German feed mixer manufacturer SILOKING Mayer Maschinenbau GmbH integrated Volvo Penta’s D5 and D8 engines across its SelfLine self-propelled range ahead of Stage IV emissions legislation, having by then sold 1000 of the machines since their launch in 2004. The next 1000 units sold twice as fast, and the latest 1000 units sold in just three years – underscoring the growing popularity of the SelfLine design and customer enthusiasm for the robust, reliable engines that offer increased productivity, and reduced servicing and fuel costs.

“We chose Volvo Penta for its engine range and service concept that exactly met our needs for the SILOKING models and for their steadfast commitment to a long-term business partnership,” says Karl-Michael Stieglbauer, SILOKING Senior Director Procurement. “Changing out the engine in our equipment line can be a monumental undertaking, but with Volvo Penta’s strong support, it took just 10 months. We’ve now delivered over 3000 SelfLine feed mixers and well over 50% of those are powered by Volvo Penta.”

Simplifying the design process
Meeting diverse power output requirements for different climate zones and worldwide emissions regulations has been simplified thanks to the engine design advantages and close collaboration between the partners. The consistent basic footprint of D5 and D8 engines as they evolve to meet next emissions steps – from Stage IIIA to forthcoming Stage VI, and China IV – helps reduce development time for new machines and facilitates SILOKING’s market expansion with minimal modifications.  

SILOKING’s operators and fleet owners from Shanghai to Seattle benefit from the same high level of aftersales support thanks to Volvo Penta’s worldwide service network. Extensive parts commonality between the D5 and D8 engines also benefits both OEMs and customers in terms of ease and cost optimization. 

Close cooperation between the manufacturers during the driveline development spanned the design of the prototypes to acceptance. Installation time and costs are reduced, thanks to engines being delivered pre-mounted with the cable harness and the plug-and-play design of the exhaust system. Initial engine installations received much fine-tuning to ensure optimal operation with the mixers’ hydraulics, resulting in a highly efficient driveline. In top-tier SelfLine models with multiple high-pressure circuits and an open hydraulic circuit, the engine needed various PTO connections. Volvo Penta upgraded its SAE B-rated PTO coupling to an SAE C design to meet the OEM’s desire for drive attachments requiring up to 600 Nm (later uprated to 1000 Nm).