JCB Fastrac
Encyclopedia
The Fastrac is a high speed agricultural tractor
series manufactured by JCB Landpower, part of the J. C. Bamford
group of companies.
Production began in 1991, with continual development to the present day. Generally the maximum speed of most models is 65 km/h (40.4 mph) but other speeds both slower (40 km/h) and faster (80 km/h) are produced.
engines. Initially supplied by Perkins Engines, the current suppliers are Cummins
and AGCO SISU Power.
. The rear axle is driven as standard and drive to the front axle selected by the driver, through a hydraulically controlled clutch. This clutch is sprung on to give four wheel drive and hydraulically disengaged to give two wheel drive.
reduction units built into the hub ends, where the wheel bolts.
The 7000 Series rear axle has a central differential and has in-board epicyclic gearing
reduction units.
is provided in the rear axle of all machines.
100, 1000 and 2000 Series machines have a Detroit No-Spin style differential lock in front axle.
3000, 7000 and 8000 Series machines have a driver controlled clutch pack engaged locking differential.
(PTO) is standard at the rear and a factory option at the front. Depending on the model either speeds of 1000/540 or 1000/750 are available.
) is fitted between the chassis
and both the front and rear beam axle
s.
The front suspension uses four links, a panhard rod
and anti-roll bar.
The rear suspension uses two lower link and a V-link on top plus a anti-roll bar.
Hydropneumatic suspension
is used on the rear of all models and also on the front of the 7000 series Fastrac. This is very similar to used on some Citroen
cars.
These Fastrac machines have hydrostatic steering
similar to most agricultural tractors with only a hydraulic link between the steering wheels and the front wheels.
This limits the maximum speed of these models to 50 km/h (31.1 mph), except now in Germany where 60 km/h (37.3 mph) is allowed.
100, 3000, 7000 and 8000 Series Machines
These machines have mechanical power steering
similar to a large truck
. This system gives a mechanical link between the steering wheel and the front wheels.
Generally these machines have had a maximum speed of 65 km/h (40.4 mph) except some 100 and 3000 series machines having a maximum speed of 75 km/h (46.6 mph).
An automatic GPS controlled steering system using a (Differential Global Positioning System) is available for the 7000 series machines.
The electronic system has 5 modes of operation, and only allows four wheel steering below 20 km/h (12.4 mph).
) is standard on all machine it is used to control the front and rear linkages and through quick connectors at the front and rear of the tractor to control and power implements.
is standard at the rear of the machine and on option on front.
's Top Gear host Jeremy Clarkson
. It was driven on the show round the Top Gear Test Track
by The Stig
, in a time of 2:57.4, making it the fastest of the three featured tractors, but also currently the fifth slowest ever lap time.
Tractor
A tractor is a vehicle specifically designed to deliver a high tractive effort at slow speeds, for the purposes of hauling a trailer or machinery used in agriculture or construction...
series manufactured by JCB Landpower, part of the J. C. Bamford
J. C. Bamford
JCB is a global construction, demolition and agricultural equipment company headquartered in Rocester, United Kingdom. It is the world's third-largest construction equipment manufacturer. It produces over 300 types of machines, including diggers , excavators, tractors and diesel engines...
group of companies.
Production began in 1991, with continual development to the present day. Generally the maximum speed of most models is 65 km/h (40.4 mph) but other speeds both slower (40 km/h) and faster (80 km/h) are produced.
Engine
All models have six cylinder dieselDiesel engine
A diesel engine is an internal combustion engine that uses the heat of compression to initiate ignition to burn the fuel, which is injected into the combustion chamber...
engines. Initially supplied by Perkins Engines, the current suppliers are Cummins
Cummins
Cummins Inc. is a Fortune 500 corporation that designs, manufactures, distributes and services engines and related technologies, including fuel systems, controls, air handling, filtration, emission control and electrical power generation systems...
and AGCO SISU Power.
Gearbox
Three different gearboxes have been fitted to the Fastrac in production.- The first type has evolved over several years.
- On introduction of the Fastrac this style of gearbox had 18 forward gears (6x3) and 6 reverse (6x1). This were organised as 6 manual gears in each of 3 ranges (Low, Medium and High). The range box also selected reverse giving 6 reverse gears with speeds similar to medium in forwards. All gear changes were made with the use of a dry clutch.
- This gearbox then had a 2 speed powershift section added after the dry clutch and before the 6 speed gearbox. This resulted in 36 forward gears (2x6x3) and 12 reverse (2x6x1).
- Following this the 2 speed powershift section was changed to 3 speed version. Giving 54 forward gears (3x6x3) and 18 reverse gears (3x6x1)
- The latest version of this gearbox a wet clutch replaced the dry clutch still with 54 forward and 18 reverse gears.
- The second type fitted only to 8250, 8280 and 8310 Fastrac models features a CVTContinuously variable transmissionA continuously variable transmission is a transmission that can change steplessly through an infinite number of effective gear ratios between maximum and minimum values. This contrasts with other mechanical transmissions that offer a fixed number of gear ratios...
(IVT) hydrostatic power-split gearbox which is one of the most advanced tractor gearboxes available. - The third type developed most recently and fitted to 7000series and 3000 Xtra machines has a wet master clutch, a six speed powershift section and a four speed range box. As reverse is at the front of the powershift section the reverse gears are spread throughout the speed range. This arrangement gives 24 forward gears (2x3x4) and 12 reverse gears (1x3x4). Note that the top three reverse gears are not available for use.
Four Wheel Drive
All models are selectable four-wheel driveFour-wheel drive
Four-wheel drive, 4WD, or 4×4 is a four-wheeled vehicle with a drivetrain that allows all four wheels to receive torque from the engine simultaneously...
. The rear axle is driven as standard and drive to the front axle selected by the driver, through a hydraulically controlled clutch. This clutch is sprung on to give four wheel drive and hydraulically disengaged to give two wheel drive.
Axles
Most Fastrac axles have central a differential and epicyclic gearingEpicyclic gearing
Epicyclic gearing or planetary gearing is a gear system consisting of one or more outer gears, or planet gears, revolving about a central, or sun gear. Typically, the planet gears are mounted on a movable arm or carrier which itself may rotate relative to the sun gear...
reduction units built into the hub ends, where the wheel bolts.
The 7000 Series rear axle has a central differential and has in-board epicyclic gearing
Epicyclic gearing
Epicyclic gearing or planetary gearing is a gear system consisting of one or more outer gears, or planet gears, revolving about a central, or sun gear. Typically, the planet gears are mounted on a movable arm or carrier which itself may rotate relative to the sun gear...
reduction units.
Axle Locking Differentials
A standard locking differentialLocking differential
A locking differential, diff-lock or locker is a variation on the standard automotive differential. A locking differential may provide increased traction compared to a standard, or "open" differential by restricting each of the two wheels on an axle to the same rotational speed without regard to...
is provided in the rear axle of all machines.
100, 1000 and 2000 Series machines have a Detroit No-Spin style differential lock in front axle.
3000, 7000 and 8000 Series machines have a driver controlled clutch pack engaged locking differential.
PTO
A two speed power take-offPower take-off
A power take-off or power takeoff is a splined driveshaft, usually on a tractor or truck, that can be used to provide power to an attachment or separate machine. It is designed to be easily connected and disconnected...
(PTO) is standard at the rear and a factory option at the front. Depending on the model either speeds of 1000/540 or 1000/750 are available.
Suspension
Multi link suspension (suspensionSuspension (vehicle)
Suspension is the term given to the system of springs, shock absorbers and linkages that connects a vehicle to its wheels. Suspension systems serve a dual purpose — contributing to the car's roadholding/handling and braking for good active safety and driving pleasure, and keeping vehicle occupants...
) is fitted between the chassis
Chassis
A chassis consists of an internal framework that supports a man-made object. It is analogous to an animal's skeleton. An example of a chassis is the underpart of a motor vehicle, consisting of the frame with the wheels and machinery.- Vehicles :In the case of vehicles, the term chassis means the...
and both the front and rear beam axle
Beam axle
A beam axle is a suspension system, also called a solid axle, in which one set of wheels is connected laterally by a single beam or shaft...
s.
The front suspension uses four links, a panhard rod
Panhard rod
A Panhard rod is a component of a car suspension system that provides lateral location of the axle...
and anti-roll bar.
The rear suspension uses two lower link and a V-link on top plus a anti-roll bar.
Hydropneumatic suspension
Hydropneumatic suspension
Hydropneumatic suspension is a type of automotive suspension system, invented by Citroën, and fitted to Citroën cars, as well as being used under licence by other car manufacturers, notably Rolls-Royce, and Peugeot. It was also used on Berliet trucks and is since recently used on Mercedes-Benz...
is used on the rear of all models and also on the front of the 7000 series Fastrac. This is very similar to used on some Citroen
Citroën
Citroën is a major French automobile manufacturer, part of the PSA Peugeot Citroën group.Founded in 1919 by French industrialist André-Gustave Citroën , Citroën was the first mass-production car company outside the USA and pioneered the modern concept of creating a sales and services network that...
cars.
Front Axle Steering
1000 and 2000 Series MachinesThese Fastrac machines have hydrostatic steering
Steering
Steering is the term applied to the collection of components, linkages, etc. which will allow a vessel or vehicle to follow the desired course...
similar to most agricultural tractors with only a hydraulic link between the steering wheels and the front wheels.
This limits the maximum speed of these models to 50 km/h (31.1 mph), except now in Germany where 60 km/h (37.3 mph) is allowed.
100, 3000, 7000 and 8000 Series Machines
These machines have mechanical power steering
Power steering
Power steering helps drivers steer vehicles by augmenting steering effort of the steering wheel.Hydraulic or electric actuators add controlled energy to the steering mechanism, so the driver needs to provide only modest effort regardless of conditions. Power steering helps considerably when a...
similar to a large truck
Truck
A truck or lorry is a motor vehicle designed to transport cargo. Trucks vary greatly in size, power, and configuration, with the smallest being mechanically similar to an automobile...
. This system gives a mechanical link between the steering wheel and the front wheels.
Generally these machines have had a maximum speed of 65 km/h (40.4 mph) except some 100 and 3000 series machines having a maximum speed of 75 km/h (46.6 mph).
An automatic GPS controlled steering system using a (Differential Global Positioning System) is available for the 7000 series machines.
Rear Axle Steering
Rear wheel steering (four wheel steering) is available as an option on 2000 series machines.The electronic system has 5 modes of operation, and only allows four wheel steering below 20 km/h (12.4 mph).
- Two Wheel Steer
- Proportional
- True Track
- Delay Mode
- Crab Steer
Brakes
All models are fitted with large diameter external disc brakes at both front and rear individually on each wheel. An anti-lock braking (ABS) system is fitted on some models, depending on the maximum vehicle speed and legal requirements.Auxiliary Hydraulics
An auxiliary hydraulic system (hydraulic drive systemHydraulic drive system
A hydraulic drive system is a drive or transmission system that uses pressurized hydraulic fluid to drive hydraulic machinery. The term hydrostatic refers to the transfer of energy from flow and pressure, not from the kinetic energy of the flow....
) is standard on all machine it is used to control the front and rear linkages and through quick connectors at the front and rear of the tractor to control and power implements.
Three-point hitch
A three-point hitchThree-point hitch
The three-point hitch most often refers to the way ploughs and other implements are attached to an agricultural tractor. The three points resemble either a triangle, or the letter A...
is standard at the rear of the machine and on option on front.
Rear Trailer Hitch
There are several types available depending on the country the machine is built for.- Pick-up hitch
- PTO drawbarDrawbarDrawbar may refer to:*Drawbar , a device for coupling a hauling vehicle to a load. This usage may be road, agriculture or rail.*Drawbar organ*Drawbar , a device for changing tools on milling machines...
- Rockinger ladder
- Grand Piton
- 80 mm ball coupling
Cab
Traditionally the cab has been centrally mounted. More recently designed models, the 7000 series and latter 8250, have the cab mounted at the rear of the tractor. All cabs have a full size passenger seat and is lower than the driver's seat which is on air.Models Produced
This is not intended to be a complete list but includes the main models produced.- 125 and 145 - The first models produced in 1991. Fitted with Perkins 6L engines
- 135 and 155 - Updated 125 and 145 models
- 185 - The first machine to use the Cummins 5.9L engine
- 1115 and 1135 - The first smaller Fastrac with hydrostatic steering
- 2115 and 2135 - Updated 1115 and 2135 models
- 2150 - Larger 2000 series machine. (No 4WS option)
- 3155 and 3185 - Upgraded machines developed from the 155 and 185
- 3190 and 3220 - Machines fitted with Cummins 5.9L engines using electronic fuel injection
- 3200 and 3230 - Machines fitted with Cummins 6.7L engines using electronic fuel injection
- 8250 - The only Fastrac fitted with a CVT gearbox and a 8.3L Cummins engine
- 2155 and 2170 - Updated 2000 series with 6.7L Cummins engines.
- 7170, 7200 and 7230 - A new range of machines with a 6x4 gearbox and 6.7L Cummins engines
- 7270 - A 270 hp 7000 series machine fitted with a 6.7L Cummins engine, launched at SIMA 2009
- 3200 and 3230 Xtra - The 3000 series machine is now fitted with the 6x4 gearbox
- 8280 and 8310 - Machines fitted with AGCO SISU Power 8.4L engines and CVT gearbox.
Feature in media
A JCB Fastrac was chosen by BBCBBC
The British Broadcasting Corporation is a British public service broadcaster. Its headquarters is at Broadcasting House in the City of Westminster, London. It is the largest broadcaster in the world, with about 23,000 staff...
's Top Gear host Jeremy Clarkson
Jeremy Clarkson
Jeremy Charles Robert Clarkson is an English broadcaster, journalist and writer who specialises in motoring. He is best known for his role on the BBC TV show Top Gear along with co-presenters Richard Hammond and James May...
. It was driven on the show round the Top Gear Test Track
Top Gear Test Track
The Top Gear test track is used by the BBC automotive television programme Top Gear. It is located at Dunsfold Aerodrome in Surrey, United Kingdom. The track was designed by Lotus Cars...
by The Stig
The Stig
The Stig is a character in the British motoring television show Top Gear. The character plays on the anonymity of racing drivers' full-face helmets, with the running joke that nobody knows who, or indeed what, is inside the character's racing suit. The character was the creation of presenter Jeremy...
, in a time of 2:57.4, making it the fastest of the three featured tractors, but also currently the fifth slowest ever lap time.