Red and green cotton picking machines.

Case IH introduces 2005 models:Cotton Express pickers CPX620 and CPX420

The 2005 model year Case IH CPX620 (6-row) and CPX420 (4- and 5-row) Cotton Express pickers feature new monitoring and serviceability features, as well as narrow configurations. Both models feature a new, extremely accurate drum monitoring system that provides real-time, actionable information. The new cotton drum monitor uses pressure sensors to instantaneously detect changes in cotton flow at both the left and right picking units on all rows. An in-cab monitor will immediately alert the operator to any changes in flow, as well as to the location of the issue. The cotton drum monitor is available with either standard neoprene or optional urethane doffers. Both options are non-contaminating.

The new models also offer a choice of new configurations. In addition to 36-, 38- and 40-inch row spacings on four- and six-row machines, the cotton pickers offer 30-, 32-and 34-inch spacings on five- and six-row pickers. This configuration requires the left and right picking units to be more closely spaced, but the larger hydraulic spread cylinders on the CPX620 easily move the drums in and out for easy service access.

Ground level maintenance is simplified with a new, two-function service tether, so all parts of the drum in every row can be easily accessed. An ergonomic handle with two controls allows the operator to move from drum to drum to rotate or move the drums from left to right to simulate harvest movement.

Like the previous generation CPX610, new CPX Series cotton pickers offer the Case IH automatic lubrication system that lubes the drum drive gears, cam tracks, rollers, fan bearings, lift arm assemblies and chassis points hourly when the picker is harvesting. The company says this reduces service time by up to one hour per day.

Simplifying service also includes a new rear-mounted rotary air screen with in-line airflow that provides consistently cleaner air. The moistener columns are simple to rotate for clean out, and the moistener pad holders are three-times more impact resistant and can be replaced individually.

With a long wheelbase for better weight distribution and high flotation dual tires, the Case IH CPX620 can pick in wet ground conditions. The same 500/95-32 R1.5 dual tires are optional on the CPX420. New optional mud scrapers help minimize buildup between duals to keep the picker running, and a higher volume conveyor fan is also new on the CPX620 to help harvest in tough crop conditions.

The new CPX Series pickers continue the patented advantage of harvesting from both sides of the row. In a two-year field research study in Mississippi, Missouri and Tennessee, a Case IH CPX610 had better picking efficiency than a competitor that did not have the capability of picking from both sides of the cotton plant. Picking efficiency is measured as the quantity of seed cotton harvested in the first pass.

John Deere Takes the 9996 Picker to the Field

John Deere calls its 9996 Cotton Picker the most productive picker ever built by the company. It was designed to harvest more acres of high yielding cotton in tougher field conditions than previous machines--with more horsepower, larger fuel and water tanks, more performance-enhancing features and more creature comforts for the operator.

Introduced in the fall of 2004, the 9996 six-row picker features a 350-hp, 8.1 liter PowerTech Tier II engine with 25-hp more than the previous model. The engine also has a 9.5 percent Power Boost to maintain performance while packing cotton in the basket.

The engine is transverse-mounted to free up space and provide more room for the moistener system, lube, and fuel tanks at the rear of the machine. This design also improves weight distribution for better traction in the field and allows for ground level serviceability.

A new 200-gallon fuel tank and 345-gallon water tank helps keep operators in the field longer during extended harvest days. An optional factory-installed powered rear-wheel axle is available to power up muddy or hilly conditions.

The 9996 features a 3-speed transmission with hydrostatic drive, two independent hydro systems that assure full power to the ground and the picking units. A large capacity hydro pump provides plenty of power in all three gears. The transmission was redesigned to allow scrapping speeds up to 4.9 mph in second gear.

The deluxe cab provides a quiet, comfortable working environment with visibility of the entire row unit toolbar, allowing the operator to sit comfortably without leaning or twisting forward in the ComfortCommand five-way-adjustable seat. All cab controls are color-coded for easy identification and reach. An optional air-suspension seat is available for even more comfort, and a training seat is standard to help teach inexperienced operators. The CommandTouch console allows for easy control of the pickers, with the hydro handle provideing smooth speed control and easy fingertip control of many functions.

The industry exclusive Pro-Series row units include the PRO-12, with a 12-bar front and 12-bar rear drum, and the PRO-16 units, with a 16-bar front drum and a 12-bar rear drum to enhance picking efficiency in tall, high yielding cotton. The PRO-12 VRS units allow picking from 15- to 40-inch rows.

Row-Trak guidance is optional on the 9996 pickers. This mechanical system keeps the picker unit on the row and allows the operator to maximize field speed. A high-capacity loading and unloading system is built into the 9996 Cotton Picker, along with a high-performance fan that improves air-flow for better distribution and conveying efficiency.

The large-capacity basket has 1400 cubic feet of storage and a standard basket lid extension. The innovative unloading system raises the Pro-Lift at an angle as the door lowers, giving excellent stability while putting the basket where it is needed.

Other features include a 360-degree lighting system for nighttime harvesting, wide cab platform for safe and easy inspection of ducts, and a quick remote lube fill that keeps the six-row machine lubricated for up to a week.

Harvest Doc Cotton is now available to map and document cotton yields, using the three common GreenStar components--display, mobile processor and StarFire iTC receiver. The operator can record field data while harvesting and then download the data to create maps and reports.