1975

Sands introduce the first Self-Propelled Forward Control Crop sprayer in the UK.

David Brown based Model F.C. 63 hp. 2000L, 18m Booms,

Twin spray lines.

1979

Pneumatic Sprayer Control introduced.

1981

Model FCH introduced. The first successful Hydrostatic sprayer in the UK.

2wd, 87hp Deutz engine. 2500L, easy demount, vehicle suspension.

24 m. 3 fold up & over Boom introduced.

1983

4wd & 111hp engine fitted to FCH.

1985

Model FCH II introduced with true 50 / 50 weight distribution & adjustable Axles

1986

Model FCH(T) introduced based on the FCH II but with 3600L, 148hp and a longer wheelbase.

1987

Model FCH(T) HILLSIDER introduced with revised weight distribution and Automatic tank leveling.

1990

Last Model F.C. produced. 84hp. 2500L.

Model SAM2000 introduced, permanent 4wd, 101hp. 2000L.

1991

Models SAM2500 & SAM3600 introduced with 120hp & 148hp engines, new ‘S’ series wheel motors and Twin hydrostatic pumps

New R.O.P.S. Cab with revised interior fitted throughout the range.

1993

‘Intelligent’ 4ws introduced throughout the range.

1995

30 m. 3 fold up & over boom introduced.

1996

Model LOWLINE series introduced with capacities of 2000L, 2500L and 3600L.

Revised wheel motors with single hydrostatic pump. New tank design lowered

the center of gravity significantly.

4 cyl 106 hp engines replaced the 5 cyl 101 hp units in the 2000L machine.

1998

Model 3000L & 4000L LOWLINE machines replace the 2500L & 3600L units.

Engine power increased to 131 hp & 161 hp.

New sliding axle design with optional hydraulic assistance introduced.

Gullwing folding booms replace the up & over type with widths up to 32 m.

PRIME and PURGE SYSTEM introduced.

2000

Model ‘M’ Class introduced. Totally new R.O.P.S. safety cab with futuristic styling. GRP engine covers, side skirts and front and rear mudguards. Multifunction Joystick control. Lowline spraypacks with 3000L or 4000L

2000L machine discontinued.

2001

Model SL series introduced with a totally revised cab interior, all new narrow spraypack and tank design and SELF LEVELLING hydro-pneumatic vehicle suspension.

2003

Model SLc series introduced with a cranked chassis to lower the center of gravity by 150mm to increase stability. Revised wheel motors on the SLc 3000 and new tier 2 Deutz 914 engines of 150 hp and 175 hp.

Latest HILLSIDER version of SLc introduced with 3600L self leveling tank, 4ws and ‘Smart Drive’ traction control system.

36m Three fold Gullwing boom introduced.

Air-cooled 914 engines replaced with Deutz 2012 water-cooled units rated at

175 hp and 187 hp.

2004

Fully automatic CLIMATE CONTROL replaces manual air-conditioning.

DUAL RIDE becomes available to increase operator comfort under very rough conditions.

2005

Revised CAB cladding to provide increased glass area and narrower waistline.

Revised interior control panels to suit.

Softer cab mounts to reduce engine noise further.

LOAD SENSING auxiliary hydraulics introduced across the model range.

Automatic boom lifting, HEADLAND CONTROL introduced.

EXTRA HIGH CLEARENCE versions (1.25m) of SLc 3000 / 4000 introduced.

2006

TIER 3 Deutz engines with same power ratings replace tier 2 units.

40m BOOMS with gullwing fold plus end flip over introduced.

SLc 5.5 added to the SAM range. The largest production UK built sprayer with

5500 L capacity, full dynamic braking, 207 HP and ‘drive by wire’.  

2007

SLc 4000 E added to range. Longer 5.5 chassis with low 4000 L tank and 4000 transmission.

Prime & Purge recirculation improved with a venturi to cater for wider booms.

Single sprayline and triplets plus Prime & Purge becomes standard fit.

2009

“VISION” series replaces SLc range in 3000, 4000 and 5500L capacities.

New cab with curved screen and total armrest control.

Boom umbilicals carried in an Energy Chain.

Revised plumbing and sprayline switching for faster response.