The TOPPA 400 haulm topper supports uniform tuber ripening by reducing haulm two to three weeks before harvest. This helps prevent virus transmission from haulm to tubers and improves skin set for better storability. It offers a sustainable alternative or complement to chemical desiccation by mechanically crushing haulm and placing it carefully between the ridges.
With the ability to top four rows in one pass, the TOPPA 400 increases efficiency and reduces the risk of blockages at the harvester intake, even in dense haulm conditions. It can be mounted at the front or rear of the tractor and combined with the TOPPA 800 Combi to handle up to eight rows, while also adapting to various row widths and bed systems.
Highlights
The TOPPA 400 is designed for efficient transport and durability, featuring an implement road lifting frame that allows quick conversion to transport position with a width of less than 3 m. This enables fast road movement without the need for a drawbar or repositioning of support wheels. An optional three-point linkage extension improves lifting height and reduces the PTO shaft angle, increasing overall component lifespan.
The machine also includes an optimized gearbox position, which can be adjusted for front attachment to further enhance driveline durability. A continuous flail shaft (for 90 cm row width) eliminates the need for a center bearing, improving reliability. Large maintenance flaps across the full width make cleaning and flail replacement quick and convenient.
For precise operation, the TOPPA 400 offers optimal working height control via the tractor’s hydraulic system and adjustable support wheels, with easy depth monitoring. The optional RidgeRunner system helps close cracks in ridges after topping, protecting tubers from sunlight and reducing the risk of greening, while ensuring consistent and self-cleaning performance.
Standard equipment
- 3-point linkage for front or rear mounting
- Wide angle p.t.o.-shaft
- Heavy duty V-belt drive (4 times)
- Heavy duty gearbox to give up to 1300 rpm rotor speed at 540, 750 or 1000 rpm PTO shaft drive.
- At row width 75 cm: Housing width is 3.13 m
- At row width 90 cm: Housing width is 3.76 m
- Number of flails: 82 flails (resp. 98 flails in case of housing width of 3.76 m)
- Haulm discharge between the rows or to wheelings
- Single driven flail shaft with free wheel
- 2 support wheels fixed or swivel (option)
(Click to enlarge)
Grimme TOPPA 400 Technical specifications
