Goldacres Cropcruiser - G3/G4

The G3 / G4 Series Crop Cruiser sprayers represent the very best technology in a package that is both simple and economical to operate. It’s a formula that dates back almost two decades of self propelled sprayer manufacturing know how, delivering measurable benefits to the operator, with everything you need, and nothing you don’t. In a class of its own with a combination of light weight, high strength construction coupled with wide boom widths, the G3 / G4 Series Crop Cruiser sprayers deliver high outputs, with low inputs.

Hardly leave a trace while still making your mark

When Goldacres engineers set out to design the all new G3 / G4 Series Crop Cruiser one key criteria was to deliver a high capacity sprayer with a low gross weight coupled with large diameter tyres.

All these combined result in minimised soil disturbance and the ability to get back on the crop sooner after rain events.

Choices such as using a lighter four cylinder engine, an aluminium cased transmission, trussed main chassis rails, and mounting the main product tank directly into the chassis without the need for a tank cradle all significantly aid in the overall weight reduction, without sacrificing strength or reliability.

With either a 3000L or 4000L main tank capacity, boom widths of up to 36m and tyre sizes as large as 480/80R46 combined with a low gross weight of only 14,000kg* (G4 36m boom) means you will get plenty of hectares sprayed per day while hardly leaving a trace.

*Depending on options

Cabin

Long days and nights operating the sprayer can be demanding on the driver

That’s why the G3 / G4 Series Crop Cruiser features a premium cabin with essential features and comforts to help you get through. Goldacres designers have delivered a cabin that has everything you need, and nothing you don’t.

Features

• Easy to use fully moulded operator side console featuring all sprayer function control switches, drink holder and storage area.
• Grammer air ride seat with adjustable arm rests and seat belt.
• Fold away passenger seat.
• Climate controlled air conditioner and heater with active carbon filtration. Ducted overhead storage box for drink container.
• Curved front and rear glass and full length side glass.
• Engine and transmission monitor, plus transmission selector.
• Two way tilt adjustable and telescopic steering column.
• Twin USB charge points plus 12v power take off point for electronic accessories.
• Pull down front blind.
• Accessory mounting rail.
• Blue tooth AM/FM radio.

Stylish roof design with forward and rear facing LED lights (Not shown)

Control Freaks!

In today’s fast changing precision farming landscape it is easy to be left behind in the technology stakes

Goldacres make it easy, with multiple solutions from the basic requirements to the top end needs. For more than two decades Goldacres have relied on Raven to provide complete flow control systems with matched components to give, quite simply, unmatched flow control accuracy and stability. At the heart of the control system is a positive displacement pump run at consistent rpm. This creates known flow rates across varying pressures, essential for accurate and stable flow control. In addition, two system critical components, a flow meter and three way regulator valve, combine to help achieve fast “on target rate”, plus greater flow stability with assured tank agitation.

SCS450 & SCS4400 systems

The proven SCS range of sprayer consoles provide simple, fuss free control of the flow control duties. The SCS450 features up to five boom section control, 2 pre-set auto rates plus manual, pump speed readout, ground speed and several counters. The SCS4400 expands the features list with 7 boom section control, three tier system (3TS) and ultrasonic boom levelling capability. If you are looking to further expand the capabilities, then the SCS range is compatible with all the leading automatic section controllers on the market.

ISO BUS systems

Sprayer cabins can get pretty busy these days with the vast range of systems requiring individual control consoles. The ISO BUS standard brings all the systems together into the one display, called a virtual terminal (VT). Essentially the connected implement contains the brains, while the VT is simply the interface between the two. This allows for only one operator console to be required. Goldacres offer the option for ISO BUS compatibility, allowing numerous leading VT displays to take over the sprayer control duties. Features like 3TS, pump speed readout, ultrasonic boom levelling plus sprayer steering and task control applications can all be all monitored by the one display.

Performance on the ground

Just like its big brothers, the G5 & G6, the G3 / G4 Series Crop Cruiser shares the same chassis and mechanical drive line architecture, setting the benchmark in terms of driving dynamics for many years

The main chassis is a fully welded, torsionally rigid semi truss structure. This offers not only the best sprayer and boom ride but also the optimum balance between strength and weight. The proven five link suspension featuring polyurethane bushed heavy duty torque rods, rear anti sway bar and air springs on all four corners to provide a stable, yet smooth ride. All this combined with the full mechanical drive line result in performance on the ground.

1. Large vertically stacked cooling system for fuel, transmission, water jacket, charge air and air conditioning.
2. Over the Radiator (OTR) air cleaner system with twin stage filtration provide cool clean air to the engine.
3. Large capacity oil tank situated above the hydraulic pumps. Oil level visible from drivers seat.
4. Cummins Tier 3 QSB 4.5L - 4 cylinder engine rated to 119kw (160hp) and 622N.m (459 lb-ft). Compact yet powerful.
5. Allison 2500 series 5 speed transmission. Overdrive reduces engine RPM whilst still maintaining 50km/hr transport speed. Lock up clutches improve performance whilst dramatically reducing heat build up and fuel usage.
6. 300L polyethylene fuel tank provides enough fuel for the longest spray days without the need to refuel.
7. Trussing of chassis in the centre provides maximum strength with minimum weight.
8. Oversize 110mm hard chromed steering king pin front leg with mechanical link between front wheels ensures correct steering Ackerman angles and alignment*
9. 5 link (4 trailing and 1 pan hard rod) torque rods with polyurethane bushing.
10. 42mm anti sway bar reduces body roll without limiting individual wheel travel.
11. Oil filled final drive drop leg with planet hub reduction puts the power to the ground.
12. Rear air lock differential** with inboard disc brakes.
13. 4 wheel disc brakes with twin air over hydraulic circuits provides powerful stopping in all situations.
14. Integrated boom connection points. Non flexing chassis provides a stable platform for boom control.

*On fixed track width versions only. Adjustable track sprayers feature individual steering cylinders. **Adjustable axle models feature open differential (no diff lock)

TriTech Booms

Strength, stability, reliability and control

The TriTech boom range is designed for operators who demand the utmost performance, reliability and control. Time and time again the TriTech boom has been named No.1 for boom stability* which at the end of the day, results in a superior spray result. Features such as hydraulic yaw which precisely controls the forwards and backwards movement of the boom wings to minimise the under and over applying of chemical is now standard on all widths.

The strategically placed centre section suspension links help isolate the sprayer chassis movement over rough terrain. Combined with the tuned damping characteristics allows precise roll control enabling an optimal and consistent nozzle height to be maintained, even without the use of electronic height control systems**

All TriTech booms are constructed using lightweight trussing techniques, which allows for a stronger design without the weight, the enemy of boom agility.

3D Breakaway

The end breakaway section protects the boom from stress damage if a ground, fence or tree strike occurs. The end section can break forwards, backwards and up. The spring mechanism uses an eccentric mounted sprocket and chain to provide maximum breakout force in the neutral position then reduces the force the further the breakout.

Hydraulic yaw

Two hydraulic cylinders are mechanically connected together either side of the pivoting boom centre section. As the centre yaws one cylinder is retracted, the other extended. This results in oil movement which compresses in a nitrogen charged accumulator. The result is precise boom yaw control.

Wing tilt

Optional hydraulic tilt cylinders allow either side boom to be raised independently over obstacles or to allow the fitting of boom height control systems.

*Kondinin group’s Farming Ahead magazine 2012 and 2014 **Height control systems may be required in some extreme situations

Delta Booms

Application made easy

The Delta boom “Plus“ range is ideal for operators looking to benefit from the proven stability and performance of the three way suspension system to dampen the forces of pitch, roll and yaw, the enemies of accurate application in an economical package. Designed for light to medium duty applications with widths ranging from 18m to 24m, there is a size to suit every situation. Standard features include mild steel inner wings with lightweight aluminium outer wings, single operation boom folding system featuring the proven cable control with outer wing break back functionality, full size ¾” boom lines to minimise pressure drop across the sections for consistent spray application and full hydraulic lift and fold with options such as individual boom wing tilt, boom end 3D breakaways. The Delta boom “Plus” can be configured to suit your individual spraying operation.

Delta links

The key to the superior boom ride is the strategically placed delta links. In all there are 4 links. Each link features spherical ball ends which allow the boom to move in all directions.

3D breakaway

The end breakaway section protects the boom from stress damage if a ground, fence or tree strike occurs. The end section can break forwards, backwards and up. The spring mechanism uses an eccentric mounted sprocket and chain to provide maximum breakout force in the neutral position then reduces the force the further the breakout.

A sprayer is only as good as its boom

Today’s sprayers are full of bells and whistles which makes spraying a whole lot easier, comfortable and efficient. It’s easy to forget what the end goal is. Precise chemical application.

Boom control can be the difference between a good spray result, and no result at all. Goldacres understand this and it is why all our sprayer designs are centred around the boom first and foremost.

Why do Goldacres booms ride so well?

Goldacres pioneered the use of lightweight aluminium in the outer boom wings over two decades ago. The philosophy was, and still is today that mass on a boom is fine so long as it is as close to the centre as possible. Reduced mass on the boom extremities reduces boom forces in both yaw and roll. This combined with the unique boom suspension results in a very stable boom ride, regardless of the terrain. The G3 / G4 Series Crop Cruiser sprayers are offered in two boom designs, Delta and TriTech.

Both booms are contour following, meaning that the boom level will be referenced to the sprayer chassis and not purely on gravity such as a pendulum boom. This allows the sprayer to transverse the sides of hills and contours whilst keeping the boom level to the ground at all times. This results in placing the nozzle at the optimum height above the target.

Application Technology options

Nozzle technology has advanced in leaps and bounds over the years and a strong emphasis on drift control has influenced many nozzle designs, including air induction (AI) technology

The spray nozzles operating pressure range and size determine the application rate and speed band at which the driver must adhere to. This band is usually quite narrow. To overcome this Goldacres offer a 3 tier system (3TS) which effectively gives the driver a much wider operating band whilst still maintaining optimum droplet size. Think of 3TS as a three step gearbox. Each nozzle type has an operating pressure band for a given droplet size. As the first nozzle reaches the top of the pressure band it switches off and the next larger size nozzle switches on. When that nozzle reaches the top of that pressure band the first nozzle will switch on again, effectively giving three operating bands.

RapidFire

Over the last several years there has been a greater shift to precision farming technologies, such as auto steering and automatic boom section control. Both of these technologies are aimed at reducing spray overlaps and unsprayed areas, the former potentially causing crop burning and overuse of chemical. Depending on the field size and shape the wastage can be quite substantial. Goldacres have developed these practices further by introducing RapidFire air controlled nozzle shut off capability.

Traditional systems use motorised boom section valves to control water flow to the nozzles. Wider booms in conjunction with increased number of spray sections means substantial amount of plumbing is required, thus increasing the delay in spray on and off times. In addition, the further the nozzle is from the centre of the boom the longer the delay becomes. RapidFire overcomes these problems by putting the switching capability right at the nozzle.

Small air lines at each nozzle switch the flow on and off in a fraction of a second, and move evenly across the boom width. Boom line plumbing is also greatly reduced, which quickens line priming and flushing as well as simplifies plumbing.

RapidFlow boom recirculation

RapidFlow boom recirculation allows the sprayer boom lines to be fully primed without spraying a single drop. This reduces wastage at the start of a tank load or when switching chemicals.

RapidFlow can also be used to thoroughly flush out the boom lines without the need to physically spray on the ground.

Chemical Handling

When your sprayer is sitting idle being reloaded with water and chemical it’s not making you money. That’s why Goldacres offer filling solutions that minimise the reload time to get you back in the paddock sooner

Options like fully integrated water and chemical transfer pumps, or fast fill 3” systems. Or maybe a separate batching system to compliment your spraying program is of interest?

SuperFlow Chemical Induction Hopper

The SuperFlow chemical induction hopper is an integrated chemical transfer system that allows liquids, granular and powdered products to be measured and transferred into the main tank. The hopper has 60L capacity with both drum and internal rinsing capabilities. The high flow 2” venturi is mounted at the base of the hopper which draws the chemical into the water stream at that point, minimising the chance of blockages.

Water transfer pump

When you need to transfer water into the sprayer quickly and conveniently the optional hydraulically driven transfer pump is the answer. The pump is plumbed directly to the EZ control station and can distribute flow to not only the main tank but also rinse water tank, main tank flush sprinklers, hopper flush and micromatic coupler.

Operator safety and external controls

Today’s tough OH&S requirements are there to ensure everyone finishes the day like they started. Safe and well. At Goldacres we not only take care of our own employees, but we ensure operators of our products are also looked after. Features such as the clearly labeled and colour coded EZ control station, well laid out connection points and valves at correct working heights, personal protective equipment (PPE) locker, hand washing and empty container rinsing equipment just to name a few. External switches with protective covers allow the operator to increase engine RPM, switch on the transfer pump and control the main sprayer pump, all from ground level.

Liquid Chemical Transfer Systems

When large quantities of neat chemical need to be transferred into the sprayer from either a 1000L intermediate bulk container (IBC), 110L enviro drum or just a standard 20L drum then the chemical venturi probe or optional micromatic coupler can be used. The micromatic coupler arrangement is a complete closed loop connection system that eliminates the chance of the operator coming into contact with the chemical. The main sprayer pump is used to generate flow through a venturi, which creates a vacuum for the chemical to be drawn in. At no stage does the chemical come into contact with the pump and is therefore virtually a maintenance free system. If you require a separate system then a 12 volt chemical transfer pump and counter arrangement can be fitted. Both the probe and micromatic coupler can be used.

A wheel track for every situation

Goldacres builds sprayers for the Australian market. We understand and build sprayers to suit Australian requirements

Wheel track width measurements can vary significantly depending on crop types and geographic regions across Australia. The G3 / G4 Series Crop Cruisers offer several solutions to meet any requirement. There are 4 configurations of axles available, in addition to wheels and tyres, almost any conceivable wheel track can be achieved.

Custom axle widths can be manufactured on request. Fixed width axle reduces sprayer weight and complexity. Steering is also more accurate due to mechanical connection between front two wheels improving tyre life.

Ease of transport

Whether you are spraying in the field or driving down the road, uninterrupted vision around the sprayer is essential for the safety of you and others

Features like the flat folding boom wings so the operator’s line of sight is uninterrupted. Adjustable side mirrors provide a clear view of the road behind. Compact folded booms provides the operator with easy access to the cabin yet brings the overall transport width down to under 3.5m*, eliminating the need for an escort vehicle. Twin circuit, 4 wheel disc brakes fitted as standard if the unthinkable should happen. LED daytime running lamps, turn indicators, projector style halogen head lights and a rotating warning beacon round out the package. The Crop Cruiser really is one for the road.

*3.5m when 480/80R46 tyres fitted at wheel track 2970mm **Clearance with 480/80R46 tyres

Specifications