Househam has upped the level of comfort for operators of its AirRide and Harrier self-propelled sprayers by fitting a Claas X10 cab, as used on Jaguar forage harvesters.

The new workspace replaces the former Excalibur unit, which was built by ABT in Ross-on-Wye, and offers more space, a higher-spec interior and better visibility, particularly of the boom.

Views to the rear have also been helped by redesigning the engine hood and giving it chamfered edges so that it doesn’t interrupt the driver’s eyeline.

Househam says it has worked hard to integrate the sprayer’s functions into the cab’s standard controls, so there has been no need to add switchgear.

The only obvious additions are the latest version of the firm’s TMC V6 terminal, which is built by Lykketronic, and optional extras such as camera screens and boom-levelling controllers.

© James Andrews

Other standard fitments in the X10 include automatic air conditioning, a Bluetooth radio, three-way tilting steering column and adjustable sun blinds on all windows.

There’s also a larger passenger seat than before, with a 27-litre fridge nestled underneath.

See also: Driver’s view: FSOOTY winner Matt Fuller’s Bateman RB35 sprayer

Another notable change is the integration of Navguide mapping software into the terminal.

The firm says this is a significant improvement over the Fieldmaster system that came before and uses less memory for faster operation, particularly when additional functions such as individual nozzle control are activated.

Entry-level AirRide models will have a simpler interior spec with air-suspended cloth seat, while Harriers get a high-back leather version with climate control and heating. It is available as an upgrade on all models though.

On both sprayers, Househam has redesigned the mirrors to improve access, fitted its own LED work lights and installed a hydraulic-folding ladder with a controller integrated into the park brake.

An illuminated pressure gauge has also been included, for clearer visibility when working at night.

© James Andrews

Engines and wheel motors

AirRide models can be specced with four- or six-cylinder Stage 5 Mercedes engines, offering power outputs from 170hp to 240hp.

The 170hp option is a single-turbo four-cylinder, the 228hp version uses the same block with twin turbos and the 240hp outfit is a six-cylinder with single turbo.

The six-cylinder is now standard fitment on Harriers.

These power a hydrostatic motor that drives Poclain wheel motors on AirRide 3000 and 3500 models and heavier-duty Sauer Danfoss units on all larger versions.

However, buyers do have the option to upgrade smaller machines.

Both sprayers still use the firm’s self-levelling air suspension system, with the AirRide featuring a rear trailing arm and the Harrier an oscillating setup for improved ride on undulating terrain or when negotiating potato ridges.

Spray packs

Tank options on the AirRide range from 3,000 litres to 6,000 litres and there’s a choice of 24m 28m or 30m booms, while the Harrier has a 4,000 to 6,000-litre range and boom options up to 36m.

A key difference between the two chassis designs is that the AirRide comes with a demount sprayer and the Harrier’s spray pack is integrated.

Both machines are powered by a four-cylinder Altek pump as standard, although most go out with a six-cylinder, and there’s an ACU Ramsay for pressure regulation on the AirRide and a ball-valve on the Harrier.

All models can be fitted with auto section control, individual nozzle control, GPS autosteer and auto nozzle switching.

Unladen weight is from 6,700kg on the AirRide and 8,500kg on the Harrier and they have 1.1m ground clearance, which can be increased to 1.7m on the AirRide.

On-farm prices for the updated models start at £150,000 for an AirRide 3000 with 24m boom and £178,750 for a 4,000-litre Harrier carrying a 24m boom.