Horizon has unveiled the third generation of its DSX no-till disc drill range, which runs from 4m to 7.2m.

Highlights of the Gen 3s include tweaks to the frame and hopper that should improve ease of use, and redesigned row units that are stronger, lighter and narrower.

See also: Direct drills revisited: 6m Sly/Horizon Boss

By toughening up the components on these, the company has managed to carve 20kg off each and slim them down by about 40mm.

This means they can now be set up at 150mm centres in low trash conditions where the previous crop’s straw has been baled.

The alternative spacings are 167mm, 187mm, 200mm and 250mm.

© Horizon

The independent parallelogram linkages on which they are mounted have also been reinforced.

They offer up to 370mm of travel and now clamp to a stronger, profiled toolbar that should make it easier to adjust row spacings or remove units altogether.

Similar assemblies are employed for the optional pneumatically controlled row cleaners.

This positions them closer to the opening disc – reducing the chance of debris falling back into the seeding zone – and allows for better contour following.

Meanwhile, tungsten tiles will improve the service life of the seed boots, which are spring-loaded so they automatically adjust their position based on wear.

They also feature mounting holes for firming wheels or liquid fertiliser applicators.

Hopper changes

The 4,700-litre hopper features a 60/40 split with the option of further externally mounted tank, such as Horizon’s 400-litre GH400.

Compartments are now accessed through individual lids, there’s a new platform and step assembly that folds down with the wings, and the turbine has been moved to improve airflow and simplify maintenance.

Similarly, the electronics are now housed in their own dedicated compartment and the drawbar has a hydraulic hose organiser to route the pipes neatly between tractor and drill.

Gen 3 models are available in 4m, 4.8m, 5m, 6m and 7.2m working widths, with order books now open for spring delivery.

Unusually, prices are unchanged from the Gen 2 models, ranging from £63,000 for a 3m to £140,000 for 6m, both on 20cm row spacings.