JCB Fastrac - Gearbox

Gearbox

Three different gearboxes have been fitted to the Fastrac in production.

• The first type has evolved over several years.

1. On introduction of the Fastrac this style of gearbox had 18 forward gears (6x3) and 6 reverse (6x1). This were organised as 6 manual gears in each of 3 ranges (Low, Medium and High). The range box also selected reverse giving 6 reverse gears with speeds similar to medium in forwards. All gear changes were made with the use of a dry clutch.
2. This gearbox then had a 2 speed powershift section added after the dry clutch and before the 6 speed gearbox. This resulted in 36 forward gears (2x6x3) and 12 reverse (2x6x1).
3. Following this the 2 speed powershift section was changed to 3 speed version. Giving 54 forward gears (3x6x3) and 18 reverse gears (3x6x1)
4. The latest version of this gearbox a wet clutch replaced the dry clutch still with 54 forward and 18 reverse gears.

• The second type fitted only to 8250, 8280 and 8310 Fastrac models features a CVT (IVT) hydrostatic power-split gearbox which is one of the most advanced tractor gearboxes available.
• The third type developed most recently and fitted to 7000series and 3000 Xtra machines has a wet master clutch, a six speed powershift section and a four speed range box. As reverse is at the front of the powershift section the reverse gears are spread throughout the speed range. This arrangement gives 24 forward gears (2x3x4) and 12 reverse gears (1x3x4). Note that the top three reverse gears are not available for use.