A NEW addition to the Massey Ferguson MF 8000 Series takes the range into new power territory, with up to 405hp available for pto-driven implements and haulage operations.

The MF 8740 Dyna-VT extends the series to six models, starting at 270hp and marks the introduction of a new touch-screen data collection and control system alongside a number of detail enhancements that include the ultimate in driver comfort – a leather upholstered seat.

They also get larger engine air filter with up to 20% longer service life, automatic valve setting adjustment, trailer air braking with ABS option as standard, doubleangle wing mirrors to eliminate blind spots; and a new LED lighting option for improved all-round visibility.

At 400hp for draft work, the 8740 Dyna-VT has 8% more power than the 8737, but about the same peak torque output at 1600Nm and a more modest 5hp increase in power output when undertaking pto and transport applications.

Engine performance apart, specification details for it are the same as for its contemporaries in the series, with an emphasis on a light-weight structure strong enough to be ballasted for heavy-weight draft implements.

Ballast-free, the tractors weigh in at around 10.8 tonnes, resulting in a powerto-weight ratio of just 26.7kg/ hp for low draft top work and the like.

But cast wheel rings, belly plates and a block carried on the integrated front threepoint linkage lift the base weight for high traction demand applications and its maximum permitted weight of 18 tonnes enables the tractor to handle large mounted implements.

As now, MF’s Dyna-VT stepless transmission is the sole means of channelling power and torque to the wheels, which can be shod with the second-generation Michelin Axiobib.

This means the flagship MF series is amongst the first available with this performanceenhanced tyre.

Field tests by MF, Michelin and Gregoire-Besson recorded 28% more traction capacity and an 11% increase in output when a 38-inch first-generation Axiobib was compared with a 42-inch version of the latest design.

Also, a 10% reduction in fuel consumption was recorded – all of which resulted partly from a 26% increase in contact patch between the tyre and soil thanks to greater carcase flexibility.

The tyres are available in sizes up to 900mm wide and 2.15m diameter.

In the cab, operators get to use the new nine-inch tabletlike Datatronic 5 touch screen display, which has been developed in-house and adds a suite of precision farming options to the usual tractor and implement control and monitoring functions.

Now a standard installation on all MF 8000 Series tractors, the ISOBUScompatible display provides quick and easy access to settings adjustments.

The precision farming package – available from the outset or as individual options at any time – comprises Auto-Guide steering to three levels of accuracy; AgControl section regulation for sprayers, spreaders and seed drills; TaskDoc data collection and transfer – by Bluetooth or a mobile data SIM card; and AgCommand fleet monitoring telematics