Providing raw horsepower is the function of every tractor, but the new 2009 Puma™ Series tractors from Case IH now deliver that power at a higher level of productivity than before with several major advances being brought to market next season.
A larger model - the new Puma 225 at 195 PTO horsepower - is being rolled out, while at the same time a series of enhancements and new options are being announced for the entire family. "The Puma series is ideal as a primary tractor for a livestock operation, or mixed farm enterprise, with both loader and hay applications along with mid-sized row crop tools. They also work well for larger cash crop operations as a sprayer, transport or utility tractor," says Tom Dean, marketing director of tractors for Case IH.
Rolling out CVT
The Puma 225 is available exclusively with the new Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), which leverages more than a decade of Case IH CVT experience and engineering expertise for a proven design specifically adapted to the needs of North American farmers. The Case IH Puma 165, Puma 180, Puma 195 and Puma 210 - at 135, 150, 165 and 180 PTO hp, respectively - are each available with either CVT or full powershift transmissions, Dean says.
"We've taken CVT transmission technology with a proven field record -- Case IH European customers have relied on it for more than 10 years -- and adapted the technology specifically for the needs of North American farm operations," Dean says.
"We developed this transmission to deliver unprecedented levels of fuel efficiency, whether at creep speeds or road speeds. For example, typical transport speeds are accomplished at only 1,250 engine rpm. That saves significant fuel, helping manage one of the most critical input costs on the farm today."
The DieselSaver™ Auto Productivity Management (APM) system, standard on the Puma CVT models, allows the operator to select the desired engine and ground speed based on the specific application and time available. APM then automatically adjusts to ensure the best possible balance of power and fuel efficiency.
"The APM system also monitors what different speed ranges are being used at any given time, and stores up to three different pre-set speed ranges -- allowing quick and easy transition from field to road, and then for a third operation if needed. As these cycles or applications are repeated through the course of the day or season, the operator can easily switch between the three pre-set speed ranges in very short order," Dean says.
Another fuel saving feature is the 1000/1000E PTO standard in the CVT models. In less demanding tasks the farmer can operate in the 1000E mode at 1,700 rpm, yet still has the option to switch to the 1000-speed at 1,900 rpm PTO for heavier crop conditions.
Ease of operation
Active Stop Control, standard with the Case IH Puma CVT, reduces operator effort by allowing easier starts and stops on inclines, in the field or on the road, without the need to clutch and brake as with a conventional transmission.
Other key features ideally suited to today's tractor operator are the latest Puma Series advancements in ergonomic controls, with six key functions at the operator's fingertips, Dean says.
The newly designed MultiControl Armrest, standard on both the powershift and CVT models, puts all tractor speed, direction, hydraulics, hitch and end-of-row switch in the multifunction control handle right in the operator's hand. "The multifunction control handle builds on the tradition of the industry-leading Case IH Magnum and Steiger controls, featuring an integrated gear/throttle control handle," Dean says.
"For loader operation, the optional electronic joystick is integrated right into the new armrest, allowing simultaneous control of optional third mid-mount functions such as the loader grapple. This new joystick is a good match-up with the Case IH L760 or L770 loaders, and the various loader attachments available," Dean says.
For material handling work, the selectable left- or right-hand power shuttle allows the operator to choose to engage on-the-go forward/reverse shuttling based on personal preference. "Everyone can get comfortable, and that's especially important when facing a long day of repetitive operations or work in close quarters.
"With the new series there's even an optional electrical adjustment of the armrest for quick and easy position adjustment by different-sized operators for the most ergonomic position of the armrest controls," Dean says.
It's easy to keep track of key operating information in a new cab A-post instrumentation cluster. "The cluster is in the natural field of vision for the operator, and displays gear, engine speed, hydraulic flow and timer settings, and PTO speed. Other performance data is visible with the optional performance monitor," Dean says.
Another new option, heated windshields, provides better visibility by quickly dissipating fog or frost buildup on the front and rear windshields.
Plenty of power
The Puma models are powered by the quiet, fuel efficient 6.75L Case IH engine that's built a reputation for responsive power and durability.
The engines are also fully biodiesel compatible. When approved Case IH maintenance procedures are followed, these engines are rated for up to a 100 percent biodiesel blend (B100), Dean says.
A standard, new, exclusive hydraulic power boost provides additional engine power of up to 35 hp for hydraulically demanding implements, freeing up more power to keep running at optimal working speeds while handling tough crop conditions or inclines. This is in addition to the PTO and transport power boost features that have been standards of Puma Series performance for the past several years.
New hydraulic remote valves provide more flow at the remotes for today's hydraulically demanding implements, Dean says. And a new rear-fender-mounted control switch activates the No. 1 hydraulic remote circuit. This new switch is located next to the existing fender-mounted hitch and PTO control switches, and allows handy activation of a frequently used hydraulic circuit from a conveniently accessible ground-level location. "It's a labor-saver to be able to have all these three functions available during implement set-up right at the ground level," adds Dean.
Precision when in the field
The Puma models are no stranger to serious field work, and are now available with the AFS AccuGuide™ Ready option to make full use of the Case IH AFS precision farming capabilities. "Whether you're just getting into autoguidance, or fully comfortable with the technology already, the Puma series can be set up to meet your needs. It's fully capable in the field with the AFS Pro 600 color display to manage autoguidance, and also monitor key tractor functions with the Field Performer application common to Case IH Magnum and Steiger tractors," Dean says.
For more information, visit www.caseih.com
