The successor to the popular 10-series Fords, the 40-series was introduced in early 1992. The tractors were significantly more thoroughly updated than both smaller and larger models had been when they moved to the 30-series. In the 40-series Ford used large-capacity PowerStar engines: the 6640 and 7740 models received a new 5.0-liter unit, and the 8240 and 8340 were fitted with a 7.5-liter unit. The steering angle of 55 degrees gave the four-wheel-drive versions best-in-class maneuverability.

The cab, called SuperLux, had a noise level of about 77 dB. Within the 40-series there were two trim levels: SL and SLE. The SL had mechanical draft-arm sensing, a gear-type hydraulic pump, and an analog instrument panel. The SLE added an electro-hydraulic top link, lower-link draft sensing (not on the 5640), a variable-displacement pump, and an electronic monitoring system. Other SLE equipment included a rear window wiper, an adjustable steering column, and a Comfort seat. The SL’s transmission was the fully synchronized 12+12 SynchroShift, and all four-wheel-drive versions were limited to 40 km/h on the road. The SLE models offered a 16+16 ElectroShift gearbox with a four-stage Powershift built around two wet multi-plate clutches; the forward/reverse shuttle, however, remained mechanical. The electro-hydraulic hitch featured a traditional-looking position lever designed to help conservative customers feel at ease with the new system.

In 1994 Ford added a third transmission option: SynchroShift with a Dual Power down-shifting Powershift. That same year the 8340’s output rose to 125 hp.

At the start of 1995 the Ford badge on the grille was replaced by New Holland branding, the frame paint changed from blue to gray, the cab roof from white to blue, and the wheel hubs from blue to black. The Carraro front axle was replaced by an in-house Italian design from the same corporate group.

In early 1996 the rear fenders were redesigned and the bottom step made removable. The electro-hydraulic hitch gained an anti-sway function, and the SLE seat was made to swivel in both directions.

In Italy and in a few other markets traditionally loyal to Fiat, the 40-series was sold in its later years in Fiat colors as the New Holland S-series.

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