JCB has marked the 25th anniversary of its Fastrac tractor with the launch of two new powerful models. The new 8000 Series tractors take the peak performance of the range to 348hp under full load, representing a 14% increase to its flagship line.
The most obvious changes are the distinctive styling and new Command Plus cab. But under the skin, the new Fastrac 8290 and 8330 have engines with more power and torque, a new high speed approved hydrostatic steering system and new tyre options. There’s also a more compact front linkage and pto package and a larger deck area behind the cab.
The global launch at its headquarters in Staffs on 3 Oct is the latest iteration in the 25-year Fastrac journey and follows on from the launch
of the new Fastrac 4000 two years ago – a move that’s been well received by seasoned and new Fastrac users alike, according to JCB Agriculture general manager John Smith.
“Now we’re introducing several of that tractor’s appealing features to our biggest Fastrac models to increase their versatility and further improve the operator experience while also raising performance levels.”
Revised engine
Under the hood, the two 8000 newcomers continue with the 8.4-litre, 6cyl engine but it now meets Euro Stage 4/US Tier 4 final emissions standards. This delivers more power and torque, using a twin-turbocharger installation that JCB says responds fast when the operator requires increased power.
The two turbos are arranged in series: a relatively small diameter turbo that spools up quickly provides a lively response to the accelerator pedal, while the larger diameter unit ensures there’s plenty of torque and power across the engine’s rev range.
At rated speed, the Fastrac 8290’s engine develops 209kW (280hp) to match the output of the outgoing Fastrac 8310, with engine power peaking at 228kW (306hp) as revs are pulled down under heavy draft or towing loads. The new 8330 model has a rated speed output of 250kW (335hp) rising to 260kW (348hp) under full load – a new peak performance for the range and 32kW (42hp) higher than previously.
At the same time, peak torque goes up by 10% to 1440Nm at 1500rpm, which gives the tractor even greater ability to ‘hang on’ as conditions become more challenging or the tractor faces a climb, says John Smith.
“These figures give our flagship tractor a significant step up in performance with heavy draft equipment, demanding pto-driven implements and heavy trailers, tankers and spreaders,” he adds.
Power is put to the ground via the company’s multi-mode V-Tronic continuously variable transmission. Different modes selected by the operator using the Fastrac’s touch-screen display prioritise optimum engine and transmission settings for power, economy, constant PTO speed, constant field speed or road travel. The system can operate automatically or used manually to deliver either seamless speed changes or in steps to emulate a powershift.
One notable feature is JCB’s Activ Traction, which helps Fastracs with CVT transmissions retain grip during heavy draft applications. It draws information from a radar speed sensor, hydraulics position control and cruise control to manipulate engine torque and maintain traction for the most cost-efficient performance, making the most of Fastrac’s balanced weight distribution.
New styling and cab
The engine and cooling pack are housed beneath a new bonnet styled to add to the purposeful character of the Fastrac 8000 Series tractors. Headlights are set into the grille so there’s no longer any need for the ‘crash bar’ assembly of the current model.
The new 8000 models get the Command Plus cab, used on the 4000 series, offering space, comfort and practicality, with a seat that swivels 50° to the right and 20° left to help ke
The new 8000 models get the Command Plus cab, used on the 4000 series, offering space, comfort and practicality.
ep an eye on rear-mounted and trailed equipment.
The operator sits a little further forward than before, and the additional space liberated behind the cab makes it practical to install a mounted sprayer, supplementary seed or fertiliser hopper.
Deep door glass and side windows, and wide lower-windscreen glazing offer good all round visibility and there’s a comprehensive array of work lights to maintain this when the nights close in. An optional LED package, with up to 18 lights in all, is available.
Steering and suspension
The Fastrac 8000 Series continues with coil spring and damper front suspension and active rear-axle suspension to maintain the even ride height and standard of comfort that Fastrac operat
The operator sits a little further forward than before, and the additional space allows for a mounted sprayer, supplementary seed or fertiliser hopper.
ors have come to value.
But steering has taken a turn with a hydrostatic dual-steering system, which replaces the power-assisted mechanical system used previously. Effectively two hydrostatic systems in one, it uses a control valve to continuously monitor pressures and flows in both systems.
The result, says JCB, is the operator experiences a combination of precision, feel and low effort whether on the road at speed or repeatedly manoeuvring, while the system also meets the failsafe requirements for a tractor capable of the Fastrac 8000’s 70km/h top speed in the event of hydraulic or engine failure.
You can also select Rapid Steer, which halves the number of turns lock-to-lock from four to just two, making life easier on headland turns and other manoeuvres below 10km/h.
Tyre manufacturer BKT has joined Michelin and Trelleborg in developing high speed-rated tyres suitable for the JCB Fastrac 8000 tractor’s weight, speed and power. The ‘E’ rated (70km/h) BKT Agrimax Sirio is a new design in 540/65 R38 front and 710/70 R38 rear sizes with a tough carcase featuring a highly flexible sidewall. It’s now available as a factory-fitted alternative to the Trelleborg TM800 High Speed.
