at drafts greater than 12.7 kN/m (870 lb/ft), occurring well above the range of normal primary tillage drafts.
Penetration was excellent in all soil conditions. The Massey Ferguson 128 had a tendency to skew back and forth about the hitch point in light draft conditions. Skewing was never serious enough to affect weed kill. The Massey-Ferguson 128 followed the contour of rolling land very well. Weed kill in all conditions was very good as long as sweeps with adequate overlap were used. Furrow bottom and surface ridging were slight when equipped with 54° sweeps but increased considerably when using 50° sweeps. The Massey-Ferguson 128 was capable of clearing most trash but in loose, heavy trash, plugging occurred at the two centre shanks. Performance of the depth control hydraulic system was inadequate. In heavy draft conditions, the hydraulic system would not lift the cultivator out of the ground without first backing up.
The Massey-Ferguson 128 cultivator could be conveniently placed in transport position in less than five minutes. The 165 mm (6.5 in) sweep-to-ground clearance, in transport position, was adequate. Transport speeds in excess of 32 km/h (20 mph) caused the cultivator to sway due to negative hitch weight. High transport speeds were unsafe, as the tire loads in transport position exceeded the Tire and Rim Association's maximum rating by 30%.
Due to its large transport height and width, transporting on public roads had to be with extreme caution. The 10 m (33 ft) wide test machine had a transport height of 4 m (13.1 ft), permitting safe transport under power lines in the three prairie provinces. Transport height of the 12.5 m (41 ft) wide model of the Massey-Ferguson 128 is 5.3 m (17.3 ft) which is higher than minimum power line heights in all three provinces.
Adequate adjustments were provided for both lateral and fore-and-aft levelling. Tillage depth was uniform across the width of the cultivator as long as the centre frame and wing section hydraulic cylinders were kept synchronized and the cylinder anchor connectors were properly adjusted.
Average draft for the 10 m (33 ft) wide test machine, in light primary tillage, at 8 km/h (5 mph) varied from 17 kN (3820 lb) at 50 mm (2 in) depth to 37 kN (8320 lb) at 125 mm (5 in) depth. In heavy primary tillage at 8 km/h (5 mph), average draft varied from 18 kN (4050 lb) at 50 mm (2 in) to 65 kN (14600 lb) at 125 mm (5 in).
In light primary tillage, at 10 km/h (6.2 mph) and 75 mm (3 in) depth a tractor with 120 kW (160 hp) maximum power take-off rating will have sufficient power reserve to operate the 10 m (33 ft) wide Massey-Ferguson 128. In heavy primary tillage at the same depth and speed a 147 kW (197 hp) tractor is needed.
The Massey-Ferguson 128 was equipped with transport locks and a slow moving vehicle sign to aid in transport safety. The operator's manual was clear, concise and well illustrated.
Some mechanical problems occurred during the 240 hours of field operation. Two shank attaching castings broke and many sweeps broke while working in very hard, packed soil. One wing lift cylinder developed a leak and the wing lift cylinder hydraulic tubing burst.
Summary of Melroe 505 Heavy Duty Cultivator (8.2 m) (Evaluation Report - PDF File - 0.85 MB)
Overall functional performance of the Melroe 505 heavy duty cultivator was good in all conditions. Its performance in heavy primary tillage was reduced by excessive sweep pitch.
The spring cushioned shank could lift only 100 mm (3.9 in) to clear stones. When equipped with sweeps having a 47° stem angle, the sweep pitch varied from 7 to 12° over the full draft range normally encountered by heavy duty cultivators. When equipped with 50° sweeps the sweep pitch varied from 4 to 9°. With 305 mm (12 in) shank spacings, shank cushioning spring preload was exceeded at drafts greater than 5.0 kN/m (340 lb/ft), occurring within the primary tillage draft range.
Penetration was very good in all conditions. The Melroe 505 was stable and skewed only slightly in heavy draft conditions. Skewing was never serious enough to affect weed kill. The Melroe 505 followed the contour of rolling land very well. Weed kill in all conditions was very good as long as sweeps with adequate overlap were used. Furrow bottom and surface ridging were severe when 47° sweeps were used but were considerably reduced when using 50° sweeps. The Melroe 505 was capable of clearing heavy trash and plugging seldom occurred.
The Melroe 505 could be conveniently placed in transport position in less than five minutes. The 140 mm (5.5 in) sweep-to-ground clearance in transport position was adequate. The Melroe 505 towed well at transport speeds up to 32 km/h (20 mph). Due to its large transport width, transporting on public roads had to be with extreme caution. The 8.2 m (27 ft) wide test machine had a transport height of 3.1 m (10.2 ft), permitting safe transport under power lines in the three prairie provinces. Transport heights of some of the wider models of the Melroe cultivator, are higher than minimum power line heights in all three provinces.
A hitch jack was provided for convenient hitching. Adequate adjustment was provided for both lateral and fore-and-aft levelling. Tillage depth was uniform across the width of the cultivator as long as all linkage and cable lengths were properly adjusted.
Average draft for the 8.2 m (27 ft) wide test machine, in light primary tillage, at 8 km/h (5 mph) varied from 13.9 kN (3060 lb) at 50 mm (2 in) depth to 30.3 kN (6670 lb) at 125 mm (5 in) depth. In heavy primary tillage at 8 km/h (5 mph), average draft varied from 14.8 kN (3260 lb) at 50 mm (2 in) to 53.3 kN (11730 lb) at 125 mm (5 in) depth.
In light primary tillage, at 10 km/h (6.2 mph) and 75 mm (3 in) depth, a tractor with 98 kVV (130 hp) maximum power-take-off rating will have sufficient power reserve to operate the 8.2 m (27 ft) wide Melroe 505. In heavy primary tillage, at the same depth and speed a 120 kW (160 hp) tractor is needed.
The Melroe 505 was equipped with transport lock pins for safe towing. A bracket for mounting a slow moving vehicle sign was provided. The operator's manual was clear, concise, and well illustrated.
Only minor mechanical problems occurred during the 255 hours of field operation, none of which seriously affected cultivator performance.
Summary of Case 1236W Field Cultivator (11 m) (Evaluation Report - PDF File - 0.72 MB)
Overall functional performance of the Case 1236W field cultivator was very good for seed bed preparation and herbicide incorporation, providing mounted finishing harrows were used. Its performance for second operation summedallow was good with acceptable weed kill and minimal trash burial. As with most light duty field cultivators, the Case 1236W was unsuitable for first operation summedallow or in moderate to heavy trash.
The spring-cushioned shanks could lift 216 mm (8.5 in) to clear stones. As with most field cultivators, the shanks were quite flexible. When equipped with recommended sweeps with 48.5° stem angle, sweep pitch varied from 1 to 5°, over the normal secondary tillage draft range, resulting in a uniform, unridged furrow bottom. With 169 mm (6.6 in) shank spacing, shank cushioning spring preload was exceeded at drafts greater than 3.0 kN/m (206 lb/ft), occurring at the upper end of the secondary tillage draft range. Penetration was adequate in previously tilled soil, but was inadequate in harder soils. Plugging was a problem in moderately heavy trash in second operation summedallow. The Case 1236W buried less trash than most heavy duty cultivators. The sweep pattern was symmetrical and sideways skewing was not a problem in normal field conditions. Slight skewing occurred on hillsides.
The Case 1236W could be conveniently placed into transport position in less than five minutes. The 260 mm (10 in) sweep-to-ground clearance was adequate for normal transport. Due to its large transport width and height, transporting on public roads had to be with extreme caution. The Case 1236W was stable and towed well, however the weight of mounted harrows caused moderate sway at transport speeds above 16 km/h. The 11.0 m (36.2 ft) wide test machine was 4.4 m (14.4 ft) high in transport, permitting safe passage under power lines in the three prairie provinces. Transport height of the 11.7 m (38.4 ft) wide model of the Case 1200W series was high enough for power line contact but could be reduced with optional secondary wing hinges.
When equipped with finishing harrows, hitch weight was negative, making hitching inconvenient. Adequate adjustment was provided for both fore-and-aft, and lateral levelling. Tillage depth was normally uniform across the cultivator width. The hitch pole and wheels were positioned to permit very good maneuverability.
Average draft for the 11.0 m (36.2 ft) wide test machine, in light secondary tillage, at 8 km/h (5 mph), varied from 8.7 kN (1946 lb) at 40 mm (1.5 in) depth to 22.0 kN (5221 lb) at 100 mm (4 in) depth. In heavy secondary tillage, at 8 km/h (5 mph), average draft varied from 15.1 kN (3389 lb) to 33.0 kN (7420 lb) over the same depth range.
In light secondary tillage, at 10 km/h (6.2 mph) and 75 mm (3 in) depth, a tractor with 91 kW (122 hp) maximum pto rating will have sufficient power reserve to operate the 11.0 m (36.2 ft) wide Case 1236W. In heavy secondary tillage at the same depth and speed, a 132 kW (177 hp) tractor is needed.
The Case 1236W was equipped with wing and depth control transport locks, an optional slow moving vehicle sign and reflectors at the frame ends, to aid in transport safety. The operator's manual was clear, concise and well illustrated.
A few mechanical problems occurred during the 218 hours of field operation. The rear frame members bent. Eleven shanks bent and eight shank bolts broke.
Summary of Leon CP77-334 Chisel Plow (10.4 m) (Evaluation Report - PDF File - 0.77 MB)
The overall functional performance of the Leon CP77-334 heavy duty cultivator was good. Performance was reduced by skewing and by uneven penetration in hard soils.
The spring trip shanks could lift 225 mm (8.9 in) to clear stones. When equipped with sweeps, having a 51° stem angle, as supplied by the manufacturer, sweep pitch varied from minus 5 to 0°s over the full draft range normally experienced by heavy duty cultivators. With 305 mm (12 in) spacing, shank trip spring preload was exceeded at drafts greater than 9.3 kN/m (651 lb/ft) occurring well beyond the range or normal primary tillage drafts.
The Leon CP77-334 penetrated readily in all conditions. Depth of penetration was uniform in normal soil conditions. In heavy primary tillage, at tillage depths greater than 100 mm, the wing tips penetrated about 90 mm deeper than the centre section due to wing wheel sinkage and tire squash. wing frame twist also caused non-uniform fore-and-aft penetration in heavy primary tillage. The Leon CP77-334 was quite unstable and skewed significantly on hillsides and in non-uniform soil conditions, resulting in some weed misses. Weed kill was good on level uniform soil. The Leon CP77-334 followed the contour of rolling land very well. The Leon CP77-334 was capable of clearing heavy trash. In extreme conditions, occasional plugging occurred at shanks adjacent to the depth control wheels. Furrow bottom ridging was only slight with 51° sweeps.
The Leon CP77-334 could be conveniently placed into transport position in less than five minutes. The 200 mm (8 in) sweep-to-ground clearance, gave ample transport ground clearance. The narrow 1.7 m (5.6 ft) transport wheel tread made it necessary to take care during turns, or when transporting on slopes or rough ground, to prevent possible upset. The Leon CP77-334 towed well at normal transport speeds. Tires of the optional tandem centre wheels were adequately sized to safely support transport loads. The 10.4 m (34 ft) wide test machine had a transport height of 4.4 m (14.4 ft) permitting safe transport under power lines in the three prairie provinces. Transport heights of some of the wider models of the cultivator are greater than minimum power line heights.
The hitch jack and rigid hitch link made one man hitching easy. Adequate adjustment was provided for both lateral and fore-and-aft frame levelling.
Average draft for the 10.4 m (34 ft) wide test machine, in light primary tillage, at 8 km/h (5 mph) varied from 17.7 kN (3973 lb) at 50 mm (2 in) depth to 38.5 kN (8643 lb) at 125 mm (5 in) depth. In heavy primary tillage at 8 km/h (5 mph), average draft varied from 18.7 kN (4198 lb) at 50 mm (2 in) to 67.6 kN (15176 lb) at 125 mm (5 in).
In light primary tillage, at 10 km/h (6.2 mph) and 75 mm (3 in) depth, a tractor with 125 kW (168 hp) maximum power-take-off rating will have sufficient power reserve to operate the 10.4 m (34 ft) wide Leon CP77-334. In heavy primary tillage, at the same depth and speed, a 153 kW (205 hp) tractor is needed.
The Leon CP77-334 was equipped with both wing and depth control cylinder transport locks for safe towing. No slow moving vehicle sign was provided. The operator's manual was clear, concise, and well illustrated.
Some mechanical problems occurred during the 210 hours of field operation. The frame extension stubs deformed. One shank bent and several trip mechanisms wore, necessitating replacement of certain parts. Four shank assembly U-bolts broke.
Summary of Morris CP-631 Chisel Plow (11.3 m) (Evaluation Report - PDF File - 0.96 MB)
The overall functional performance of the Morris CP-631 heavy duty cultivator was very good. Performance was reduced by uneven penetration in hard soils.
The spring trip shanks could lift 182 mm (7.2 in) to clear stones. When equipped with sweeps having a 43° stem angle as supplied by the manufacturer, sweep pitch varied from minus 1° to 2.5° over the full draft range normally experienced by heavy duty cultivators. With 305 mm (12 in) spacing, shank trip spring preload was exceeded at drafts greater than 10.4 kN/m (710 lb/ft). This is well beyond the range of normal primary tillage drafts.
The Morris CP-631 had good penetration in normal conditions. Depth of penetration was uniform in normal conditions. In hard soils, the wing tips penetrated up to 50 mm (2 in) deeper than the centre section, due to non-uniform forces on the cultivator frame. Wing frame twisting also caused non-uniform fore-and-aft penetration in hard soils. The Morris CP-631 was very stable, no weed misses occurred because of skewing on moderate hillsides or in non-uniform soil. Weed kill was very good on level uniform soil. The Morris CP-631 followed the contour of rolling land very well. Trash clearance was excellent, and only in very heavy trash did plugging occur. Mounted finishing harrows were used during the test. They were able to distribute trash in ideal conditions, but were not aggressive enough in lumpy soils or in heavy trash. Furrow bottom ridging was only slight with 43 degree sweeps.
The Morris CP-631 could be conveniently placed into transport position in less than five minutes. The 200 mm (6 in) sweep to ground clearance, was ample for normal transport. The transport wheel tread of 2.1 m (7 ft) allowed safe transport on most slopes and rough terrain.
The Morris CP-631 towed well at normal transport speeds when equipped with mounted harrows. The weight on the wheels of the centre section, exceeded the maximum load recommended by the Tire and Rim Association for the tire size supplied.
The 11.3 m (37 ft) test machine had a transport height of 4.7 m (15.4 ft) which is greater than minimum power line heights in the three prairie provinces.
The hitch jack and rigid hitch link made one man hitching easy. Adequate adjustment was provided for both lateral and fore-aft frame leveling.
Average draft for the 11.3 m (37 ft) wide test machine in light primary tillage at 8 km/h (5 mph) varied from 19.4 kN (4360 lb) at 50 mm (2 in) depth to 42.2 kN (9470 lb) at 125 mm (5 in) depth. In heavy primary tillage at 8 km/h (5 mph), average draft varied from 20.5 kN (4600 lb) at 50 mm (2 in) to 74.1 kN (16630 lb) at 125 mm (5 in).
In light primary tillage, at 10 km/h (6.2 mph) and 75 mm (3 in) depth, a tractor with 137 kW (184 hp) maximum power-take-off rating will have sufficient power reserve to operate the 11.3 m (37 ft) wide Morris CP-631. In heavy primary tillage at the same depth and speed, a 167 kW (224 hp) tractor is needed.
The Morris CP-631 was equipped with locks for depth control wheels and raised wings, for safe towing. A slow moving vehicle sign with a mounting bracket was provided. The operator's manual was concise and well illustrated.
Some mechanical problems occurred during the 164 hours of field operation. Two shanks bent and five sweeps broke. Five shank pivot pins broke. Four shank holders cracked slightly. Two extension frame bolts failed.
Summary of Wil-Rich 13CPW Heavy Duty Cultivator (11.3 m) (Evaluation Report - PDF File - 1.2 MB)
The overall functional performance of the Wil-Rich 13CPW heavy duty cultivator was good. Performance was reduced by poor weed kill in some conditions.
The spring cushioned shanks could lift 345 mm (13.6 in) to clear stones. When equipped with sweeps having a 43° stem angle, as supplied by the manufacturer, sweep pitch varied from 2 to 6° over the full draft range normally experienced by heavy duty cultivators. With 305 mm (12 in) spacing, shank trip spring preload was exceeded at drafts greater than 7.3 kN/m (500 lb/ft). This is above the range of normal primary tillage drafts.
The Wil-Rich 13CPW had good penetration in most conditions. Depth of penetration was uniform in normal soil conditions. In heavy primary tillage, careful adjustment of depth control and stabilizer wheels was required to achieve acceptable fore-and-aft levelling of the wing tips. Weed kill was fair in normal conditions. Weed kill was reduced because of minimal overlap of four trimmed sweeps on the cultivator. The cultivator skewed significantly on normal side slopes reducing overlap causing weed misses at several locations across the machine. The Wil-Rich 13CPW followed the contour of rolling land well. Trash clearance was very good. In heavy trash, plugging occurred at shanks adjacent to depth control wheels, and at rear shanks because of straw buildup at the mounted harrows. Furrow bottom ridging was not excessive with the 43° sweeps.
The Wil-Rich 13CPW could be conveniently placed into transport position in less than five minutes. The 180 mm (7 in) sweep-to-ground clearance provided sufficient transport ground clearance. The transport wheel tread of 3.1 m (10.2 ft) allowed safe transport on most slopes and rough terrain. The WiI-Rich 13CPW towed well at normal transport speeds. The tires of the centre wheels were not adequately sized to safely support the cultivator with mounted harrows. Transport height of the 11.3 m (37 ft) test machine was 4.2 m (13.8 ft), permitting safe transport under prairie power lines. Transport heights of wider models of the Wil-Rich 13CPW are greater than minimum power line heights.
When equipped with mounted harrows, hitch weight was negative, making hitching inconvenient. The hitch link was free to swivel downward making one-man hitching very difficult. Adequate adjustment was provided for both lateral and fore-aft frame leveling.
Average draft for the 11.3 m (37 ft) wide test machine in light primary tillage at 8 km/h (5 mph) varied from 19.2 kN (4310 lb) at 50 mm (2 in) depth to 42.2 kN (9470 lb) at 125 mm (5 in) depth. In heavy primary tillage at 8 km/h (5 mph), average draft varied from 20.5 kN (4600 lb) at 50 mm (2 in) to 74.1 kN (16630 lb) at 125 mm (5 in).
In light primary tillage, at 10 km/h (6.2 mph) and 75 mm (3 in) depth, a tractor with 137 kW (184 hp) maximum power-take-off rating will have sufficient power reserve to operate the 11.3 m (37 ft) wide Wil-Rich 13CPW. In heavy primary tillage at the same depth and speed, a 167 kW (224 hp) tractor is needed.
The Wil-Rich 13CPW was equipped with both wing and depth control cylinder transport locks for safe towing. No slow moving vehicle sign was provided. The operator's manual was clear, concise and well illustrated, giving information on operation and maintenance. However, it contained very little safety information.
Some mechanical problems occurred during the 154 hours of field operation. During testing, it was found that one wing frame was deformed, causing frame misalignment. The stabilizer wheels interfered with their mounts. The pivots of 19 shank holders cracked. Two shank holders were damaged by frame interference. One sweep and one shank were damaged by stones. The hitch pivot pin failed. Two depth control cylinder rods bent. Three hydraulic hoses failed. One wheel bearing failed. Two tires were damaged by sweeps. Eight retainer clips for hydraulic cylinder pins were damaged, allowing the pins to come out.
Summary of Wil-Rich 17FCW Field Cultivator (13.7 m) (Evaluation Report - PDF File - 1.3 MB)
Overall functional performance of the Wil-Rich 17FCW field cultivator was good for seedbed preparation, second operation summerfallow and herbicide incorporation, providing mounted finishing harrows were used. Its performance in second operation summerfallow was reduced slightly by limited weed kill. As with most light duty field cultivators, the Wil-Rich 17FCW was unsuitable for first operation summerfallow or in moderate or heavy trash.
The spring-cushioned shanks could lift 330 mm (13.0 in) to clear stones. As with most field cultivators, the shanks were quite flexible. When the shank assemblies were set at the manufacturer's recommended setting, with sweeps having a 48° stem angle, sweep pitch varied from 1 to 13°, over the normal tillage draft range. At maximum spring setting, pitch varied from 1 to 9° over this range. With the 180 mm (7 in) shank spacing, shank cushioning spring preload was exceeded and tripping occurred at drafts greater than 1.8 kN/m (123 lb/ft) at the manufacturer's setting and at 2.6 kN/m (178 lb/ft) at maximum setting. Tripping, at both normal and maximum settings, occurred within the normal secondary tillage draft range, indicating that the Wil-Rich 17FCW shanks are suited for light, secondary tillage operations and are not intended for primary tillage.
Plugging was a problem in moderately heavy trash in second operation summerfallow. The Wil-Rich 17FCW buried less trash than most heavy duty cultivators. Slight skewing occurred on hillsides or in uneven field conditions, causing weed misses between trimmed sweeps. Weed kill was also reduced by transplanting effects of the wheels. Mounted harrows helped to uproot and expose loosened weeds.
The Wil-Rich 17FCW could be conveniently placed into transport position in less than five minutes. The 180 mm (7 in) sweep-to-ground clearance was adequate for normal transport. Because of its large transport width and height, transporting on public roads had to be done with extreme caution. The Wil-Rich 17FCW was stable and towed well at normal transport speeds. The tires of the centre section were adequate to support the cultivator with mounted harrows, in transport, up to a speed of 28 km/h (15 mph). The 13.7 m (45 ft) wide machine was 4.5 m (14.8 ft) high in transport, permitting fairly safe passage under power lines in the three prairie provinces. Wider models of the Wil-Rich 17FCW are high enough to contact power lines.
When equipped with finishing harrows, hitch weight was negative, making hitching inconvenient without use of tractor hydraulics. Adequate adjustment was provided for both fore-and-aft, and lateral levelling. Tillage depth was normally level across the cultivator width. The hitch pole was narrow, permitting normal turns. The tandem wheels skidded slightly in normal turns.
Average draft for the 13.7 m (45 ft) wide test machine, in light secondary tillage, at 8 km/h (5 mph), varied from 11.0 kN (2470 lb) at 40 mm (1.5 in) depth to 28.8 kN (6470 lb) at 100 mm (4 in) depth. In heavy secondary tillage, at 8 km/h (5 mph), average draft varied from 19.2 kN (4310 lb) to 41.1 kN (9320 lb) over the same depth range.
In light secondary tillage, at 10 km/h (6.2 mph) and 75 mm (3 in) depth, a tractor with 114 kW (153 hp) maximum power take-off rating will have sufficient power reserve to operate the 13.7 m (45 ft) wide Wil-Rich 17FCW. In heavy secondary tillage at the same depth and speed, a 166 kW (223 hp) tractor is needed.
The Wil-Rich 17FCW was equipped with wing and depth control transport locks. No slow moving vehicle sign was provided. The operator's manual was clear, concise and well illustrated, but lacked safety information.
A few mechanical problems occurred during the 140 hours of field operation none of which seriously affected cultivator performance.
Summary of John Deere 1610 Chisel Plow (10.2 m) (Evaluation Report - PDF File - 1.0 MB)
The overall functional performance of the John Deere 1610 heavy duty cultivator was good. Performance was reduced by uneven wing section penetration in hard soil.
The spring cushioned shanks could lift 210 mm (8 in) to clear stones. When equipped with 50° sweeps, sweep pitch varied from 2 to 5° over the normal draft range for heavy duty cultivators. With 305 mm (12 in) spacing, shank spring preload was exceeded at a draft of 7.3 kN/m (500 lbs/ft), slightly above the normal primary tillage draft range.
Penetration was uniform in secondary tillage and light primary tillage. In heavy primary tillage, the wing section ends penetrated about 25 mm (1 in) deeper than the centre section. Wing frame twist was negligible in all field conditions. Furrow bottom ridging was about 25 mm (1 in) in heavy primary tillage.
The John Deere 1610 effectively followed the contour of rolling land. Weed kill was very good in most conditions. The John Deere 1610 was quite stable. Weed misses due to skewing occurred only on steep hills. Trash clearance was excellent. The optional mounted harrows did not effectively clear heavy trash. The harrows were not aggressive enough to uproot and expose weeds in tough soil conditions.
The John Deere 1610 could be easily placed in transport position in less than five minutes. The 200 mm (8 in) sweep-to-ground clearance and 3 m (9.8 ft) transport wheel tread were adequate. The John Deere 1610 towed well without sway, at the manufacturer's recommended 16 km/h (10 mph) transport speed.
The 10.2 m (33 ft) test machine had a transport height of 4.1 m (12.5 ft), permitting safe movement under power lines in the three prairie provinces. Transport heights of some wider models of this cultivator are greater than minimum power line heights.
The rigid hitch link made one-man hitching easy. The hitch jack was too short to support the hitch without additional blocking. Adequate adjustment was provided for both lateral and fore-aft frame levelling.
Average draft for the 10.2 m (33 ft) wide test machine in light primary tillage at 8 km/h (5 mph) varied from 16.4 kN (3681 lb) at 50 mm (2 in) depth to 36.5 kN (8208 lb) at 125 mm (5 in) depth. In heavy primary tillage at 8 km/h (5 mph) average draft varied from 19.5 kN (4390 lb) at 50 mm (2 in) depth to 66 kN (14820 lb) at 125 mm (5 in) depth.
In light primary tillage at 10 km/h (6 mph) and 75 mm (3 in) depth, a tractor with 120 kW (155 hp) maximum power-take-off rating will have sufficient power reserve to operate the 10.2 m (33 ft) wide John Deere 1610. In heavy primary tillage at the same depth and speed, a 153 kW (200 hp) tractor is needed.
The John Deere 1610 was equipped with mechanical wing transport locks and a hydraulic depth control lock for safe towing. A slow moving vehicle sign was provided. The operator's manual was concise and well illustrated.
A few mechanical problems occurred during the 156 hours of field operation. Two shanks bent. The harrow spring mounts bent, and one harrow mounting bolt broke.
Summary of Bush Hog CP-7815 Chisel Plow (12 m) (Evaluation Report - PDF File - 1.0 MB)
The overall functional performance of the Bush Hog CP-7815 heavy duty cultivator was very good. Performance was reduced by plugging in heavy trash.
The spring trip shanks could lift 150 mm (6 in) to clear stones. When equipped with 50° sweeps, sweep pitch varied from 0 to 3.5° over the normal draft range for heavy duty cultivators. With 305 mm (12 in) spacing, shanks began to trip at a draft of 9.6 kN//m (660 lbs/ft), well above the normal primary tillage draft range.
Penetration was uniform in most field conditions. In very hard soil, wing frame twist caused the outer front sweeps to penetrate only 20 mm (0.8 in) deeper than the outer rear sweeps. Furrow bottom ridging was less than 20 mm (0.8 in) in all conditions.
The Bush Hog CP-7815 effectively followed the contour of rolling land. Weed kill was very good in most conditions. The Bush Hog CP-7815 was quite stable. Weed misses due to skewing occurred on steep hillsides. Trash clearance was very good in moderate trash. In heavy trash plugging occurred between the two centre shanks, and between the depth control wheels and adjacent shanks. The mounted harrows were effective in smoothing surface ridges. Furrow bottom ridging was usually less than 20 mm (0.8 in) with 50° sweeps.
The Bush Hog CP-7815 could be easily placed in transport position in less than five minutes. The 225 mm (9 in) sweep-to-ground clearance was adequate, however the narrow 2.4 m (7.9 ft) transport wheel tread made caution necessary when transporting on slopes or rough ground, to prevent possible upset. The Bush Hog CP-7815 towed well, without sway, at normal transport speeds on smooth roads. The centre section tires were slightly overloaded during transport with mounted harrows. Transport speeds should not exceed 16 km/h (10 mph) when equipped with mounted harrows.
The 12 m (39 ft) test machine had a transport height of 5.3 m (17.4 ft) which is greater than the minimum power line heights in the three prairie provinces.
When equipped with mounted harrows, hitch weight was negative, making hitching inconvenient. Adequate adjustment was provided for both lateral and fore-aft frame leveling.
Average draft for the 1 2 m (39 ft) wide test machine in light primary tillage at 8 km/h (5 mph) varied from 19.3 kN (4329 lb) at 50 mm (2 in) depth to 42.9 kN (9652 lb) at 125 mm (5 in) depth. In heavy primary tillage at 8 km/h (5 mph) average draft varied from 23 kN (51 62 lb) at 50 mm (2 in) to 77.5 kN (1 7424 lb) at 125 mm (5 in) depth.
In light primary tillage at 10 km/h (6 mph) and 75 mm (3 in) depth, a tractor with 141 kW (190 hp) maximum power-take-off rating will have sufficient power reserve to operate the 12 m (39 ft) wide Bush Hog CP-7815. In heavy primary tillage at the same depth and speed a 180 kW (241 hp) tractor is needed.
The Bush Hog CP-7815 was equipped with a mechanical depth control lock and mechanical wing transport locks for safe towing. A slow moving vehicle sign was not provided. The operator's manual was concise and well illustrated.
A number of mechanical problems occurred during the 1 61 hours of field operation. Welds cracked on many shank holder assemblies, the shank trip pivot pin holes wore excessively, several hitch frame welds cracked, and the centre section wheel support members flexed noticeably during transport.
Summary of Co-op Implements 279 Field Cultivator (12.6 m) (Evaluation Report - PDF File - 0.91 MB)
Overall functional performance of the CI 279 field cultivator was very good for seedbed preparation, second operation summerfallow and most herbicide incorporation, providing mounted finishing harrows were used. Weed kill was very good with 250 mm (10 in) sweeps. Penetration was reduced in heavy secondary tillage. As with most light duty field cultivators the CI 279 was unsuitable for primary tillage and heavy trash conditions.
The spring cushioned shanks could lift 280 mm (11 in) to clear stones. As with most field cultivators the shanks were quite flexible. When equipped with the recommended 47° sweeps, sweep pitch varied from 0 to 4° over the normal secondary tillage draft range. With the 200 mm (8 in) shank spacing, the shank cushioning springs began to deflect at a draft greater than 3.9 kN/m (267 lb/ft). This occurred above the secondary tillage draft range, indicating that the Cl 279 shanks are suited for secondary tillage operations and not intended for primary tillage.
Penetration was very good in normal secondary tillage, but was inadequate in fields with a hard subsurface layer.
The Cl 279 could clear moderately heavy trash, normally found in secondary tillage operations. The Cl 279 buried less trash than most heavy duty cultivators. Skewing occurred only on hillsides or where soil hardness varied across the machine width. Weed kill was good and the mounted harrows were effective in exposing loosened weeds.
The Cl 279 could be easily placed into transport position in less than five minutes. The 250 mm (10 in) sweep-to-ground clearance was adequate for normal transport. Because of its large transport width and height, transporting on public roads had to be done with extreme caution. The Cl 279 was stable and towed well at normal transport speeds. The tires of the centre section were adequate to support the cultivator with mounted harrows, while transporting up to speeds of 32 km/h (20 mph). The 12.6 m (41.3 ft) wide test machine was 5.2 m (17 ft) high in transport, which is high enough to contact many prairie power lines.
The hitch jack and the swivel hitch clevis that was easily supported in a horizontal position made one man hitching convenient. Adequate adjustment was provided for both fore-and-aft and lateral levelling. Tillage depth was usually level across the cultivator width. The narrow hitch permitted normal turns.
Average draft for the 12.6 m (41.3 ft) wide test machine in light secondary tillage at 8 km/h (5 mph), varied from 10.1 kN (2270 lb) at 40 mm (1.5 in) depth to 27.7 kN (6227 lb) at 100 mm (4 in) depth. In heavy secondary tillage, at 8 km/h (5 mph), average draft varied from 16.4 to 36.5 kN (3687 to 8206 lb) over the same depth range.
In light secondary tillage at 10 km/h (6.2 mph) and 75 mm (3 in) depth, a tractor with 108 kW (140 hp) maximum power-take-off rating will have sufficient power reserve to operate the 12.6 m (41.3 ft) wide Cl 279. In heavy secondary tillage at the same depth and speed, a 148 kW (192 hp) tractor is needed.
The CI 279 was equipped with wing and depth control transport locks. The depth control locks would not stay in place for transport unless the hydraulic cylinders were slightly retracted. A slow moving vehicle sign was provided to aid in transport safety. The operator's manual was well written and clearly illustrated.
A few mechanical problems occurred during the 131 hours of field operation. Two spring guides bent, a hydraulic wing lift cylinder leaked, harrow adjustment levers failed, eight shanks bent, and twelve sweeps broke.
Summary of Morris L-249 Field Cultivator (15.1 m) (Evaluation Report - PDF File - 0.86 MB)
Overall functional performance of the Morris L-249 was very good for seedbed preparation, and most herbicide incorporation, providing mounted finishing harrows were used. Its performance in second operation summerfallow was good with acceptable weed kill. Performance was reduced by uneven penetration in heavy secondary tillage. As with most light duty field cultivators the Morris L-249 was unsuitable for primary tillage and heavy trash conditions.
The spring trip shanks could lift 230 mm (9 in) to clear stones. As with most field cultivators, the shanks were quite flexible. When equipped with the recommended 47° sweeps, sweep pitch varied from 3 to 7° over the normal secondary tillage draft range. With the 203 mm (8 in) spacing, the shanks began to trip at drafts greater than 6.3 kN/m (432 lb/ft). This occurred well above the secondary tillage draft range, indicating that the Morris L-249 shanks are well suited for secondary tillage operations.
Penetration was very good in most secondary tillage. In heavy secondary tillage, wing frame twisting caused the outer front sweeps to penetrate 50 mm (2 in) deeper than the outer rear sweeps. Wing frame twisting was greatly reduced when the manufacturer removed the inside secondary wing wheels and added stabilizer wheels to the front of the wing frames.
The Morris L-249 could clear moderately heavy trash, normally found in secondary tillage operations. The Morris L-249 buried less trash than most heavy duty cultivators. Skewing occurred only on hillsides or where soil hardness varied across the machine width. Weed kill was good in level, uniform fields. The mounted harrows were not sufficiently aggressive to break up lumps or to distribute heavy trash.
The Morris L-249 could be conveniently placed into transport position in less than five minutes. The 160 mm (6 in) sweep-to-ground clearance was adequate for normal transport. Because of its large transport width and height, transporting on public roads had to be done with extreme caution. The Morris L-249 was stable and towed well at normal transport speeds. The tires of the centre section were adequate to support the cultivator with mounted harrows, while transporting up to speeds of 32 km/h (20 mph). The 15.1 m (49.5 ft) wide test machine was 4 m (13.1 ft) high in transport, permitting safe transport under power lines in the three prairie provinces. A three section 11.3 m (37 ft) Morris field cultivator may be high enough to contact power lines.
The hitch jack and rigid hitch link made one man hitching easy. Adequate adjustment was provided for lateral levelling. Adequate fore-and-aft adjustment was obtained only after the manufacturer added stabilizer wheels to the front of the wing frames. The narrow hitch permitted normal turns.
Average draft for the 15.1 m (49.5 ft) wide test machine in light secondary tillage at 8 km/h (5 mph), varied from 12.1 kN (2720 lb) at 40 mm (1.5 in) depth to 32.2 kN (7464 lb) at 100 mm (4 in) depth. In heavy secondary tillage, at 8 km/h (5 mph), average draft varied from 19.6 to 43.8 kN (4406 to 9847 lb) over the same depth range.
In light secondary tillage, at 10 km/h (6.2 mph) and 75 mm (3 in) depth, a tractor with 129 kW (168 hp) maximum power-take-off rating will have sufficient power reserve to operate the 15.1 m (49.5 ft) wide Morris L-249. In heavy secondary tillage at the same depth and speed, a 178 kW (231 hp) tractor is needed.
The Morris L-249 was equipped with depth control transport locks. No wing transport locks were required as the secondary wings rested firmly on the centre frame. A slow moving vehicle sign was not provided. A mounting bracket for the sign was located at the rear of the cultivator. The operator's manual was well written and clearly illustrated.
A few mechanical problems occurred during the 125 hours of field operation. none of which seriously affected cultivator performance. One shank broke, one shank bent and ten sweeps broke.
Summary of Edwards CSF-833 Heavy Duty Cultivator (9.9 m) (Evaluation Report - PDF File - 0.95 MB)
Overall functional performance of the Edwards CSF-833 cultivator was good. Performance was reduced due to furrow bottom ridging in primary tillage operations.
The spring cushioned shanks could lift 147 mm (5.8 in) to clear stones. When the shanks were set at the manufacturer's setting, with sweeps having a 50° stem angle, sweep pitch varied from 5 to 8.5° in secondary tillage and from 5 to 15.5° over the full primary tillage draft range. With 330 mm (13 in) spacing, shank cushioning preload was exceeded at drafts greater than 2.4 kN/m (168 lb/ft) which is within the secondary tillage draft range, indicating that at this setting the Edwards CSF-833 was not suited for primary tillage without experiencing excessive furrow bottom ridging. At an alternate spring setting, sweep pitch varied from 5 to 10.3° over the normal primary tillage draft range. Spring cushion preload was exceeded at drafts greater than 7.2 kN/m (504 lb/ft), indicating that at this setting the Edwards CSF-833 shank holders were suited for primary tillage. Shank lift height was reduced from 147 mm (5.8 in) to 105 mm (4.2 in) at this setting. Shank protection was inadequate at both settings.
Although penetration was very good, in primary tillage, excessive furrow bottom ridging occurred due to the large variation in sweep pitch at higher drafts. Depth of tillage was uniform across the width of the cultivator. Weed kill was good in most conditions. The Edwards was quite stable. Trash clearance was very good in moderate trash conditions. In heavy trash, plugging occurred between the dual wheels.
The Edwards CSF-833 could be easily placed in transport in less than five minutes. The 130 mm (5.1 in) sweep to ground clearance provided sufficient ground clearance. The Edwards CSF-833 towed well at normal transport speeds. The tires were adequately sized to allow safe transport. Transport height of the 9.9 m (32.5 ft) wide test machine was 3.9 m (12.8 ft), permitting safe transport under prairie power lines. Transport heights of some wider models of this cultivator are greater than minimum power line heights.
The hitch link was fastened with two pins, permitting easy one-man hitching. The hitch jack provided adequate hitch height adjustment. Adequate adjustment was provided for both lateral and fore and aft frame levelling.
Average draft for the 9.9 m (32.5 ft) wide test machine, in light secondary tillage at 8 km/h (5 mph) varied from 7.9 kN (1788 lb) at 40 mm (1.6 in) depth to 19.8 kN (4453 lb) at 100 mm (4 in) depth. In heavy secondary and light primary tillage at 8 km/h (5 mph) average draft varied from 13.9 kN (3120 lb) at 40 mm (1.6 in) depth to 36.6 kN (8255 lb) at 125 mm (5 in) depth. In heavy primary tillage at 8 km/h (5 mph), average draft varied from 17.8 kN (3998 lb) at 50 mm (2 in) depth to 64.4 kN (14,463 lb) at 125 mm (5 in) depth.
In light secondary tillage at 10 km/h (6.2 mph) and 75 mm (3 in) depth, a tractor with 82 kW (109 hp) maximum power-takeoff rating will have sufficient power reserve to operate the 9.9 m (32.5 ft) wide Edwards CSF-833. In heavy secondary and light primary tillage at the same depth and speed, a 119 kW (159 hp) tractor is needed, while in heavy primary tillage a 145 kW (194 hp) tractor is required.
The Edwards CSF-833 was equipped with a mechanical depth control lock and a mechanical wing transport lock for safe towing. A slow moving vehicle sign was not provided. The operators manual contained a parts list and safety warnings. Set-up and maintenance instructions were not included.
A number of mechanical problems occurred during the 166 hours of field operation. Many shanks bent during the test, one shank holder was damaged, the transport depth lock was bent, several nuts loosened, the depth control bolts loosened and the depth control cylinder mount sheared off.
Summary of Degelman 3000 Cultivator [35,4 ft (10.8 m) (Evaluation Report - PDF File - 0.87 MB)
Functional Performance: The overall functional performance of the Degelman 3000 was good for secondary tillage such as seedbed preparation and herbicide incorporation, provided finishing harrows were used. Its performance in light to intermediate primary tillage was good in moderate trash conditions. Performance was reduced in rocky conditions, and it was unsuitable for heavy primary tillage or very heavy trash.
Quality of Work: The spring cushioned shanks could lift 14 in (356 mm) to clear stones. Shank lift was much less at the four shanks located near the inside wheels. When equipped with 47° sweeps, sweep pitch ranged from 5 to 7° over the normal range of secondary tillage draft. Shank cushion spring preload was exceeded at drafts greater than 398 lb/ft (5.8 kN/m), well below the limit of the primary tillage draft range. This indicates that the Degelman 3000 is suitable for secondary tillage and light primary tillage, but not for heavy primary tillage.
Penetration was very good in all secondary and light primary tillage conditions. Excessive furrow bottom ridging occurred as the shank spring preload was exceeded in heavy primary tillage.
Tillage depth was uniform across the width of the cultivator. Plugging occurred in heavy damp trash. The four row tine harrows did not clear large amounts of damp loose trash. The Degelman 3000 buried less trash than most heavy duty cultivators. Skewing only occurred on hillsides or where soil hardness varied across the machine width. Weed kill was good except in heavy trash conditions where the harrows were less effective.
Ease of Operation and Adjustment: The Degelman 3000 could be easily placed into transport in less than five minutes. Because of its large transport width and height, transporting on public roads required caution. The 7.5 in (190 mm) sweep-to-ground clearance was adequate for normal transport.
One man hitching was easy. The hitch length was adjustable and no tractor wheel interference occurred with the hitch during normal turns.
Adequate adjustment was provided for fore-and-aft frame levelling and lateral levelling of the wings. No adjustment was provided for laterally levelling the main frame. Tillage depth could be easily set by adjusting the hydraulic stop valve on the flow divider or the stop collars on each depth control cylinder.
Power Requirements: In light secondary tillage, at 6 mph (9.7 km/h) and 3 in (75 mm) depth, a tractor with 113 hp (84 kW) maximum power-take-off rating will have sufficient power reserve to operate the 35.4 ft (10.8 m) wide Degelman 3000. In heavy secondary or light primary tillage at the same depth and speed, a 167 hp (124 kW) tractor is required.
Safety: The Degelman 3000 was equipped with depth control and wing transport locks. In transport, the tires of the centre section were overloaded with the added weight of the mounted harrows. A slow moving vehicle sign was provided.
Operator Manual: The operator manual provided useful information and was well written and clearly illustrated.
Mechanical History: Some mechanical problems occurred during field testing. Abnormal wear occurred at the shank pivot assembly. A shank broke as a result of frame interference. Other minor mechanical problems did not greatly affect the cultivator performance.
Summary of Flexi-coil (Friggstad) F420 Cultivator 47.5 ft (14.5 m) (Evaluation Report - PDF File - 0.86 MB)
Quality of Work: The Flexi-coil F420 was suitable for secondary tillage and light primary tillage, but not for heavy primary tillage with 11 in (280 mm) sweeps. The spring cushioned shanks could lift 14 in (356 mm) to clear stones. When equipped with 47° sweeps, sweep pitch ranged from 3.5 to 6° over the normal range of secondary tillage draft. Shank cushion spring preload was exceeded at drafts greater than 329 lb/ft. (4.8 kN/m), well below the limit of the primary tillage draft range.
Penetration was very good in most conditions. Excessive furrow bottom ridging occurred in heavy primary tillage with 11 in (280 mm) sweeps. The floating hitch and wings allowed the Flexi-coil F420 to follow rolling field contours extremely well. Uniformity of the tillage depth was excellent.
Trash clearance was good. However, plugging occurred near the wheels when damp or large amounts of dry trash were encountered. The field surface left by the Flexi-coil was good providing the harrows were used. The harrows left bunches, typical of all mounted harrows, on the field surface in heavy trash. Weed kill was good except in heavy trash conditions where the harrows were less effective.
Ease of Operation and Adjustment: Ease of hitching to the Flexi-coil F420 was very good. The rigid hitch link and hitch jack made one-man hitching easy. Ease of transporting the Flexi-coil F420 was very good. It could be placed into transport in less than five minutes. Maneuverability was very good.
Ease of levelling was very good. Adequate adjustment was provided for fore-and-aft frame levelling and lateral levelling of the wings. Ease of setting tillage depth was very good. A hydraulic depth stop was provided on the single depth cylinder. Ease of installing sweeps and shanks was very good. About 10 minutes was required to install a new shank.
Power Requirements: In light secondary tillage, at 6 mph (9.7 km/h) and 3 in. (75 mm) depth, a tractor with 158 hp (118 kW) maximum power-take-off rating will have sufficient power reserve to operate the 47.5 ft. (14.5 m) wide Flexi-coil F420. In heavy secondary or light primary tillage at the same depth and speed, a 233 hp (174 kW) tractor wss required.
Safety: The Flexi-coil F420 was equipped with centre frame and wing transport locks. In transport, the tires of the centre section were overloaded with the added weight of the mounted harrows. A slow moving vehicle sign was provided.
Operator's Manual: The operator's manual provided useful information, was well written and clearly illustrated. It contained very little information on operation and depth adjustment procedures.
Mechanical History: The hex nuts on three shank pivot bolts worked loose. The two front stabilizer springs came unhooked frequently. The adjustment bolts and housing clamps which position and hold the front stabilizer wheels in place had to be replaced because of serious wear. Several other minor mechanical problems occurred during the test.
Summary of Bourgault 534-42 Cultivator 41.3 ft (12.6 m) (Evaluation Report - PDF File - 0.89 MB)
Quality of Work: The Bourgautt 534 was suitable for secondary tillage and light primary tillage, but not for heavy primary tillage with 11 in. (280 mm) sweeps. The spring-cushioned shanks of the Bourgault 534 cultivator could lift 11.5 in. (292 mm) to clear stones. When equipped with 47° sweeps, sweep pitch ranged from 5 to 7° over the normal range of secondary tillage draft. Shank cushion spring preload was exceeded at drafts greater than 322 lb/ft (4.8 kN/m), well below the limit of the primary tillage draft range.
Penetration was good in most conditions. Excessive furrow bottom ridging occurred in heavy primary tillage with 11 in (280 mm) sweeps. Uniformity of the tillage depth was good.
Trash clearance was. excellent and the field surface left by the Bourgault 534 was very good, providing the three row fine harrows were used. However the harrows left bunches typical of all mounted harrows, on the field surface in heavy trash. Weed kill was good except in heavy trash conditions where the harrows were less effective.
Ease of Operation and Adjustment: Ease of hitching to the Bourgault 534 was very good. The rigid hitch link and hitch jack made one-man hitching easy. Ease of transporting the Bourgault 534 was fair. It could be placed into transport in less than five minutes. Because of its very high transport height, transporting on public roads required extreme caution. Maneuverability was good. However, the front stabilizer wheels left furrows when making tight turns with the cultivator in the soil.
Ease of levelling the Bourgault 534 was very good. Adequate adjustment was provided for fore-and-aft frame levelling and lateral levelling of the wings. Ease of setting the tillage depth was very good. A depth stop was provided. It was positioned on the left hydraulic cylinder on the centre frame. Ease of installing sweeps and shanks was very good. About 5 minutes was required to install a new shank.
Power Requirements: In light secondary tillage, at 3 in (75 mm) depth and 6 mph (9.7 km/h), a tractor with 138 hp (103 kW) maximum power take-off rating will have sufficient power reserve to operate the 41.3 ft. (12.6 m) wide Bourgault 534. In heavy secondary and light primary tillage at the same depth and speed, a 194 hp (145 kW) tractor is required.
Safety: The Bourgault 534 was equipped with centre frame and wing transport locks. In transport, the tires of the centre section were adequate. Transport height was high enough that overhead power lines could be contacted while moving. A slow moving vehicle sign was not provided.
Operator's Manual: Detailed procedures for frame levelling and depth adjustment were not included.
Mechanical History: Fourteen shanks bent severely when they hit the cultivator frame while tripping over rocks. The centre frame truss rod loosened up several times during testing. Several other minor mechanical problems occurred during the tests.
Summary of Schulte 300 Mid-Range Heavy Duty Cultivator (Evaluation Report - PDF File - 0.94 MB)
Quality of Work: The Schulte 300 was suitable for secondary and light primary tillage, and most heavy primary tillage when equipped with 12 in (305 mm) sweeps. Shank tripping occurred n very heavy primary tillage or when deep banding fertilizer with banding knives. The spring cushioned shanks could lift 11.7 in (297 mm) to clear stones. When equipped with 50° sweeps. sweep pitch ranged from 2 to 5° over the normal range of tillage draft. Shank cushion spring preload was exceeded at drafts greater than 573 lb/ft (8.4 kN/m).
Penetration was very good in most conditions. In very heavy primary tillage, furrow bottom ridging occurred as the draft exceeded the cushion spring preload.
Trash clearance was very good. However. plugging occurred near the wheels when damp or large amounts of dry trash were encountered. The field surface left by the Schulte 300 was good provided tine harrows were used. The harrows left bunches typical of all mounted harrows on the field surface in heavy trash.
Weed kill was good except in heavy trash where the harrows were less effective.
Ease of Operation and Adjustment: Ease of hitching to the Schulte 300 was very good. The rigid hitch link and hitch jack made one man hitching easy. Ease of transporting the Schulte 300 was fair. It could be placed into transport in less than 5 minutes. Because of its very high transport height and wide transport width, moving on public roads required extreme caution. Bouncing of the hitch occurred at speeds over 15 mph (24 km/h). Maneuverability was very good.
Ease of levelling was good. Adjustment was provided for front-to-back levelling of the centre frame section and the wings. The wings could also be adjusted laterally. Ease of setting the tillage depth was very good. An adjustable stop collar on the main control cylinder allowed setting of the tillage depth. Ease of adjusting the optional mounted tine harrows was good. Ease of installing sweeps and shanks was very good. About 5 minutes was required to install a new shank.
Safety: The Schulte 300 was equipped with centre frame and wing transport locks. Transport height was high enough that over head power lines could be contacted while moving. A slow moving vehicle sign was provided. In transport the tires of the centre sections were overloaded by 28%. When lifting the wings into the transport position, the lift cylinder pins bent. Personal injury and damaged cultivator parts could result if the pins failed.
Operator's Manual: An operator's manual was not available for the Schulte 300 cultivator during the tests.
Mechanical History: A diagonal twist was found in the centre frame section during testing. The pins at the cylinder end of the wing lift cylinders and eleven shanks bent during testing. Three of the shanks bent when they hit the frame. A ratchet jack handle on the front stabilizer wheel bent.
Summary of Morris MP-912 Heavy Duty Cultivator (Evaluation Report - PDF File - 1.1 MB)
Quality of Work: The Morris MP-912 was suitable for all secondary and primary tillage when equipped with 14 in (356 mm) sweeps. The spring trip shanks lifted 10.2 in (260 mm) to clear stones. When equipped with 50°e sweeps, sweep pitch ranged from 5 to 7° over the normal range of tillage. Shank trip spring preload was exceeded at drafts greater than 1205 lb/ft (17.6 kN/m). This is well above the range of normal primary tillage drafts.
Penetration was excellent in all field conditions. Shanks held the sweeps level, resulting in an even furrow bottom.
Trash clearance was very good. The field surface left by the Morris MP-912 was good provided tine harrows were used. The harrows left bunches typical of all mounted harrows on the field surface in heavy trash.
Weed kill was good except in heavy trash where the harrows were less effective.
Ease of Operation and Adjustment: Ease of hitching to the Morris MP-912 was very good. The rigid hitch link and hitch jack made one man hitching easy. Ease of transporting the Morris MP-912 was very good. It could be placed into transport in less than 5 minutes. The Morris MP-912 had a very narrow transport width. All transport locks were located at the front and could be inserted without climbing onto the cultivator frame. Maneuverability was very good.
Ease of levelling the Morris MP-912 was very good. Lateral levelling adjustments were provided for each wheel set. Adjustment was provided for front-to-back frame levelling. Ease of setting the tillage depth was very good. A depth stop valve connected into the hydraulic circuit controlled tillage depth. Ease of adjusting the optional mounted harrows was good. Ease of installing sweeps and shanks was good. It took about 10 minutes to install a new shank.
Safety: The Morris MP-912 was equipped with centre frame and wing transport locks. Transport height of the Morris MP912 permitted safe transport under most power lines. The test machine had a very narrow transport width. A slow moving vehicle sign was not provided. In transport, the tires were not overloaded.
Operator's Manual: The operator's manual included instructions on setup, lubrication, maintenance, and safety. It provided a complete parts listing and set of operating instructions.
Mechanical History: The depth stop valve failed and one tire had to be replaced after being cut by an adjacent sweep. Several other minor mechanical problems occurred during the test.
Summary of Flexi-coil 800 Chisel Plow (Evaluation Report - PDF File - 0.86 MB)
Quality of Work: The Flexi-coil 800 Chisel Plow was suitable for all primary and secondary tillage. Penetration was very good in most conditions. Uniformity of tillage depth was very good in primary tillage and excellent in secondary tillage. The floating hitch and the flexibility built into the frame sections allowed the Flexi-coil 800 to follow rolling field contours very well. Shank force at the trip point was 660 lb (2.9 kN) and at the sweep pitch limit of 7° was 730 lb (3.3 kN). Common tillage tools at normal depths were held in the proper position.
The trip height of 12 in (305 mm) provided very good stone protection. Trip height was slightly lower under wheel rockshafts.
Trash clearance was very good. Similar to other chisel plows, the 12 in (305 mm) spacing of the Flexi-coil 800 cleared low and moderate amounts of trash without plugging. in heavy or damp trash, the Flexi-coil 800 occasionally plugged along the back row of shanks and under wheel rockshafts. Surface finish was good and similar to other chisel plows. The harrows left bunches, typical of all mounted harrows, on the field surface in heavy trash.
The Flexi-coil 800 was stable. Skewing was minimal even on hillsides or where soil hardness varied across machine width.
Ease of Operation and Adjustment: Ease of maintenance was good with easy access to grease fittings. There were many grease fittings but most only required lubrication every 50 hours. Ease of hitching was very good. The rigid hitch link and hitch jack made one-man hitching easy. Ease of transporting was very good. The center frame transport lock was automatically positioned. Transport height of the 41.3 ft (12.6 m) chisel plow was 17.5 ft (5.3 m). Maneuverability was very good. The tractor tires did not contact the hitch on turns.
Ease of adjusting depth was very good. The hydraulic stop valve and easily accessed hand crank, made changing depth convenient. Ease of frame leveling was good. Lateral teveling was easily accomplished. Front-to-back leveling required adjusting each outrigger wheel which was time consuming. Harrow adjustment was very good. Only two bolts had to be loosened. Ease of replacing sweeps and shanks was good. Soil abrasion to the bottom sweep bolts was slight. Access to U-bolt nuts for shank replacement was inconvenient.
Power Requirements: In secondary tillage, at 3 in (75 mm) and 6 mph (9.7 km/h), a tractor with 215 pto hp (160 kW) is suggested for a 41.3 ft (12.6 m) wide chisel plow. In primary tillage, at 4 in (100 mm) and 5 mph (8.0 km/h), a tractor with 250 hp (185 kW) is suggested.
Operator Safety: The transport height for the 41.3 ft (12.6 m) chisel plow was 17.5 ft (5.3 m) which required extreme caution when transporting. The wings folded well over center and did not require transport locks.
Operator's Manual: The operator's manual was excellent and included lubrication and maintenance instructions, adjustments, operating instructions, safety cautions and warnings, and a parts list. Assembly instructions were included in a separate manual.
Mechanical History: Rocks bent wheel rims, wheel bearing caps, and valve stem protectors. Three shanks were bent. Some other minor mechanical problems occurred during the test.
Summary of Cereal Implements Model 807 Chisel Plow (Evaluation Report - PDF File - 0.88 MB)
Quality of Work: The Cereal Implements Model 807 heavy duty chisel plow was suitable for primary and secondary tillage. Penetration was very good with the 16 in (406 mm) sweeps at 12 in (305 mm) shank spacing. Depth uniformity was very good. Laboratory testing of the Model 807 shank assembly showed it would maintain a uniform tillage or seeding depth while operating in primary and secondary tillage. The cultivator shank configuration allowed for overlap without running the wheel on cultivated soil.
The maximum lift height of the shank assembly was 5 in (127 mm) when equipped with 16 in (406 mm) McKay sweeps. This lift height provided only fair stone protection.
Trash clearance at the 12 in (305 mm) shank spacing was very good. In heavy, damp trash, plugging would occur at the wheel locations. With the optional harrows attached, the surface finish left by the Cl 807 in light, loose trash was good. The harrows were not used in heavy trash conditions.
The Model 807 was stable but did skew in gently to moderately rolling field conditions. Weed kill was good with the 16 in (406 mm) sweeps at 12 in (305 mm) shank spacing.
Ease of Operation and Adjustment: Transporting the Model 807 chisel plow was very good. The hitch jack and rigid hitch link made one man hitching easy. If the optional harrows were attached, care had to be taken when disconnecting the chisel plow from the tractor, because of its negative hitch weight.
Ease of levelling the frame was very good. Vertical hitch adjustment was 14 in (356 mm) in six increments. The wing wheels could be adjusted separately for lateral levelling. Ease of setting the tillage depth was very good. A stop on the left center frame cylinder was adjusted to set the tillage depth.
Ease of setting the harrows was poor. Considerable time was required to adjust the height and pressure of the optional harrows.
Power Requirements: In secondary tillage at 3 in (75 mm) and 5 mph (8 km/h), a tractor with 151 (112 kW) pto horsepower is required. At the same speed and depth in primary tillage a 203 (152 kW) pto horsepower is required.
Operator Safety: Operation of the Model 807 chisel plow was good provided normal safety procedures were provided.
Operator's Manual: The operator's manual was very good, containing useful information on safety, assembly, adjustment, specifications, maintenance and operation. A detailed parts list was also included.
Mechanical History: Three bent shanks, five broken sweeps and twenty expansion pins were replaced.
Summary of Flexi-coil 700 Eclipse Cultivator (Evaluation Report - PDF File - 0.98 MB)
Quality of Work: The Flexi-coil 700 Eclipse cultivator was suitable for all primary and secondary tillage. Penetration of the Flexi-coil 700 was very good in all conditions. Uniformity of the tillage depth was excellent in all secondary and primary tillage. The hinged hitch and the flexibility between individual shank mounting beams allowed the Flexi-coil 700 Eclipse to follow rolling field contours extremely well. Shank force at trip point was 530 lb (2.3 kN) and, at the sweep pitch limit of 7° was 600 lb (2.7 kN). Common sweeps at normal depths were held in position and resulted in a smooth furrow bottom.
The trip height of 8.5 in (216 mm) provided fair stone protection.
Trash clearance was very good on the 12 in (305 mm) spacing machine. Trash clearance was good with the 9.3 in (237 mm) spacing machine as some plugging occurred when large amounts of damp trash were encountered. When using tine harrows, the surface finish left by the Flexi-coil 700 was good with the 12 in (305 mm) spacing machine and very good with the 9.3 in (237 mm) spacing machine. Narrower spacing machines leave smoother surface finishes. The harrows left bunches, typical of all mounted harrows, on the field surface in heavy trash.
The 12 in (305 mm) spacing machine was stable. However, the 9.3 in (237 mm) spacing machine had a different frame configuration and skewed on hillsides. Weed kill with the 12 in (305 mm) spacing machine was good as is typical of most cultivators. Weed kill was reduced to fair with the 9.3 in (237 mm) spacing machine, due to the cultivator skewing on rolling land.
Ease of Operation and Adjustment: Ease of hitching to the Flexi-coil 700 was good. The rigid hitch link and hitch jack made one-man hitching easy, but the hitch would rise if unhitched with the shanks rotated into some positions. Ease of transporting the Flexi-coil 700 was good. The Flexi-coil 700 was easily placed in transport, but it was 20.3 ft (6.2 m) wide and up to 17.3 ft (5.3 m) high. Maneuverability was good. The hitch did not contact the tractor tires on turns, but special care was required when turning sharp or backing up.
Ease of adjusting depth was good. A hydraulic depth stop was provided, but resetting the cams on the wheels took about 10 minutes. Ease of adjusting sweep pitch was very good, as it was adjusted hydraulically. Ease of frame levelling and harrow adjustment were very good. Ease of installing sweeps and shanks was good. Soil abrasion to the bottom sweep mounting bolts was slight. Shank replacement was easy.
Power Requirements: In secondary tillage at 3 in (75 mm) and 6 mph (9.7 km/h), a tractor with 215 pto hp (160 kW) is suggested for a 41.3 ft (12.6 m) wide cultivator. In primary tillage at 4 in (100 mm) and 5 mph (8.0 km/h), a tractor with 250 hp (185 kW) is suggested.
Operator Safety: The transport height of the Flexi-coil 700 Eclipse was up to 17.3 ft (5.3 m). The operator did not have to climb onto the frame to position the centre frame and wing transport locks. In transport, the tires were not overloaded.
Operator's Manual: The operator's manual was excellent and included cultivator specifications, operation and assembly instructions, maintenance schedule, safety instructions and a complete parts list.
Mechanical History: Three harrow pivot bolts came out. A hydraulic depth cylinder was replaced three times. Eighteen shanks bent and three broke. Some other minor mechanical problems occurred during the test.
Summary of Flexi-coil 600 Chisel Plow (Evaluation Report - PDF File - 0.98 MB)
Quality of Work: The Flexi-coil 600 heavy duty chisel plow was suitable for primary and secondary tillage. Penetration was very good with the 16 in (406 mm) sweeps at 11.8 in (300 mm) shank spacing. Depth uniformity was very good. Laboratory testing of the Flexi-coil shank assembly showed it would maintain a uniform tillage or seeding depth while operating in primary and secondary tillage.
The maximum lift height of the shank assembly was 13 in (330 mm) when equipped with 16 in (406 mm) sweeps. This lift height provided very good stone protection.
Trash clearance at the 11.8 in (300 mm) shank spacing was very good. In heavy, damp trash, plugging would occur at the wheel locations or between the front center shank and the left front shank. Plugging between the two shanks was caused by the narrow lateral spacing between the shanks. With the optional harrows attached, the surface finish left by the Flexi-coil 600 in light loose trash was good. The harrows were not used in heavy trash conditions.
The Flexi-coil 600 was stable but did skew in gently to moderately rolling field conditions. This did not affect the overall performance of the unit.
Ease of Operation and Adjustment: Ease of maintenance was very good. Transporting the Flexi-coil 600 heavy duty chisel plow was very good. The hitch jack and rigid hitch link made one man hitching easy. If the optional harrows were attached, positive hitch weight was still maintained.
Ease of levelling the frame was good. The floating hitch eliminated the need to level the hitch. Adequate adjustment was provided for front-to-back frame levelling and lateral levelling of the wings. Ease of setting the tillage depth was very good. A depth stop plunger was adjusted to set the tillage depth. Ease of setting the optional harrows was very good.
Power Requirements: In secondary tillage at 3 in (75 mm) and 5 mph (8 km/h), a tractor with 155 pto hp (115 kw) is required. At the same speed and depth in primary tillage, a 173 pto hp (129 kw) is required.
Operator Safety: Operation of the Flexi-coil 600 heavy duty chisel plow was safe provided normal safety procedures were observed. There was no safety chain supplied for on-road transportation.
Operator's Manual: The operator's manual was very good, containing useful information on safety, assembly, adjustment, specifications, maintenance and operation. A detailed parts list was also included.
Mechanical History: The castor housing adjustment bolts were replaced several times during the test period. A few minor problems also occurred.
Summary of Morris Magnum II CP-725 Chisel Plow (Evaluation Report - PDF File - 0.91
MB)
Quality of Work: The Morris CP-725 chisel plow was suitable for primary and secondary tillage. Penetration was very good with the 16 in (406 mm) sweeps at 12 in (305 mm) shank spacing. Depth uniformity was very good. Laboratory testing of the Morris CP-725 shank assembly showed it would maintain a uniform tillage or seeding depth while operating in primary and secondary tillage.
The maximum lift height of the shank assembly was 10 in (254 mm) when equipped with 16 in (406 mm) sweeps. This lift height provided good stone protection.
Trash clearance at the 12 in (305 mm) shank spacing was very good. With the optional harrows attached, the surface finish left by the Morris CP-725 in light loose trash was good. The harrows were not used in heavy trash conditions.
The Morris CP-725 was stable but did skew in gently to moderately rolling field conditions but did not affect its overall performance.
Ease of Operation and Adjustment: Transporting the Morris CP-725 chisel plow was very good. The hitch jack and A-Frame hitch made one man hitching easy. If the optional harrows were attached, positive hitch weight was still maintained.
Ease of levelling the frame was very good. Front-to-back levelling was accomplished by adjusting the ratchet jack on the A-Frame hitch member. There was an adjustable cylinder control rod on each depth cylinder for lateral levelling. Ease of setting the tillage depth was very good. A depth control rod on the left wing depth cylinder was adjusted to set the tillage depth. Ease of setting the harrows was good.
Power Requirements: In secondary tillage at 3 in (75 mm) and 5 mph (8 km/h), a tractor with 109 pto hp (81 kW) is required. At the same speed and depth in primary tillage, 121 pto hp (91 kW) is required.
Operator Safety: Operation of the Morris CP-725 chisel plow was safe provided normal safety procedures were observed. No safety chain was supplied for on-road transportation.
Operator's Manual: The operator's manual was good, containing useful information on safety, assembly, adjustment, specifications, maintenance and operation. A detailed parts list was also included.
Mechanical History: A few minor mechanical problems occurred during the test.
Summary of Cereal Implements Model 806 Chisel Plow (Evaluation Report - PDF File - 0.88 MB)
Quality of Work: The Cereal Implements Model 806 heavy duty chisel plow was suitable for primary and secondary tillage. Penetration was very good with the 16 in (406 mm) sweeps at 12 in (305 mm) shank spacing. Depth uniformity was good. Laboratory testing of the Model 806 shank assembly showed it would maintain a uniform tillage or seeding depth while operating in primary and secondary conditions. The cultivator shank configuration allowed for overlap without running the wheel on cultivated soil.
The maximum lift height of the shank assembly was 5 in (127 mm) when equipped with 16 in (406 mm) sweeps. This lift height provided fair stone protection.
Trash clearance at the 12 in (305 mm) shank spacing was very good. In heavy, damp trash, plugging would occur at the wheel locations. With the optional harrows attached, the surface finish left by the Cl 806 in light. loose trash was good. The harrows were not used in heavy trash conditions.
The Model 806 was stable but did skew in gently to moderately rolling field conditions. Weed kill was good with the 16 in (406 mm) sweeps at 12 in (305 mm) shank spacing.
Ease of Operation and Adjustment: Transporting the Model 806 chisel plow was very good. The hitch jack and rigid hitch link made one man hitching easy. If the optional harrows were attached, care had to be taken when disconnecting the chisel plow from the tractor, because negative hitch weight could occur.
Ease of levelling the frame was very good. Vertical hitch adjustment was 14 in (356 mm) in six increments. The wing wheels could be adjusted separately for lateral levelling. Ease of setting the tillage depth was very good. A mechanical stop on the main frame cylinder was adjusted to set the tillage depth.
Ease of setting the harrows was poor. Considerable time was required to adjust the height and pressure of the optional harrows.
Power Requirements: In secondary tillage at 3 in (75 mm) and 5 mph (8 km/h), a tractor with 108 pto hp (80 kW) is required. At the same speed and depth in primary tillage a 120 pto hp (89 kW) is required.
Operator Safety: Operation of the Model 806 chisel plow was good provided normal safety procedures were provided.
Operator's Manual: The operator's manual was very good, containing useful information on safety, assembly, adjustment, specifications, maintenance and operation. A detailed parts list was also included.
Mechanical History: Two shanks bent and the left rear hinge pin fell out during the evaluation.
Summary of Case IH 4900 Vibra Chisel (Evaluation Report - PDF File - 0.77 MB)
Quality of work: The Case IH 4900 was suitable for light primary and secondary tillage. Penetration was good with the 14 in (356 mm) sweeps. However, the cultivator did not penetrate well in hard or very dry primary tillage. Depth uniformity was good. Depth was very uniform in level terrain but varied in sharply rolling terrain. Furrow bottom ridging was excessive in heavy primary tillage with the 14 in (356 mm) sweeps. Narrower sweeps or chisel points should be used in hard or dry primary tillage conditions.
The maximum lift height of the shanks was 13 in (330 mm). This provided good stone protection, however, while tripping, several sweeps contacted the cultivator frame and wheels.
Trash clearance was good, and plugging only occurred at wheel locations in very heavy damp trash or weeds. The mounted harrows would fill with trash in moderate conditions. Surface finish was good in light trash.
The sweep pattern was symmetrical and skewing was not a problem on level ground. Like all cultivators. skewing occurred on steep hillsides resulting in weed misses. Weed kill was good when the mounted harrows were used in light trash.
Ease of Operation and Adjustment: Ease of hitching to the Case IH 4900 was very good. Hitch weight was positive in field and transport position. Ease of transport was good. It took less than 5 minutes, but installing the depth control transport locks required climbing on the cultivator frame. The locks for the wings in transport position were controlled from the tractor cab. Maneuverability was excellent. The hitch frame did not contact the tractor rear wheels in sharp turn.
Ease of setting tillage depth was very good. It took less than 5 minutes however, the hand cranks for the wing wheel depth adjustment would rotate while transporting. Ease of leveling the frame was very good. Lateral and fore-and-aft leveling was easily accomplished with the hand cranks provided. Ease of adjusting the harrows was poor. No tine angle adjustment was provided. The harrow sections were very heavy and required a jack for lifting.
Ease of service and maintenance was very good. Clear instructions were provided. Sweeps were easily removed as there was no thread damage on the bolts. The shank mechanism had to be removed from the frame to replace a bent shank.
Power Requirements: In secondary tillage at a 3 in (75 mm) depth, and at 5 mph (8 km/h), a tractor with 192 hp (143 kW) is required. At the same depth and speed in primary tillage, a 215 hp (160 kW) tractor is required.
Operator Safety: The Case IH 4900 required caution in transport. Transport locks, hitch safety chain, and a bracket for a slow moving vehicle sign were provided. The main frame tires were overloaded in transport with the added weight of the mounted harrows.
Operator's Manual: The operator's manuals were very good. Separate manuals were provided for the cultivator and tine harrows. The manuals very simply supplied the required instructions.
Mechanical History: Only minor mechanical problems occurred during testing. However, shanks were relocated on the frame to provide better clearance at wheel locations before the start of the test.
Summary of Morris 8900 Floating Hitch Cultivator (Evaluation Report - PDF File - 0.76 MB)
Quality of Work: The Morris 8900 floating hitch cultivator was suitable for primary and secondary tillage. Penetration was very good with 12 in (305 mm) sweeps. Uneven penetration occurred in dry, hard primary tillage. Depth uniformity was very good in secondary and moist primary tillage. Uniformity was reduced when working in dry, hard primary soil or in sharply rolling terrain. Laboratory and field testing of the regular duty shank assembly showed the shank would maintain uniform tillage depth in both primary and secondary field conditions.
The maximum lift height of the shank assembly was 10 in (254 mm) when equipped with 12 in (305 mm) sweeps. The lift height provided very good stone protection.
The 27 in (686 mm) sweep-to-frame clearance and 9 in (229 mm) shank spacing allowed for very good trash clearance. In moist primary tillage the surface was left level with the majority of the straw on the surface. Soil ridging occurred in secondary tillage with heavy trash coverage.
The Morris 8900 was stable and did not skew sideways in typical field conditions. The symmetrical sweep pattern required skewing greater than 2° before tillage misses occurred.
Ease of Operation and Maintenance: Maintenance of the cultivator was very good with easy access to all lubrication points. One person could replace the 49 sweeps in 3.5 hours. The two wing cultivator sweeps adjacent to the outside main frame wheels were trimmed to prevent tire damage. Ease of hitching was good. The hitch jack required the use of a block when hitching.
Transporting the 8900 cultivator was very good. The cultivator was placed into transport position in five minutes. Ease of levelling the frame was good. The control rods and gauge wheel adjustment rods on the wing frame were difficult to adjust. The floating hitch eliminated the need to level the hitch.
Ease of setting the tillage depth was very good. A depth control rod plunger engaged the depth stop valves at the correct depth.
Power Requirements: In secondary tillage at a 3 in (75 mm) depth and a 5 mph (8 km/h) speed, a tractor with 159 pto hp (119 kW) was required. At the same depth and speed in primary tillage, a 178 pto hp (133 kW) tractor was required.
Operator Safety: Operation of the Morris 8900 floating hitch cultivator was safe provided normal safety procedures were observed. A slow moving vehicle sign, safety reflectors and hitch safety chain were provided as standard equipment. Pressure relief check valves were located in the wing lift and depth control hydraulic systems.
Operator's Manual: The operator's manual was very good, containing useful information on safety, specifications, operation, maintenance and trouble shooting. No assembly or parts list manuals were included.
Mechanical History: No mechanical problems were encountered during the test.
Summary of Flexi-coil 820 Floating Hitch Cultivator (Evaluation Report - PDF File - 1.2 MB)
Quality of Work: The Flexi-coil 820 floating hitch cultivator was suitable for primary and secondary tillage. Penetration was similar for both the 11 in (279 mm) Nok-On sweeps and 3 in (76 mm) Nok-On spoons. Uneven penetration resulted when working in dry, hard primary tillage. Depth uniformity of the Flexi-coil 820 floating hitch cultivator was very good in secondary and moist primary conditions. Uniformity was reduced when working in dry, hard primary conditions or in sharply rolling terrain. The shank trip mechanism maintained uniform tillage depth at horizontal forces up to 543 Ib (2.4 kN) where the shank began to trip as the spring-trip preload was overcome.
The maximum lift height of the shank assembly was 11 in (279 mm) when equipped with 11 in (279 mm) Nok-On sweeps or 3 in (76 mm) Nok-On spoons. The lift height provided very good stone protection.
The 4 row, 30 in (762 mm) sweep-to-frame clearance and 9 in (229 mm) shank spacing allowed for good residue flow. The 9 in (229 mm) sweep pattern required shanks be mounted behind the front tire of the dual axle wheel sets, reducing the clearance between the walking beam and shank. Plugging usually occurred at the walking beam locations when working in moist soil conditions with heavy trash. Occasional plugging also occurred at the centre of the unit due to the narrow lateral spacing between shanks.
In primary tillage, with the mounted harrows set at a less aggressive working angle soil ridging occurred, with the majority of the straw remaining on the surface. Using a more aggressive harrow angle reduced the soil ridging, producing a uniform seedbed with less straw remaining on the surface.
The Flexi-coil 820 was stable and did not skew sideways in typical field conditions. The symmetrical sweep pattern required skewing greater than 2° before tillage misses occurred.
Ease of Operation and Adjustment: Maintenance of the cultivator was very good, with easy access to all lubrication points. One person could replace the 45 Nok-On sweeps or spoons in 20 minutes. Ease of hitching was very good. A safety chain was supplied as standard equipment.
Transporting the 820 cultivator was very good. The cultivator was placed into transport, position in 5 minutes. The over-centred position of the wings in transport eliminated the need for a mechanical safety lock. Ease of levelling the frame was good. Level ground was required for initial frame levelling.
Ease of setting the tillage depth was very good. Tillage depth was changed by repositioning the depth stop adjustor assembly on the depth stop rod. Ease of adjusting the optional tine harrows was good. Harrow tine angle was selected from 1 of the 6 available detents. Harrow downward pressure was adjusted by the location of the top pin and spring length.
Power Requirements: In secondary tillage at a speed of 5 mph (8 km/h) and a depth of 3 in (76 mm) a tractor with 165 PTO hp (124 kW) was required with the mounted harrows. At this speed and depth in primary tillage, a 182 PTO hp (136 kW) tractor was required.
Operator Safety: Operation of the Flexi-coil floating hitch cultivator was safe provided normal safety procedures were observed. A slow-moving vehicle sign, safety reflectors and safety chain were provided as standard equipment. When in transport position with harrows attached, the load on the centre section tires could exceed the Tire and Rim Association's maximum load rating.
Operator's Manual: The operator's manual was very good, containing information on safety, specifications, operation, maintenance and trouble shooting. A separate parts list, assembly and harrow manuals were supplied.
Mechanical History: The depth lock actuator link, depth and wing hydraulic lines and depth stop valve were damaged during the test. |