Three new 6.4-badged models, with outputs from 136 to 156hp, have joined Deutz-Fahr’s existing 6-series as the German firm looks to broaden its offering to livestock and arable farmers shopping for a midsize machine.

Slotting between the 6C and standard 6 ranges, the new German-made four-cylinder tractors are built around parent firm SDF’s own powertrain.

This differs from the more common outsourced combination of Deutz engine (the engine business is an independent company) and ZF transmission.

They also incorporate SDF’s own front axle, which features electro-hydraulically engaged four-wheel drive and 100% lockable differential functions, both controlled automatically.

See also: First impressions: Deutz-Fahr’s 287hp 8280 TTV

Powertrain

With respective maximum power/torque outputs of 136hp/577Nm, 147hp/622Nm and 156hp/663Nm, the new 6130.4, 6140.4 and 6150.4 models all use SDF’s Farmotion 45 engines.

The engines have electronically controlled high-pressure common rail fuel injection that is claimed to maximise power delivery and produce a flat torque curve.

It’s also quieter and more fuel efficient than some of the alternatives, the company says.

Other engine specs of note include electric control of the variable-geometry turbocharger to help minimise lag in response to load changes, and of the viscostatic fan to reduce power loss and fuel consumption.

Maintenance-free hydraulic tappets make continuous adjustments to keep the opening/closing timing of inlet and exhaust valves on point to aid performance and economy.

Transmission options comprise SDF’s long-established continuously variable TTV and the recently introduced RVshift – a CVT/powershift hybrid.

The latter is based around a full powershift concept with pre-determined ratios that can be customised according to preference and the job in hand.

It is also possible to hold the tractor at a standstill on the flat or a slope without using the brakes and adjust the response of the hydraulic forward/reverse shuttle according to task requirements.

The operator can shift between any of the 20 forward and 16 reverse speeds available without interruption to power delivery, up to the 50kph top speed.

Extras include a creep package offering speeds from 20m/h to 5kph.

Powershift ratios can be managed automatically via an auto-shift option in which the electronic control unit selects the most fuel-efficient ratio in relation to ground speed, draft force and engine speed.

The standard hydraulic system in the 6.4-series employs a 90-litre/min gear pump, but for those with implements demanding more flow there is a 120-litre/min load-sensing version.

There are also two rear lift options, with the basic package offering a linkage capacity of 5,870kg and the extra package of assister rams and beefed-up hardware upping that to 9,170kg.

Growing range

The addition of the new tractors means Deutz-Fahr now offers four 6-series ranges spanning 120-230hp.

Below the three-model 6.4 line-up sit the Deutz-powered 6C four-cylinder models of 120-136hp, with RVshift, powershift and TTV options.

Above them come the four- and six-cylinder 6-series of 161-217hp and 192-230hp six-pot tractors – both of which are available with RCshift, powershift or TTV drivelines.

Meanwhile, SDF UK, the subsidiary responsible for Deutz-Fahr in the UK and Ireland, has announced a major investment in a new premises, following the sale of its site at Barby, near Rugby.

The company says it will reveal further details of the new facility in the coming weeks, with a move planned before Christmas.