Softrak Reed Harvester

Product Description

Based on the original Softrak, which has proved invaluable in managing Fens, uplands and other delicate habitats for over a decade, the Softrak RD75x is built on the extended Softrak 75X chassis and undercarriage with a higher-powered engine - developed for contractors and reserve managers who need to cover larger areas while keeping the extremely low ground pressure and minimal terrain damage the platform is known for. High-strength steels keep the machine light yet immensely strong, proven by many thousands of hours of use without material failure, and the chassis and undercarriage are hot-blasted and finished in tough polyester powder coating for long-term durability.

The RD75x is powered by the Stage V, 2.9-litre (75hp) Deutz TCD engine, well known for its reliability and low fuel consumption. A large-capacity aluminium radiator rated to 45°C keeps it cool in demanding conditions, with extra-large intake grills that catch particles over 2.5mm while letting particles up to 3mm pass through freely, and a reversible fan that instantly clears any debris collecting on the grills.

At the front, a 2.3m-cut reaper-binder head - a proven, modified BCS harvesting unit - cuts and binds the crop automatically. Its patented BCS mechanism regulates bundle size via an adjustable release spring before cutting the twine, driven hydraulically through a sealed, grease-lubricated aluminium housing with chain-and-sprocket synchronisation. A variable-speed hydraulic chain conveyor then carries finished bundles up through the machine to the rear platform, ready to be thrown onto a trailed sledge or tracked trailer.

The Softrak RD75x's fully floating bogie track system, combined with flexible Bridgestone rubber tracks, follows ground contours far more closely than machines using rigid cross-bar tracks on flexible belts. The flexible edges ride over undulations in the ground rather than shearing off vegetation when turning, for a smoother ride and less damage to sensitive terrain.

An optional single-man cab is available, with rubber suspension, tinted glass, full-height doors and soundproofing as standard, plus a full heating and ventilation system (air conditioning optional). Margard polycarbonate front and rear safety screens with a scratch-resistant coating protect the operator, who sits in a heavy-duty suspension seat with full Deutz instrumentation, warning lights and a fuel level gauge.

A rear-mounted baler option lets cut bundles be formed into bales of around 1.2m diameter by 2.4m long (approximately 80-100 bundles each), tied with sisal or polypropylene twine, plastic or steel strapping, or reusable ratchet straps, with an optional weatherproof plastic liner for outdoor storage. Baled loads are easier to handle mechanically and transport by truck, though baling does reduce overall throughput compared with sledge collection.