With your tractor confirmed as auto steer ready, you're on the cusp of a significant upgrade in your farming operations. The autosteering technology makes precision a new reality by transforming the way you engage with every inch of your land — reducing human errors, conserving precious resources, and maximizing your yield with an efficiency that was once just a dream. But with so many options available, how do you choose the right autosteering unit for your steer-ready tractor? This blog will guide you through the considerations and options for selecting an autosteering unit that transforms your steer-ready tractor into an autosteering one.
The Basics of Autosteering Units
Before choosing the right autosteering system for your tractor, it's crucial to understand the basics of autosteering units for agricultural use. These systems typically consist of a display unit, a GNSS antenna, and a steering control module. Each component plays a vital role in the efficiency of the autosteering system in agricultural operations.
Specifically, the display unit provides real-time data or integrated control for informed decision-making; the antenna receives GNSS signals from satellites for precise positioning; and the steering control module interfaces with your tractor's steering system to keep it always on predetermined courses.
Which System to Choose?
When your tractor is considered steer-ready, you have many options for upgrading it into an advanced auto-steering machine, ranging from sophisticated retrofit to simple mechanical modification. Here are some popular systems you can consider when integrating autosteering into your tractor.
Steer-Ready Autosteering System
Benefits: Steer-ready systems are designed to connect directly to your tractor's existing autosteer ports, eliminating the need for additional components and minimizing alterations. They offer a simple and convenient installation process, allowing you to quickly take advantage of the precision farming benefits.
Considerations: The primary limitation of steer-ready kits is their compatibility, as they are only suitable for specific pre-equipped tractor models. Make sure that your tractor is compatible with a steer-ready kit before making a purchase.
If you are in favor of a steer-ready autosteering system, there are some good offers on the market for extensive compatibility. One example of such a system is the FJD AS2 Steer Ready Autosteering System, a plug-and-play system that integrates seamlessly into the existing steer-ready port with minimal setup changes. You don't have to replace the original steering wheel or install hydraulic valves, helping you quickly unleash autosteering capability in your existing tractor.
FJD AS2 Steer Ready Autosteering System
Electric Autosteering System
Benefits: In an electric autosteering system, an electric motor is usually mounted directly onto the steering column or on the steering wheel to control the steering. Electric autosteering systems offer high adaptability and compatibility with various tractor models. Their user-friendly design allows for quick installation and a smooth transition to auto steering.
Considerations: When choosing an electric autosteering kit, you may need to replace the steering wheel and consider compatibility with your tractor's steering column. Consult with a precision agriculture expert to determine the best solution for your specific equipment.
The electric autosteering systems can be a good budget option for old models of tractors, especially when your steer-ready tractor has a limited choice of steer-ready kits. FJD offers the AT2 Auto Steer System that perfectly fits into a wide range of agricultural machinery and versatile implements, making it ideal for various farming practices.
FJD AT2 Auto Steer System
Hydraulic Autosteering System
Benefits: Hydraulic autosteering systems are installed directly into the tractor's hydraulic system to control steering oil flow for vehicle steering. These systems provide increased stability and eliminate the need to replace the original steering wheel, making it a more integrated solution for farmers seeking precision guidance.
Considerations: The installation of hydraulic autosteering systems in tractors involves a series of intricate steps due to the complexity of integrating components like pumps, hoses, valves, and cylinders. Therefore, the installation process for hydraulic autosteering systems is more complex than that of other systems, which often requires additional expertise or assistance and may incur labor costs for hiring skilled installation workers.
In terms of hydraulic autosteering system , FJD offers flexible kits that can be seamlessly integrated with your original steering wheel, so you can control your vehicle like before but enjoy a more stable ride with more precise hydraulic control.
FJD AH2 Hydraulic Autosteering Kit
These systems vary in complexity and cost, catering to a broad range of farming needs and budgets. The choice of a system depends on factors such as the size of your operation, the terrain of your farming area, and the specific crops you are dealing with. By evaluating the benefits and considerations associated with steer-ready autosteering systems, electric autosteering systems, and hydraulic autosteering systems, you can decide which solution best suits your farming operations and equipment. Whether you prioritize simplicity, compatibility, or stability, there's an autosteering unit available to enhance your tractor's precision capabilities.