The four-rotor Swadro TC 1370 rake is set to replace the Swadro 1400. The new TC 1370 frame features a restyled trapezoidal main beam for added strength along with modified arm suspension.

The rake’s main frame lowers hydraulically into transport position without the need to remove tines to remain under 4m transport height. Two tyre options are available, 620/40R22.5 or 710/35R22.5 being the largest. Bogie wheels can be upgraded to 16x9.50 R8 to match the large 710 tyres. A new split plastic cover is placed over the rake valve chest for protection while adding to the TC 1370’s modern appearance.

Rotors

The rotors are designed with a working width ranging from 10.80m to 13.70m and a swath width ranging from 1.40m to 2.60m. Each of the four rotors feature 13 tine arms. The front tine arms have four double tines while the rear arms having five double tines, as they do more work. Each rotor has its own slip clutch, helping protect rotors from foreign objects.

New features include hydraulic rotor suspension, soft down drop control which lowers rotors into work more easily which the firm calls the Krone jet effect. The jet effect is whereby the leading bogie wheels are first to lift and last to lower, similar to how an aeroplane takes off and lands. Operators can alter rotor suspension on the move as well as adjusting headland lift height. Bogies are fitted standard with four caster wheels while a six-wheeled bogie is available along with the option of a leading guide wheel for rougher terrain. Rotor arms have the ability to extend automatically to a preset working width and swath width as they are lowered into working position.

Operation

The TC 1370 features a new user interface which the company claims is easily used, with all major work functions being grouped on one interface level. Isobus control is favoured, although a range of control terminals is available. Krone’s new DS100 or DS500 terminal or Isobus-compatible CCI 800/1200 terminal are also available as an option. Operators with non-Isobus tractors looking for the best user experience can also opt for the new CCI A3 touch joystick, leaving all major controls at their fingertips. The TC 1370 has an optional section control function which has the ability to automatically raise and lower its rotors independently on headlands and in corners when used with GPS.