Volksrust farmer Japie Landman acquires latest MF 9300 self-propelled sprayer
Such has been the success of Massey Ferguson at the Jajola Boerdery in Volksrust, Mpumalanga, that Japie Landman is now the sixth generation to use the trusted brand. “My grandfather owned MF, as did my father. While it was logical for me to follow in their footsteps, sentiment can only take you so far,” explains Japie about his decision to acquire the latest MF 9300 self-propelled sprayer for the farm. “I did my homework and discovered that the prices were very competitive. We know the dealer and the service provided is good, which is an important consideration.”
Jajola Boerdery is a cattle and sheep farm that has diversified into wheat and maize. Having such a longstanding client is vital for the success of both the dealer and AGCO Africa. “Our motto is aftersales service and integrity. It is on this foundation that we build the business. We believe in long-term relationships based on mutual trust and respect. This means we become the farmer’s mechanisation partner, looking after all of his support requirements,” says Werner Nel, Managing Director of MF dealer JWL.
In terms of the robust, entry-level MF 9300, Werner adds that there was definitely a gap in the market for this kind of sprayer in the existing product range. “It will not only supplement our existing product but is something necessary that we are looking forward to be able to market to the farming community.”
While AGCO Africa has had Challenger sprayers for years, this was never extended to MF. “We are very proud of the fact that this is now the third-generation sprayer from the MF factory. The fact that it is proven gives us confidence to introduce it into the market, not only in South Africa, but in the rest of Africa as well, where we have sold our first unit in North Africa,” says Robbie Hall, Product Marketing Manager of Gold Harvesting, AGCO Africa. “We are excited for the product, as it is definitely going to fill a gap in the market.”
Delivering precision, capacity and comfort, the straightforward MF 9300 covers more hectares per day while minimising operating costs. Designed for small- and medium-sized applications such as Jajola Boerdery, operators appreciate its simplicity, strength, and value. “I think it is a more simplified sprayer in the sense that, while it has the necessary functionality, it encompasses all of the technology needed,” says Japie.
“What I like about the MF 9330 sprayer is that it comes with certain standard features included, unlike any other sprayer available on the market, where these are add-on features that inflate the price tag. The sprayer also has a very good ground-clearance height, so you can comfortably come in late during the season to spray the maize fields. We therefore have more time on hand and are not so rushed in order to get the spraying done.”
Precision engine performance
The MF 9300 is fitted with the AGCO Power 6.6 litre Tier 3 engine. With unmatched fuel economy when coupled to the machine’s hydrostatic drive system, the power and torque characteristics surpass that of its competitors.
The engine is programmed to create maximum torque when the drive system requires it, providing healthy torque at low revs with 210 hp and 790 Nm of torque at 1 800 rpm. The excellent build quality and latest engine technology guarantee optimum fuel efficiency, maximum power, reliability, and longevity.
Cross-drive transmission
The MF 9300 features Bosch Rexroth components in its effective cross-drive transmission. With huge torque and no loss of traction, the sprayer allows for control in even the toughest conditions. Two large-capacity 90 cc variable displacement pumps drive opposing wheel motors on the front and rear of the machine. The hydrostatic drive system has a poly link between the flywheel and the first pump as a failsafe in the event of a pump failure.
A unique feature is an additional double-acting (DA) valve in the hydrostatic drive system. Most hydrostatic machines require 26 bars of pressure from the pumps before the wheel motors accept oil. This, in turn, results in the engine running at over 2 000 rpm and, in some cases, up to 2 500 rpm.
The DA valve allows the wheel motors to accept oil at seven bars, which occurs at a low 1 250 rpm. The MF 9300 differs when the system hits 26 bar pressure at 1 800 rpm, allowing full torque from the engine and transmission for the kind of fuel economy normally only seen in a hydro sprayer.
C-flex chassis
The fully bolted C-flex chassis gives the MF 9300 the ability to traverse channels, banks, and contours most would not attempt. The frame is not welded at any point, meaning that when the suspension runs out of travel, the chassis itself will flex, allowing all wheels to stay in contact with the ground, ensuring the safety and agility of the MF 9300 even in the most adverse conditions.
Manufactured from high rupture-resistant material, the large C-rails of the chassis add to the machine’s robustness, giving the operator piece of mind no matter how demanding the terrain. A sprayer covers tough conditions, and a robust chassis is the assurance the operator needs to guarantee safety on any given day.
Each airbag is controlled by its own dedicated mechanical valve, ensuring the ride is adjusted to every change in condition. The suspension is fed by a large 20-litre reservoir with a mechanically driven compressor at the engine and two conveniently located outlets for cleaning the nozzles and cabin. The active airbag suspension is simple and dependable and delivers a smooth ride in the field and on the road during transport.
Many of these parts are commonly used heavy-duty truck components such as sway bars and shackles that require no maintenance. Not only does the suspension system offer a comfortable ride, but it also means a longer service life as shock loads are soaked up by the suspension and not the chassis and boom.
Boom design
The boom design has been used by AGCO for many years, with added strength to handle arduous conditions. The boom is strong, reliable, and floats exceedingly well, even in high-speed spraying applications.
The booms are available in 28 m or 30 m widths, with the following options fitted as standard to every machine: Section control (seven sections, all boom widths), fence line nozzles, Norac auto boom levelling with five sensors, boom suspension on the centre section, 1″ stainless steel boom lines, Hypro triple nozzle bodies, and the ability to run with the wing tips folded (19 m). Additional standard boom features include breakaway with soft return, boom skids, transport locks, and work lights for night work.
Plumbing system
The 3 000-litre tank has dual hydraulic agitators and a single oscillating tank rinse nozzle fed by a 240-litre freshwater reservoir. The tank sits in a cradle that allows the chassis to flex if required beneath the tank. Features include a 40-litre standalone hand wash tank, an adjustable agitation rate and high- and low-level tank sensors.
The main sprayer pump is a 549 litre/minute Hypro Force Field run-dry pump controlled by a PWM valve. Enforcing its efficiency, the MF 9300 keeps the pump running at precisely the right rate to maintain the correct output of the product, even during speed changes. Allowing the operator to quickly fill the tank from dams and tanks when necessary, the 568 litre/minute reload pump is also a standard feature on the MF 9300.
The best working environment
Designed for safety, clarity, and comfort, the MF 9300 gives the kind of work environment needed to get through a tough day’s work. The cabin is simple, uncluttered, and functional to maximise operator comfort and safety. Controls are ergonomically arranged and within easy reach. The cabin provides a generous amount of space to increase daily productivity and reduce fatigue, especially when spending long hours behind the wheel. The adjustable air ride seat, combined with the air-conditioning system and low levels of noise and vibrations, ensures a comfortable and pleasant workstation at any time of year.
Latest technology
The MF 9300 has been fitted with the latest technology to assist with accuracy and data recording. It is factory-fitted with autonomous auto steer, which can be upgraded to sub-meter at any time. If at any point higher precision is required, it can be upgraded to RTK. To monitor productivity, all jobs and spray data can be recorded on the C3000 terminal and easily stored on a USB for record keeping and data analysis. The MF 9300 is fitted with telemetry, offering the ability to track and monitor machines from your office, which provides an insight into the machine’s operational efficiency and any potential breakdowns before they occur.
This year Massey Ferguson, a worldwide brand of AGCO (NYSE:AGCO), is excited to announce a fresh look for its iconic Triple Triangle logo and its new ‘Born to Farm’ brand identity in celebration of its 175th anniversary. MF has offered farmers around the world straightforward and dependable machines since its inception. Few global brands can claim such a lasting impact in the agricultural industry.
In support of the farming community, Massey Ferguson has an extensive network of over 35 dealers covering the whole of South Africa, catering for parts, service, aftersales and new sales. Potential customers interested in the MF range can obtain all information from www.masseyferguson.co.za. Upon completing the contact form, potential customers will have the video, brochure and dealer contact details sent to their WhatsApp and email within 30 seconds.
