Not all growers need a hundred horsepower tractor for their vineyard. Not all growers need GPS, or electric spools, or the ability to spray three rows at a time using ISOBUS controlled sprayers. For privately owned or smaller vineyards, a new bespoke vineyard or fruit tractor is an extravagance, while a used one requires careful research to avoid potential breakdowns and the associated downtime.
The New Holland Boomer tractor is a well-established machine often seen on sports pitches, in commercial settings or country estates but it is equally at home in small vineyards where it might be tough to make the most of a speciality tractor’s spec.
The range covers from 24hp-57hp, but it is the range topping Boomer 50 and Boomer 55, with 52hp and 57hp respectively, that slot into a 2.2m row and are best placed to handle the required kit. Both machines are 1.5m wide when fitted with the standard 360/70 R24 agricultural tyres, with Garden Pro rubber available in the same size for growers managing both vines and well-kept lawns.
A three-cylinder engine provides plenty of torque for steep slopes, with constant rpm setpoints a standard feature to allow accurate engine speed setting in and out of rows at the push of a button. Being under the 74hp mark means there is no adblue to worry about.
Two transmissions on offer provide either 16X16 synchromesh shifting, or seamless hydrostatic drive with three ranges. Hydro models feature a linked pedal and cruise control systems, meaning the drive pedals double up as throttles and the forward speed can be de-linked from the engine speed to allow high revs at low ground speed.
Four-wheel drive and diff-lock is standard, with chunky heavy duty front axles betraying the tractor’s agricultural roots and providing a small turning circle to suit tight headlands. Weights are standard on the front, easily removed in order to fit front linkage and PTO, or small trimmers with bespoke mounting brackets. Cab models include two mid-mounted spool valves and in-cab joystick; perfect for a front loader, or for lifting a finger weeder in and out of work.
Lift on the rear comes from a Cat 1 three-point linkage, with quick attach hooks to make connecting to mounted implements easy. The lift capacity is a healthy 1250kg, plenty enough for a full sprayer, with two spools at the rear providing 33l/min of oil for sideshift flails or mounted forklifts.
A three-speed PTO (540/540E/1000) is capable of powering mowers, sprayers and the like – with an auto switch to link the PTO engagement to lift arm position, reducing the inputs needed on headland turns from the operator. A mid-mounted PTO shaft is standard, with aftermarket mid-mount mower decks available opening up the possibility to mow in-row and weed under-row at once.
A flat-floored, six-post cab provides a comfortable spot to spend a day, with air-conditioning and radio as standard, a choice of mechanical or air suspended seats, four worklights and ergonomically arranged controls. Opening rear and side windows allow plenty of fresh air, while a good aftermarket supply of carbon filters provide protection when spraying.
The complete Boomer range is available across the South and South-East from Haynes Agricultural.
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