Massey Ferguson launches new 5S tractor range with styling and tech from its bigger stablemate

While the cab frame is the same as the outgoing model, the internal operating environment has been revamped. The most notable inclusion is the same armrest that was introduced in the 8S, bringing with it the Multipad joystick. This provides control over a number of functions including forward/reverse shuttle, linkage and spool valves.

The Multipad can also be equipped with a micro-joystick to operate two rear spool valves (or any other spool valve when Datatronic 5 is fitted). Loaders are operated by a separate joystick that sits alongside the Multipad. While on tractors with Datatronic 5, this is placed to the right of the console.

Rear linkage lift capacity is increased to 5,700kg across the range, while the optional front linkage has been beefed up, increasing from 2,500kg to 3,000kg capacity. The range has a gross vehicle weight of 9,500kg.

The suspended front axle has also been redesigned, enabling it to carry the extra weight of the front linkage and provide a four metre turning radius. For comfort, the front axle features electronically-controlled hydraulic suspension, which uses two long stroke cylinders and three accumulators to absorb shocks.

Spec-wise, there are three options. Top of the range, Exclusive models are ‘fully loaded’ with 110 litre/minute hydraulics, up to four double acting spools at the rear, hydraulic joystick, Multipad control, AutoDrive transmission, automatic air conditioning, cab suspension, air suspended seat and Datatronic 5 touch-screen terminal.

Efficient specification is similar, but has two electric and two mechanical spools at the rear, standard air-con and an air-suspended seat, while the Datatronic 5 terminal becomes an option.

Essential models switch to using the manufacturer’s T-lever gear control on a short armrest, with the hydraulic joystick an option and AutoDrive replaced by Speedmatching on the Dyna-4 transmission. It has a 58 litre/minute hydraulic pump and two rear mechanical spool valves with the option of two more.

Design of the new tractors replicates that of the 5700S Series, with a slim, steep nosed bonnet, designed for visibility. The manufacturer’s Visio roof options also provide a clear view of the attachment through the whole lifting range, it says. All models sit on a 2,550mm wheelbase.

As well as being supplied ‘loader ready’, the MF 5S is available complete with a factory-fitted loader from the manufacturer’s MF FL range. This includes the parallel lift MF FL.4121, capable of lifting 1,720kg at the pivot point, to 4,060mm. A new quick coupler now connects both the hydraulics and electrics together, said to speed up the coupling process.

MF Connect telemetry is an option on all MF 5S Series models, allowing users to monitor their entire machinery fleet, showing the machines’ current positions, routes travelled as well as a range of operating information.

The IsoBus compatible touch-screen, Datatronic 5, monitors all tractor functions and cam control any IsoBus compliant implement, says the manufacturer.

All elements of the manufacturer’s precision farming suite run through Datatronic 5. These include automatic steering, as well as section control and rate control, which can now handle up to 36 sections and five products.

MF TaskDoc is pre-installed in the terminal, enabling the creation of field records, application maps, fuel usage logs, job reports as well as the ability to keep an accurate account of all inputs to every hectare.

A Pro version enables this data to be transferred, via the data sharing platform, Agrirouter, to the farm’s management software. Alternatively, these functions can also be controlled on an optional nine-inch Fieldstar 5 touch-screen terminal.