The Nebraska Tractor Test Laboratory: 100 Years of Service

Abstract

The history of the Nebraska Tractor Test Laboratory is presented, describing changes for tractor technology and globalization. The current tractor test and interpretation of test reports are included. Recent research supporting testing procedures is discussed, including the method to verify tractor power when a full power PTO (power take-off) is not present, a method of evaluating the fuel efficiency of continuously variable tractor transmissions, revisions to three-point lifting results, and development of a dynamic ROPS test for large tractors. Future testing challenges are described, such as those presented by electric tractors, electric power delivery to implements, and multi-mode testing.