The smaller models of the 6R series, introduced to replace the 6030-series Premium models, were unveiled at the Agritechnica show in autumn 2011. The decision to stick with a urea-free engine showed up in the tractor’s styling: the high cooling requirement demanded a substantial front end. The charge-air cooling was switched to an air-to-air type. On average these tractors weighed about 900 kg more than their predecessors, and their overall dimensions grew noticeably. The engines produced more extra power than before, but it was still only available at road speeds or when power was drawn via the PTO.

The standard transmission was the PowerQuad Plus, which has four ranges plus a creeper gear and automatically adapts the creeper selection when you shift ranges. The 4-cylinder models offered 24 forward and 24 reverse gears; the 6-cylinder models had 20 + 20. Shift-ramp automation was available in the AutoQuad Plus version, which could also be specified for 50 km/h or as a 40 km/h Eco version. All models could also be ordered with the stepless AutoPowr transmission, complete with a foot-pedal drive mode.

Starting with the 6140R, a new DirectDrive dual-clutch transmission became available. This combines two mechanical gearboxes, each with its own clutch—one handling the even gears and the other the odd. Load on the driveline triggers the shift to the next gear. The gearbox has three ranges, each with eight power-shift gears, and can be operated automatically or manually. While it delivers excellent efficiency, it does not offer the completely jerk-free ride of a continuously variable transmission.

The standard load-sensing hydraulic flow was de-rated to 80 liters per minute, but in Finland a 114 liter pump was fitted as standard. Lifting capacity increased from one model to the next, following John Deere’s usual pattern. On the smallest tractors the lift capacity was quite modest by today’s standards—indeed less than on the cheaper 6M series. The cab is an entirely new four-post design and is claimed to be 20 percent more spacious than before. Noise levels are quoted at 72 dB—slightly higher than previously—and the cab’s display screen is larger than before.

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