Disk Ripper Sizes Up Stalks and Soil

Case IH adds the Ecolo-Tiger 870 model disk ripper, with working widths ranging from 14' to 26', to its Ecolo-Tiger Series. Spaced on 24" centers, the shanks run at full depth and have 2" or 7" tiger points. The tillage tool comes with standard 24" individual disks or optional 26" cushion gang disks. The Ecolo-Tiger 870 features a single-point adjustment for depth control, and double-edged reels for leveling are optional. A Perfect Hitch and large A-frame protect the jack and hose stands for easy hookup. Price range: $42,354 to $83,249. Contact: a local Case IH dealer; (877) 422-7344; www.caseih.com/na.

Chisel Series Boasts 10 Models

The 5000 Series Turbo-Chisel expands Great Plains Manufacturing's vertical-tillage lineup. The series consists of 10 rigid and folding models spanning working widths from 11'3" to 28'9". The front gang features 22" turbo coulters spaced 7½" apart, and the coulter bar is hydraulically adjustable. The chisel can be equipped with standard chisel shanks or parabolic chisel shanks. An optional toggle trip shank automatically resets itself. Optional rear attachments include a buster bar and chopper reel. Base prices: 9-shank, $24,700; 23-shank, $56,400. Contact: Great Plains Manufacturing Inc., 1525 E. North St., Salina, KS 67401; (785) 823-3276; www.greatplainsmfg.com.

Razor Sharp

The Hesston Series 9190 and 9192 rotary headers for the Massey Ferguson Hesston Series 9635 windrower feature a new cutterbar. The RazorBar low-profile cutterbar is engineered for stronger cutterbar performance and a closer cut. Cutting disks are 620 mm (20 mm larger than on previous models), and top speed has been increased from 182 mph to 189 mph. Disk overlap has been increased for improved cut quality. The 16' models feature a heavier gearbox. Base price: $31,198. Contact: a Massey Ferguson dealer; (770) 813-9200; www.masseyferguson.com.

Gary Vermeer, 1918–2009

On Feb. 2, 2009, Gary Vermeer, founder and chairman emeritus of Vermeer Corporation in Pella, Iowa, died. He started his manufacturing business in 1948, and in 1971 he invented the Vermeer big round hay baler. Vermeer's hay baler concept was inspired by his constant theme, "There has to be a better way." Vermeer always took time out of his schedule to help with field work. All of his grandchildren, as well as many of his great-grandchildren, have enjoyed sitting at his knee or by his side while he harvested corn. He is survived by his wife, Matilda; three children and their spouses, Stanley and Alma Vermeer, Robert and Lois Vermeer, and Mary and Dale Andringa; eight grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. To send condolences, visit www.garyvermeer.com.

New Sprayer Model 

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