DRIVING IMPRESSION: Next season, Grimme will be deploying its new generation of Matrix precision planters. We were able to get an exclusive preview to pick out what has changed.
Time flies when you’re … it’s almost a decade since Grimme introduced its first precision seeder following the acquisition of Kleine. Now the second
generation is about to appear. The number of planter rows won’t change (12 and 18) and neither will the 45, 48 and 50cm row widths.
Three model lines
But, from now on, Grimme will distinguish between two model lines: the entry Matrix and a high-end Matrix Pro. We were in the field with the simpler of the two versions, which is pitched at those doing their own work or contractors who only have to deal with uniform, consistent soils. These machines come with mechanical spring- loaded coulter pressure adjustment. There are no longer pre-emergence markers, as tramlines will be created by the hydraulic rams that control the coulter pressure raising the relevant seeder units out of work.
Modified frame
The beefy headstock on the 18-row machines remains more or less the same, with a Cat III lower link shaft and two holes for the top link. On the simpler version, the tractor will need up to two double-acting spool valves to look after folding and the optional marker system.
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