AN EXTENDED range of six-cylinder Deutz-Fahr Agrotron 6 Series tractors feature more models with CVT drive and a new ZF semi-powershift transmission, with more speeds for increased versatility and finer control on road and field.

A new semi-powershift transaxle is at the heart of a comprehensive round of changes that includes fitting the MaxiVision cab first seen on the larger Agrotron 9 Series tractors, new front axle suspension, optional front axle brakes using external discs for the first time, and a comprehensive upgrade of the electronics to cater for precision farming applications.

“This new range of tractors is designed for greater versatility, performance and efficiency with improvements in all respects,” pointed out Massimo Ribaldone, the R and D executive director with Deutz-Fahr's manufacturer, SDF. “Driver comfort is also in focus with the MaxiVision cab and more effective front axle suspension system, and the new electronics and LED lighting options help the driver be as productive as possible.”

The line-up comprises six power outputs spanning 156hp to 226hp, with a choice of semi-powershift or CVT transmissions, plus two Agrotron 7 Series tractors of 226hp and 246hp that come only with the stepless drive.

The enlarged TTV offering reflects growing use of CVT tractors, which across Europe now account for approaching half of all tractors between 140hp and 230hp.

All models are powered by a 6.1-litre Deutz engine as before but now equipped with a diesel particulate filter (DPF) in addition to AdBlue exhaust after-treatment to meet emission requirements.

No regeneration routine is needed for the DPF because it will keep itself clear of soot deposits under normal operation, said Deutz.

The engine is now installed as part of the tractors’ load-bearing structure between the transmission and a front axle support that carries the new front suspension design.

With longer swing arms and double-acting rams positioned vertically ahead of rather than behind the axle, this electronically controlled system is designed to be more resistant to dive under heavy braking and nose lift during acceleration. It can be locked-out if necessary.

Up front, a new casting for the three-point linkage has built-in electrical and hydraulic couplings, and lift capacity increased from 3.8 tonnes to 4.1 tonnes on the first three models in the range, and to 5.4 tonnes for the others.

While the new Deutz-Fahr TTV tractors continue to use ZF’s Eccom 1.5 or S-Matic 180+ hydro-mechanical transmissions, the semi-powershift versions are first to use ZF’s Terrapower transaxle, which has five ranges instead of six plus half a dozen forward powershift steps instead of four.

With three of those powershifts available in reverse, this results in a 30 x 15 configuration, or 54 x 27 when a creep option is added.

As it is, the standard configuration provides 17 ratios within the main working speed range, points out Mr Ribaldone, and the fifth range is effectively an overdrive that keeps revs down for lower noise and better fuel consumption.

“It is possible to run at 50kph with just 1447rpm from the engine because of the excellent power and torque characteristics of the engine,” he explained. “With the 6215 model, for example, there is constant torque between approximately 1000rpm and 1800rpm.”

Two levels of specification are on offer. In base Powershift form, there is a range gear lever and mechanical spool valves, and all controls are located to one side where an unusual ‘pod’ brings the hand throttle, an electronic loader joystick and other essentials closer to hand.

Tractors with the RCshift spec' can have either mechanical spools or electronic versions operated by proportional paddle switches, and there is a seat armrest console to which a colour data screen can be added.

Transmission control with this package includes electronic range as well as powershift operation by using a selector button on the MaxCom multi-function joystick as it is nudged forward for up-shifts and backwards for down-shifts.

Alternatively, the operator can select field auto (powershifts) or road auto (ranges and powershifts) to focus on steering and implement control, with ‘max’ and ‘min’ settings available.

So-called fuzzy logic electronics help make shifts as smooth as possible according to how the tractor is being driven.

The new transaxle also uprates rear linkage lift capacity of the top two models by 800kg to match the 10,000kg lift of the larger 7 Series machines.

Although the structure and interior layout of the six-post MaxiVision cab is similar to previous iterations, a new electronics platform brings Agrosky precision farming infrastructure to the powershift tractors when previously this was limited to the TTV stepless drive machines.

An 8in or 12in touch screen colour iMonitor is available to make adjustments to tractor systems such as spool valve timing and flow, provide steering guidance plus section control on a sprayer or seed drill, and operate ISOBUS compliant equipment.

Agrotron Series 6/7 Series

Model Max power Transport/pto boost Hydraulics (litre/min)

powershift stepless gear pump piston pump

6155 156hp - - 84 120 or 160

6165 164hp 171hp 171hp 84 120 or 160

6175 176hp - - 84 120 or 160

6185 183hp - 188hp 84 120 or 160

6205 203hp - 207hp 84 120 or 160

6215 212hp 226hp 226hp n/a 160

7230 226hp n/a - n/a 160

7250 246hp n/a - n/a 160