The Claas Arion 400 has been designed to be an ideal loader tractor.
 CLAAS has introduced the Arion 400 tractor series to meet the needs of livestock or arable farmers in the market for a compact-sized, four-cylinder tractor of between 100-130hp.
     The three new models cover the gap left in the Claas range that was previously served by the Ares 500 models. Their introduction means that with a total of 20 models with 51 variants, Claas is now able to offer one of the most extensive ranges of tractors between 70-270hp.
     The Arion 400 is based on the same frame as the Ares 500, but utilises many features of the larger, high specification Arion 500 range. The result is a tractor that is spacious and comfortable, yet compact and manoeuvrable for work in yards and buildings, but with a lift capacity of 6.5t has the carrying capacity and power for field work.
     With an overall length of just 4.44m, the Arion 400 has a tight turning circle of just 4.40m. To keep the overall height to a minimum, the Arion 400 is fitted with a new low profile, flat-roofed ATX version of the Arion 500 cab, which whilst being the most spacious of any tractor this size, gives the Arion 400 an overall height of just 2.74m when on 34 inch wheels. This compares to 2.71m for the Axos and 2.95m on the Arion 500 range.
     However, while these compact dimensions are ideal for yard work, this is not at the expense of its ability to handle heavy machinery in the field.
     A total of three models are available, the Arion 410; Arion 420 and Arion 430, each of which can be specified in a competitively priced Standard version or a more highly specified CIS variant.
     All three models are powered by 4.5-litre DPS Powertech common rail, turbocharged and intercooled engines with rated/maximum power outputs of 95/100hp; 105/110hp and 115/120hp respectively and maximum torque of 500Nm.
     The Standard version of the Arion 400 is fitted with the well proven 16-forward/16-reverse Quadrishift transmission.
     Featuring four ranges within which are four splits that are selected at the press of a button on the side of the gear lever, this transmission is not only extremely easy to use, but in DLG tests has shown to have extremely low power losses, making it very efficient at transferring engine power to the wheels.
     The specification also includes a 60 lit/min hydraulic system and two double-acting mechanical spool valves along with a 540/1,000 rpm PTO. Options include a higher capacity 98 litres/minute hydraulic system, ensuring quick response for loader work, additional spool valves and an economy speed PTO.
     The Arion 400 CIS is designed to meet the needs of those who are looking for a higher level of specification and automation.
     On all three variants, in addition to the standard power boost, on CIS versions there is a further 10hp power boost at about 6.5km/hr in range C, giving them boosted maximum power outputs of 110hp; 120hp and 130hp.
     Like on the Standard version, the Arion 400 CIS is fitted with the 16-forward/16-reverse Quadrishift transmission, but with the option of Quadractiv powershift which provides either manual or automatic electro-hydraulic changes between the ranges and the four splits within each range. This combines the efficiency and low power loss of the Quadractiv transmission, with all the flexibility and convenience that would be found with a CVT transmission.
     As standard, CIS versions feature the higher capacity 98 lit/min hydraulic system and is fitted with three double-acting spool valves as standard. As an option a new electro-hydraulic cross-control joystick is also available. Mounted on the armrest, the multi-function joystick contains both the gearshift controls but also makes it possible to control two hydraulic functions at once, making it ideal for loader work or when using a front/rear mower combination.
     In addition, a 540/1,000 and Eco speed PTO is fitted, with external controls on the rear mudguards. The PTO system also incorporates an automatic engagement/disengagement for headland turns.
     The higher level of specification in the cab provides an extremely comfortable work environment. In addition to air-conditioning, the cab is fitted with an air seat and passenger seat, plus a refrigerated compartment. Incorporated into the dashboard is the Claas Information System (CIS) unit that provides the operator with a wide range of output, management and tractor settings, that are accessed using a rotary and Escape button.
     Whether it is an Arion 400 Standard being used in the yard or the higher specification CIS being used for arable work, this new addition to the Claas tractor range is a highly versatile model that brings a new level of operator comfort and specification to this competitive sector of the market.

For more information visit: www.claas.co.uk.