Silver Partner News

John Deere launches new golf course mowers

John Deere has introduced a complete range of advanced technology fairway, tees & surrounds and rough mowers for 2015, based on extensive feedback from greenkeepers and other golf and turf industry professionals.

Common features across the new A Model range include a brand new TechControl display, LoadMatch from the John Deere compact tractor range, internal wet disc brakes and improved operator stations – all engineered to provide users with greater control of the machines, easier operator training and best in class cut quality.

All A Models also feature OnCourse Technology, which intelligently integrates electronic controls with the mowers’ mechanical features to deliver improved performance, better diagnostics, more uptime and increased reliability, productivity and operator comfort.

The simple to use, password protected TechControl display enables the course manager, head greenkeeper or deputy to quickly set or change mowing, turning and transport speeds, for example, to limit variations in performance by different operators and provide a more consistent, quality finish. On-board visual diagnostics and the ability to set regular service times also help to maximise productive time.

In addition, an improved operator station on selected models features multiple step locations, making it easy to get on or off the mowers from either the front or rear. Tyre alignment has also been improved to deliver an even after-cut appearance across the mowing pass.

In addition, the new A Model E-Cut hybrid electric fairway mowers can be set to automatically deliver reduced engine speed during mowing, with fuel savings of up to 30 per cent.

For further information go to www.johndeere.co.uk

Jacobsen supplies hybrid greens mower to Royal West Norfolk Golf Club

Following the disastrous flood last December which devastated his machinery storage facility, Gavin Playford, head greenkeeper at Royal West Norfolk Golf Club, has taken delivery of a Jacobsen Eclipse 322 diesel-electric greens mower as part of his replacement package.

The tidal flooding on December 5 last winter left £1 million damage in its wake including extensive damage at the clubhouse; the kitchen, Men’s changing room and Pro Shop were all seriously affected, but the club lost their entire machinery fleet worth in excess of £600,000.

“We had the hybrid Jacobsen Eclipse in our planned replacement schedule as I’d had it on a three-day demo about 18 months ago, but with the approval of the insurers we were able to get it as part of the replacement package.

“I really like the machine’s ability to change the frequency of cut. We have found that the 2.4 setting (416 cuts per metre) is right for us. In my opinion, the finish is as good as double cutting but in a single pass. It’s very easy to work on; the swing out centre unit is a very good feature and the maintenance information on the display screen leaves you in no doubt about what servicing needs to be done, and when. Yes, a really well thought through piece of design.”

Royal West Norfolk was founded in 1892 and is unusual in that its ‘Royal’ status was conferred at the outset, when the Prince of Wales – later to become King Edward VII – accepted an invitation to become the club’s patron.

For further information go to www.ransomesjacobsen.com