Fendt Farmer 409-412 Vario

In the autumn of 1999, the Vario series was expanded with the 400 series, which was the smallest tractor series on the market equipped with a continuously variable transmission. The 400 series was powered by 4-valve 3.8-liter Deutz engines with rated power outputs of 86-110 hp, and from autumn 2001 also 120 hp. The engines had peak power 6-9 hp above the rated power and torque increase of 35%.

The Variotransmission operated on the same principle as in the 700 and 900 series, with only one hydraulic motor. At low speeds, the drive was entirely hydraulic, and at 50 km/h it was fully mechanical. Acceleration could be adjusted according to the driver’s preference, reaching the top speed of 50 km/h in 15 seconds, thus slower than the larger models. The flow of the hydraulic valves in the 400 series was not adjustable based on flow time. The hydraulics were load-sensing and had a capacity of 75 liters per minute.

The cab was overall similar to those of the larger Vario models, with air conditioning and an air-suspended seat as standard equipment. The Vario terminal and control console were similar to those in the 700 series, making operation easier than in the first Vario models. However, the display in the 400 series was standard black-and-white. The joystick did not have controls for hydraulic valves or the hitch as in the larger models. Forward movement was initiated by pushing the lever forward; speed was reduced by pulling the lever backward; and direction was changed by flicking the lever to the left or holding it back for a longer time. The noise level was reported to be a record low 70 decibels. Visibility and car-like finishing were not strengths of the Fendt cab. The front axle had electro-hydraulic suspension, but the cab itself was not suspended in the 400 series. The 400 series was also built on a cast half-frame to which the front suspension components were attached.

For the year 2005, the engines were enlarged to 4.04 liters and performance slightly improved.

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