Drago has introduced a new corn head representing the latest evolution in corn harvest technology. 

The Drago GT corn head pairs its Automatic Self-Adjusting Deck Plates with its new QuadSuspension — integrated “ear shocks” under deck plates that work to reduce ear “butt shelling,” a significant source of yield loss at harvest.

“We’re talking about deck plates that can actually absorb the terrific energy of ears as they are pulled down by knife rollers,” says Dragotec USA president and Fenton, Iowa, farmer Dennis Bollig. “This is especially important with today’s hybrids that dry down faster in the field. When those ears hit deck plates, the impact results in excessive shelling, leading to yield loss. QuadSuspension helps deck plates absorb that energy, reduce shelling and capture more corn at harvest.”

The combination of Automatic Self-Adjusting Deck Plates and QuadSuspension represent the heart of the Kernel Capture Technology built into this corn head, according to Bollig.

Industry’s Largest Auger

Additional features found on the Drago GT Corn Head include the largest auger in the industry. Its 20-inch diameter auger and 28-inch pitch fin are designed to move more material faster, more gently. And its oversized 8-inch diameter auger tube is designed to limit potential ear loss from combine backfeed through the feederhouse.

The First Twin Chopper Option

Another industry first is the Twin Chop+ option featuring two counter-cutting chopping knives that offer more than what a single chop option can deliver. The two blades deliver maximum residue management and exceptional sizing. This feature allows the knife rollers to run slow for maximum yield retention while delivering continuous chopping of stalks as they travel back and down through the entire length of the knife roller for maximum chop quality.

“The Twin Chop+ gear design doubles the chopping capacity without significantly increasing the horsepower required to drive it,” Bollig adds. “The option creates 400 MPH of energy to pulverize corn stalks when chopping.”

Gear-Driven — No Chains

The Drago GT Corn Head powertrain system, called Endura Drive, employs a total chainless design that delivers power directly to the head components. 

“An innovative design allows power to be driven inline through the row units, eliminating two gears per row,” Bollig says. 

The auger is also gear-driven for durability and easy maintenance and is available on every row configuration.                 

The new corn head is engineered for added dependability. Each major component of the Drago GT is protected from field hazards, from the gear-driven auger to the Precise Clutch Technology that protects knife rollers, gathering chain drives and choppers from field hazards.

Oil-Bathed Spiral-Cut Gears

The Drago GT’s gearboxes feature the industry’s first spiral-cut gears — common in the aviation and automotive industries — to deliver power more efficiently, reduce gear maintenance and significantly increase gear life.

“These components help you spend less time on maintenance and more time in the field during harvest,” Bollig adds. “The Drago GT is designed to save downtime.” 

Models and Availability 

The Drago GT is available in models ranging from 4- to 18-rows and 30-inch to 40-inch-row spacings. Eight- and 12-row folding models are available, as well.

Manufactured by Olimac, the Italy-based company that partners with the North American distributor, Dragotec USA in Fenton, Iowa, the Drago GT Corn Head is available in sizes to fit virtually every combine in the field today.