The two new rear-mounted mowers NOVACAT 262 and 302 have working widths of 2.62 and 3.04 m. The central element on these two models is the unique hydraulic lower linkage arm that enables easy mounting without having to adjust the tractor hitch struts. This guarantees the highest level of convenience: using the hydraulic lower linkage arm the headstock can always be brought into the correct horizontal position - independently of the geometry of the tractor hitch. In addition, this system optimises weight alleviation as well as providing excellent ground clearance (50 cm on the inside) for headland turns and transport on the road. Ground tracking is also optimised as a consequence.
During transport the mower is pivoted hydraulically upwards by 115 degrees: with the mower on the tractor centreline the highest point is right in the middle with the centre of gravity perfectly in the centre. This ensures compact and safe transport of the mower. The standard parking position is to the side in the working position; parking stands are also available so that the mower can be left in the transport position to save space.
The heart of both mowers is the proven NOVACAT cutterbar with quick-change knife system as standard. Slanted cone surfaces, optimised counter-chop zone and optimised overlap of the knife paths ensure perfect crop flow, first-class cutting quality and at the same time optimum protection of the sward.
Both the NOVACAT 262 and 302 feature hydraulic weight alleviation. Lifting and alleviation are operated using completely separate systems. A clearly-visible pressure gauge is fitted to the mower frame and the ground pressure can be be adjusted progressively if needed using a double-acting remote valve. One filling sets the right alleviation to guarantee uniform pressure on the ground - the prerequisite for optimum forage and ground protection.
The centre pivot suspension on both models enables a freedom of movement of +/- 22 degrees. In order to guarantee optimum utilisation of effective working width, there is a choice of two different boom lengths for the NOVACAT 302 to match either 3.0 or 3.50-metre-wide front mowers. The mower unit is stabilized by a small cylinder to cancel out oscillation. This makes turning easier and ensures safety and stability at the headland and during transport.
If the mower impacts an obstruction during operation, the integrated mechanical collision protection system allows it to deviate by 15 degrees to the rear. Thanks to the resulting extra clearance of around 1 metre, the mower is ideally protected against severe damage. Reversing the tractor automatically pivots the mower back into the working position.
Ease of maintenance is extremely important at Pöttinger: the jointed shafts have an extended service interval (150 h) and the safety guards fold well clear to provide optimum access to the cutter bar for quick and easy knife changes.
Both the NOVACAT 262 and 302 are available with an ED tine-type conditioner or RC roller conditioner. The ED tine conditioner is fitted with the new design of steel tines mounted on rubber elements to guarantee an extended service life. The new position of the intake plate and the rounded geometry of the conditioner hood ensure perfect crop flow and uniform forage placement. This ensures a rapid and consistent drying sequence. The conditioner is very easy to maintain thanks to the external lubrication line for the rotor and the easily accessible drive belt tensioner. The RC roller conditioner has been adopted from the other mower models and features the new roller profile, which has already proven highly successful.
The new NOVACAT 262 and 302 mowers also offer the right swath formation for all operating conditions. There are four swath formation configurations available: wide spread without swath discs, swath disc on the outside (optional), swath discs on both sides, and additional swath discs.
