Massey Ferguson has, unsurprisingly, followed stablemate Fendt in offering film binding on its variable-chamber RB Protec baler.

The system was already an option on fixed-chamber Protec models and, as part of the package, the balers are also fitted with the “rapid reload” system that allows three rolls to be loaded on a rotating frame near the binding area.

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Once a roll is finished, the operator simply rotates the frame to use the next full roll, speeding up changeovers and saving any heavy lifting.

The updated model also gets a high-speed tailgate reckoned to increase output by up to 6%, which equates to an extra four bales/hour. This is included as standard on all Xtra and Protec models.

Among the popular options are an automatic tailgate function, integrated bale weighing system and the Hayboss moisture meter.

And, in the cab, there’s a new Bale Control Pro terminal to replace the E-Link Pro. This runs through Massey’s Fieldstar 5 system and offers a higher-resolution display and a few extra functions.

The V Protecs can make a bale from 0.9-1.6m diameter and can be specced with 13, 17 or 25 Xtracut crop-slicing knives.

List prices for the standard Protec baler-wrapper start at about £123,000; the film binding option adds £7,500.