ST. BRIEUX, Sask. – Bourgault Industries is updating its 3310 Paralink hoe drill to keep prices down and improve overall durability.
Robert Fagnou of Bourgault said the company’s top of the line drill will replace its two-piece packer arm with a single piece unit.
“A new, cast and forged single piece combination shank replaces the current profile cut shank,” said Fagnou.
Steel prices and machining costs have pushed many farm equipment manufacturers to find ways to cut costs even on machines that aren’t up for major changes in design.
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“Price increases are inevitable. Energy, materials, labour, transportation, it’s all rising. This is one of those changes that we could make to save money and keep the quality,” he said.
The Paralink is also getting other refinements for the 2009 seeding season.
A new Fibreglide bushing has been added at the rod end of the cylinder clevis to reduce wear, extending the life of the part.
Optional foam-filled packer tires have been added to the machine.
At a summer Bourgault field day, producers who own the machines said sharp canola straw, under the right conditions, can puncture the tires. The foam adds weight and cost. Puncture seal products are also available, as are traditional tube, pneumatic tires, say company representatives.
For additional flotation and support, the 65 and 75 foot machines get dual wheels on the inner wing frames.
These will be offered as options on the 40, 48 and 55 foot versions of the 3310 hoe drills.
