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They’ve been five years in the making and cost millions of dollars to develop. I am not talking about the latest in hybrid automobile technology I am talking about <a href=”http://www.masseyferguson.com/agco/mf/na/home.htm” target=”_blank”>Massey Ferguson’s</a> new 1600 series compact tractors. Intended to replace Massey Ferguson’s venerable 1500 series machines, The 1600-series tractors aren’t just a cosmetic upgrade. “Every nut, every bolt, every nuance of this new generation compact is the result of one pivotal factor — our relentless dedication to understanding what our customers want,” says Steve Barcuch, Product Marketing Manager for compact tractors.</span>
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<span style=”font-family: verdana;”>The new 1600 series includes six models from 35 to 60 gross engine horsepower, all feature steel and cast iron construction, 4-wheel drive, a choice of four transmissions, plus rear and mid PTOs. With sleek new styling and 22 different configurations, all with a factory-installed cab option, the 1600 Series meets the most discriminating personal taste and has the ability to handle any virtually job.</span>
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<span style=”font-family: verdana;”>1600 series compact tractors are powered with efficient Iseki 3- or 4-cylinder liquid-cooled diesel engines that easily meet Tier IV interim emission standards. Four transmission choices include the 8 x 8 SynchroShuttle, the 12 x 12 SynchroShuttle, 12 x 12 DynaQPS™ and a three-range hydrostatic transmission to match the operator’s needs for economy, durability, power and agility. Heavy-duty cast-iron housings and oil-encased bevel gears mean smoother operation and longer life. These tractors are the real deal.</span>
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<span style=”font-family: verdana;”>Operator amenities specific to the 1600 series tractors include form-hugging, standard deluxe spring-suspension seat; standard armrests; and a platform which rests on rubber isolation mounts to minimize vibration. A molded rubber floor mat covers the entire platform and provides additional cushioning. Redesigned, right-hand fender-mounted implement controls are located to reduce operator back and arm fatigue and the wide-open platform makes getting on and off the tractor a breeze.</span>
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<span style=”font-family: verdana;”>To learn more about the specific 1600 series models, visit your local Massey Ferguson dealer or simply <a href=”http://www.masseyferguson.com/1600″ target=”_blank”>click here</a>.</span>
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<span style=”font-family: verdana;”>I haven’t yet operated one of the 1600 series tractors, but I plan to this summer.</span>
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<a href=”http://www.grit.com/biographies/oscar-h-will” target=_self>Hank Will</a>
<em> raises hair sheep, heritage cattle and many varieties of open-pollinated corn with his wife, Karen, on their rural Osage County, Kansas farm. His home life is a perfect complement to his professional life as editor in chief at GRIT and Capper’s Farmer magazines. Connect with him on </em>
<a title=Google+ href=”https://plus.google.com/u/0/117459637128204205101/posts” target=_blank rel=author>Google+</a>.</p>