SIMA 2017: Self-loading SP muck spreader

Dutch firm Ploeger is not alone in looking to develop a machine to fill the void following AGCO’s decision to end production of the European-built TerraGator. It is still on the drawing board, but French firm Dangreville is keen to talk to contractors about a self-loading self-propelled concept, that will allow one driver to load and spread muck with a single machine. Called the Terra-One Trac, the rear half will come from the firm’s brand new Terra-One trailed spreader on display in Paris this week. All the French manufacturer is currently prepared to reveal is that everything ahead of the articulation point (500hp engine, cab and self-loading mechanism), will be made in Belgium, and that the prototype will probably use the same 18m³ capacity body (other capacities to follow) and 1050/50R32 tyres as the trailed machine. The plan is to test the prototype this summer and the company is confident that the intake mechanism will fill the 18m³ body in under five minutes. The finished result could be brought to Agritechnica, in November, and providing all goes to plan then the commercial introduction will follow before the end of this year. Incidentally, the trailed Terra-One features a hydraulically operated pivoting drawbar arrangement. This ensures the spreader’s wheels run outside those of the tractor to reduce compaction.