[UPDATED: Oct. 30, 2023] When Agco moved to differentiate its two main machinery brands in North America, Massey Ferguson and Fendt, it gave Massey the tag line “straightforward and dependable.”
Product managers say that means a line offering fewer high-end options and, generally, a lower price tag.
On the other hand, Fendt has been positioned as the premium, high-technology, high-end equipment line.
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However, the straightforward description doesn’t always mean low-tech for Massey Ferguson. Some of its products can be spec’d out to a reasonably sophisticated standard. But the overall differentiation is clear.
Massey’s product line has also been scaled back recently, with the removal of combines from its North American portfolio. But in late August, Agco added a new machine line to the Massey stable with the introduction of the 500R Series SP sprayers.
“Farmers need a robust, entry-level spraying solution that provides fast (return on investment) and a low total cost of ownership,” said Darren Parker, vice-president, Massey Ferguson North America, in a news release.
“The MF 500R series sprayer gives producers the flexibility to apply product at the peak window for their particular crop, maximizing yields and positively impacting their bottom line.”
This “entry level” sprayer line has a shorter list of available options than those wearing the Fendt name. It includes two models, the 212 horsepower 525R and the larger 530R, which offers an additional 20 h.p. Tank size on the 212R is 740 gallons (2,800 litres), while the 530R comes in at 860 gallons (3,255 litres).
These specifications slot them well below the Fendt Rogator sprayer models, which come equipped with 900 to 1,300 gallon (3,406 to 4,931 litre) tanks. And the Fendts get power from an 8.4-litre diesel, whereas the Masseys use a smaller 7.4-litre engine.
However, like the Fendt, the Masseys come with the LiquidLogic system. It can prime the boom in 50 seconds, and it includes a recirculation system that moves product through the tank and all of the boom to help maintain a constant spray rate and uniform tank mixture. The LiquidLogic system also speeds up the sprayer clean out and rinsing process.
Also like their Fendt cousins, the Masseys are available with 90 and 100-foot booms but the only nozzle spacing option is 20 inches. Booms are separated into 36 sections for precise control of overlaps.
Those with a late model Massey tractor may feel like they’re in familiar surroundings when they step into a 500R series sprayer. The company has brought the cab from the S series tractor line to the new sprayers.
The S series cab helps reduce interior noise levels and vibration, according to the brand. It also helps the sprayers stay with Massey’s “straightforward” concept by keeping things familiar for an operator when moving from tractor to sprayer.
Inside the cabs, owners can chose Agco’s FUSE Smart Farming digital offering or opt for a Raven system.
“This (sprayer) product rounds out our portfolio, allowing us to better serve customers through every step of the growing cycle from planting to harvest,” said Parker.
However, there is no return of a red combine to the Massey stable, and with the Gleaners offered through Agco dealers, there probably won’t be.
But never say never.
*Update: the article previously stated that a 120-foot boom was also available on the Massey sprayer.
