Power is nice. Capacity is good. But after 14 or 15 straight hours in an operator’s chair during a busy spring or fall, you have to know that the right cab is essential. A cab that reduces fatigue and enhances productivity is the only way you’re going to achieve those power and capacity ratings, so this month, Machinery Guide looks into the range of cabs that manufacturers are putting on their tractors and combines.
Massey Ferguson builds in virtual command
Massey Ferguson describes its 9005 series combine cabs as the “roomiest, most comfortable and quietest around.” These cabs boast enhanced visibility compared to older cab models, plus electrically adjusted rear view mirrors with controls at the operator’s fingertips.
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Inside, the C2000 Virtual Terminal is integrated into what Massey Ferguson calls a unique “command arm.” The command arm can be adjusted by the operator and moves along with the MF deluxe seat. That’s part of its design philosophy, which focuses on using ergonomics to produce a control station that puts operators in full control, and then helps keep them there with a pleasing, comfortable and quiet environment.
The ISOBUS C2000 Virtual Terminal is plug-and-play with video capability. It incorporates touch screen technology to select and monitor combine functions such as engine oil pressure, fuel level, coolant temperature and grain loss monitor. There is also a slot for an SD card, which enables data storage and ultimate transfer to other media.
Virtually vibration-free cabs from New Holland
New Holland’s Harvest Suite cabs on its CR9000 and CX8000 series combines include a full air-suspension seat and an adjustable steering column. Four rubber silencer blocks make this cab virtually vibration free, and the company says it’s the quietest combine cab on the market. On the CX combine you can even choose an optional refrigerator.
Harvest Suite cabs boast 110 cubic feet of space for ample room in all directions, with good headroom, legroom and space behind the seat. This spaciousness extends to visibility, with 62.3 sq. ft of glass including an inspection window at the rear of the cab.
The Harvest Suite cab also provides fingertip control of all the cutting, feeding, threshing, separation and cleaning functions of the combine. This control is enhanced with an in-line multifunction handle, which controls the hydrostatic drive, header, reel, and unloading auger swing and engagement as well as the emergency stop. Diagnostics can also be monitored via the IntelliView III touch screen colour display, with USB data storage and video capability.
The most glass in its class, from Case IH
Case IH North American product specialist Mark Hackett says his company’s new Surveyor Magnum Cab is the quietest cab in the industry. It’s rated at 68.3 dB, which is quieter than previous designs even though the tractor offers more horsepower.
The Surveyor Magnum cab also shines with 68.5 sq. ft. of glass, which is the largest in the industry. According to Case IH, the cab has 13 per cent more interior space than competitive models.
These cabs have the Optima seat, which comes on a Positive-Response Suspension, reacting up to 500 times per second in rough terrain. On the Magnum 180, 190, 210 and 225 Magnum tractors, an optional cab suspension is available which improves ride quality.
The controls inside the Case IH Surveyor cabs are on the right hand of the operator with the speed, direction, hydraulics, hitch, PTO and other controls within easy reach. This armrest is integrated with the seat itself, so all controls go with the operators as they swivel. An optional electronic joystick can also be added for functions such as a loader. For precision farming enthusiasts, the cab can be equipped with the AFS Pro 600 colour display option to manage auto guidance.
