Roddy, one of our Mechanical Engineers personal review of the Fendt Xylon 524
Fendt Xylon 524:
The Xylon is a nice tractor; however, it is a little different than a standard Fendt. Here at WH Bond, we are fortunate enough to have three Xylon 524s.
There are three models:
- 520 – 110 hp
- 522 – 125 hp
- 524 – 140 hp
The engine in all three is a 4.58-liter, 4-cylinder MAN (same engine family as in the 800 and 900 series). All three models, of course, are turbocharged, and the 524 is fitted with a wastegate.
Xylons are fitted with Fendt’s Variofill turbo clutch. This means that there is a certain chamber within the turbo clutch where a volume of oil is “resting” until the engine and clutch reach a certain speed.
This really does take some getting used to. I remember when I first went to drive one, I was convinced there was something wrong. The best way to describe it is that it feels like the clutch is worn out and slipping, when really this isn’t the case. The main advantage of this system is that the engine can reach higher revs more easily and can take off smoothly without any sudden jerking.
The transmission is of the same layout as the one in the 800 series, which is a 6-speed with a 4-speed power shift and is also fitted with hi/lo ranges. All in all, you have a total of 48 forward and 48 reverse speeds, and a top speed of around 40 km/h.
One of the best features on the Xylon, in my opinion, is the cab. They are fitted with front and rear opening windows, and it is wide enough for two people to be sitting next to each other, both on suspension seats. This, combined with front axle suspension, makes these tractors really comfortable but provides a slightly different feeling from what you’re used to when driving a tractor. They are more like driving a lorry. The view to the front is beyond brilliant; the only drawback, in my opinion, is the view to the rear—similar to the rear view on a JCB Fastrac but with near enough zero visibility of your hitch.
They are definitely different, but they run well and are capable of doing the job of any other tractor. If comfort and quirkiness are what you’re after, these are the tractors for you.
The views expressed in this review are Roddy’s own
