The JCB Fastrac | Modern agriculture needs a serious machine
Since it started production in 1991, the JCB Fastrac has been continually evolving to meet new market demands. However, the original Fastrac principles remain firmly intact:
Full Suspension – The JCB Fastrac is still the only draught tractor with full front and rear suspension. This system not only offers unparalleled ride comfort for both the operator and implement, but also improves traction without the need to add dead weight.
Disc Brakes – Any vehicle capable of high speed needs to be able to stop. Fastrac is no exception. With EEC truck standard braking on all Fastracs you can be confident that you’re going to stop when you need to, time and time again. The external disc brakes offer excellent heat dissipation and dramatically outperform the oil-immersed systems found on conventional tractors. The ABS system* offers unrivalled control in all conditions.
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Full Chassis Construction – Another feature unique to Fastrac, this means that unlike a conventional tractor the engine and transmission are not stressed, loadbearing components.
All of the above, combined with mechanical powerassisted steering on the 3000 Series and 8250, allow Fastracs to travel at high-speed, up to 80kph where laws permit. In fact, in many territories the Fastrac is still the only true agricultural tractor legally capable of such high speed.
The Fastrac’s unique, vibration-free suspension system increases the
efficiency of both operator and implements. Meanwhile, the dynamic axle
mounting system ensures implements remain stable, isolating them from
jolts which can limit their effectiveness. The result? Higher in-field
operating speeds and greater productivity.
The mechanical progressive rate front suspension features coil, microcellular (not 2000 Series) and blotter springs. This allows a generous amount of axle movement when lightly loaded, but stiffens up as the front load increases.
All Fastracs feature load-compensating, hydro-pneumatic, self-levelling rear suspension. 2000 and 3000 Series machines have a standard carrying capacity of 2,500kg (optional 3,250kg). First the chassis is lowered in relation to the rear axle.
Then the ride height corrector valves allow oil flow in, pressurising the hydraulic cylinders and steadily restoring original ride height. At this point the valves close, trapping oil within the system. The extra pressure also ‘loads’ the gas springs to increase suspension stiffness and accommodate the extra weight on the deck.
Fast Facts
Unique full primary suspension system gives a smoother ride for increased efficiency and eliminates power hop
‘Z’ section ladder-type chassis is extremely versatile
Equal weight distribution provides reduced ground compaction and develops maximum traction
Side-to-side self-levelling and anti-roll bars improve handling, safety and stability
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Fastrac braking system EC truck braking standards are high, much higher than those for conventional tractors. But the Fastrac more than makes the grade.
Fastrac standard braking comes with large external disc brakes on each wheel and air trailer couplings. This safe, controlled, fade-free system benefits from excellent cooling offered by the large external disc brakes. Safety is further improved with air and hydraulic systems split between front and rear axles. And as with a car, there’s greater braking power on the front axle for full control even in an emergency stop.
Twin caliper brakes are fitted as standard to the 8250 and 3230 (optional on 3200). The extra performance offered by this system has been developed to provide even greater stopping power when working with increased loads. To improve stability and control even further, and to comply with legislation, JCB has overcome the problems of fitting ABS to an agricultural tractor, using proven technology from the truck world. However a slower reacting system has been utilised, in order to compensate for the larger diameter wheels.
Fast Facts
High capacity (6,000 –10,000kg) rear linkages feature optional automatic stabilisers
Responsive high output hydraulic systems
Auxiliary services incorporate timer and flow control (2000 Series Plus, 3000 Series Plus and 8250 models)
Proven Bosch Hitchtronic system helps maintain precise control
Optional electronic front linkage (3000 Series Plus and 8250)
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Fastrac interiors
The most comfortable operator environment available. That’s what you get when you put such a spacious, well-appointed cab onto a fully fledged suspension system. You also get a genuine head start when it comes to productivity.
Thanks to our suspension system, conventional tractors simply cannot compete with the Fastrac on comfort and control. Every Fastrac cab comes with two full size seats as standard; the optional deluxe heated suspension seat would be at home in a luxury saloon. Air conditioning fitted as standard, excellent ventilation and a powerful heater add to operator comfort. And even in dry environments, a full dust filter provides clean fresh air.
Sophisticated, informative and easy to use, the ergonomically designed controls are all positioned for maximum convenience. Plus, there is extensive all-round visibility and noise levels are as low as 72dBa.
On all Fastracs the JCB Electronic Monitoring System (EMS) provides an easy to understand performance assessment of numerous machine functions to keep the operator up to date with machine productivity. Shown on the dashboard, it helps optimise the Fastrac’s work rate and improve safety. It also warns of service due dates to help minimise downtime.
On the 8250 Fastrac the colour touch-screen provides an easy-to-use control for the transmission functions. The ability to adjust automatic cut-outs and programme auxiliary functions are just two examples of the further controls offered by the ergonomically positioned, easy to read, touch-screen.
No other cab helps minimise fatigue so effectively, giving the operator every chance to make full use of the immense potential at his fingertips.
