The New Holland TS range proved highly popular, providing a powerful yet nimble platform, ideally suited to yard work and medium weight duties.

Almost 20 years ago, in 2002, the TS tractors were replaced by an entirely new tractor, the TSA.

With its stylish cutting edge design, the TSA range comprised of four models – the four cylinder TS100A & TS115A as well as the 6 cylinder TS125A & TS135A.

Easily recognised by its large single door cab and curvy bonnet, the exterior and interior styling of the TSA was far more adventurous than its larger TM stablemates of the same era, as well as greater levels of sophistication.

In fact, much it’s of the TSA’s styling was inherited by the T6 and T7 tractors which arrived in 2008.

The Basildon built TS125A is powered by turbocharged and intercooled 6cyl 6.7l power plant which produces 125hp as standard.

However, New Hollands Electronic Power Management boosts this output to a considerable 147hp for road transport above 13th gear, and power hungry PTO implements based on PTO load.

This sizable power, combined with a lift capacity of 7.8t and closed centre hydraulics capable of 113l/min make heavy hitting package –at a little over 5tons.

Gearbox options varied with Synchro and Dual Command transmissions, however ElectroCommand is the most popular on these models providing eight powershift gears in two ranges totalling 16 in both forward and reverse.

Tractors fitted with a 50kph road speed had an ‘overdrive’ gear providing a 17th gear, as well as cab suspension as standard.

Drivers of an ElectoCommand TSA soon got accustomed to the high pitched hum of the gearbox due to its spur cut gears, similar to the SLE gearbox of previous Ford/New Hollands.

New Hollands four pillar ‘Horizon’ cab is built for visibility with large single pane doors with very little in common with the TM cab.

The absence of side windows raised some eyebrows initially, however all TSA models are fitted with a clear sunroof for both visibility and fresh air ventilation.

The sweeping side console houses colour coded and stubby spool valves, as well as 3 speed PTO controls. 

A long line of rocker switches sit below a well-placed grab handle – which is also home to well thought out gear shit buttons–, while the lift and draft controls are integrated conveniently into the front of the arm rest. 

A newly designed dash reverted back to analogue dials, with a button cluster mounted above. 

The TSA tractors were marketed at farmers and were built loader ready.

The options list was extensive including front axle suspension, SuperSteer, electric spools as well as headland management leading to many employed on heavier contract work.

A further upgrade came in 2005 with the tractors rebadged as the TSA plus tractors with yellow model decals. 

Contact Peter at psob1987@gmail.com or see Instagram @flashphotoscork