TORRANCE, Calif. (July 14, 2008) – Kubota Tractor Corporation is revolutionizing the way work is done in vineyards, orchards, and within other specialty applications. Kubota's new M8540 Power Krawler narrow cab tractor brings the benefits of a rear crawler track to a M8540 narrow cab chassis, increasing traction and stability while providing better flotation and less soil compaction. The Power Krawler features a year-round environment-controlled cab and offers the power of Kubota's popular M-series narrow tractors while engineered specifically for increased performance in rolling terrain and maneuverability in narrow rows.

Maneuverability, Stability and Smooth Ride
"Unlike full crawler vehicles, the Power Krawler's basic maneuverability and speed is nearly identical to that of a standard four-wheel tractor, so there is no need for special operator training," said Paul Williams, Kubota Tractor product manager. "The longer wheelbase, lower center of gravity, and independently oscillating rear tracks improves stability and keeps operators from bouncing through uneven terrain - dramatically increasing operator comfort."

Traction and Floatation
The larger track footprint offers better traction, especially in wet and hilly conditions. The M8540 Power Krawler's rear weight is distributed over the larger surface area of the rear tracks, which decreases the level of ground compaction by an estimated 60 percent compared to a standard wheel tractor of comparable size; this results in better floatation with less damage to soil.

The Power Krawler's traction and larger ground contact area also delivers superior stability and straight-line performance - making for a solid, smoother ride.

The rear crawler design is central to the Power Krawler's special performance capabilities. The synthetic rubber track features hard rubber lugs providing a smoother, quieter ride at higher speeds than typical steel lugs. Both sides of the tractor are kept in contact with the ground via independently oscillating crawlers. The maintenance and process for changing crawler tracks is user-friendly due to the split-type drive sprocket design with rotating pins.

M-Series Power and Reliability
The M8540 Power Krawler is equipped with Kubota's turbo-charged center-direct injection system engine. The E-CDIS diesel engine provides power, durability and efficiency, as well as low noise levels, all while meeting Tier III EPA Emission regulations.

The Power Krawler comes standard with a turbocharged 76 PTO horsepower four-cylinder engine, and it features hydrostatic power steering and a hydraulic shuttle transmission with wet main clutch. This feature is designed to maximize productivity and keep work moving with the fully synchronized four speed main shift and high/low range.

Compact Versatility
Kubota’s M-Series narrow tractors are engineered with operator comfort in mind, providing ample head room and maximum visibility. Kubota’s innovative narrow cab features standard air conditioner and heater, two front/rear halogen work lights, and monitor coupler. Optional equipment includes a CD or cassette player radio with weather band and rear wiper.

Kubota Tractor Corporation, Torrance, Calif., is the U.S. marketer and distributor of Kubota-branded equipment, including a complete line of tractors up to 103 PTO hp, performance-matched implements, compact and utility-class construction equipment, consumer lawn and garden equipment, commercial turf products and utility vehicles.

For product literature or dealer location information, contact Kubota Tractor Corporation at 3401 Del Amo Blvd., Torrance, Calif., 90503, 1-888-4KUBOTA, ext. 900 or visit www.kubota.com.

Kubota M8540 Power Krawler

Kubota’s new M8540 Power Krawler narrow cab tractor brings the benefits of a rear crawler track to a M8540 narrow cab chassis, increasing traction and stability while providing better flotation and less soil compaction.

Note to editors: Thank you for keeping this information on file. Kubota frequently introduces new products and product features. Please call before using this release or photo if it is more than one year from the date noted. June 2003.