The global development of track technology was launched by Case IH 20 years ago, with the release of its first four-tracked tractor in 1996.
It’s this experience which has kept the brand at the forefront of innovation, according to Case IH brand leader, Bruce Healy.
“Case IH developed the idea of using tracks as a way of putting more power to the ground and eliminating power hop, improving traction and leaving no berms.
“As well as very effectively protecting the soil, track technology gives the operator improved control of the tractor or combine.”
Mr Healey said tracks, including a combination of tracks and tyres, was becoming increasingly popular.
“Uptake has been strong, as producers worldwide with soil conditions needing better flotation have taken advantage of the many benefits.
“When we developed track technology on tractors, we set the benchmark – which the rest of the industry continues to chase – but we haven’t sat still; we’re continually evolving the technology.
“Case IH has continued to improve the technology, with specific drivelines and an exclusive undercarriage system to handle the power and torque of tracks.
“The improvements we’ve made have come from us having the knowledge of developing track technology on tractors in the first place.
“Additionally, the Case IH dealer network is extremely experienced in servicing tracked machines, having done it for nearly two decades.
“People should never underestimate the value of having dealer service staff who can ensure machines are running to their full potential whenever they are needed.
“It’s that expertise that gives our customers peace of mind when they invest in a Case IH tracked tractor or combine.”
From that first 9370 Steiger Quadtrac, track technology is now incorporated across numerous Case IH tractor and combine models, including Steiger Quadtrac, Steiger Rowtrac, Axial-Flow combines and the Magnum Rowtrac family that Case IH launched earlier in 2015.
Mr Healy said the company had developed track technology to suit farming enterprises including sugarcane growers in far north Queensland, to wheat farmers in Victoria’s Mallee and throughout Western Australia, through to cotton producers in New South Wales.
Steiger Quadtrac and Rowtrac models have a four-track system—with four individually driven, oscillating tracks to ensure maximum manoeuvrability while increasing traction and reducing compaction and soil disturbance.
The track-wheel combination in Magnum Rowtrac models gives farmers row-crop flexibility.
