Its More Than Skin Deep

10/03/2017

When the design house is Giugiaro, one of Italy’s finest and responsible for stunning creations at the likes of Ferrari, Bugatti and BMW, it figures that the latest 6 Series from Deutz-Fahr was always going to turn heads.

But looking past the stunning exterior to what lies beneath, will demonstrate an understanding of engineering excellence, which in turn will help deliver efficiencies and positive numbers to the operational bottom line.

The latest 6 Series tractors offers Tier 4 (final) engine technology in a 6 cylinder, 6.1 litre format, utilising SCR and passive DPF systems to meet emission regulations, while at the same time helping to deliver industry leading fuel consumption figures. Three models, the 6165, 6185 and 6215 offer 165, 185 and 215hp respectively, and are matched to a choice of two transmissions.
The new RC shift transmission offers 5 main speeds and 6 power-shift steps (30F+15R) or a creep option that offers 54 forward and 27 reverse speeds.

The standard layout offers a remarkable 17 choices in the main working range to allow fine tuning of speed to the work in hand, and combines with a 50kph ECO gearbox that allows leisurely roading at only 1447 rpm, to save even more fuel. In operation, the RC shift system also offers three modes; manual, semi-auto, where the operator sets the range and the systems moves power-shifts automatically depending on load (Field Use), and fully-auto, where both ranges and power-shifts are changed automatically (Road Use).

The alternative is the TTV transmission which offers step-less speed choices between 0.2 and 50kph, a choice of manual, automatic or PTO driving strategies, and the ability to set speed and load parameters to achieve outstanding in-field and on-road operational economies.

Completing the package is a new electronically controlled front suspension system which is centred around double acting hydraulic cylinders, and in use, delivers superior traction, unrivalled comfort and additional features such as Anti-Dive, Anti-Rise and system Lock-Out.

The driver is also well catered for with the latest Maxi Vision cabin package, brought down from the larger models and offering common functionality for anyone running a mixed fleet.

Written by Mark Daniels. Published in Rural News, March 7, 2017: Issue 625. www.ruralnews.co.nz