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Solo:
Stubble to seedbed in one pass
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From stubble to seedbed in one pass is the ultimate aim, although few machines deliver in this respect. The Solo does and for the past nine years it has successfully proven itself culminating in the RASE Gold Medal Award in 2002.
Since then improvements to the range have been constantly made most recently with the introduction of the ST range and the addition of a 3.8 model, the 380ST. Whilst the original format of the disc/subsoiler/disc is still offered (with Pro-Lift legs) the majority of Solos now sold are the ST type and therefore this section of the website will focus on this range.
Solo ST cultivators meet the needs of modern arable farming for a highly effective, one-pass cultivator that can transform stubble into a seedbed, with drainage restored, and leave a level, fine finish which is often suitable for drilling. All this is achieved with the added benefit of a significant reduction in draught. They feature two gangs of discs, between which are set the fully adjustable loosening legs that can be set to remove compaction below the seedbed depth (typically between 15 and 25 cm).
 While the original Solos excel in heavier soils and situations where deeper loosening is required, the ST range is rapidly becoming the one-pass machine of choice on lighter and shallower soils. In addition the ST range is appropriate on heavier soils following 3-5 seasons of reduced cultivations when organic matter has been incorporated.
The Solo ST features a revised tool bar, fitted with a larger number of low draught Simba Horsch TerraGrip legs with a trip force of around half a tonne. Six depth settings and a choice of knock on points enable the cultivation effect to be matched to the soil type and condition.
Wide sweeps, for example, ensure that all the soil profile is moved even at shallow depth. You therefore have a very versatile machine capable of working effectively at a variety of depths.
When comparing different types of one pass cultivators, it is vital that the machine retains a distinction between surface cultivations via disc (mix, chop, incorporate 10-15cms) and sub surface loosening (down to 25cms) via tines.
In doing this you avoid bringing clods and or stones from the sub surface onto the surface which destroys the quality of seedbed as much of the fines are inverted to depth. Highly aggressive tines working deep will make this unavoidable, and as a result consolidation will be poor behind this type of machine (as shown in the picture) when compared to a DD finish on the left hand side.
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