Krone Releases New BiG M
Memphis, Tenn., December 7, 2011 - Krone’s new BiG M 420 self-propelled mower conditioners are powered by common-rail engines from MAN which deliver more horsepower with greater efficiency. In addition, the new models feature a cab that presents a new dimension in operator comfort.
Equipped with a 420 hp MAN engine, the new BiG M 420 has all it takes to deliver extraordinary performance in dense crops and on slopes. The new engines use SCR technology with AdBlue to comply with Tier 4 interim exhaust emission standards and as a result provide maximum fuel efficiency.
Like its predecessors, the BiG M 420 features an automotive transmission, which controls engine speed automatically to match it to the ground speed selected and the current load on the driveline. The cooling system received an update to match the enormous engine power. Evidence of this is the large radiator with rotary screen and exhaust system. Aspiration is from above, which brings in much cleaner air. The automatic cleaning process prevents the engine from overheating and reduces the time spent on cleaning.
The new engine technology is complemented by a new cab design. Here, operators will enjoy an unobstructed view courtesy of slimmer posts and a larger glazed area. High build quality and improved damping result in low noise levels while climate control and a mobile cool box give unmatched comfort.
The new Krone-developed joystick has been customized to the BiG M and combines state of the art ergonomics with comprehensive multi-functionality. For example, a cross control raises all mowers at the same time on the headland then lowers them back into working position. The same control also operates the optional self-leveling feature on slopes. Each mower is assigned its own control on the joystick, which adjusts each mower separately to its individual area of work – a plus in awkward fields.
The focus on operator comfort is also reflected in the overall level of specification. The BiG M 420 features the new heavy-duty mower bed with SafeCut auto-reset system. Like the BiG M 400, the BiG M 420 is available with choice of conditioner. The high-performance CV conditioner offers a 32 foot cutting width and uses freely pivoting V-type steel tines which give extremely intensive conditioning. Leafy crops such as alfalfa require gentle treatment, which comes from the ultra-durable nylon rollers of the high-performance CRi conditioner. The CRi version offers a 30 foot cutting width.
Mergers are standard on the BiG M 420. The Krone BiG Swath System transfers the conditioned crop from the conditioner to the middle of the machine without the material dropping to the ground and becoming contaminated. The BiG Swath System operates in combination with both the CV conditioner and the CRi conditioner, and when the auger hoods are open, it spreads the crop across the full cutting width.
