AGCO Application Equipment is rolling out five new RoGator high-clearance applicators for 2011 with a proven drive system engineered to deliver even higher levels of performance and reliability in the field.

“Even though we introduced many significant enhancements in our 2010 RoGators — from larger product tanks to unmatched visibility on the road—  we knew we couldn’t stop there,” says Mark Sharitz, director of marketing for the AGCO Application Equipment Division. "We were dedicated to introducing a drive-system solution in our 2011 lineup that would improve overall performance while delivering greater reliability and providing a pathway for future enhancements to the machine.”

The new RoGator drive system features two-piece construction — a hydraulic motor and a separate gear reduction hub — that delivers more power to the ground, more efficiently, than ever before, Sharitz says.

All five models now come with seven speed ranges that allow operators to better match the speed range to the field conditions, resulting in quicker acceleration and improved power management. Sharitz says the new drive system also enables the RoGator to run at lower engine speeds in transport — 1,950 rpm compared to 2,100 rpm. This results in lower fuel consumption and a quieter cab environment with no sacrifice in RoGator’s top road speeds of 33 and 36 mph, depending on the model.

When operating in first range, the 2011 RoGator distributes power equally between the front and rear wheels to deliver unmatched performance in tough, muddy field conditions. In second through fourth ranges, power distribution changes to a 40/60 ratio to eliminate wheel hop and increase overall field performance.

Another key component of the new drive system is caliper disc brakes that are mounted to the front wheels. These brakes offer extra stopping power beyond normal hydrostatic braking, which improves braking in situations where a quick stop is needed.

The RoGator drive system is designed to be more reliable over the long haul, Sharitz says. Separate hydraulic motors and gear hubs run cleaner to extend the life of hydrostatic components.

In addition to the new drive system, Sharitz says the 2011 machines come with critical features found in previous models:

  • A best-in-class C-channel frame that flexes over rough terrain while maintaining the strength to withstand tough conditions
  • Optional GatorTrak four-wheel steering that shrinks the 23-foot turning radius to 13.5 feet
  • A wide range of liquid and dry systems and options to choose from, including a front reload station, the New Leader 3020 spinner spreader and the AirMax 180 pneumatic spreader
  • A choice of four boom options from 80 to 120 feet. All feature tip and full boom breakaway for added durability
  • A six-post application cab with a wide door entry, panoramic view and high visibility.