THE Australian designed CLAAS Xerion 5000 4WD tractor has turned heads during a busy demonstration program by CLAAS Harvest Centre this year.
The model boasts a power rating of 391kW (524hp) and is the only model in its class with a continuously variable transmission as standard.
Transport speed is an impressive 50km/h.
Also boasting permanent all-wheel drive, all-wheel steering, cab suspension and advanced operating systems as standard, the Xerion becomes the new flagship of the rapidly expanding CLAAS tractor range.
It has been tailored to make the Xerion more specific to broadacre applications and the Australian configuration is offered with a fixed cabin, 2.5 tonne front ballast, 2.5 tonne chassis-mounted ballast, rear PTO, heavy-duty drawbar, air compressor and dual 710/70 R42 tyres.
CLAAS claims the Xerion 5000 compares more than favourably with any of its more established competitors at the top end of the market.
“Compared to 4x4 articulated tractors, it is considerably more comfortable, more fuel efficient and more manoeuvrable,” CLAAS Harvest Centre Northam branch manager James Moss said.
Unlike most 4WD high horsepower tractors, Xerion features a full chassis frame, with the 12.5 litre six-cylinder Perkins engine linked to a ZF Eccom 5.0 continuously variable transmission.
“This Stage IIIA (Tier 3) engine produces full power on demand, even at low engine speeds, and has remarkable fuel efficiency,” Mr Moss said.
“It incorporates an adjustable hydraulic fan that automatically adjusts the fan speed according to the engine temperature and it is also reversible to allow for on-the-go cleaning.
“The hydraulic drive ensures that the fan only operates at full power when absolutely necessary, reducing power requirements and reducing fuel consumption.
“The radiator can be cleaned at any time by pushing a button in the cab.”
Xerion uses the same spacious cabin and operating systems found on Lexion combine harvesters and Jaguar forage harvesters.
“Anyone who is familiar with this cabin will tell you how quiet and comfortable it is,” Mr Moss said.
“The exhaust is deliberately positioned in front of the engine so there’s less noise and the cabin itself is mounted in the middle of the frame, so there’s less bounce.
“The cab suspension system then absorbs any remaining shocks and vibrations.”
Xerion features the intuitive CLAAS electronic on-board information system (CEBIS).
CEBIS monitors and controls all of the tractor’s key functions via a fully adjustable 210mm (8.5in) colour screen, mounted on the driver’s seat armrest.
Additional GPS guidance and implement control terminals can be mounted on the integrated holder between the front and rear pillars.
The rear linkages, which have a maximum lifting capacity of 13.6 tonnes, are fully integrated into the chassis.
Xerion is equipped with two hydraulic circuits as standard.
The primary circuit operates the rear linkage and six dual-acting spool valves with a maximum flow rate of 105 litres a minute.
The secondary circuit operates the oil cooler, steering system and brakes.
Ken Wilson
Farm Weekly's machinery writer.
Farm Weekly's machinery writer.
