The Rebuild Process

Our ACO tractor rebuild process is designed to maintain the tractors’ rugged drive train components, while integrating new technology to improve and enhance capabilities and comfort.

We focus on rebuilding ACO 250, ACO 350 and ACO 460 model tractors. The rebuild process starts with a complete tear down of every part and component. The engine, transmission and axles are completely dismantled and then rebuilt to the manufacturer’s specifications. This occurs regardless of the tractor’s service history or the condition of its various components.

After the drive train components are remanufactured, the engine, transmission and axles are dyno tested to ensure that required specifications are met.

The tractor frame is cleaned, shot-blasted and inspected. All welded and machined components are repaired, strengthened and improved on where necessary.

All hydraulic cylinders are serviced and restored to as new condition.

The re-assembly process starts with a complete re-alignment of the driveshaft angles and fitting of all new components.

The articulation and oscillation sections are redesigned and improved to achieve a smaller turn radius. The bearing sections are line bored to ensure long-lasting, trouble-free operation.

A comprehensive range of other improvements are also made. Every tractor that leaves our factory is upgraded to a standardised design, including modifications that improve on the original tractor.

See below for more details about the improvements we make to each part of an ACO tractor during the rebuild process.

Details of our ACO tractor rebuild process

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The cab

Every tractor is fitted with a new cab, which is redesigned with a modern look and feel. The cab is mounted on an air shock suspension with vibration dampening mountings.

It is furnished with a climate control system with a dual air conditioner, a heater, sound and heat proofing, a new leather-upholstered pneumatic suspension seat with an armrest control console and a 90-degree rotary base.

The new steering column can be tilted to suit any operator.

Additional auxiliary control panels are added for comfort and ease of access to the cab’s accessories. A stereo sound system with Bluetooth capabilities allows for operator entertainment during long operating hours.

The engine, transmission and hydraulic controls are all managed through a throttle control grip, finger joysticks and a high-definition touch screen.

Three-point hitch

The three-point hitch has been reworked to conform to ISO standards, improve the weight distribution across the axles and enhance the horizontal and vertical convergence distances.

With larger tires fitted, it is possible to move the lower link arm attachment point to a more favorable position.

The higher hydraulic pressure adds to the increased downward force on the implement when required, and the new sway block system ensures higher accuracy during operation.

Hydraulics

The hydraulic system has been completely upgraded and modernised to conform to the latest ISO standards for agricultural implements. Various functionalities such as draft, slip and position control have been integrated into the vehicle’s systems.

The hydraulic system has been specifically designed for the ACO series of tractors. A high-flow, high-pressure Danfoss piston pump is the heart of the tractor.

Due to the system’s load-sensing operation, a new non-reactive orbitrol with prioritised steering has been fitted. This improves steering precision, control and safety.

A steering assist capability has been incorporated to provide steering support to the operator during turnaround maneuvers in the field.

The tractor incorporates four remote valves with over 300 liters per minute of available flow. A dual speed PTO has been added on request and can handle power demands of up to 130 kilowatts.

Tyres & rims

We offer tractor owners different tyres options but for our prototype ACO 460, recommend the most widely available tyres.

710/70R42 tyres are the most commonly used tyre in the high horsepower range of tractors, and will significantly improve the vehicle’s traction and flotation in the field.

All rebuilt tractors receive a new set of rims to ensure the highest quality and manufacturer support.

360° view lighting

We equip each tractor with spectacular 360-degree visibility for effective lighting at night, without blinding other vehicles in the field. The use of multiple inexpensive but high-quality LED lights creates an effect similar to daylight, with extended visibility right around the vehicle.

Each individual LED can be adjusted to suit the operator’s field of view.

All lights are controlled through the tractor’s touch screen. This includes headlights, fog lights and spot and worker’s lights.

Electronic & software integration

The ACO Tractor’s original transmission control unit has been replaced by a simple but powerful Danfoss platform. With Danfoss as an OEM partner, the tractor features world-class capabilities. Integration between the drive train and the tractor’s electronic control systems is seamless. Significantly, the diesel engine and PowerShift transmission are fully integrated, with full automatic, cruise, crawl, and manual control modes.

Additional sensors and electro-hydraulic actuators enable smooth gear and mode changes, via electronic controls.

With the exception of two auxiliary panels, all controls are accessible via a 12-inch touch screen and armrest control console.

The clutch can be operated via the press of a button on the control stick or by depressing the brake pedal.

The various operating modes can be selected using buttons on the control stick.
In cruise control mode, the software automatically selects the most economical operating gear based on the engine’s performance.

The transmission modulation pressure is electronically managed and internal pressures are controlled with the shift of every gear. The software calculates the operational load in real time and adjusts modulation pressures accordingly. This allows for much smoother gear shifts, even under full loads.

A feature-rich three-point hitch control interface has been developed. It incorporates draft control, slip control and position control, and a variable floating mode.

Remote valves are operated using finger joysticks on the armrest control console. Three different modes, including Detent and Auto Stop/Start modes, and flow control adjustments are accessible via the touch screen.

An auto guidance system is activated through the vehicle’s Controller Area Network (CAN) bus. An ISO bus system for implement applications is accessible through the auto guidance system. The harness is incorporated within the tractor’s wiring harnesses.

One of the main capabilities of the software is to protect the drive train at all times. This ensures reliability and continuous operation, with minimal downtime.

A data telemetry system has also been incorporated. This allows remote system monitoring and software updates. The telemetry system also records all required parameters to extract valuable precision farming datasets.