Review
Caterpillar Inc is a leading company that produces large, special-purpose equipment. The history begins in 1886, when the production of combine harvesters began. Developing and mastering new technologies, the company began producing tractors, moreover, on caterpillar tracks. The name of the brand comes from the word caterpillar. Since 1908, the production of gasoline-powered tractors began. The equipment gained considerable popularity and was exported to many European countries, as well as to Russia. With the outbreak of the First World War, the company began fulfilling military orders, which became the main part of production.
The Challender brand arose in 1987 as a result of the decision made by the management of the Caterpillar company to produce crawler tractors. The already huge range of products was replenished with combines, sprayers, spreaders, tractors with forage equipment. Working on the traction properties of the units, the designers managed to reduce the pressure on the soil by replacing metal parts with others made of a softer material.
Over time, the company expanded its production capacity by building factories in other countries. Numerous crises affected the production of equipment, but did not stop the company’s activities. Since 1998, the company, having acquired a subsidiary, has been producing diesel engines. However, despite significant successes, in 2001 the company stopped producing agricultural equipment and switched to the production of construction machines. The products have a wide range of models, consisting of dump trucks, asphalt pavers, compactors, tracked loaders, forklifts and other equipment.
Challenger crawler tractor
Technical characteristics of Challenger tractors
Their technical and operational characteristics make them maneuverable, productive and versatile in use.
Suspension
The design of the machines uses Opti-Ride™ type suspension. This original system allows the unit to move smoothly both on a flat road and across the field. Its features allow the front axle and middle wheels to have no contact with the support, and at the same time be stable.
Engine
The latest model in this series, the MT875C, uses Cat C18 ACERT engines, delivering up to 609 horsepower. With. To increase its level, a turbocharger is used, which supplies clean air to the combustion chamber.
To supply fuel, a HEUI system is installed, which injects small volumes directly into the combustion chamber.
Maximum engine efficiency is achieved due to the fact that fuel consumption can be controlled, since the above system operates regardless of the rotation speed of the unit. Control is carried out using an electronic control module.
Other tractors in this series are equipped with engines whose characteristics differ from those described above, so for the MT845C and MT855C engines of the same series are used with power values of 430 and 455 hp. With. respectively, and the MT865C and MT875C models are equipped with CAT® C18 ACERTTM engines with a displacement of 18.1 liters, its power reaches 510 hp. With. and 570 l. With.
Engine developers paid special attention to their environmental performance; the level of harmful emissions during operation is minimal and fully complies with international standards. It must be said that this was achieved without sacrificing engine power, which is especially valuable.
Control system
Its electronics records all movements of the tractor and the actions of the tractor driver, including raising and lowering equipment, the functioning of the power take-off mechanism, and others. In order to activate the turning mechanism, you need to press one switch, and the tractor will perform the entire series of actions, which, as a rule, are set manually and step by step.
The Tractor Management Center™ system plays a role similar to the human nervous system; it coordinates the work of all units and systems, making it harmonious and productive. Managing it is quite simple; it uses an intuitive interface, which greatly simplifies the process.
Hydraulics
To operate the hydraulic system, a standard pump with a volume of 166 l/min and a similar optional unit are used, providing a capacity of 223 l/min. Their joint work allows us to realize all the tasks that are posed when using this type of technology. High power makes it possible to use even equipment whose hydraulic power needs are particularly high.
As standard, the tractors have four hydraulic distributors that evenly distribute the oil flow across all units according to their level of demand.
Caterpillars
For tractors in this series, you can choose one of three types of tracks, which are designed specifically for them; you can take a model with shallow grooves, for general agricultural work, and for operation in extreme conditions. The tension of the tracks can be adjusted, several width options are available, and their strength is guaranteed by steel reinforcement.
The well-thought-out design of the tracks and chassis system allows you to reduce the percentage of slipping and make the start of field work earlier due to the increased cross-country ability of the unit.
Here you can look at the MTZ-82 tractor technical characteristics.
On our website you can watch a video about the Challenger tractor.
Review of the MTZ-80 tractor here.
Cabin
Excellent visibility, large volume, the presence of an insulating suspension, which ensures complete absence of shaking when driving, reduced noise level, climate control system - all this creates an ideal atmosphere for work and reduces tractor driver fatigue to a minimum.
As an option, the vehicle can be equipped with single or double xenon headlights.
The work is also facilitated by the presence of a GPS system, which helps to maintain parallel movement when performing various agricultural operations. The undeniable advantages of the Challenger series tractors over similar units of other brands make them one of the best options for any agricultural production. Due to their high maneuverability, they can be used both over large areas and in places where it is necessary to operate in confined spaces. Not the least role in their popularity is played by high efficiency combined with cost-effectiveness and ease of use. The only drawback of these machines is their relatively high price, but for people who know it will not be of decisive importance, since the other advantages more than compensate for it.
The lineup
In order to achieve the required power, Caterpillar tractor manufacturers have equipped their power units with turbochargers. The tracked tractors were equipped with a suspension that created a smooth ride, softening all the unevenness of the road. Such a unit could easily move on any soil. Currently, there are the Challenger Caterpillar series with wheelbases - MT500, MT600 and MT900, as well as the Challenger Caterpillar tractor series with MT700 and MT800 tracks.
Popular models
All Challenger tractor models have the ability to:
- quick replacement of additional equipment;
- operation at increased speed and the ability to operate at extremely low speeds;
- the use of standardized connection devices for different models and mounted units;
- maintenance and quick repairs at the work site in the field.
To implement these capabilities, the design of the machines involves the use of:
- powerful engines with increased speed;
- continuously variable transmission with the possibility of smooth regulation ;
- possibility of installing a speed reducer;
- suspension with a spring system;
- unified rear design for mounting additional devices.
- turbochargers for cooling.
Wheeled vehicles
The series of popular MT600C and MT600D tractors on wheels are distinguished by increased power, a modernized frame design, and high performance characteristics.
The advantages of this model range are as follows:
- powerful high-performance Agco Sisu Power engines with an advanced automated EEM control system; The combination of EEM with the fuel system increased the power of the machines and saved fuel costs . As a result, the engine responds quickly and accurately to changes in the position of the accelerator pedal.
- comfortable ergonomic cabin with a high level of noise insulation;
- a continuously variable transmission with a continuously variable function allows you to operate the machine at different combinations of travel speed and engine speed. At the same time, the engine, maintaining the minimum required speed, ensures economical operation and high efficiency.
- choice of up to 4 speeds; one-touch cruise control function;
- no switching, delays or interruption of the power channel from “creeping” to transport mode;
- integrated front linkage (ILS);
- easy-to-use, ergonomic operating controls with a well-thought-out layout;
- digital information screens;
- kit for connecting an easy-to-use and inexpensive telemetry system AGCOMMAND for remote monitoring, storing a large amount of information that is viewed in real time;
- additional alternative control modes: pedal mode, harvesting mode, power control.
Specifics of the Challenger tractor operation in the video.
Pedal mode. To switch to auto control mode from the accelerator pedal, move the switch on the Control Center, located on the seat armrest, to another position. The speed and gearbox are automatically adjusted to provide the desired speed.
The harvesting mode allows the operator to maintain a certain speed, and use the gas pedal to regulate the speed of movement.
Power control mode allows the engine and gearbox to “autonomously” find the correct settings for a specific operation.
Adjusting to the required power, the rotation speed changes automatically. Thanks to this, the fuel consumption is reduced, the noise level is reduced, and the service life of the engine itself is increased. Convenience and comfort for the driver - without the need to independently adjust the rotation speed and speed mode - makes it possible to concentrate on working operations.
The most popular models from this series are MT685C and MT685D with a power of 340 and 380 horsepower, respectively.
The progressive Challenger tractor MT 685 is one of the largest and strongest machines of a classic design , which has incorporated new developments into its design that have reduced fuel consumption and reduced the toxicity of exhaust gases to minimum values.
Compare Challenger with MTZ tractor models - here.
MT 600
The MT 685 tractor is equipped with:
- engines whose rotation speed was reduced to 2100 rpm. This significantly reduced cabin noise and fuel requirements while maintaining power levels.
- display for constant monitoring of the machine; “one click” function;
- the cabin with a large glass area has increased volume and excellent visibility ;
- continuously variable transmission with smooth shifting;
- automatic front linkage mechanism;
- rear mechanism, providing lifting of loads over 10,000 kg;
- reinforced chassis, front axle support.
Challenger tractor MT 685D. Specifications
Challenger Caterpillar Service
Challender tractors are super modern equipment, developed using the latest technologies and working with the help of intelligent systems. Therefore, it requires close attention and careful attitude. Maintenance must be carried out according to schedule with strict accuracy. The operator must be suitably qualified to operate this miniature spacecraft.
Systems monitor the work. It is enough to configure everything once and subsequent actions will be performed automatically. Special requirements apply to fuels and oils. Only high-quality materials should be used.
Reviews
- Alexey, Leningrad region. The Challenger MT 875E was purchased in addition to two tractors from the New Holland company. The Challenger is used as the main tractor, which develops over 500 horsepower. For this machine we have all the attachments needed for harrowing, hilling, plowing, mowing, cultivating and other earthmoving operations. The equipment is simple and easy to operate, and much easier to maintain compared to New Holland tractors. Smart electronics are surprisingly durable, as they are reliably protected from road obstacles. Fuel consumption could be lower, and maintenance is not cheap. I liked the stylish and impressive design, the reliable tracked chassis and the wide glass area. The tractor is good, but requires delicate maintenance and replacement of spare parts only with original ones.
- Vladimir, Ryazan. A decent tractor for its price category. We have a 2010 copy, purchased in 2015. The mileage is relatively short, but there are already enough technical problems. For example, these are quickly worn out tire treads (apparently they have already been replaced with Chinese analogues), unclear gearbox activation, mediocre build quality, oil leaks from the transmission, noise and vibrations in the cabin, and lack of insulation in the engine compartment. But the equipment works if you maintain it somehow. Off-road this tractor has no equal in this class.
