The 2025 Farm Equipment Manufacturers Association (FEMA) Convention in Las Vegas provided a platform for dealers to share their insights on the integration of shortline equipment technology with mainline tractors. The discussion, moderated by Mike Lessiter, editor/publisher of Farm Equipment and Precision Farming Dealer, highlighted both the opportunities and challenges faced by dealers in this evolving landscape.
The conversation was sparked by an audience question from an independent tillage manufacturer, seeking guidance on the most successful automated applications for shortline equipment. The dealers present offered a range of perspectives, reflecting the diverse experiences and customer bases they serve.
Cami Erickson, Vice President of North Star Ag in Tower City, North Dakota, emphasized the need for universal compatibility across different tractor lines. She noted that while ISOBUS technology is intended to facilitate communication between implements and tractors, the reality is often more complex. “Right now, we deal with a lot of different tractor lines and a lot of different issues,” Erickson said. “Sometimes they talk really well with John Deere and they don’t talk well with Case IH screens, and then you don’t get the support from the mainline or whoever’s servicing that side of it.” She highlighted the challenge of keeping up with updates from major manufacturers and the lack of warranty and service support for shortline technology.
Eric Reuterskiold, CEO of Johnson Tractor in Janesville, Wisconsin, reflected on the evolution of ISOBUS technology. He acknowledged that while early implementations were flawed, the situation has improved significantly. “Five years ago, we just said, ‘Stick your own box in there and control your own equipment,'” Reuterskiold said. “That keeps things simple. But I think now we’ve swung the other way and guys want less streams, and ISO actually seems to work great often.”
David Orr, General Manager of Intermountain New Holland in Twin Falls, Idaho, echoed the sentiment that simplicity is key. He advised shortline manufacturers to focus on basic functionality and avoid overcomplicating their technology. “The more you can accept good technology (the better), don’t reinvent the wheel, don’t try to make it different than everybody else,” Orr said. He also emphasized the importance of clean cab integration, noting that excessive wiring and hoses can create clutter and potential issues.
Tim Brannon, President of B&G Equipment Inc. in Paris, Tennessee, concurred with the emphasis on simplicity. He suggested that shortline manufacturers should invest in engineering to ensure basic functionality rather than adding unnecessary features. “I would spend more money keeping it simple and just (focus on) the very basics,” Brannon said. “As a shortline manufacturer, just keep it simple. Yeah, plug it in. I’d put my money in engineering somewhere else. Just make it function basic. Don’t load it up with all kind of stuff that could go wrong.”
The dealers’ insights underscore the importance of collaboration and standardization in the integration of shortline equipment technology with mainline tractors. While challenges remain, the progress made in recent years offers hope for a more seamless and efficient future. As the agricultural industry continues to embrace precision farming, the role of shortline manufacturers and dealers will be crucial in driving innovation and improving productivity.