NH offers a 16/16 trans, but it's in European TCE. Bummer!
TCE55 joins NH family
By Jim Breen
New Holland's TCE tractors are designed to offer operators plenty of power in a compact, straightforward package. The range is comprised of four models from the 38hp TCE40 to the new 54hp TCE55, with the emphasis on affordability.
"The newly-expanded TCE range is ideal for amenity applications, golf courses and turf work, as well as polytunnel operations and specialist farming.
"Users have been delighted with the no-nonsense approach of the TCE. It is simple to use and has low operating costs,'' said Kevin Carley, New Holland's product specialist.
The Tier II emissionised engines are said to be "clean and quiet''.
The frugal three-cylinder TCE40 develops 103Nm torque at 1800rpm while the top-of-the-range TCE55 achieves a maximum of 160Nm at just 1,600rpm from its two-litre four-cylinder turbocharged engine.
According to New Holland, the balance of low-end torque and top-end power means the TCE is equally at home engaged in light ploughing or towing. The transmission is a simple 16F 16R box with a creeper. Four ratios in each of the four working ranges enable operations to be carried out from as slow as 250m/hr or up to 30kph.
A choice of agricultural and turf tyres is available to suit various requirements, be it high levels of grip or low ground pressure. A 55-degree steering angle affords good manoeuvrability - allowing short headlands to be easily accommodated, whether out in the field or in the confines of a yard or fruit farm.
A separate dedicated pump for power steering means a genuine 28 litres-per-minute is available for hydraulic applications front and rear.
The 1,200kg rear hydraulic lift capacity and three-speed PTO (540, 540E and ground speed) allows a wide variety of implements to be operated. A 400kg front linkage capacity and optional 1,000rpm front PTO further extends the versatility of the TCE. The cabless version of the TCE uses a suspended platform mounted on 'silent blocks' to isolate the driver from noise and vibration.
Owners of the four-cylinder TCE45, 50 and 55 can enjoy cool summers and warm winters by adding a cab with optional air-conditioning. Large glass doors and windows provide good visibility, with the windows opening to provide full ventilation. <font color="blue"> </font>