This month’s edition of “Gizmos & Gadgets” features a Purina feed additive that optimizes reproduction in cattle, biodiesel approval for all T4 John Deere engines, a new Massey Ferguson tractor series and a new John Deere baler lineup.

Feed additive boosts reproductive performance

Purina Animal Nutrition is driving the success of reproductive health in beef cattle through the launch of CX8™, an additive technology designed to optimize reproductive performance for beef producers utilizing advanced reproductive technologies such as artificial insemination (AI), embryo transfer (ET) and semen collection.

The technology incorporates eight nutritional components positively affecting rumen fermentation; trace mineral and energy utilization; and oxidative stress, which optimizes fertility, increases first-service conception and maintains a healthy pregnancy during the gestation period.

Recommendations include feeding CX8 30 days before AI; embryo collection (donor) or embryo transfer (recipient); and natural-service conception protocols. Continue feeding CX8 90 days following initiation of breeding. For bulls, it is recommended to feed CX8 at least 60-90 days before semen collection. For natural-service breeding programs, feed CX8 60-90 days prior to bull turnout and continue feeding through the breeding season.

For more information visit https://bit.ly/468iHda.

Biodiesel-compatible engine portfolio

John Deere announced the approval of B30 biodiesel use across its entire portfolio of Tier 4 John Deere engines. This increases the previous approval of blends up to B20.

“At John Deere, we’re committed to supporting and growing the use of renewable fuels in our equipment,” says Pierre Guyot, senior vice president of John Deere Power Systems. “We believe strongly in the role that renewable fuels play in supporting the agriculture economy and are excited to offer our customers — including those who grow the very crops used to make renewable fuels — the opportunity to leverage higher blends of fuels like biodiesel in their own equipment.”

John Deere has a long history of supporting renewable fuel use in its equipment. Prior to this announcement, all Tier 4 John Deere engines were approved for B20 biodiesel and RD100 renewable diesel, with all Tier 3/Stage III A and lower-tier engines approved for biodiesel blends up to B100. In addition, all John Deere spark-ignition turf and utility equipment is approved for E10 ethanol blend.

For more information visit https://bit.ly/4mjqXvN.

New tractor series introduced to North America

AGCO introduces the Massey Ferguson 5M Series to North America, helping address persistent challenges in the field.

Designed for high-hour multitasking performance, the MF 5M Series helps address everyday challenges head-on, delivering a tailored combination of power, comfort and technology to help farmers and producers increase productivity, reduce fatigue and manage resources more effectively.

While utility tractors in this class often demand trade-offs — whether it’s too much power for the job, not enough configuration flexibility or added cost for features that don’t apply — the MF 5M Series breaks that mold with a wide range of power levels, cab and platform setups, and transmission choices that allow operators to tailor the machine to the job.

The series includes four models, from 105 to 145 hp. Operators can select between cab or open platform, 12x12 or Dyna-4™ transmissions, and two chassis sizes. The larger frame on the 135- and 145-hp models adds lifting power up to 11,500 pounds (lb.) and stability, ideal for big round bale handling or heavy municipal mowing attachments.

For more information visit https://bit.ly/3VNTApZ.

Baler designed for heavy crop conditions

John Deere has added the V452M round baler to its North American lineup, providing enhanced productivity and precision to larger-scale hay and forage operations. The V452M headlines the newly updated lineup of VR and CR round baler models, introducing a new naming convention and advanced features purpose-built for heavy crop and silage conditions.

Expanding the versatility of John Deere’s round baler lineup, the VM, VR and CR lineup updates include variable-chamber and variable-wrapping combination models. The new V452M offers bale sizes up to 5.5 feet (ft.) in diameter, giving producers more flexibility and control over their forage output, and a solution for those looking for increased density capabilities, particularly in silage or high-moisture crop settings. Key features of the V452M include: