News
New Jacobsen GP400
- Details
- Category: Equipment
- Published: Friday, 11 February 2011 10:26
- Hits: 35804
This new mower retains many of the features of its predecessor including a swing-out center reel for easy maintenance and adjustment and the legendary cutting units with 7, 9 or 11-blade reels. There’s a choice of engines with either a Briggs and Stratton V twin, air cooled gas engine, developing 17.7 hp (13.2kW) at 3400 rpm or a Kubota 3 cylinder diesel engine developing 17.7 hp (13.2kW) at a slightly lower 3200 rpm.
However, the Jacobsen design engineers have introduced numerous improvements to produce a ride-on greens mower that is worthy of the Jacobsen name. A new tank design incorporates the fuel and hydraulic reservoirs in a single molded unit providing better weight distribution and improved stability. As the fuel tank empties it has less effect on the machine’s centre of gravity and a sump in the bottom alleviates fuel starvation on slopes. The tank is hinged and can be lifted to provide much improved access to the engine compartment with a 70% wider opening than on the G-Plex III. A molded impression in the tank is fitted with an elasticized cargo net to provide a carrying facility for clothing.
The control layout and dash has been redesigned to improve ergonomics with more space for the electrical components and therefore easier maintenance. The standard Jacobsen joystick control featuring one-touch lift and lower sits comfortably within the unit, with a factory-fitted optional paddle, mounted on the steering column, available for customers who prefer this form of lift/lower.
The battery cover now allows access to the battery without lifting the seat, is double skinned for added strength and incorporates a small integrated storage tray. An all-new ROPS frame, fully compliant with ISO21299 and pre-drilled to take the optional dew whip holder, is fitted to a strengthened chassis that reduces vibration to the operator. In fact, whole-body vibration has been reduced by 50% and noise exposure at the operator’s ear level has been reduced by 2 dBa. Other factors contributing to reduced noise are the repositioning of the air filter beside the radiator and the addition of louvered panels to the radiator on the diesel model to deflect noise away from the operator.
Operator access and visibility have also been improved with the introduction of a step behind the front wheel and the angle of the curved steering arm has been adjusted to improve the view of the right-hand cutting unit. The steering arm clamp, which enables the arm to be positioned for the optimum comfort of the operator, has been moved for easier adjustment.
From a maintenance perspective, a new valve block design has reduced the number of individual valves, which reduces complication and makes for easier servicing, while reducing the potential for leaks. As stated previously the swing-out center reel allows easy access for changing the height of cut and routine inspection and maintenance. Better access to a much improved engine bay will also be of benefit to equipment technicians and backlapping is now standard on both models.
About Jacobsen
With nearly 90 years of experience in the turf maintenance industry, Jacobsen has built a legacy of precision craftsmanship, legendary quality of cut and unmatched expertise. Dedicated solely to delivering perfectly groomed turf, Jacobsen equipment is used on some of the finest golf courses, sports fields and other formal turf areas across the