Forage maize can get an added nutrient boost, and spreading contractors a longer working season, with the Dual row-crop wheel option for Vervaet’s Quad 550 self-propelled applicator.

Distributed in Britain by J Riley Beet Harvesters, the Quad is the Dutch manufacturer’s first four-wheel slurry and digestate tanker, having previously focused on three-wheel “floater” machines.

See also: Leicestershire contractor rates 70t Vervaet Quad XL slurry spreader

The 550hp four-wheel-steer Quad carries a 22cu m tank and operates with a rear-mounted boom or injector, a trailed cultivating injector or – in Quad XL form – with a trailed 18cu m tanker for a total capacity of 40cu m.

Normally fitted with large volume flotation tyres, the new Dual option is a single wheel assembly with two row-crop rims welded 75cm apart to a tubular steel spacer.

Several tyre makes, models and sizes are available, but Michelin’s VF 380/90 R46 SprayBib is currently the most popular choice, says Vervaet.

Matt Carse, J Riley managing director, says the new option makes it possible to add another digestate application to maize post-drilling or to young crops, and to extend the working season for contractors by another three to four weeks.