John Deere and AFGRI Equipment understand that empowering equipment owners to all the information pertinent to their machines is crucial for delivering on our customer service promise. One way that John Deere has simplified the experience and process of ordering parts is through the creation and implementation of the platform known as John Deere Parts or Parts Catalog as many will call it.
John Deere Parts Catalog allows equipment owners to firstly select their nearest John Deere Dealer, then perform a parts search query by the model, PIN/Serial Number, or Equipment type. The options are also there to search for parts by other manufacturers, this information enables the John Deere customer to view each part and component involved in the machine assembly, and then order it from their nearest John Deere Dealer.
A great parts system is critically important to the after-sales support given by the dealer as the uptime of the machine is dependant on the turnaround time of repair, a downed machine can incur great costs and timeline impediments which often dwarfs the cost of repair. For this reason, AFGRI Equipment and John Deere put measures in place to get the equipment running as soon as possible and thus the need for a comprehensive, accurate, and timely parts solution. John Deere Parts Catalog allows clients to act proactively and transparently with the dealer network to ensure the ultimate uptime of their machine.
John Deere has also empowered their connected customers with the introduction of Customer Service ADVISOR™, which is a digital database of Operator, Diagnostic, and Technical manuals for John Deere Products such as John Deere Construction Equipment and John Deere Agricultural Equipment. This paid subscription allows users to connect to machines with an Electronic Data Link (EDL) to clear and refresh codes, take diagnostic readings, and perform calibrations. This platform allows clients to clear alert codes and analyse diagnostic readings themselves to serving the needs of the equipment independently if needed.
John Deere is now offering customers the JDLink™ connectivity subscription service at no additional charge, making it easier for clients to connect to their machines and to stay connected to their operation. JDLink has been available for some time in Southern African countries and has enjoyed expansive growth and utilisation over the past 3 years. With the announcement made on the 14th of July 2021 that the subscription service will be offered free with JDLink, we are expecting exponential growth in this technology especially when the hardware will be embedded in base on most participating models.
What is JDLink?
JDLink™ is a telematics system that remotely connects owners and operators to their equipment. It enables connection to most models of John Deere equipment fitted with a CANBUS and provides alerts and information including the location of your equipment, usage reports, performance, and maintenance data. Simply put, JDLink is a digital connection between you and your machines.
How does JDLink™ work?
JDLink™ operates on cellular technology just like a mobile phone. There is a cellular modem installed referred to as the modular telematics gateway, or MTG. This cellular modem gives your machine an internet connection and allows it to both transmit and receive data on the online JDLink web platform. Many types of data can be transferred to and from the machine including machine usage information like fuel and critical trouble codes, machine location, and other stats. In addition, geospatial field information files for planting, harvest, application, and tillage can be automatically transferred from the machine to the John Deere Operations Centre for further analysis and reporting.
What features can John Deere JDLink™ provide for my Construction Operation?
In-base connectivity standard with most new construction equipment purchases*
Grade Management (Grade PRO)
Payload Weighing (Load RITE)
Machine grouping
Alert escalation logic
Dealer data services/third party access
Distance traveled
Engine hours
Maintenance tracking
JDLink™ mobile app
Equipment utilization and engine load levels
Fuel consumption
Operator productivity indicators
Payload and trip counter for ADTs
Tire pressure monitoring
Diagnostic trouble code alerts (Expert Alerts)
Remote diagnostics and programming capability (Service Advisor Remote)
Dual-mode satellite option
On-demand updates
Curfew
GeoFencing
Machine data collected by JDLink™ includes:
Location
Driving Directions
Hours
Hours of Operation
Missed Calls
Time and feature utilization
Fuel consumption
Engine and machine health
Machine performance
Now that we have covered some of the basics, the next question is “why?”
The data and feedback provided from JDLink™ allow the owners and operators to firstly, improve productivity by putting the correct machine on the job and ensuring its proper operation. Secondly to improve uptime by enabling remote diagnostics and programming, easily keeping track of maintenance, and reacting quickly to critical alerts. The opportunity to improve daily operating costs, tracking the overall fuel consumption and idle time, as well as the fuel usage on the job site.
For more information contact your nearest AFGRI Equipment dealer today or visit www.afgriequipment.co.za
The All-New 9R-Series Tractor now with more Power, Better Technology & Improved Comfort.
There is a new player in town. Designed to maximise time in the field while optimising yield, the new 9R-Series is the latest contender for the largest, strongest and most technologically advanced John Deere Tractor on the market in Africa and the Middle East. This tractor is a beast.
A force to be reckoned with, the new 9R-Series offers maximum power and state-of-the-art precision ag technology. Equipped with all of the original 9R specs, the upgraded 9R-Series lineup is the only tractor series on the market offering a wheeled (9R), two-track (9RT) and four-track (9RX) configuration to ensure optimum performance, effectiveness and efficiency on all types of soil. It enables farmers to cover more ground in less time with greater accuracy and quality and reduce their operating costs, all while enjoying a larger, more comfortable cab.
If power is what you are looking for, John Deere is happy to oblige. The new 9R-Series Tractors come equipped with the revolutionary John Deere PowerTech™ 13.6L (830-cu in) engine.
Designed for enhanced performance and reliability, the all-new 13.6L engine offers 390-590 horsepower, optimal fuel efficiency and robust engine capacity throughout your day. We achieve this by leveraging a high-pressure common-rail (HPCR) system and a hydraulic fan drive. The 13.6L engine offers 13.5% more horsepower than the 13.5L engine, 3% more fluid efficiency, 50% less engine noise, a 27% improvement in repairability and a 13% reduction in maintenance costs.
The new 9R-Series is designed with the strenuous daily activities of farmers in mind. Delivering ultimate operator comfort and convenience, the operator station now provides you with extended headroom, a wider entry path, a larger integrated refrigerator, new seat options, touchscreen radio, footrests, and more. All 9R-Series Tractors offer the choice of Select, Premium or Ultimate cab packages to choose from.
At John Deere, we understand that farming begins before sunrise and ends well after sunset. We have designed the new 9R-Series to include new visibility packages for added operator convenience. These three new visibility packages provide additional lighting, sunshade, and camera options to ensure you are comfortable during extended working periods, regardless of the time of day.
With the new 9R-Series, you will always be on schedule thanks to the increased max ballast, designed for maximum traction and drivetrain efficiency. But what does this mean for you as a farmer? Reduced slip, increased power at the drawbar, and best of all, increased productivity.
To keep operators on track, all the new 9R-Series Tractors include a Gen4 Command Center, AutoTrac activation and JDLink™, which features an all-new StarFire 6000 Integrated Receiver.
With JDLink™ connectivity, as soon as the new 9R leaves the factory, it is ready for action. JDLink™ provides farmers with John Deere Connected Support™ and expert alerts to help ensure that your tractors operate without interruption. Please refer to your John Deere Dealer for JDLink ™ and Wireless Technology Approvals.
The StarFire™ 6000 Integrated Receiver is designed to reduce setup time by eliminating terrain compensation module (TCM) calibrations. With reduced pull-in and remote software download times, you have enhanced precision and control. All receivers are fully serviceable and upgradable to newer generations. Closing off the integrated technology is the highly recommended Gen4 4600 CommandCenter™ Automation Activation 4.0.
At the forefront of agri-technology, the new 9R-Series comes equipped with the latest precision ag applications.
AutoTrac™ Turn Automation allows for accurate and repeatable end-of-pass turns throughout the entire field.
AutoTrac™ Implement Guidance (passive guidance) allows the tractor to travel off the guidance line while keeping the implement on the intended path.
AutoPath is an industry-exclusive application that uses data collected from the first pass in the field to establish precise row guidance for all subsequent field passes, no matter the machine type or width of the equipment.
Gen 4 Machine Sync™ creates a wireless network between the tractor and combine to enable on-the-go unloading by ensuring the grain cart arrives on time and automatically follows the harvester.
Section Control is an application that turns machine or implement sections on and off automatically to improve efficiency for producers by reducing product overlap in the field.
In-Field Data Sharing is another precision ag application that allows you to share maps and guidance lines and review the performance of machines working in the same field.
All integrated technology is country-specific depending on in-country requirements and prior approvals by John Deere. Contact your John Deere representative for more information on availability.
At John Deere, we understand that efficiency, productivity, and ultimately profitability lies at the core of every sustainable agricultural operation. Equipped to deal with any challenge you may encounter out in the field, the upgraded 9R-Series is the perfect solution to deliver differentiated value to customers.
Why delay your success? Contact, or visit, your nearest dealer today to discuss the various options offered by the brand new 9R-Series Tractors. Farm more productively, efficiently, and comfortably.
Some new planting practices have started to emerge in the eastern highveld of South Africa. Soyabean in crop rotation has been well documented and widely adopted as a great method to supplement grain cultivation and diversify. It also allows growers to distribute risk from markets and rainfall requirements. This has prompted growers to evaluate how they adress the planting season with regards to soybeans with specific importance given to row width, seed spacing, singulation accuracy, and plant speed. Other key considerations are the ability to plant a variety of crops including the increasing popularity of winter cover crops. The N500C series planters have far exceeded expectations and here is why:
The new John Deere N500C series Air drill delivers big seed capacity (5000L) CCS, with a proven and simple air drill architecture. Configuration choices to suit your operations in dual and single rank units. Available from 30 (9.1m) to 42Ft (12.8m) in width options suited to flourish in No-till and Min-till applications. So what is different from the old 1990 CCS we have come to love and respect. Well, actually a couple of things…
The N500C Air Drill has all the smarts!
1. Pro Series openers eliminate daily service point checks.
2. RelativeFlow Blockage sensors a dual-stage blockage sensor that measures the relative flow from the distribution point, past blockage sensor and alerts operators before a blockage occurs.
3. Electric Drive metering is precise, tactile, and can be calibrated from your smartphone device! Now that’s neat!
4. SectionCommand for variable rate accuracy and overlap control. Take Command of every field, hectare, and section.
5. TruSet Technology adjusts downforce and ride quality throughout changing conditions in the field, from the cab, for better seed-to-soil contact and improved germination.
6. Tank weigh cell scales with ActiveCal allows you to calibrate from the cab, what’s more, the planter will keep on recalibrating through the day. Better accuracy, better control, more money saved.
7. JDLink Connect provides an easy reliable connection to your machine, Send setup files wirelessly and monitor location, ground speed, heading, and machine status wirelessly.
John Deere Operations center serves as the HQ in turning your valuable information into a profitable plan of action. Your future potential starts here.
The EVER Popular John Deere 315 SL Tractor Loader Backhoe has arrived in South Africa!
The John Deere 315 SL Tractor Loader Backhoe(TLB) is a versatile and adaptable machine that is a favourite among our farmers as well as construction professionals. With John Deere keeping ultimate uptime their number one focus, the John Deere 315 SL TLB (Tractor Loader Backhoe) proves to be one of the greatest investments on any farm or construction project due to it’s small size and multifunctional ability. The John Deere 315SL comes equipped with a reliable and powerful John Deere 4045 (4,5l) turbo engine fitted with wet sleeves, providing high power and torque rise that is proven, integrated, simple for the muscle and torque needed to power through any working day.
John Deere built the 315SL with powerful and responsive hydraulics to deliver generous lift capacity and breakout to both working ends, along with impressive backhoe crowd power and swing torque. The Powershift transmission is also a game-changer and provides 5 smooth on-the-go clutch-less gear changes. With the auto-shift option enabled (via the sealed switch module), you have the smoothest shifting backhoe available on the market. The Sealed Switch Module (SSM) gives the operator a “keyless start” via operator Pin Codes (for safety and control), as well as controls numerous other functions eliminating additional switches for other functions. Making the John Deere Tractor Loader Backhoe a dream to operate as John Deere designed and intended to keep operator’s fatigue at a minimum and productivity at premium levels.
Limited-slip differential combined with mechanical front-wheel drive (MFWD), provides true 4X4 performance and excellent traction in any condition, being farm or construction site by delivering up to 65% of the available power to the wheel with the best traction. The John Deere 315 SL offers ground-level service capability with a vertical spin on transmission and hydraulic filters and quick release fuel filters allow for a fast and clean filter change, with 500-hour engine oil and 2000 hour hydraulic oil change intervals. To conserve fuel and lower unnecessary emissions, auto-idle reduces the engine rpm to idle when not utilising the backhoe boom after a given period of time (as opposed to having it run at the higher selected engine rpm), as well as auto shut down turns off the engine after an operator/owner-selected period of inactivity. Making it a time and cost-efficient machine to service and most importantly keeping downtime low.
Another technological advancement that John Deere has made standard on their L-series John Deere Backhoe Loaders is onboard diagnostic technology which provides a wealth of vital and general operating information plus diagnostics of most sensors & switches for quick troubleshooting and maximum uptime. Tie in the capability of the JDLink telematics gateway, a wealth of machine health data and productivity data opens up to the owner and dealer. This can be used to further optimise the efficiency of worksite machinery and receive early warnings on machine health issues before they become major breakdowns.
John Deere designed and manufactured the John Deere Tractor Loader Backhoe (TLB) with operator comfort and ultimate uptime in mind, making it a must-have for any farming or construction operation.
Come and experience the John Deere EDGE at your nearest AFGRI Equipment Branch.
AFGRI Equipment has been a dedicated partner to Gregoire grape harvesting equipment for several years now. Clients that own Gregoire equipment have commented on the great build quality, ease of use, and excellent after-sales service. The Gregoire G7 series has been a game-changer in the mechanized grape harvesting industry bringing fuel economy and picking efficiency to the forefront of the market offering.
It is with great excitement that AFGRI Equipment in partnership with Gregoire has launched a subprime lending rate on the remaining G7 harvesters. For a limited time only clients are able to apply for finance at an amazing Prime -1.5% rate. Terms and conditions apply*.
For more information please contact the following representatives:
The John Deere E210 has finally arrived in South Africa and we as AFGRI Equipment are incredibly excited to introduce this new entrant to the market. The E210 Excavator has more muscle and more hustle than ever before and is designed to deliver extra productivity and efficiency while ensuring the ultimate operator comfort.
The new E210 Excavators come equipped with the John Deere PowerTech™ plus diesel engine, replaceable wet sleeve cylinders, and turbo cool-down. It also comes standard with a sealed switch module in order to keep dust, moisture, and debris out. It has a 4000-hour hydraulic oil and filter and a 500-hour engine oil and filter changes, making the serviceability of the machine easy, cost-effective, and most importantly, keeping your downtime to an absolute minimum. Deere made servicing these machines a hassle-free task as daily servicing happens at ground level. The E210 Excavator also comes with a unique H mode which has a higher power curve than L, E, and S modes. This model was built to be fuel-efficient as it comes with Smart Auto Idle which means lower fuel consumption and faster responsiveness.
One of the key reasons for buying a John Deere is the remote monitoring system that is offered through the JD Link platform, this allows the machine’s owners to remotely access its location, health performance data, and diagnostics to maintain and prevent downtime. JD Link offers real-time data and alerts which are sent to AFGRI Equipment’s expert dealer network, who ready to assist to get the job done!
For any enquiries on stock or quotes please contact:
John Deere is considered as leading tractor sales in the Southern African markets. Supported by a dedicated dealer network focussed on aftersales service and uptime, John Deere customers have peace of mind when it comes to caring for their investments.
For this reason, John Deere has introduced 2 new series of tractors that have the farming community abuzz.
John Deere takes home some serious accolades this year, being voted winner in 3 classes for highest retained value, as well as 3 classes in the lowest cost of ownership award by equipmentwatch.com
Atlanta, GA and Las Vegas, NV, June 9, 2021 – EquipmentWatch, the world leader in data, software and insight for the heavy equipment industry, today announced the winners of the 2021 Highest Retained Value (HRVA) and Lowest Cost of Ownership (LCO) award programs. These are the only industry awards that leverage third-party, unbiased, data to identify equipment that is projected to best hold its value or offer the lowest cost of ownership in the next five years.
Winners were announced at a press conference during the World of Concrete 2021 trade show in Las Vegas, NV.
“The EquipmentWatch analysts are excited to mark the 6th year of the Highest Retained Value and 4th year of Lowest Cost of Ownership awards,” said Jessica Carr, Director of Data and Analytics, EquipmentWatch. “The team continues to react to market dynamics, fine-tune the analysis and expand our database. To see so many repeat winning manufacturers – in light of our deepened insight – is a testament to how well their equipment holds its value.”
Find out more about how the HRVA or LCO winners were selected.
AFGRI Equipment Construction and Forestry are incredibly excited to announce an exclusive distribution agreement in Southern Africa. PALMS is the largest producer of forestry trailers and cranes in Europe and we are looking forward to a prosperous relationship going forward!
What makes the PALMS product suite market leaders?
1. Hidden Hydraulic Hoses – this is a first for self-loading forestry trailer producers, the hidden hydraulic hoses are inside the telescopic crane boom. This design significantly increases durability and reliability. Some of the more popular crane models on the market are the PALMS 5.85, 7.86 and 7.94
2. All the (PALMS) cranes are produced using Swedish top quality Strenx™-steel and have been granted an SSAB quality certificate.
3. All trailers and cranes have the latest generation paint coating – Thanks to KTL and powder coating, the equipment lasts longer and has a significantly higher resale value, making it a great decision for your bottom line.
4. Available in Single beam, Double beam, Unibody, Mechanical 4wd and hydro-mechanical 4WD configurations for all forestry applications.
5. Bolster extensions for bigger loads.
PALMS Cranes and Trailers are serious workhorses and can be used universally in many ways, these cranes are easily controlled and can be mounted on a variety of different platforms.
The fastest way to load and unload timber. Coming to South African shores soon, exclusively available from AFGRI Equipment.
It is with great pleasure and excitement that AFGRI Equipment Construction and Forestry announces the exclusive distribution in Southern Africa for Dipperfox, a revolutionary stump removal method!
The simplicity and efficiency of the Dipperfox introduce brand new technology for stump removal which is 8-10 times faster than any other stump removal method, the outcome is similar to a stump grinder where stump and roots will be cut into 30 – 50 mm chips, but compared to stump grinding the whole process will only take 100-120 seconds to complete, depending on the hardness or diameter of the tree.
Dipperfox is capable of drilling 900mm underground to smash root systems, blades are produced from extreme duty steel, are reversible, and basically rock proof!
The Dipperfox leaves only stump chips behind which in time breaks down and adds to the richness of the soil. This also eliminates the need for waste removal from sites. Additional benefits of the Dipperfox include an automatic/automatic speed/torque adjustment, bolt-on consumables, ease of maintenance (250 oil change cycle), lightweight(575kgs), reduced noise pollution, grinds up to 180 stumps per hour.
The new performance standard in deforestation, experience the Dipperfox!
For more information on Dipperfox please visit the website https://dipperfox.com/ and contact us for more information. Watch the video below and see how quickly and efficiently the Dipperfox can work to eliminate a tree stump!
The time finally arrived , after much anticipation for AFGRI Equipment Construction and Forestry to make their grand debut into the Construction industry as John Deere Construction Dealers , and as always it was executed like nothing the industry has ever seen!
Once we got our engines rolling ,the days commenced with our keynote speaker and new Construction and Forestry Manager , Pieter Nel addressing the attendees and introducing the existing line of John Deere Construction Equipment. Our guests could kick back with an awesome cup of coffee as they sat in our container village and watched as the new line of John Deere Construction machines entered the catwalk and moved on to their respective stations. At the satellite stations there would be presentations and demonstrations on each machine.
The idea behind “Deere Drive” played out as a metaphor for the naming of roads/stations that the machines would be demoing at, road building equipment from Wirtgen and for the whole events setup. Our guests were divided up into five groups and rotated between each station after the event had commenced.
We had five areas set out namely, Excavator Avenue, where the John Deere E210 Excavator was presented by the new Financial Director of AFGRI Equipment Construction and Forestry , Frik Horn. Wheel Loader Way where the John Deere 644K Wheel Loader was presented by a familiar face to the agricultural side of our business , Leon Pool all the way from AFGRI Equipment Vredendal. Next we moved on to Dozer Drive where the John Deere 850-J-2 Bulldozer was demonstrated and presented by Dirk Poley , new to AFGRI Equipment but no stranger to the construction industry with over 10 years of sales experience in earthmoving construction equipment! The next station was presented by our very own Patrick Modise who manned Motor Grader Lane and presented on the John Deere 670G Motor Grader, a favourite station among those who wanted to demo the machines. Lastly was the John Deere 315 SL TLB at Tractor Loader Backhoe (TLB) Boulevard that was presented by the cool, calm and collected Mr Pieter Bosch , new to AFGRI Equipment but a legend in the construction equipment industry!
Once we turned off our engines and started to cool down our guests made their way back to the village where lunch was served , street food style!
To summarize the week from 17 to 21 May 2021 was a firm commitment from AFGRI Equipment to focus on customer service and uptime. We had an absolute blast, be on the lookout for further Deere Drive events coming to your area, it is legendary!
Watch the video below and watch out for our next Deere Drive to come!
John Deere Davenport Works, situated in Iowa manufactures quality construction and forestry equipment that can be used on the toughest terrains.
Davenport Works is approximately 2.2 million square feet. This equates to the size of 37 football fields under 1 roof!
John Deere Davenport has been in operation since 1974 and since opening their doors Quality has been the primary drive in everything they do, with the ultimate goal of defect-free equipment.
Quality inspections are standard in every step of the manufacturing process, John Deere Davenport prides itself in being a world-class, high-tech facility filled with men and women who give their all to sustaining John Deere quality standards and who love their job!
As a part of the agreement, customers can purchase select engcon tiltrotators through John Deere construction and compact construction equipment dealers and Hitachi excavator dealers starting in the U.S. and Canada in the second half of 2021, delivering even more value to the construction market.
With the engcon tiltrotator solution, operators can rotate attachments by 360 degrees and tilt up to 45 degrees side to side. Additionally, the tiltrotators feature the EC-Oil quick coupler system, which enables the operator to efficiently change attachments without leaving the cab.
When combined with the already productive John Deere and Hitachi excavators, owners and operators can expect increased efficiency and profitability on the job site.
MOLINE, IL (April 15, 2021) — Today John Deere announces a preferred supplier agreement with engcon, a global market leader in tiltrotators. Tiltrotator models ranging from the EC204 up to the EC233 will be available through John Deere construction and compact construction equipment and Hitachi excavator dealers. These tiltrotator models match with the John Deere 26G through 345G and Hitachi ZX26 through ZX345 Excavator models. This agreement brings together the power of the John Deere and Hitachi excavators with the productivity and efficiency of the engcon tiltrotators, delivering increased value to the construction industry.
“We strive to provide our customers with product and technology offerings that improve their performance on the job site. When we launched our Smart Industrial strategic direction, we committed to investing our resources in solutions that deliver increased value to our customers, such as this agreement with engcon,” said David Thorne, senior vice president, sales & marketing, John Deere Construction & Forestry. “Our excavators are known for their multi-functioning capabilities and hydraulic control, and, with the addition of the engcon tiltrotators, we’re providing additional solutions to help our customers increase productivity and efficiency on the job.”
A proven solution, the engcon tiltrotators are designed to maximize productivity and profitability. When equipped, a tiltrotator enables an excavator bucket or other attachments to rotate 360 degrees around the axis and tilt up to 45 degrees side to side. A tiltrotator-equipped excavator offers enhanced value for customers, especially those working in tight, challenging job sites or tackling applications that require precision and versatility, such as site development, underground work, and landscaping. Using a tiltrotator, the time required to complete tasks such as digging, contouring and backfilling is significantly reduced, increasing job site production and enhancing the operator’s user experience. Additionally, with a tiltrotator, wear on the machine’s tracks is decreased as a result of reduced travel.
“Through this agreement we’re building on the strengths of engcon and John Deere to enable contractors to optimize machine efficiency and productivity on jobsites that require versatility and precision,” said Krister Blomgren, CEO, engcon Group. “Our proven tiltrotator solution incorporates innovative features to deliver bottom line-boosting results. By offering our lineup through the John Deere and Hitachi excavator dealer networks, customers will have streamlined access to some of the industry’s top products.”
One of the standout features on the engcon lineup is the quick coupler system, EC-Oil, available for the John Deere 75G through 380G Excavators and Hitachi ZX75 through ZX380 models. EC-Oil allows operators to change attachments equipped with hydraulic and electrical connections from the machine cab, increasing productivity and efficiency.
• The new E-II Articulated Dump Trucks incorporates improved features and an enhanced design, positively impacting machine productivity and ease of use.
• Features on the John Deere-designed-and-built E-II machines include a redesigned dump body and updated operator station to help maximize performance and increase operator comfort.
• The E-II models offer improved fuel consumption, reducing fuel burn by up to 7% when operating in Normal mode compared to the existing E-Series line. Fuel consumption is further enhanced in Eco mode, which reduces fuel burn by up to 12% compared to the E-II Normal mode.
MOLINE, IL (Sept. 25, 2020) — Designed with the demands of today’s job site in mind, John Deere introduces the new E-II Articulated Dump Trucks (ADTs). The models, including the 410E-II and 460E-II, incorporate customer-driven features, resulting in greater operator comfort, reduced fuel burn, increased uptime and lowered daily operating costs. With a redesigned dump body, updated operator station, and new drive and transmission retarder modes, the John Deere-designed and -built E-II models deliver ultimate productivity on the job.
“All of our ADTs are proudly designed and built by John Deere in Dubuque and Davenport, Iowa. The new E-II trucks combine the most popular features of the E-Series line with customer-driven performance and operation enhancements, resulting in a machine that is easier and more cost-effective to operate,” said Cory Ouellette, product marketing manager, ADTs, John Deere Construction & Forestry. “With the three standard drive modes, new body design, operator station enhancements and improved fuel burn, the E-II Series trucks provide customers with a reliable and durable, yet easy-to-operate, a solution that positively impacts their operation and their bottom line.”
A key feature on the E-II machines is the redesigned dump body, which is wider and has a lowered and leveled rail height to improve material retention. A brand-new side sheet design makes the load height the same from front to back, while the widened bin provides additional tire coverage and easier loading. Additionally, the bin rail features an angled top, helping to reduce material spillage while traveling.
The updated operator station on the E-II models increases ease of use, productivity and all-around comfort. One of the most notable features is the single sealed switch module, reducing the number of switches by 25% compared to the previous models. An automotive-style multifunction turn signal lever includes lights and windshield wipers, further helping to simplify truck settings without limiting functionality. The new primary display unit provides a clear display of daily operation and enhanced diagnostic information. Other comfort-boosting features include the relocated HVAC controls for easy access to the temperature settings, an optional Automatic Temperature Control feature, and a heated and ventilated premium seat option. Customers can also add the seat belt minder system, which includes a green beacon light outside the truck, providing confirmation that the seat belt is fastened. An optional four-point retractable seat belt harness is also available on all models.
The three standard drive modes — Normal, Eco and Traction — help to optimize the drivetrain and reduce inputs from the operator. The Normal mode provides the same great features found on the E-Series while reducing fuel burn by up to 7% compared to the existing models. With Eco-mode, the system reduces fuel consumption by smoothing throttle input and reducing maximum rpm. When conditions allow, Eco-mode can improve fuel consumption by up to 12% compared to E-II Normal mode. The Traction mode helps the operator to maintain tire traction in soft underfoot conditions, automatically engaging the differential lock to minimize wheel spinning, and increases traction. To improve the function of the automatic differential locks, new wheel speed sensors have been added, enhancing the accuracy of engagement.
Also designed to boost operator productivity, simplified retarder controls help to create a consistent, smooth ride in all applications. Three transmission retarder modes — low, medium and high — offer different operating characteristics for loaded and unloaded trucks.
The design of the E-II machines maintains the best-in-class ground-level daily service capabilities. Maximizing machine uptime, there is a 10% reduction of electric and hydraulic routings, further reducing potential leak points. The optional, factory-installed auto lube feature is filled at ground level and takes the guesswork out of lubricating grease fittings, increasing component life. Optional LED lights provide greater visibility in lowlight settings.
The 460E-II model is available with a new ejector body solution. This solution allows operators to spread a load over a given area and can be used in areas where there are overhead powerline concerns or where the risk of rollover is high due to steep grade unloading.
The E-II machines are available with the John Deere industry-leading five-year, 15,000-hour transmission warranty. With this warranty, which is available through the end of 2020, John Deere provides customers with confidence and peace of mind.
For the original article visit this link: https://www.deere.com/en/our-company/news-and-announcements/news-releases/2020/construction/2020sep25-adt/
John Deere enhances the technology capabilities of its GP-Series motor graders with new automation features — Machine Damage Avoidance, and industry exclusives, Blade Stow, and Auto-Gain for Cross Slope.
SmartGrade™ motor grader technology further boosts operator productivity.
John Deere will now include the factory-installed Premium Circle on all new SmartGrade motor graders, further increasing machine productivity and uptime.
MOLINE, IL (Nov. 10, 2020) — John Deere expands the capabilities of its popular Grade Pro (GP)-Series of motor graders with new technology, including two industry-exclusive features, Blade Stow and Auto-Gain for Cross Slope. The new features, which also include Machine Damage Avoidance, deliver higher productivity, increased uptime, and lower daily operating costs during operation.
“Our customers challenge us to find new ways to incorporate smart technologies into Deere products. They are looking for solutions to help make equipment easier to run and more efficient,” said Luke Kurth, product marketing manager, motor graders. “These new features allow new operators to come up to speed more quickly, and all operators can take full advantage of the productivity of Deere graders. We are committed to delivering a differentiated customer experience by bringing innovation to the always-evolving construction industry.”
The technology updates include two industry-exclusive offerings, Blade Stow and Auto-Gain, providing greater simplification for the operator. Blade Stow, standard with machine presets or Automation Suite, adds a configurable setting to automatically stow the blade with the touch of a button. With Auto-Gain, the machine automatically adjusts the Cross Slope gain setting on the fly based on the operating conditions, eliminating the need for operators to make manual adjustments. Auto-Gain improves productivity for operators by ensuring accurate blade movement in ever-changing conditions.
The GP-Series motor graders can be further enhanced with optional Machine Damage Avoidance. When activated, the feature reduces the chance of downtime by preventing the moldboard from inadvertently contacting the tires, the cab steps or frame, and the saddle from contacting the table. With this feature, operators can focus on the job at hand, improving productivity.
SmartGrade™ motor grader models received additional enhancements to the industry’s first mastless motor grader for greater flexibility and productivity, including a larger file-processing capability, up to 20% faster file transfers, and increased real-time kinematic (RTK) radio stability. SmartGrade machines are now compatible with network RTK and local positioning system (LPS) technology.
In addition, John Deere now includes the factory-installed Premium Circle on all new SmartGrade motor graders. The fully sealed bearing and pinion help reduce maintenance costs and downtime by eliminating wear inserts and ensuring the circle remains tight during operation, maximizing accuracy while also significantly boosting circle torque and speed. The addition of the package, combined with the power of the SmartGrade technology, will boost machine productivity and uptime, positively impacting contractors’ bottom lines.
To learn more about the new offerings for the GP-Series motor graders, as well as the full line of John Deere construction equipment visit http://www.johndeere.com/ or contact your local dealer.
About John Deere
Deere & Company (www.JohnDeere.com) is a world leader in providing advanced products, technology and services for customers whose work is revolutionizing agriculture and construction – those who cultivate, harvest, transform, enrich and build upon the land to meet the world’s increasing need for food, fuel, shelter and infrastructure.
For the original article please click on this link: https://www.deere.com/en/our-company/news-and-announcements/news-releases/2020/construction/2020nov10-motor-grader/
• The updated 4.5L John Deere PowerTech EWL engine for the 310L, 310SL, 315SL, 310SL HL, and 410L machines increases power, improves torque, and enhances reliability.
• The 310SL model now includes new pressure-compensated load-sensing hydraulics and expanded machine control modes.
MOLINE, IL (Nov. 17, 2020) — John Deere upgrades its popular L-Series backhoe loaders, unveiling significant machine improvements designed to boost productivity, maximize uptime and reduce operating costs. Ranging across the L-Series Backhoe lineup, the updates, which include engine upgrades, new pressure-compensated load-sensing (PCLS) hydraulics on the 310SL model, and machine control improvements, enhance operation and machine performance.
One of the most notable updates, the 310L, 310SL, 315SL, 310SL HL, and 410L models are now equipped with a 4.5L John Deere PowerTech™ EWL engine, increasing power, improving torque, and providing greater reliability. This Final Tier 4 engine results in a boost in horsepower across the models, while the removal of the exhaust gas recirculation system and components improves reliability.
The redesign also includes improved filter locations for easier access when changing or servicing fuel and diesel exhaust fluid filters. Additionally, the 310SL is now available with PCLS hydraulics. Already offered on the 310SL HL, 410L, and 710L, the PCLS system results in increased productivity and improved backhoe controllability at any engine speed. In addition, the trenching operation can be conducted at lower engine rpm, reducing fuel consumption and lowering job site noise.
“We are committed to continuously improving our equipment to offer our customers more value out of their machines,” said Brian Hennings, product manager, John Deere Construction & Forestry. “With these upgrades, we are directly addressing our customers’ needs. These upgrades build upon the best features found on the L-Series machines, resulting in a lineup designed to power through the toughest jobs.”
The 310SL is now equipped with Lift Mode. When enabled, it automatically sets the engine speed to 1,400 rpm and increases max hydraulic pressure to 4,000 psi, for up to a 10 to 15% increase in backhoe lift capacity. Additionally, buttons for the horn, selective flow, auxiliary proportional roller, and extendable dipper stick have been integrated into the backhoe pilot controls, improving ease of use.
Now available as a base offering on the 310SL, 315SL, 310SL HL, 410L, and 710L models, AutoShift technology automatically adjusts the transmission to the most appropriate gear for an enhanced operator experience. Additionally, the five models now feature Auto Ride Control as the only ride control option, eliminating the need to manually turn on and off during load and carry applications. Auto Ride Control enhances ease of use, improves ride quality, and reduces front bucket material spillage.
Other key features include an LED boom light kit for increased visibility to the bottom of the trench and a redesigned loader lever linkage that reduces resistance and improves its throw and feel.
The 310L EP model includes updates designed to deliver more value at an economical price. Key changes to the 310L EP include a simpler front-axle design and a four-speed manual synchromesh transmission. Directional changes remain controlled with a steering column-mounted lever for forward, neutral, and reverse. For more information about the updated John Deere L-Series Backhoe lineup, visit https://www.deere.com/.
For the original article please click on this link: https://www.deere.com/en/our-company/news-and-announcements/news-releases/2020/construction/2020nov17-l-series-backhoe-upgrades/
John Deere announces its Precision Forestry initiative, a strategic realignment of its technology offerings to streamline its portfolio and deliver new solutions to the logging industry.
John Deere Precision Forestry makes it easier for loggers to identify the right solutions for their business, ultimately optimizing job site performance and efficiency.
The shift to Precision Forestry aligns with the brand’s overarching strategic direction to provide intelligent, connected machines and applications to help unlock more value for customers.
MOLINE, IL (Feb. 17, 2021) — In response to customer needs, John Deere announces its Precision Forestry initiative, a focused approach to its job site technology solutions. Through Precision Forestry, John Deere is reorganizing its technology portfolio and doubling down on its efforts in delivering solutions designed to increase efficiency and productivity in the woods. The shift to Precision Forestry aligns with the brand’s overarching strategic direction to provide intelligent, connected machines and applications to help unlock more value for customers.
“Previously, the industry has focused on developing bigger, faster, more powerful machines to boost performance, but larger machines sometimes present more challenges, especially on job sites with limitations,” said Matthew Flood, product marketing manager, John Deere. “Technology has been a gamechanger for the forestry industry, enabling us to improve operator efficiency and performance without altering machine size. With the Precision Forestry initiative, we’re organizing our portfolio to create a foundation for the future of forestry machines and job site technology.”
Precision Forestry is a more descriptive term for what customers can expect from the John Deere technology suite, including real–time, map–based production planning and tracking capabilities along with new and evolving operator assistance capabilities. This new alignment lays the groundwork for the future of technology solutions, as John Deere builds in these core areas to help customers work faster and smarter on the job site. For customers, the new Precision Forestry direction will simplify the John Deere technology portfolio, making it easier to select and adopt customized solutions based on their unique job site needs.
“With technology, we believe that loggers need to embrace working smarter, not harder. The logging industry is built on hard work – it’s part of the industry’s DNA. We want to complement that work ethic with machine intelligence and system–level integration, delivering the tools loggers need to increase efficiency and performance in the woods,” said Flood.
To learn more about the Precision Forestry technology offerings, as well as the full line of John Deere Forestry equipment, visit http://www.johndeere.com/forestry or a local John Deere dealer.
About John Deere
Deere & Company (www.JohnDeere.com) is a world leader in providing advanced products, technology and services for customers whose work is revolutionizing agriculture and construction – those who cultivate, harvest, transform, enrich and build upon the land to meet the world’s increasing need for food, fuel, shelter and infrastructure.
For the original article click on this link: https://www.deere.com/en/our-company/news-and-announcements/news-releases/2021/forestry/2021feb17-precision-forestry-technology/
● Precision Construction is the evolution of the John Deere technology portfolio, delivering a suite of solutions focused on addressing customer pain points on the job site.
● This new direction builds upon the existing John Deere WorkSight™ portfolio, leveraging a strong foundation of technology innovations to deliver smart solutions that help customers make more informed business decisions.
MOLINE, IL (April 6, 2021) — Advancing its commitment to delivering smart technology solutions to its customers, John Deere unveils Precision Construction. Paving the way for the future of construction, Precision Construction provides customers with a suite of technology solutions focused on maximizing uptime and delivering increased productivity. This shift aligns the brand’s overarching strategic direction, which aims to provide intelligent, connected machines and applications that help unlock increased value.
“Since the beginning, delivering innovative solutions to our customers has been a core focus for John Deere, and the Precision Construction portfolio is taking that commitment to the next level,” said Andrew Kahler, manager, technology solutions, John Deere. “In recent years, we’ve unveiled an array of technology solutions that directly address our customers’ concerns on the job site. Now, we’re building on that foundation, pushing down on the gas pedal, and moving the industry toward the next generation of smart machine solutions.”
With Precision Construction, the existing John Deere technology portfolio is restructured, making it easier for customers to select solutions that help them resolve pain points on the job site. The result is a suite of solutions focused on maximizing uptime and helping contractors efficiently accomplish more each day. Organizing the current offerings into four focused pillars, Connected Support™, Grade Management, Payload Weighing and JDLink™ Telematics, this shift enables customers to identify and incorporate technology solutions based on their unique needs. Moving forward, John Deere will add to the capabilities in these core areas while also carving a path for new introductions that further support the automation-to-autonomy journey.
To learn more about Precision Construction, as well as the full portfolio of John Deere technology innovations, visit https://www.JohnDeere.com.
About John Deere
Deere & Company (www.JohnDeere.com) is a world leader in providing advanced products, technology and services for customers whose work is revolutionizing agriculture and construction – those who cultivate, harvest, transform, enrich and build upon the land to meet the world’s increasing need for food, fuel, shelter and infrastructure.
For the original article click on this link: https://www.deere.com/en/our-company/news-and-announcements/news-releases/2021/construction/2021apr06-precision-construction/
• John Deere is building upon the legacy of its motor grader technology innovations with the introduction of new features for its GP-Series motor graders — Auto-Pass, Auto-Shift PLUS, Configurable Float and SmartGrade™ Remote Support.
• The industry-exclusive Auto-Pass and Auto-Shift PLUS technologies work together to reduce fatigue and create an enhanced operating experience. Auto-Pass automates machine movements, while the Auto-Shift PLUS transmission upgrade allows for the machine to completely stop and start without the use of an inching pedal, allowing for smoother navigation around obstacles.
• The all-new Configurable Float technology adds functionality by allowing operators to assign any auxiliary valve to the float switches.
MOLINE, IL (April 6, 2021) — Adding industry-exclusive features, John Deere further demonstrates the precision of its Grade Pro (GP)–Series motor graders. Building upon the releases of Machine Damage Avoidance and exclusive Blade-Stow added in November 2020, two additional industry-exclusive features, Auto-Pass and Auto-Shift PLUS, further enhance machine capability. These fully programmable, intuitive and versatile features are ideal for any job, and help increase productivity with new and seasoned operators.
“The John Deere motor grader lineup has a legacy of technological and mechanical innovation, dating back decades, with the notable introduction of the industry’s first mastless 3D grade control system in 2019,” said Matt Goedert, solutions marketing manager, John Deere. “Fast forward to today, and we’re still striving to deliver industry-leading capabilities that allow any operator — new or experienced — to work more efficiently on the job site. The latest features build upon that legacy, allowing us to put even more power and precision into the hands of the operator.”
The industry-exclusive Auto-Pass feature programs machine movements at the beginning and end of grading passes. While adjusting the speed of these movements and rotating the blade 180 degrees, the machine will simultaneously place the blade on the ground while preparing for the next pass. Available as an option on the GP-Series models and standard on the SmartGrade™ motor graders, this feature can also be programmed to raise and rotate the blade at the end of a grading pass, mirroring the finished angle.
Building upon the success of last year’s launch of the AutoShift transmission, Auto-Shift PLUS, also an industry–exclusive feature, removes the need for using the inching pedal. This enables the operator to use the throttle and brake, offering increased control of the machine. Auto-Shift PLUS allows for the machine to come to a complete stop without stalling, helping reduce fatigue while cutting smoothly around obstacles or structures.
Another standard feature now included on all GP-Series machines is Configurable Float. With this feature, float switches can be programmed to control any auxiliary function, allowing programming of up to three float switches through the monitor, which adds versatility in applications where auxiliary functions are used often.
Now a standard feature on the SmartGrade motor graders, SmartGrade Remote Support connects the dealer to the machine, even from miles away. The dealer can troubleshoot machine issues and update grade control software from the dealership, reducing downtime. For customers, SmartGrade Remote Support enables the remote transfer of project files, eliminating the need to visit the machine in person. Additionally, any machine issues can be addressed from a remote location, providing an efficient solution for equipment fleets of all sizes.
To learn more about the new offerings for the GP-Series motor graders, as well as the full line of John Deere construction equipment, visit https://www.JohnDeere.com/ or contact a local dealer.
About John Deere
Deere & Company (www.JohnDeere.com) is a world leader in providing advanced products, technology and services for customers whose work is revolutionizing agriculture and construction – those who cultivate, harvest, transform, enrich and build upon the land to meet the world’s increasing need for food, fuel, shelter and infrastructure.
Contact:
Sam Levine
Account Executive, imre
SamL@imre.com
For the original article please click on this link: https://www.deere.com/en/our-company/news-and-announcements/news-releases/2021/construction/2021apr06-gp-series-motor-graders/
• The John Deere 210G LC and 350G LC Excavators are now available with the factory-installed and -calibrated SmartGrade™ technology.
• With the introduction, John Deere now offers a range of grade management solutions: SmartGrade, SmartGrade-Ready with 2D, 3D Grade Guidance and 2D Grade Guidance.
• New precision technology features on the SmartGrade Excavators include virtual fencing and over-dig protect.
MOLINE, IL (April 6, 2021) — John Deere increases the range of its grade control solutions with the launch of SmartGrade™ on the 210G LC and 350G LC Excavators. The factory-installed and -calibrated 3D SmartGrade system delivers increased productivity and accuracy on the job and provides benefits to contractors at all levels.
“By incorporating precision technology, such as SmartGrade, on our excavator lineup, we are boosting job site productivity and efficiency while enhancing the capabilities of our operators,” said Justin Steger, solutions marketing manager, John Deere. “However, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution, and contractors need options to pair the right technology with their business needs. This is where customers really benefit from the flexibility of our grade management path.”
For excavators, John Deere offers four grade management options for contractors: SmartGrade, SmartGrade-Ready with 2D, 3D Grade Guidance and 2D Grade Guidance. Additionally, John Deere offers upgrade kits for each grade management option so customers can adopt technology at their own pace. A SmartGrade Excavator automates the boom and bucket functions for the operator to easily achieve a smooth and accurate finish grade. Using GNSS positioning technology for accurate horizontal and vertical positioning, the machine controls boom and bucket movements to a precise design target. This enables the operator to focus on controlling the arm function while the system raises and lowers the boom to maintain grade.
The SmartGrade-Ready with 2D option provides a 2D system with semiautomated functions, improving the ease of use without the need for GNSS technology or 3D design plans. Additionally, the SmartGrade-Ready machines arrive from the factory prewired for the SmartGrade system, enabling the owner to upgrade in the future, if desired. The 3D or 2D Grade Guidance options provide reference information to the operator in the cab to improve productivity. The 2D Grade Guidance option shares bucket tooth and cutting-edge elevation information relative to a benchmark with the operator through the in-cab monitor. The 3D Grade Guidance option accurately provides the horizontal and vertical bucket position using GNSS technology and can make use of a 3D design plan. All guidance and control options are available with an optional laser receiver, which leverages an ultra-precise local external elevation reference.
With SmartGrade or SmartGrade-Ready machines, the selectable bucket control feature automatically maintains the user-defined bucket angle throughout grading passes. This feature helps the operator place material more effectively, reducing waste and saving money. Factory joystick integration provides the ability to adjust the grade offset, set a benchmark on the 2D system, measure a desired point on the bucket with the 3D system or easily turn on and off automatics and protect features, helping further boost productivity by keeping the operator’s hands on the joystick and in control.
New precision technology features include Virtual Front, which hydraulically limits and automatically stops the bucket cutting edge from contacting the front of the machine at a selectable distance, preventing machine damage. The over-dig protect feature limits the bucket’s cutting edge from going below the target design surface, preventing costly overdigging on the job. Additional virtual fence technology features, such as Virtual Ceiling, Virtual Floor, Virtual Swing and Virtual Wall, provide the operator with audible alerts as the machine approaches an adjustable setpoint, allowing operators to focus on the task at hand.
To boost uptime, John Deere SmartGrade Remote Support enables the dealer to remotely monitor and support the machine from miles away. Wireless data transfer provides the ability to remotely send updated design files to the machine, saving trips to the job site. Additionally, the SmartGrade Excavators are compatible with JDLink™ telematics, increasing visibility to machine utilization and reducing costly downtime.
For more information about the new SmartGrade Excavators, as well as the full range of John Deere grade control solutions, visit http://www.JohnDeere.com.
About John Deere
Deere & Company (www.JohnDeere.com) is a world leader in providing advanced products, technology and services for customers whose work is revolutionizing agriculture and construction – those who cultivate, harvest, transform, enrich and build upon the land to meet the world’s increasing need for food, fuel, shelter and infrastructure.
Contact:
Sam Levine
Account Executive, imre
SamL@imre.com
For the original article please visit: https://www.deere.com/en/our-company/news-and-announcements/news-releases/2021/construction/2021apr06-smartgrade-excavators/
AFGRI Equipment secures John Deere Construction & Forestry Equipment franchise
Appointed distributor for Zimbabwe, Zambia, Botswana and AFGRI’s South African territories
Centurion, 23 March 2021 – AFGRI Equipment, part of the AFGRI Group, is proud to announce that it has been appointed the sole distributor of John Deere’s Construction & Forestry range of equipment in Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia and AFGRI’s areas of operation in South Africa.
According to Patrick Roux, Managing Director of AFGRI Equipment, this builds on the successful partnership already in place with John Deere in Western Australia, where AFGRI Equipment is the single largest distributor of the Construction & Forestry range. The extensive AFGRI Equipment branch network in Western Australia has been instrumental in further building the John Deere brand since AFGRI Equipment’s appointment to market the range in early 2019.
“The success we’ve enjoyed with the John Deere agricultural range in southern Africa , combined with our outstanding service levels and ethos, as well as excellent customer relationships, established a solid base of operations to further build out and strengthen the Deere brand, given the synergies that exist between the agricultural and construction equipment ranges.”
Roux added that AFGRI Equipment was delighted with the appointment, which certainly cements the relationship with John Deere. “However, more important is the ability to now offer these markets access to this well-respected and premium range of equipment. John Deere is well aware of our established footprint in these countries, and certainly that was another factor in their decision.”
This appointment provides AFGRI Equipment with a solid diversification angle to the business and sector to support, which will strongly underpin sustainability and growth.
Roux added that he was confident that AFGRI Equipment’s deep retail knowledge and experience in the agricultural sector could easily be transferred to the construction and forestry space. “We have become the ‘go to’ company for many farmers, and we’re truly delighted to extend our services to local mining, construction and forestry companies, with the hope that we will earn this same reputation.”
Initially the Construction & Forestry range will be available through selected AFGRI Equipment branches, with the idea being to develop a stand-alone Construction & Forestry business unit in due course. To this end, Pieter Nel has been appointed to head up the business. Nel has extensive experience in both construction, agricultural and so-called yellow equipment.
“We look forward to working with new clients to introduce an extensive range of solutions, purposefully built on the backbone of technology to drive down the costs of operation and increase efficiency,” concluded Roux.
There’s a lot of excitement in the air with the buzz about Caledons brand new flagship branch which opened on the 1st of March 2021!
The new branch can accommodate a larger amount of machinery which enables our AFGRI Equipment Technicians to service our farmer’s equipment quicker and better than before so that our farmers can get an optimal amount of uptime out of their machine, this being all of our number one priority. AFGRI Equipment Caledon is a representation of our philosophy in quality, the latest and greatest technology available, a focus on precision farming, and an emphasis on the importance that we place on after-sales service.
The new AFGRI Equipment Caledon is a symbol of the confidence that we have in ourselves to deliver the best service possible to our farmers and the potential that we see in the Caledon and surrounding areas. In the words of our Manager Director Patrick Roux, “We don’t just sell equipment, we provide solutions tailored to each farmer’s individual needs.” The total package that AFGRI Equipment offers includes farmers’ days where demonstrations are held on machinery and customer education clinics so that our clients are equipped to utilize the full value of the machine.
AFGRI Equipment Caledon has 24 employees of which more than half are technicians, showcasing the company’s client-centric focus. AFGRI Equipment has a decentralised management strategy that empowers the employees at our branch to make after-sales service their focus , we, therefore, have a large network of industry knowledge that develops throughout our people as a result.
Among the 11 executives of AFGRI Equipment lies over 200 years of experience, this network of people presents our clients with access to knowledge on equipment, precision farming technology for specific crop types, and expert opinions on farming specific to certain locations in Sub Saharan Africa and Western Australia. Jaco van Lil, the branch manager of AFGRI Equipment Caledon has over 2 decades of experience in agriculture and has been part of the John Deere dealer network exclusively for 13 years. New sources of knowledge are constantly added to the current pool of knowledge as the technology evolves and as we welcome a younger generation of farmers to the sector.
We as AFGRI Equipment are excited to see how the Caledon branch are going to take the farming community to new heights and add value to the lives of our farmers in every way that they can!
It’s Hay Making Season! And we thought we’d compile a list of our favorite haymaking equipment for the various stages of haymaking!
Raking :
1. The Tonutti Hay Rake – Simple, effective, and reliable. The wheel rake of choice for decades. Soft and uniform windrows for optimal dry off and ease when baling.
Mowing:
1. The Falcon F80-180 EV Haymaker – Proudly South African engineered for African conditions. Robust to withstand unexpected obstacles and still deliver an excellent quality cut all laid out in a windrow, thanks to the built-in wind chamber. Easy and cost-effective to run, the king of rotary cutters.
2. The Rovic and Leers KUHN GMD series – South Africa’s favourite hay mower! Excellent quality of cut promoting faster regrowth. New quick-change blades get you back mowing in seconds. The patented shear shaft protects gear assemblies in the deck and allows for a quick change of spindle modules. The breakaway action of the suspension arm is the best in the business of protecting the machine. Quality hay begins with the cut.
Balers:
1. The John Deere F441M Baler- Premium quality for ultra-efficient baling. This baler boasts a large pickup diameter, net wrapping, in-cab settings, and controls to customize bale specs. Faster cycle times for more productivity, is a perfect choice, for the farmer who requires more!
2.The John Deere F440E Baler- Big specs at an affordable price, the F440E sports net wrapping, and twine capabilities. A pickup width of 1.5m and an optional 1.9m for heavier windrows. Robust and easy to use, already a favourite among our farmers.
3. The Krone Bellima, Fortima, Comprima, and Big Pack series balers have a long and successful history in South Africa. The new generation Krone balers have already raked in the accolades from baler challenges to farmers’ days. The sheer range of different balers eludes to the fact that Krone is an expert when it comes to haymaking in general.
You requested more information regarding the best implements for small scale farmers and that’s what we are bringing to you:
1. The BERONI 3&4 Furrow Disc Ploughs – designed to work in ALL types of soil conditions and its functionality includes soil raising, breaking, mixing and turning. R28 700 excl vat(3 Disc) & R37 500 excl vat ( 4 Disc)
2.The BERONI 3&4 Furrow Beam Ploughs – Trusted technology for soil aeration and turning. Leaving a seedbed for optimal planting. R32 000 excl vat (3 Disc) & R39 000 excl vat ( 4 Disc )
3. The BERONI Hitch Mounted Rippers- used for reducing soil compaction. It is also used for aerating and loosening the soil while the organic matter is left on the upper layer of the soil. It creates a better water holding capacity in the root zone.
R23 000 excl vat (3 Tyne) & R29 000 excl vat ( 5 Tyne).
4. The BERONI Disc Harrows – For material cutting and sizing the Beroni 24 disc harrow is fitted with 26-inch diameter discs to cut through the toughest material and residue. The 2.7m working width will get the job done in no time at all. R126 000 excl vat.
5. The ROVIC & LEERS 800L Sprayer – Piston Diaphragm pump delivering 135L per/m. Manual folding booms 12m with a capacity of 800l spray solution. Red flat fan anti-drip nozzles included!
R46 000 excl vat.
Tried and tested technology that offers affordable solutions to emerging, small scale and part-time farmers. With the dependability of support services, you have grown accustomed to at AFGRI Equipment.
It was the year 2020, and even though we knew we would have to approach it slightly differently with respect to Covid-19 regulations, we surely did not expect a rollercoaster of a year. That being said, AFGRI Equipment showed its true colours of determination to deliver the best possible service to our farmers!
This year started with the launch of the new John Deere 8R which had farmers talking about the benefits of higher Hp models and the integrated intelligence that comes standard, however, when the nationwide lockdown that occurred it left AFGRI Equipment with the largest amount of John Deere tractor deliveries in a tight timeframe that we have seen in a really long time, we called it “The Gathering”.
This year was definitely a year of many firsts as lockdown enabled us to host our first virtual farmers day with Citrus Farmers in the Clanwilliam district, the discussion was lead by Aerobotics who highlighted the potential advantages of Aerobotics technology within the Citrus farming community of Citrusdal.
Another successful first for AFGRI Equipment was our online auction hosted in partnership with GWK and Veewinkel, where we auctioned off our second-hand machinery at the best prices possible, to ensure that our farmers cash in on those savings!
Our social media presence over the last 12 months had more than doubled with one of our Facebook posts going VIRAL, our followers just seemed to soak up relevant, interesting, and applicable content. For this reason, we decided to go and film our own mini-series called “the AFGRI Equipment EDGE” The mini-series tells the story of AFGRI Equipment and the underlying quality of our brand, our history, our passion, and a combined focus on the future. With these videos, we showcased not only our business but some of our products too from our Beroni range, Rovic and Leers’ offering, and of course the new John Deere 8R!
During the months of September – October our farmers were busy planting for the next crop and we decided to pay Christo Cronje from Cronje Boerdery, one of our long time clients a visit and we got footage of the very first 36 row John Deere DB planter working in South Africa, proudly delivered by AFGRI Equipment Standerton! We also made a stop at Wouter Kruidenier Boerdery, we visited Wouter Kruidenier SNR and Wouter Kruidenier JNR on their farm in Perdekop, Mpumalanga. Here we had interesting discussions on controlled traffic farming and the excellent singulation offered by the Exactemerge planter series from John Deere, especially the benefits in soya spacing.
And lastly, to end off our year on a huge high AFGRI Equipment received top honours at the annual John Deere Awards Ceremony, the categories in which AFGRI Equipment took home the top accolades are:
In the category Dealer of the Year: Single Dealership, Our AFGRI Equipment Branch in Botswana took first place, we would like to congratulate Arthur Bezhuidenhout and his excellent team for this achievement!
In the category Dealer of the Year: Multi Dealership, our Chief of Operations William Nichols and his top team secured second place in the North and Abrie Visser and his team in the Western Cape won first place!
In the category “Parts Expert of the Year“, AFGRI Equipment did a clean sweep with Abraham Mouton, placed third, Johannes Haefele placed second and Jaco Wessels placed first!
In the category “Sales of the Year“, Paul Janse van Rensburg from AFGRI Equipment Bethal placed 1st and Johnny de Bod from our AFGRI Equipment Ceres branch placed first for the Western Cape region.
In the category “Workshop of the Year“, Artie Bester from AFGRI Equipment Bethlehem placed third and Dewald Crouse from AFGRI Equipment Middelburg placed second!
Last, but not least in the category “Technician of the Year“, Tiaan Oosthuizen from AFGRI Equipment Polokwane placed third and Gert Grobler from AFGRI Equipment Grootvlei placed first!
What this year has shown us is that when times get tough, AFGRI Equipment keeps on going and persevering to deliver the best possible service and value to our farmers, who we all depend on daily. We are very proud of what we have achieved as an organization in this uncertain year, and look forward to stepping up our game even more in 2021!
On Friday the 19th of November 202o, John Deere hosted their annual Prize Giving to recognize exceptional performance in dealerships across Africa. After a challenging start to the year, hard work, adaptability and perseverance paid off for the winners.
The categories in which AFGRI Equipment took home the top accolades are:
In the category Dealer of the Year: Single Dealership, Our AFGRI Equipment Branch in Botswana took first place, we would like to congratulate Arthur Bezhuidenhout and his excellent team for this achievement!
In the category Dealer of the Year: Multi Dealership, our Chief of Operations William Nichols and his top team secured the second place in the North and Abrie Visser and his team in the Western Cape won first place!
In the category “Parts Expert of the Year“, AFGRI Equipment did a clean sweep with Abraham Mouton, placed third, Johannes Haefele placed second and Jaco Wessels placed first!
In the category “Sales of the Year“, Paul Janse van Rensburg from AFGRI Equipment Bethal placed 1st and Johnny de Bod from our AFGRI Equipment Ceres branch placed first for the Western Cape region.
In the category “Workshop of the Year“, Artie Bester from AFGRI Equipment Bethlehem placed third and Dewald Crouse from AFGRI Equipment Middelburg placed second!
Last, but not least in the category “Technician of the Year“, Tiaan Oosthuizen from AFGRI Equipment Polokwane placed third and Gert Grobler from AFGRI Equipment Grootvlei placed first!
We are incredibly proud of our AFGRI representatives, they have been ambassadors for the AFGRI Equipment values. Dedication and commitment to our growers to keep them productive will have a team of top-notch experts looking out for their interests in 2021.
Once again, congratulations to all the participants of this wonderful initiative.
Reports have been coming in about Deere sightings. Upon investigation, we confirmed that it was a gathering!
All over the country these new John Deere 8R and 7R tractors are being delivered and receiving their finishing touches before they head out to the farm! Over 60 John Deere tractors arrived at the South African harbour, and so close to planting season left our expert team of technicians very little time to complete the pre-delivery inspections and setups.
However, no deadline is too tight for people who love their job and have a passion for customer service! The John Deere tractors were delivered to their new owners in no time and made for some show-stopping photo opportunities!
AFGRI Equipment comes FIRST in ABSA’s Golden Partner Awards
It is no secret that we pride ourselves in absolutely everything we do, from the extensive training that goes into our employees from the moment they enter our doors in order for them to service our farmers, to our comprehensive product offering including the financing we offer on behalf of ABSA and John Deere Financial.
“It is an absolute honour to be affiliated with ABSA Golden Partner awards and to be awarded the First Place in the Commercial Dealer category for 2019. We have had amazing results in the market thanks to the John Deere Financial and ABSA alliance over many years. The excellent interest rates, quick turnaround times and great customer service fits in well with our core operating philosophy. This award would not be possible without our world-class sales team and all our loyal AFGRI Equipment clients” says Managing Director Patrick Roux
Accolades like these will continue to motivate our staff to deliver an even better service and continuously improve our offering to our farmers!
AFGRI EQUIPMENT STAFF TRAINING. WHY?…… SO THAT WE OFFER OUR FARMERS THE BEST.
We have always taken pride in the constant investment in our people and a perfect example of this was demonstrated on the 16th and 17th of September 2020. Sales teams and branch managers took part in the latest AMS training on new product releases. It is of the utmost importance to us that our staff are knowledgable and well trained on product advancements in the industry. This is to ensure they can deliver the best possible service to our farmers and equip them with the latest technology available, to run their farming operations as optimally as possible!
The training was divided into the following four stages, stage one was where Shaun Shwartz gave a detailed explanation of the latest subscriptions available, the offerings of the operations center, and the functionality and benefits of the JD Link platform. JDLink further provides critical codes to dealership technical staff, this can be utilized to cut downtime by as much as 50%, not to mention the preventative alerts that could save your machine from serious failure.
Station 2 was focused on two of the latest technologies available to our farmers at the moment firstly Exact Apply which is an Intelligent nozzle control system where the precision of the nozzles and digital mapping of the system was showcased. Exactapply gives a higher definition to the field by utilizing a 30Hz spraying pulse algorithm, this is 2-3times greater than any competitive brand. Therefore areas of the field are mapped with better definition which enables higher spraying accuracy with tighter tolerances, this saves hundreds of thousands in costs. Secondly, the ExactEmerge planter technology was explored and proves to deliver extra yield. Exactemerge units are extremely precise, enabling the operator to run at speeds of 16km/h (double the norm) without sacrificing spacing and population accuracy. These units deliver variability per row and rowcommand offers auto-shutoff and start functionality turning planting operations into the smartest investment a farmer can make given the importance of the planting window of opportunity.
Station 3 was all about a new cutting edge technology called T3rraCutta which is the world’s most advanced in-cab ditching/levelling/levee system. In conjunction with John Deere’s iGrade technology it allows you to survey, design, optimize, and implement leveling, drain, and ditching operations with ease. These technologies were explained in depth while each marketer got the opportunity to demo the technology on the John Deere 1412DE (Door Ejector Scraper) to properly experience its power and precision! Automatically cutting and dumping to reach the exact designed levels. Always dreamt of creating that designer field? Now you can manage slope, influence water retention, or even build a dam!
Station 4 was the team from Falcon Equipment and Amazone to show what their new products have to offer and our marketers were taken through the Gen 4 screen and the new benefits that it offers farmers. The functionality of these technologies were demonstrated on the new Amazone ZA-TS spreader with ISOBUS. The Amazone ZA-TS spreader boasts with precise hydraulic motor drives and 3 functional areas of variability. Variable speed spinners available in units that spread from 18m – 54m, variable aperture setting on the fertilizer delivery and variable drop off points to ensure accurate delivery of product throughout the dispersion arc. Why so much variability you ask? Fertiliser has become extremely expensive and the benefits of having a uniform dispersion are well published. However the engineers at Amazone have taken it a step further and split the dispersion arc of the spreader into no less than 128 virtual sections! Now that is some UHD spreading capability!
This intense training took place over two days and is a testament for the passion that AFGRI Equipment has for farming technology and the high standard of our service offering , and most importantly that our people are well equipped to provide the best possible service to our farmers.
AFGRI Equipment has always taken great pride in the investment of our staff and has never doubted that the secret recipe to our success lies firmly in the manner which we value our employees, our Apprenticeship Program lies at the heart and soul of our company as no machine will run without the magic touch of our AFGRI Equipment technician team!
The coordinator of the Apprenticeship program, Gerhard Mathee, or “Dumpies” as we all know him, takes us through the Apprenticeship Journey from Phase 1 and explains the benefits of the workplace exposure and what the 85-week process entails. The competition is fierce, and there are over 4000 applications per year, over 140 applicants get invited for interviews and a series of aptitude and practical tests ensue, the final stage entails that the 32 best candidates are appointed! Dumpies emphasizes that these candidates are trained, mentored, and continuously educated by peers this is why AFGRI requires the full commitment of top tier candidates! The process of apprenticeship to qualified technicians takes approximately 3 years and costs R500 000 per student, for this reason, we are looking for driven, diligent and passionate applicants.
Dumpies and Etienne discuss what to expect regarding the requirements to apply and the interview process for a candidate who is going to make it all the way!
Do you think you have what it takes to be the next TOP Technician?
APPLY using the link below! ? If you missed the webinar, please catch the highlights by watching the video below!
It’s that time of the year again and we are so proud to announce that our AFGRI Equipment Parts Specialists are ruling the top 54 leaderboard in the John Deere Parts Expert of the year in 2020!
38 of the top 54 Parts Technicians are from AFGRI Equipment, on the 4th of September 2020 Round Three of the parts Assessment was conducted at the John Deere Training Centre in Boksburg, there was a written and a practical assessment in the competition for the title of “Parts Expert of the Year” and anticipation is as high as the stakes. The winner will receive a trip to the United States of America in December 2020, where they will visit some John Deere factories and have a sightseeing trip that is beyond comparison!
We would like to congratulate the following candidates who made it to the Top 10 of the John Deere Parts Expert of the Year Competition, Abraham Mouton, Deon Britz, Jaco Wessels, Hannes Haefele and Morne Cloete, that is 5 AFGRI Equipment candidates out of the candidates in the top 10!
Jaco Wessels from the Afgri Equipment branch in Marquard was a previous winner in the John Deere Parts Expert of the Year 2019. Wessels has been in the parts business for 25 years, and with Afgri equipment for 18 years. All eyes are on Wessels to see if he is going to claim the title of Parts Expert of the Year for the again! AFGRI Equipment is proud of the level of expertise, knowledge, hard skills, and GRIT that these gentlemen have shown in the competition thus far and wish them all the best for the winning announcement!
AFGRI Equipment Technicians shine again, in the John Deere Technician of the Year Award.
After a rigorous few months of practical and written assessments, tough competition, and incredibly high stakes, the AFGRI Equipment technicians have proven their commitment and talent again! This year 4 out of the top ten technicians are proudly AFGRI Equipment employees!
The John Deere Technician of the Year challenge tests the entrant’s practical ability and industry knowledge. Technicians compete against one another for the ultimate award and title of John Deere’s ” Technician of the Year”. Once again AFGRI Equipment proved that our success stems from the constant investment in our people from the moment they start their journey at AFGRI Equipment. We are incredibly proud to congratulate Gert Grobler from AFGRI Equipment in Grootvlei, Izak de Lange from AFGRI Equipment Delmas, Patrick Modise from AFGRI Equipment Middelburg, and Tiaan Oosthuizen from AFGRI Equipment Polokwane.
The final examinations were undertaken on 31 August and 1 September 2020. The results will be made public in November at a date yet to be decided, in the meantime, we are holding thumbs!
There were over 90 technicians entered, and once again AFGRI Equipment proved that our people have what it takes and that we provide the best service in the industry, and that our technicians have what it takes to make your tractor run like a Deere should!
What lies beneath a brand name? A history, a passion, and a combined focus on the future. These are building blocks of great companies that have stayed relevant over the decades. There are many products out there, some are good some are great…. but what is that secret sauce that makes up an exceptional brand?
This is our story…This is the AFGRI Equipment | EDGE
EPISODE 1
Our very own Patrick Roux takes us through the rich history between the partnership of AFGRI Equipment and John Deere that spans over 58 years. A lot has changed in agriculture over the decades and AFGRI Equipment is now present in five countries across two continents, our strength lies in our people, and our investment in them will remain at the heart and core of what we do and why we still exist. Most of our technicians are carefully selected as apprentices, we then take the time and make the investment to educate and skill them to be the most proficient in the trade. Our aftersales staff has a wealth of resources and knowledge, in technical specialists and precision farming specialists, at their disposal to deliver the best possible service to our farmers and the machines we love.
Watch the first episode in our series below and stay tuned for more episodes to come!
The 6B has had a lot of interest over the last couple of days, weeks, and months. It somehow reminds us of a 6603 that was very popular in SA, combined with elements from the previous 6020 series. Both of these tractors require no introduction as they have field-proven themselves as benchmarks in reliability and uptime.
When we heard all this, we just had to get out and test it for ourselves. The only problem was that we couldn’t get the boss off of the new John Deere 6135B! Well, there is always next time……
Episode 3
AFRIKAANS ONLY! – In die derde episode van Tech Terrain Show powered by John Deere Africa het ons meer inligting verkry oor die belangrikheid van tegnologie en die aanvaarding daarvan as ‘n proses.Die nuwe John Deere 8R het ook die tonge behoorlik aan die klap. Dit is die grootste, sterkste en slimste 8R reeks trekker nog ooit van John Deere. Hierdie trekker is gebou met gemak in gerief in gedagte vir daai lang dae, waar die hektare verby moet rol. Die uitleg en ingeboude tegnologie maak dit geskik vir enige operateur se vlak van vaardigheid. Staatmaker soos altyd, hierdie trekker sal die voortou neem in die groen revolusie.
Episode 4
AFRIKAANS ONLY! This week we take a look at the new high-speed disc harrow from Rovic Leers, a concept that has seen increased use and results in recent years. This year we are faced with Maize crops that are slow to dry off and this will put pressure on land preparation, and ultimately seedbed preparation. The High-speed disc harrow does an amazing job at residue sizing and incorporation with its heavy large-diameter discs. Each disc is mounted on its own “hangar” which is supported by poly roll suspension systems to take the knocks and shocks of a rapidly moving Disc. This implement can be fitted with a heavy-duty crumble roller to manage those tough clods and leave a bespoke seedbed. The operating speed of this High-speed disc harrow is between 12 – 15km/h and for that reason, it is fitted with heavy-duty sealed bearings. contact your nearest AFGRI Equipment branch for more information or visit www.afgriequipment.co.za
Episode 5
In Episode 5 we take a look at the Beroni 4 furrow mouldboard beam plow. These ploughs are built on tried and tested technology and are ultra-strong and rigid for the toughest conditions in Africa. The mouldboard plough is built on a heavy-duty beam design, the wear components such as the ploughshares, landsides and boards are produced from quality high tensile steel for longevity. Beroni’s beam plough comes standard with a depth control gauge wheel to ensure a uniform working depth, as well as shear bolts to protect against implement damage. The Beroni portfolio of equipment is distributed exclusively by AFGRI Equipment. For more information drop us a mail at info@afgriequipment.co.za
Episode 6
In Episode 6 we look at the most reliable tractor on the market today. It is the 55- 75Hp John Deere 5E series available in 3 different transmission choices. The affordable 8F/2R Collar shift, The transport friendly 9F/3R Top Shaft Synchro transmission or the very versatile 12F/12R Powr Reverser. The latter is suited to any job from pulling a plough to mounting a front end loader. The 5075E is built strong with a heavy-duty engine block to take the extra load in difficult conditions as we encounter in Africa. Contact your nearest AFGRI Equipment branch to discuss the wonderful John Deere 5075E today or visit www.afgriequipment.co.za
Episode 7
The Beroni product line of implements offers quality components, designs based on proven results at a price point that is super attractive. Combine that with the fact that you will have AFGRI Equipment looking after your product with service and support. BERONI offers a comprehensive lineup of equipment that is sure to suit your farming operations. Buying your next piece of equipment just got a lot easier.
Episode 8
The John Deere 6M has always been a reliable asset to farmers across Africa. Built strong, powerful efficiency above expectation, and now more connected than ever. The updated Model 2020/2021 offers more options to fine-tune farm efficiencies further. Sporting optional rack and pinion axles for a wider row or, managed traffic fields. A more spacious cab and effective layout with corner post displays.
The MY2020 John Deere 6M series will not disappoint.
For more information contact your nearest AFGRI Equipment branch or visit www.afgriequipment.co.za
Episode 9
VIDEO IN AFRIKAANS.
Getting the right combination of efficiency and quality results when it comes to implements can be challenging. In a world where our farmers have to constantly pursue better drainage, soil aeration, seedbed preparation, planting quality, and residue management… few do it better than Lemken. These high-speed disc harrows have opened up a new frontier of primary and secondary tillage efficiency, proof to this is the rise in popularity over the last 5 years. Better results, faster turnaround times at a fraction of the fuel… now that is an innovation worth testing out!
Visit your nearest AFGRI Equipment Branch or www.afgriequipment.co.za and ask us about the different ranges.
Heliodor
Rubin9
Rubin10
Rubin12
#TheAFGRIequipmentEDGE
#InvestInYourFarm
#InvestInYorFuture
Episode 10
VIDEO IN AFRIKAANS.
The Kuhn 4830 Inline ripper is gaining a lot of momentum as a reduced tillage implement. The ripper is fitted with large omnidirectional disc coulters to cut through residue and stalks. This is critical to allow a free movement path for the heavy-duty ripper tynes to do their job.
With a maximum working depth of 475mm deep, this machine is well suited to aerate and loosen soil throughout the main root formation soil profile. The main focus of the Kuhn 4830 is to provide a quality, deep soil fracture without overly disrupting the topsoil composition. Thus minimizing water loss and wind disruption.
The compact format makes it a dream to handle and you will pick up the difference in machine efficiency in Hectares per hour.
The Kuhn Krause 4830 Inline ripper has seen major interest over the past two years and many farmers look at combining this implement with NH3 applicators.
For more information contact your nearest AFGRI Equipment Branch or visit www.afgriequipment.co.za
Episode 11
VIDEO IN AFRIKAANS
The Rovic Leers DLB 19 and Super 19 require very little introduction. For more than 20 years they have been at the forefront in terms of market share and customer satisfaction. The simplicity and low cost of operation of the ripper range have been 2 key drivers in their success story. The active tine system allows the ripper standards to absorb jolts and minimises the stress on the frame. These wonderful rippers are fitted with leaf spring systems that ensure a secondary sub-terrain fracture and also auto resets the tine if an obstacle is encountered. For more information on the legendary Rovic Leers DLB or Super range, contact your nearest AFGRI Equipment Branch or visit www.afgriequipment.co.za
Episode 12
VIDEO IN AFRIKAANS
The new John Deere 7R comes with some major upgrades! While the gap is getting smaller between the Kw range of the 6M and the 8R the new 7R still has a lot of benefits to offer. While having a larger build the new 7R is larger and heavier than the 6195M model and does offer a lot more options in terms of adjustable pinion tire sizes. It also offers some really nice options with regards to the transmission choices. Pair it with the best cab in the business and you have a winner. Talk to us now about the highly customizable new 7R range of tractors from John Deere.
Episode 13
Final Episode!
AFRIKAANS
Boerdery het verander maar die fundamentele aksies op plase het nog hoofsaaklik dieselfde gebly.
Dit is ‘n feit dat die tegnologie geweldig verander het oor die afgelope 15 jaar wat ons boere in staat gestel het om meer te produseer met minder insette en meer doeltreffendheid.
AFGRI Equipment sal aanhou belê in opleiding en om nuwe tegnologie beskikbaar te stel soos die behoefte groei om nog beter te produseer.
Met dit sal ons graag dankie wil sê aan al ons boere, produsente en verskaffers vir wie voedsel sekuriteit na aan die hart lê. Voorspoed!
ENGLISH
Farming has changed, but the fundamental actions on farms have stayed the same.
It is a fact that technology has changed considerably over the last 15 years, this has enabled farmers to produce more with fewer inputs and better efficiencies.
AFGRI Equipment will keep on investing in training and introducing new technologies to the market as requirements grow to produce even more.
On this note, we would like to thank all of our farmers, growers, and suppliers in the value chain for whom food security is of the utmost importance. All the best!
Are you tired of looking at the same screen all day? Don’t worry, so are we!
Every Wednesday we as AFGRI Equipment would like to change up your display with our custom-designed wallpapers, Do you love John Deere and AFGRI Equipment as much we do? Prove it!
All good things must come to an end and that being said this is the last wallpaper Wednesday for 2020!
Download this week’s wallpaper showcasing the John Deere 8RX, the first one in South Africa delivered by AFGRI Equipment!
John Deere het ’n nuwe reeks trekkers ontwikkel wat spesifiek ontwerp en gebou is om die struikelblokke die hoof te bied wat ’n boord, wingerd en kwekery aan boere stel.
John Deere se nuwe 5EN Narrow-trekkerreeks is só kragtig dat boere gerus kan wees daar sal genoeg krag wees vir selfs die moeilikste take.
John Deere se reeks 5EN Narrow-trekkers bied twee modelle. Danksy John Deere se PowerTech-dieselenjins van 57 kW tot 67 kW kan boere verseker wees daar is genoeg krag beskikbaar vir selfs die moeilikste take. Kapasiteit en trefkrag is vir John Deere belangrik.
“Operateurstasies vir die reeks 5EN Narrow-trekkers sluit ’n oop stasie en kajuitplatform in,” sê me. Irene Hart, produksiestelselspesialis vir boord- en wingerdtrekkers.
“Transmissie-opsies sluit die basiese 12F/12R PowerReverser met ’n opsionele kruipratopsie in. Dit is ideaal vir veeleisende toestande.”
Die swaardiens-MFWD-vooras met meganiese beheer bied ’n betroubare werkvermoë in normale laaitoestande. Die beperkte glip-ewenaar ontsluit die ware potensiaal van die as. Dit laat verhoogde trekstangkrag en verbeterde vastrapvermoë toe, selfs wanneer een band nie voldoende grondkontak het nie.
Operateurs kan danksy die ekonomiese 540/540E-kragaftakker die keuse uitoefen oor wat nodig is vir hul kragaftakkerwerktuie. Die 540E-model bied 540 r/min. aan die kragaftakker teen ’n enjinspoed van 1 700 r/min., wat baie brandstofdoeltreffend is. Hefboomkontroles is maklik om uit te ken en ergonomies en gerieflik geposisioneer.
GERIEFLIKE KAJUIT
Operateurs van die reeks 5EN Narrow-trekkers sal die vermindering van geraas en vibrasie deur die sitplek, stuurwiel en hefboomkontroles waardeer, tesame met ’n fabrieksgeïnstalleerde kajuit wat ROPS-gesertifiseer is dat dit beskerming bied indien die trekker rol.
Die 5EN Narrow se kajuit bied ’n skoon, stil omgewing met beskerming teen elemente en sluit ’n filter met geaktiveerde koolstof in.
Die kantvensters maak na voor oop vir uitstekende ventilasie. Die linkerdeur maak wyd oop, wat dit maklik maak om in en uit te klim.
TORINGSPUITE
Die bespuiting van spesialisgewasse is nou meer presies en goedkoper danksy John Deere se gespesialiseerde reeks wingerden boordspuite. Boere kan kies uit verskeie werktuie en torings waarvan die lugvloei en tenkgroottes verskil volgens wat hul bedrywighede op die plaas die beste pas.
“Die reeks is ideaal vir produsente van spesialisgewasse wat egaliger en presiese chemiese bespuiting vereis en minder geld aan brandstof en chemikalieë wil uitgee deur bespuitingsdoeltreffendheid te verhoog,” sê Hart.
Die toringspuite in die M100reeks is ontwerp vir vrugteboorde en wingerde. Die R100-reeks se toringspuite is spesifiek vir sitrus ontwerp. Die toringspuite in die M200-reeks is vir olyfboere ontwerp.
Die plantvorm van wingerde maak dit moeilik om die blare en vrugte te bereik, wat bespuiting derhalwe ook bemoeilik. Dit is nou maklik danksy die R300reeks se toringspuite met ’n unieke kombinasie van atomisering en blaastegnologie.
Nóg ’n belangrike aspek van John Deere se nuwe reeks gespesialiseerde gewasspuite is die lugtoevoerstelsel. ’n Doeltreffende waaierontwerp, kragtige aksiale waaier en groter waaiermonteerstuk verhoog die volume lug wat ingeneem word, aansienlik. Dit lewer ’n kragtiger uitset, wat tot doeltreffende lugvolumes en lae kragverbruikvereistes lei.
John Deere het verskeie torings om bykomende hoogte by neute of ’n sagter newel by vrugte te skep, na gelang van ’n boer se behoeftes en voorkeure.
Farmers all over the world experience the same sense of pride and aspiration when they hear the name “John Deere” and for the last 183 years, John Deere has set the golden standard for every kind of farmer to own one day. From the early days, John Deere’s agricultural solutions were high in demand from an emerging to a commercial farmer.
John Deere has released several different models this year, tractors with a wide spectrum of specifications to suit each farmer and their unique needs, an excellent example of this is the new 6M, 7R, 8Rand 6B series tractors which are launching in South Africa in 2020.
The 6B is a game-changing all-rounder in the sense of functionality and versatility, if you are a farmer that needs to plant, rip, plow or cut grass then the 6B might just be your new best friend? Building on the legendary power and affordability of its predecessors the 6603, 6403 and 6D series the new 6B series will surely be a popular choice in South Africa. Features resembling the legendary 6020 series are evident on the new 6B series, and if that is anything to go by dependability comes standard! Available in open station and cab configurations and available in a 95Hp, 110Hp, 120Hp, and a whopping 135Hp model. For literally any farming operations, John Deere aims to serve your individual needs with their awesome products.
Yesterday evening the President confirmed that there is a rapid rise in infections, which will stretch our health services beyond what we can manage. We must, therefore, do everything within our means to reduce the overall number of infections and to delay the spread of infections over a longer period. It is essential that every person in this country adheres strictly – and without exception – to the regulations that have already been put in place and the new measures that is the following:
As a consequence, the National Coronavirus Command Council has decided to enforce a nation-wide lockdown for 21 days with effect from midnight on Thursday 26 March.
• From midnight on Thursday 26 March until midnight on Thursday 16 April, all South Africans will have to stay at home.
• The categories of people who will be exempted from this lockdown are the following: health workers in the public and private sectors, emergency personnel, those in security services – such as the police, traffic officers, military medical personnel, soldiers – and other persons necessary for our response to the pandemic.
It will also include those involved in the production, distribution, and supply of food and basic goods, essential banking services, the maintenance of power, water and telecommunications services, laboratory services, and the provision of medical and hygiene products. A full list of essential personnel will be published.
• Individuals will not be allowed to leave their homes except under strictly controlled circumstances, such as to seek medical care, buy food, medicine, and other supplies or collect a social grant.
• Temporary shelters that meet the necessary hygiene standards will be identified for homeless people. Sites are also being identified for quarantine and self-isolation for people who cannot self-isolate at home.
• All shops and businesses will be closed, except for pharmacies, laboratories, banks, essential financial and payment services, including the JSE, supermarkets, petrol stations, and health care providers.
Companies that are essential to the production and transportation of food, basic goods, and medical supplies will remain open.
Firms that are able to continue their operations remotely should do so.
The nation-wide lockdown is necessary to fundamentally disrupt the chain of transmission across society.
Agricultural and food supply related operations, including farming, form part of essential services and thus our business as well.
We will comply with these regulations and the following decisions have been taken on how we will continue to deliver an essential service:
Head Office Services and Support:
All services will be delivered remotely and all staff will be available on their mobile phones as communicated earlier.
Branches:
The focus will be on the delivery of continued essential services to our Farming Customers. Only essential staff will be physical at the branches and we will apply it as follows:
• No leave needs to be submitted and we will rely on the integrity of each and every staff member to continue their job remotely where possible. This is not a time of vacation but an obligation to socially distance yourself to the best interest of our country and fellow residents
• No stock counts for the year-end will be performed. This will happen after the lockout at a date suitable to the branches and PWC
• Administration – Staff should work remotely with a laptop and 3G where possible
• Whole Goods Marketers– Staff should work remotely and service Customers via phone
• Parts Sales– One Salesman per branch which will be for the issuing of Parts on essential Jobs to be delivered on Farms
• Technicians
o Only essential services needed by our Farming Customers will be performed at the Farm
• We request all staff to wash hands frequently with hand sanitizers or soap and water for at least 20 seconds;
• cover your nose and mouth when coughing and sneezing with a tissue or flexed elbow;
• avoid close contact with anyone with cold or flu-like symptoms
• Staff should do only the necessary travel to perform this job and avoid any detours
• A document will be issued informing Authorities that our staff belong to the delivery of essential services in order to make free travel available
Service delivery by John Deere:
John Deere, who was closely involved in discussions regarding the lockdown, in a meeting with us today confirmed the view that we are part of essential services, and thus applies the same approach as AFGRI Equipment:
• Stock will be delivered as normal – allow longer lead times
• Will Call Orders will not be continued
We also confirm the emergency Response Procedure as mailed on 20 March 2020 to all staff.
COVID-19 Emergency Response Procedure
This document describes the Emergency Response Procedure to apply in the event of an AFGRI employee or 3rd party being confirmed positive with the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) or known direct exposure to a confirmed positive coronavirus case.
General Principles:
The Company, at all times, will respect the privacy and confidentiality of the individual(s) affected.
AFGRI Group Holdings’ procedure in the event of a confirmed COVID-19 case – i.e. bya verified testing facility:
1. If an employee is confirmed positive with COVID-19 or they believe that they may have been directly exposed to a confirmed coronavirus case, they must immediately disclose to their Line Manager and/or their HR Business Partner. The Line Manager and HR Business Partner must keep each other informed.
2. An employee may use:
-AFGRI Intranet COVID-19 disclosure portal.
3. An employee or 3rd party may also use:
-AFGRI Emergency telephone line (011 063 2999) or email COVID19@afgri.co.za (The phone lines are only available between 7 am to 6 pm Monday to Friday).
4. All disclosure channels are for reporting purposes only.
The following information is required for contact tracing:
a. Name
b. Contact details
c. Employee number
d. Business Unit
e. Line Manager name
f.Have you have traveled outside of the country? If yes when and where?
g. Have you have been in contact with anyone known to be a positively confirmed coronavirus case(s)? (Details to be provided)
h. Are you displaying any of the known Coronavirus symptoms?
– Fever
-Dry cough
– Runny nose
– Shortness of Breath
i. Have they been tested and what were the results?
j.Since your exposure or positive test result have you been in direct contact with any AFGRI employee, contractor, service provider and/or client? (Collect names, dates, times and locations)
k. Since your exposure or positive test result have you been to any AFGRI operational facilities?
If yes, which facility and to which parts of the building or premises did you visit? (Collect location details, dates, times)
5. The HR Business Partner will communicate the case to the Pandemic Response Team (PRT) with an alert to the Facilities PRT representatives, providing all details as listed in 1 above.The line managers of employees / 3rd parties working in the same areas, as identified in section 1, will inform them and explain that:
i. As a company, we will take all appropriate measures to protect the health of our employees.
ii. People who were sharing the same areas, identified above, might be considered as close contacts. And whilst they are not considered as suspected cases, they will be advised to self-quarantine (in preventive isolation) for a minimum period of 5 days, working from home if feasible. They should monitor their health condition regularly and follow the Government guidelines for telephonic consultation with their medical practitioner or phone 0800 029 999 for further advice or if they start experiencing any symptoms typical with the Coronavirus.
iii. Each employee should be advised to follow section 1 in this procedure should their health deteriorate, and/or they return a positive test result for the Coronavirus.
iv. People must apply the recommended hygiene measures which remain the best prevention.
v. The company will follow the guidance of the medical doctors and SA Health Authority.
6. The PRT will notify any 3rd parties who may have been exposed to the confirmed case as identified in section 1.
7. Any communications to AFGRI staff will be actioned by the HR PRT representative. Internal communication will be sent to all employees at the affected premises, confirming the situation and providing guidance on the next steps.
8. The HR Partner will remain in touch with all employees / 3rd parties with confirmed cases and keep the PRT advised accordingly.
9. The Facilities PRT member will keep a track record of confirmed cases for reporting purposes.
10. The authorization to return to work can only be granted by the medical doctor of the confirmed case and notice in writing is required to be submitted to the HR Partner prior to returning to work.
This is a decisive measure to save millions of South Africans from infection and save the lives of hundreds of thousands of people. Our CEO, Agri Services, Jacob De Villiers will be interviewed this afternoon and this will be made available to all staff and Customers. There will be communication with staff on all modes of social media on a regular basis.
Our Staff and their wellbeing is of utmost importance to us, and urge all Branch Managers where possible to provide the
necessary support.
To summarise the words of the President says it best:
“In the days, weeks and months ahead our resolve, our resourcefulness and our unity as a nation will be tested as never before.
I call on all of us, one and all, to play our part. To be courageous, to be patient, and above all, to show compassion. Let us never despair. For we are a nation at one, and we will surely prevail. May God protect our people.
Our Cape Town Office is happy to introduce their 5 new service vehicles, taking the AFGRI Equipment standard to new levels of service excellence. We now have a solid fleet of 25 vehicles which ensures that we are never too far away from our farmers when they need us. Customer service and relationships are valued at the heart and core of AFGRI Equipment and our teams are always looking for new ways to put our customers first and to be as accessible as possible.
The Africa Agri Tech (AAT) paves the way for the farmer of the future to achieve more with less.
John Deere placed importance on the collaboration of technologies to unlock the value of precision agriculture such as the John Deere Operations Centre that now offers More Tools as an interchange platform for agricultural organisations with different areas of expertise. The farm of the future will operate like a well-oiled machine by managing the data provided to enrich the value chain wherein it operates. The advent of FinTech and BlockChain technologies are creating groundbreaking opportunities for market places and traceability of products throughout the value chain.
John Deere views the major drivers of the next Green Revolution as Autonomy, Artificial Intelligence and Electrification. John Deere aims to take management and application from area-based to a plant-specific focus for greater yields, healthier crops and better risk management.
AFGRI Equipment is proud and excited to announce that we are officially a re-seller of the top quality agricultural implement manufacturer all the way from India! These implements offer an affordable yet high quality farming solution to small scale farmers looking to successfully compete in the agricultural market. Contact your nearest AFGRI Equipment Branch and inquire about our latest offering, BERONI. You can come and have a look at some of these beauts at the Balfour Hooidag this Thursday the 16th of January 2020.Click on the link below and see what all the buzz is about!
Get out, get back to your roots and visit a farm. If you happen to find a John Deere take a photo with your boy or girl child (age 10 and younger) in, on or over the green machine. It is an opportunity to start a discussion with your young ones about the importance of agriculture, and how we need to plan to feed the world’s increasing population. Come on let’s get those boots dirty!
Send your entry to info@afgriequipment.co.za
The winner gets a pedal tractor loader valued at R4500. Competition closes 20 January 2020.
AFGRI Agri services in collaboration with AFGRI Equipment have the pleasure of welcoming our growers to a world-class facility in Middelburg, Mpumalanga. The move was brought about by the need to have a more accessible location, the ability to accommodate large agricultural equipment and to offer a variety of additional services from a single location. UNIGRO Financial Services as a regional hub operate from the same location to provide finance, insurance, and other financial products to our esteemed growers. Furthermore, a representative from AFGRI Grain Management is also based at the branch to facilitate the trade of grain and other commodities.
With the new branch in Middelburg, AFGRI Agri services are well poised to deliver a world-class service to our growers and offer greater convenience in doing business with AFGRI. We would like to congratulate and thank all parties involved in creating this iconic premises in the Middelburg business community. We are confident that our team will go above and beyond to facilitate agricultural growth within the community and surrounding areas.
John Deere Sub Sahara Africa has used the opportunity of NAMPO 2019 in South Africa to re-affirm their commitment to growers on the continent. By looking back on years of commitment in the agricultural sector and looking toward the future of agriculture, John Deere is poised to play a predominantly key role in the green revolution. With the world population set to reach 9.7 billion people by the year 2050, the focus has shifted to Africa to deliver agricultural products and derivatives.
With exceptional leadership and tailored African solutions, John Deere Sub Sahara Africa will take the lead in bringing about tangible change in agriculture on the continent with the rollout of many new products and services. AFGRI Equipment is proud to be involved in driving change with their partners John Deere in providing action to an amazing vision.
Difficult agricultural conditions remained the talking point for most of the 2016 season. The Western Cape was caught in a drought choke-hold of which the likes have never been seen before in recorded history. The damage to yields were astronomical and can still be felt in the citrus, grape and deciduous fruit industries. Many agricultural companies across Southern Africa including AFGRI Equipment have felt the strain on their businesses and livelihood, as directly as the growers themselves due to lower revenues.
One key factor remained at the center of discussion, how do we as AFGRI Equipment raise the bar in terms of grower equipment support? As stated on several occasions AFGRI Equipment prides itself on after sales support and service, the most important factor when considering capital investment into equipment.
AFGRI Equipment Western Cape has taken receipt of five fully equipped service vehicles. These service vehicles are a force multiplier when attending to machine breakdowns. The speed at which a machine can be attended to, the diversity of tools and special tools make repairs and diagnosis a lot easier and quicker. The service vehicles are capable of operating air tools with it’s built in compressor, using electrical hand tools in field thanks to the inverter system and each is furnished with a service advisor laptop to facilitate accurate diagnosis.
We at AFGRI Equipment understand that indirect costs associated with down time can dwarf the costs of the breakage itself, for instance losing harvesting days with a machine or losing capacity with a spraying operation.
It is our ultimate quest to eliminate downtime as far as possible, we believe that the addition of the five new service vehicles will have a profound impact in the lives and businesses of our growers.
The stage was set to give recognition to the best in the business with the annual John Deere awards evening. The event was held at Emperors palace in Johannesburg, participants and contenders showed up from all over Southern Africa. Dressed in their best, the tension in the air was palpable. Months of training, researching and examinations culminated into the moment everybody had been waiting for……………………..the John Deere Awards Ceremony 2018.
Sales awards for the year were given to Paul Jansen van Rensburg (AFGRI Equipment) for the Highveld region, Francois Destroo (AFGRI Equipment) for the Western Cape and Kwek Dietrichsen (Senwes) for the North West / Western Free-state area.
left to right: Lucas Groenewald (John Deere), Kwek Dietrichsen (Senwes), Francois Destroo (AFGRI Equipment), Paul Jansen van Rensburg (AFGRI Equipment), Jacques Taylor (MD: John Deere Sub Sahara Africa)
Parts expert awards had an astonishing 6 out of the top 9 being AFGRI Equipment employees. In no particular order the AFGRI Equipment contestants were:
Duncan Barry (AFGRI Equipment Ermelo)
Deon Britz (AFGRI Equipment Malmesbury)
Stephanus Fouche (AFGRI Equipment Grootvlei)
Wynand Pretorius (AFGRI Equipment Polokwane)
Annalien Thompson (AFGRI Equipment Standerton)
Jaco Wessels (AFGRI Equipment Marquard)
Third place winner was awarded to Deon Britz, a welcome achievement for the parts manager at AFGRI Equipment Malmesbury. Second place was awarded to Gaetano Cassara from Trekker & Diesel in Oudtshoorn. First place winner for 2018 was awarded toJaco Wessels from AFGRI Equipment Marquard, with 15 years of experience in the trade, “I have learned so much through the Parts expert experience that John Deere has hosted. I have also learnt that there is a lot that still needs to be mastered and will be doing my best in 2019 to defend the title” added Wessels. Jaco will accompany a group of individuals on a John Deere factory tour in 2019.
Left to right: Stephan Gouws (John Deere), Jaco Wessels and Jacques Taylor (MD John Deere Sub Sahara Africa)
Top Tech 2018
Building up to the final awards of the evening the top technician of the year boasted with some regular faces, all looking for the top spot of this prestigious award. AFGRI Equipment placed three technicians in the top 10 for 2018 Gert Grobler (AFGRI Equipment Grootvlei), Artie Bester (AFGRI Equipment Bethlehem) and Niel Ackerman (AFGRI Equipment Grootvlei). Neil Ackerman being the defending champion from 2017.
Third place was awarded to Myburgh de Bruyn (Senwes Wesselsbron) who has 13 years of John Deere experience and won third place in the 2015 technician of the year awards.
Second place went to Gert Grobler (AFGRI Equipment Grootvlei) who also has in excess of 10 years experience and service with John Deere equipment. Gert has been an awesome contender achieving top ten placements in 2015 and 2016, and was placed third in the 2017 technician of the year. Gert is a level 4 AMS and Level 3 Advanced technician.
First place for the evening was awarded to Artie Bester (AFGRI Equipment Bethlehem), with 14 years of John Deere technical experience and the drive to do more, understand more and apply the knowledge Artie is without a doubt a pillar of support in the greater Bethlehem area. Artie won the John Deere technician of the year award in 2016 and won 2nd place in the 2017 competition.
Top: Stephan Nel, Artie Bester and Jacques Taylor
Left to right: Stephan Nel (John Deere), Gert Grobler (AFGRI), Artie Bester (AFGRI), Myburgh de Bruyn (Senwes) and Jacques Taylor (MD: John Deere Sub Sahara Africa)
We at AFGRI Equipment would like to thank the sponsors John Deere and John Deere Financial for their efforts in giving recognition to exceptional staff all over Southern Africa. The commitment to continuous improvement in after sales are the building blocks for a successful partnership between growers and dealers. We would also like to congratulate all of the contestants and winners on their achievements, we understand that it took a lot of hard work and commitment to compete against the best in the business!
Congratulations to all!
We look forward to the competition in 2019 as it heats up. And as always remember “Nothing runs like a Deere”.
It was an evening par excellence as AFGRI Equipment reinforced their footprint and commitment to growers in the Worcester area.
‘The new facility allows us to better service our growers. More technicians who are better trained, better tooled and empowered to keep machines running when they are most critical to grower operations. We might not be the best as a sales organisation, but I can unequivocally state the fact that there is no better dealership in South Africa in terms of after sales service and care.” said Mr Patrick Roux (MD – AFGRI Equipment)
The new facility provides the environment for staff to flourish and showcase a new level of professionalism when looking at Agricultural equipment in the area. The newest technologies to aid grower profit, as well as preventative notifications on machine errors are already being implemented to ensure a multi tiered approach to grower productivity + uptime + cost of operation = VALUE.
Our staff are ready to meet demands of agriculture in the 21st century.
Commemorating John Deere’s 100th anniversary of entering the tractor market, the Althaus family of Sublette, Illinois, restored a 1918 Waterloo Boy tractor and talks about the great uncle who inspired them all.
Having the utility vehicles come pre-wired for a winch from the factory greatly reduces the winch install time. Two of the RSX860i chassis come from the factory pre-wired for a winch: all power steering models and the winch-ready chassis.
Components included in the winch-ready chassis factory installed:
Winch wiring harness
Negative winch battery cable
Winch disconnect wiring harness
Chassis with prewiring for winch
A dealer installed version of the WARN® ProVantage 3500-lb (1587.6-kg) winch for these chassis is available through Parts. Please reference the Price Pages/Configurator for the attachment number.
The following factory-installed packages are available as PR15 (priority replenishment) configurations, and are targeted to be available at your dealerships within 15 calendar days of order entry.
RSX860i Power Steering with WARN® winch and protection package (available in green and yellow, REALTREE® HARDWOODS HD® camo).
Shown in camo; also available in green and yellow. Shown with optional spot lights and half windshield.
Factory package includes:
Power steering
Yellow alloys on green and yellow vehicles, black alloys on camo vehicle
Sport seats
FOX® monotube shocks
2-in. (50.8-mm) front receiver with recovery loops
WARN® 3500 ProVantage winch
Pre-runner bumper
Rear bumper
Cargo box rails
RSX860i power steering winch ready with FOX 2.0 Performance Series piggyback shocks and protection package (available in green and yellow)
Shown with optional spot lights, half windshield, winch
Factory package includes:
Power steering
Winch ready
14-in. (355.6-mm) yellow alloys
Sport seats with sport steering wheel
FOX 2.0 Performance Series shocks with piggyback reservoir
Pre-runner bumper
Rear bumper
Cargo box rails
Build-to-order options available
The RSX860i can be configured the way the operator wants it. The build-to-order vehicles start with a choice of three different chassis:
Base chassis: no power steering, not winch ready. The vehicle can still be configured with the choice of colors, wheel/tires, seats, shocks and protection components.
Winch-ready chassis: no power steering, winch ready from the factory. Configurable with choice of colors, wheel/tires, seats, shocks, winch and protection components.
Power steering chassis: power steering, winch ready. Configurable with choice of colors, wheel/tires, seats, shocks, winch and protection components.
If orders are build to order, they will be sourced and a FDD assigned based on availability.
REALTREE HARDWOODS HD is a trademark of Jordan Outdoor Enterprises Limited. Warn is a trademark of Warn Industries, Inc. Fox Shocks is a trademark of Fox Factory Incorporated.
The cargo box consists of a high-density polyethylene copolymer composite material that eliminates rust, dents, and reduces noise. This large, one-piece design has rounded inside corners to ensure material removal when tilted. The composite box is highly ribbed and supported with a welded steel-ladder structure to ensure hard-driving performance and longevity. The three highly styled exterior pieces are made of thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) for extra durability.
Cargo box tailgate
Tailgate handle
Removable tailgate
Tailgate pivot
Removable lanyards
The tailgate can be opened or removed for easier cleanout and to carry longer items. It features truck-like performance and can be operated with one hand.
The tailgate’s pivot point is made of hardened steel for durability and designed for tool-less removal. The standard lanyards can also be disconnected without tools to remove the tailgate for convenient loading and unloading tasks.
Cargo box tilt and removal
Integrated handle for manual cargo-box tilt
The cargo box ease of use is critical to performing tasks quickly and efficiently. Starting with the truck-style tailgate, the removal of content in this cargo box is much easier. The manual release functions as the lift lever as well, done in a smooth, one step motion. It can even be tilted from both sides of the vehicle. To reduce the overall effort of lift, the pivot point of the cargo box is closer to the center. The combination of easy-to-use attributes makes this cargo box best in class.
With the removal of two bolts, the cargo box can easily be detached from the vehicle frame for ease of servicing.
Integrated tie-down points
Integrated tie-down point in cargo box bed
Additional tie-down points
The cargo box offers integrated tie-down points for increased versatility. Tie-down points are located in the following areas:
Flip-up D-shaped rings in all four corners inside the cargo-box bed
Multiple points along the edge of the cargo box side walls
Tie-down bars on either side of the cargo box with optional cargo box rail kit. This kit also provides a mounting system using accessories that possess the 25.4-mm (1-in.) quick clamp.
Optional accessories
Cargo box rail system
Optional accessories for the cargo box include:
Factory-installed cargo box rail system
Cargo box bed mat
Cargo box wall extensions
Specifications
Length
32.3 in. (82 cm)
Width
47.6 in. (120.9 cm)
Depth
11.7 in. (29.6 cm)
Volume
8.9 cu ft (0.25 m³)
Weight capacity
400 lb (181.4 kg)
Dump angle Bed height (from ground)
45 degrees 30 in. (76.3 cm)
CAUTION: Carrying extra-long cargo that extends beyond the box can adversely affect stability.
The Gator™ RSX High-Performance Series Utility Vehicles are equipped with rack and pinion steering with optional power steering, and a dual A-arm front suspension. These automotive-type systems exhibit excellent handling characteristics, as well as responsive steering and low steering effort.
Automotive-type rack and pinion steering with optional power steering
RSX860i with optional power steering
Automotive-type rack and pinion steering features include:
Optional electronic power-steering assist system (EPAS). Features of EPAS include:
Anti-kickback feature reduces the amount of steering unwinding when traversing difficult terrain.
The system is speed sensing and adjusts steering effort as the speed of the vehicle changes.
As speed increases there is less steering assist for improved road feel.
As speed decreases steering assist increases to give lower steering efforts for improved maneuverability.
A warning/functional light on the instrument panel provides self-diagnostics and a warning light in the situation of no assist.
Torque sensor measures steering wheel input so the on-board computer can provide the appropriate output for various driving situations.
Steel ball-bearings secure the steering shaft and delivers smooth, responsive operation
Tight turn radius of 12.3 ft (3.7 m) for excellent maneuverability
Completely sealed rack-and-pinion for long life
Low steering ratio (lock-to-lock steering wheel rotations) provides more responsive steering and less operator input
Shaft U-joints are phased for a smooth, uninterrupted motion of the steering wheel
Ackerman steering design provides more responsive steering, decreases tire wear when used on hard surfaces and is turf friendly (see description below)
Minimal bump steer eliminates unintended vehicle direction changes when traversing terrain and permits less feedback to the steering wheel (see description below)
The tire scrubbing, which also creates unwanted heat and wear in the tire, can be eliminated by turning the inside wheel at a greater angle than the outside one (Ackerman steering).
NOTE: Some competitors use parallel steering instead of Ackerman steering.
Bump steering defines the change in the forward steering angle (thus wheel position) as the suspension travels through its full motion. A large amount of angular change (5 degrees to 7 degrees) will alter the vehicle’s direction and excessively move the steering wheel.
RSX front suspension detail
To complement the capable powertrain on the RSX860i, the RSX is equipped with four-wheel independent suspension. This unique suspension setup provides an unparalleled ride over challenging terrain and excellent handling through corners.
The engineering team in collaboration with engineering firms that consult with Formula 1®, NASCAR®, and INDYCAR® teams, built a sport-tuned suspension system for class-leading operator comfort, no matter what the terrain, and handling that makes one think they are on rails.
Dual A-arm front suspension features include:
Dual, wide-arch A-arm design provides maximum front-wheel control, precise steering, and maximum ground clearance out to the wheel
9 in. (23 cm) of travel provides ample compression and wheel extension, which keep all four wheels on the ground for superior traction and vehicle control
Exclusive aluminum-body, high-pressure monotube shocks or piggyback shocks; both provided by Fox Shocks™ racing shocks (see more details below)
Solid anti-roll bar, with fully rubber isolated connecting links and pivots, is tuned to provide the most agile and predictable handling
Camber during compression to compensate for body roll and to maintain an optimal tire contact patch for improved cornering grip
Increasing vehicle width during compression for additional stability.
High-strength ASTM 80-55-06 ductile cast-iron knuckle and upper A-arm to support the high stresses of the shocks, constant velocity (CV) shaft, and wheels
Automotive-style fully boxed and welded-steel lower A-arms to minimize unsprung mass and maximize strength
Maintenance-free rubber torsional A-arm pivots for long life and quiet operation
CV shaft protection from sticks that may puncture the rubber boot
Anti-dive front suspension geometry provides a solid platform for confident braking
RSX rear suspension detail
Multi-link independent rear suspension (IRS)
Multi-link IRS rear suspension features include:
Exclusive multi-link semi-trailing arm rear suspension moves wheel rearward and outward in compression
9 in. (23 cm) of travel provides ample compression and wheel extension, which keeps all four wheels on the ground for superior traction and vehicle control
Exclusive aluminum-body, high-pressure monotube shocks or piggyback shocks; both provided by Fox Shocks (see more details below)
Solid anti-roll bar, with fully rubber isolated connecting links and pivots, is tuned to provide the most agile and predictable handling
Camber during compression to compensate for body roll and to maintain an optimal tire contact patch for improved cornering grip
Increasing vehicle width during compression for additional stability.
High-strength ASTM 80-55-06 ductile cast-iron knuckle and lower A-arm to support the high stresses of the shocks, CV shaft, and wheels with the toughness to survive impacts from boulders
Heat-treated aluminum cast upper A-arms to minimize unsprung mass
Maintenance-free rubber torsional A-arm pivots for long life and quiet operation
Standard Fox Shocks
Standard Fox Shocks
Standard equipment shocks on the base model– front and rear suspension
Exclusive aluminum-body, high-pressure monotube Fox racing shocks
Fully adjustable spring preload for different driving styles
High-pressure nitrogen gas is separated from the damping oil by an internal floating piston (IFP). The separation prevents aeration (frothing) and viscosity degradation of the oil which improves damping consistency and performance fade.
Pressure and heat generation in the monotube is less than a traditional twin-tube shock, allowing for better vehicle control in aggressive conditions.
The single aluminum shell of the monotube design allows for more efficient heat rejection and lower overall unsprung mass.
Mounting the shaft end of the shock to the suspension arm lowers the unsprung mass of the suspension system, leading to improved suspension response.
Upgrade Fox 2.0 Performance Series shocks
Reservoir with compression adjustment
Upgrade Fox 2.0 Performance Series shocks
Upgrade shocks—Front and rear suspension
RSX tuned Fox 2.0 Performance Series shocks
Fully adjustable spring preload for different driving styles and ride height settings
Piggyback reservoir houses high-pressure nitrogen gas, separated from the damping oil by an internal floating piston (IFP). The separation prevents aeration (frothing) and viscosity degradation of the oil which improves damping consistency and performance fade.
Large, 2.0 aluminum bodies help reduce internal pressures and improve heat dissipation, which results in consistent fade-free performance in aggressive riding conditions.
Compression adjustment allows the user to tune damping rates for different riding preferences and trail conditions
Tuned with Fox factory support on some of the most grueling trails in the United States
Fox Shocks is a trademark of Fox Factory Incorporated. NASCAR is a trademark of NASCAR. INDYCAR is a trademark of Brickyard Trademarks Incorporated. Formula 1 is a trademark of Formula One Licensing BV, a Formula One Group Company.
Choose your dealer to contact via the drop down list.
Choose a dealership to contact:
ActiveSeat and controls
John Deere’s ActiveSeat utilizes electrohydraulic technology in combination with air suspension, providing the operator with enhanced ride quality over standard air-suspension seats.
Operator movements are monitored in order to reduce vertical movement. An ActiveSeat suspension can isolate the operator from up to 90 percent of vertical movements typically seen in tractor applications.
The system uses a hydraulic cylinder that is connected to a control valve assembly. Electrohydraulic valves located in the control valve assembly automatically react to inputs from two sensors, a position sensor and an accelerometer. Inputs from these two sensors control oil flow from the tractor to the hydraulic cylinder to reduce the vertical movement of the operator.
ActiveSeat left armrest
The John Deere ActiveSeat has many of the same features of the ComfortCommand™ seat with the addition of a ride firmness switch. The ride firmness switch is located on the left-hand armrest and replaces the suspension shock-dampening seat attenuation lever on the front right-hand side of the ComfortCommand seat controls.
The ride firmness switch has three positions: plus, minus, and mid position. The three positions provide three different levels of seat performance:
The plus position provides the greatest degree of ride firmness. This position allows more of the tractor’s inputs to be felt by the operator (slightly rougher ride).
The minus position provides the least degree of ride firmness, allowing minimal tractor inputs to reach the operator, resulting in maximum seat performance.
The mid position allows a balance between the plus (+) and minus (-) settings.
The ActiveSeat is also available as a heated leather seat for increased comfort and easier cleaning. For tractor applications where operating speed is not limited by the implement, the ActiveSeat can allow for faster field speeds and increased overall comfort and productivity.
NOTE: The John Deere ActiveSeat is not available on track tractors.
Option code
Description
2061
Premium CommandView III Cab with Active Seat
All 8R and 8RT Series Tractors come standard with an 85-cc displacement integrated hydraulic pump. This pump provides 227.1 L/min (60 gpm) of hydraulic flow.
A dual-pump option, featuring 85-cc and 35-cc displacement hydraulic pumps, is available for all 8R wheel models. The dual-pump system provides a hydraulic flow of 321 L/min (85 gpm), ideal for running at lower engine speeds.
Operating the tractor at reduced engine rpm contributes to a quieter cab, reduced fuel usage, and maintains the vacuum while turning and raising the planter on end rows. At 1500 erpm with a 321 L/min (85 gpm) system there will be an available flow of 229 L/min (61 gpm). This is an improvement over an available 162 L/min (43-gpm) flow when operating with a 227 L/min (60 gpm) system at 1500 erpm.
The maximum flow through one selective control valve (SCV) with a standard coupler is 132 L/min (35 gpm). A 19.1-mm (3/4-in.) high-flow coupler allows for a maximum flow rate out of one SCV of 153 L/min (40.5 gpm).
The hydraulic system is a closed-center, power-on-demand system using a load-sensing pressure-flow compensated axial piston pump with full-flow charge and flow prioritization for steering and brakes.
The pump outlet pressure available on demand can range from 3000 kPa (435 psi) for track models and 4000 kPa (580 psi) for wheel models at low standby to 20,400 kPa (2958 psi) at high standby.
Hydraulic pump options:
85-cc displacement, 227-L/min (60-gpm) hydraulic pump
NOTE: Standard on all 8R models.
85-cc and 35-cc dual pump option, 321-L/min (85-gpm)
7R e23 transmission
The e23 transmission delivers smooth shifting and intuitive controls with Efficiency Manager™ feature in a reliable 23-speed PowerShift™ transmission. The e23 transmission is available for all 7R, 8R, and 8RT Series Tractors.
The e23 has evolved from more than 50 years of John Deere PowerShift technology. With more automatic features, the e23 is easy to operate for all levels of operator experience. For more advanced operators looking to customize the transmission to best fit their operation, the e23 offers a custom mode.
As the next generation of PowerShift technology, e23 delivers the strength to handle sudden, high-torque power loads while maintaining responsive, quick, and smooth shifts. The e23 with Efficiency Manager provides improved fluid efficiency and overall productivity with limited input from the operator.
e23 options
e23 transmission 42 km/h (26 mph) with Efficiency Manager
e23 transmission 50 km/h (31 mph) with Efficiency Manager
Even gear spacing for optimal performance
The e23 has 23 forward gears and 11 reverse gears, which are all evenly spaced. Forward gears are spaced 15 percent apart, while reverse gears are spaced approximately 30 percent apart, providing operators smooth shifting between gears. Even spacing improves efficiency and allows for smooth, automated shifts when using Efficiency Manager. The e23 can reach maximum forward ground speed in gear F20. As a result, gears F21-F23 maintain maximum ground speed at reduced engine rpms to save fuel.
e23 controls
The e23 is available with either a right-hand or left-hand reverser.
Right-hand reverser
Right-hand reverser
A convenient, right-hand reverser is available with the e23 transmission. The reverser is located on the CommandARM™ as shown above.
Forward direction selector
Reverse direction selector
Neutral position
Electronic park lock
Right-hand reverser equipped models use three main controls to operate the tractor:
Foot brake with integrated AutoClutch
Set speed adjuster
Gear selector control lever with integrated reverser
The right-hand reverser control strategy combines speed control and direction control into one multi-function lever that is conveniently located on the CommandARM. This is a good choice for most common field applications since tractor speed and direction are not constantly being adjusted by the operator.
Left-hand reverser
Left-hand reverser
Left-hand transmission lever
An easy-to-use left-hand reverser is available with the e23 transmission and includes the same functions as the right-hand reverser. The reverser control is located at the 10 o’clock position on the steering column for intuitive control.
The five-position, left-hand reverser column incorporates the following controls:
Forward direction selector
Reverse direction selector
Neutral position
Electronic park lock
Left-hand reverser equipped models use four main controls to operate the tractor:
Foot brake with integrated AutoClutch™ function
Set speed adjuster
Gear selector control
Multi-function left-hand reverser
The left-hand reverser control strategy separates the direction control lever from the speed/gear control lever on the CommandARM. This strategy is a good choice for operations requiring the right hand to run multiple operations on the CommandARM or applications requiring constant directional changes like loader work.
Determining which reverser is best suited for a specific operator depends on a few key factors. Consider the following to help choose between a left- or right-hand reverser.
Operator preference and ergonomic benefits.
Operators in loader applications might prefer a left-hand reverser since direction changes occur frequently while their hands are on the steering wheel (near the left-hand reverser location).
Producers primarily in row-crop applications using features like AutoTrac™ assisted steering system or operating with the seat swiveled to the right for easy access to monitors and displays might find the right-hand reverser more convenient. Speed and directional controls are in one location on the CommandARM.
Foot brake with integrated AutoClutch function
The electrohydraulically controlled brakes on e23-equipped tractors have an integrated AutoClutch function.
At low idle only, the tractor will stop by depressing only one brake pedal.
Pressing both brakes (locked together) simultaneously will stop the tractor from any ground or engine speed.
Braking can be done on flat ground or steep slopes simply by using the brake pedals; it is not necessary to depress the clutch.
It is recommended to lock the brake pedals together when operating on roads.
Foot brake with integrated AutoClutch
AutoClutch sensitivity can be adjusted through the Generation 4 CommandCenter™ display. AutoClutch can be deactivated on e23 transmissions as well; however, it will be reactivated after every key start.
Full auto mode
Full auto main page
Full AUTO mode enables the tractor to make adjustments to the transmission operating mode automatically, based on engine and transmission speed and the load on the tractor. This means the tractor will shift up and throttle back automatically to reach the desired ground speed efficiently. Operators have the ability to set the maximum forward and reverse speeds for the tractor in their particular application.
When shifting in full AUTO mode, the transmission shifts set speeds, meaning the transmission may not necessarily shift gears each time the lever is bumped. Efficiency Manager is automatically engaged while operating in full AUTO mode. As a result, shifting will not take the tractor out of Efficiency Manager in full AUTO mode.
Stopping the tractor using AutoClutch
During transport, it may be desirable to use the AutoClutch feature to stop the tractor when approaching an intersection or turn. Braking the tractor using the AutoClutch at high ground speed and engine speed will require high brake-pedal force.
Rather than using AutoClutch alone, reduce the engine rpm and reduce the e23 to a slower commanded speed before applying the AutoClutch. This will help to reduce the force needed to stop the tractor with the AutoClutch. The tractor will accelerate to the previously commanded speed upon release of the AutoClutch, repositioning of the hand throttle and increasing the commanded speed.
NOTE: The preferred method of stopping heavy towed loads is to reduce the e23 commanded speed and lower engine rpm first, and then depress both brake pedals. (Brake pedals should be locked together.)
Using individual brake pedals – implement hook-up
Individual brake pedals can be used to assist slow-speed off-road turning, such as hooking up to an implement. At low idle, the AutoClutch feature will stop the tractor if the operator depresses only one brake pedal.
To assist in hooking up an implement, depress either brake pedal while slowly increasing engine speed until the desired turn is achieved. Returning engine speed to a low idle while continuing to depress one brake pedal will slow the tractor to a stop.
CommandCenter™ controls
254-mm (10 in.) Generation 4 CommandCenter
The CommandCenter is the central information system for tractors and allows the operator to program various settings tailored to a specific operation.
To access the tractor’s transmission settings, press the transmission shortcut button on the CommandCenter shortcut bar.
CommandCenter transmission shortcut button
Operating modes
The e23 application settings employ three modes to take full advantage of the engine-transmission communication: full auto mode, custom mode, and manual mode.
Custom mode
e23 custom transmission page
Custom mode allows operators to adjust operating parameters to meet their specific operation. Just like full AUTO mode, custom mode shifts set speeds meaning the transmission may not necessarily shift gears each time the lever is bumped. Efficiency manager is engaged automatically in custom mode.
Eco button
Display screen
In custom mode, eco allows two minimum engine speeds to be set. Operators can turn eco on and off by either pushing the eco button on the side of the throttle or by selecting eco in the transmission settings page of the CommandCenter. For example, operators may choose to turn eco on during transport to utilize a lower minimum engine speed and then turn eco off while operating in the field where a higher minimum engine speed is desired.
Custom settings page
In the advanced settings page, operators can customize the auto shift engine speed droop as a percentage of the full engine speed. In addition, the load anticipation feature can be enabled for the hitch engagement, hydraulic engagement, or both.
Manual mode
Manual mode page
Manual mode operates similar to a traditional PowerShift transmission. When shifting, the transmission shifts gears, not set speeds like full AUTO and custom mode. Manual mode also features efficiency manager when the operator engages set speed one or two on the CommandARM, as shown above in illustration.
When operating in manual mode with efficiency manager active, there is the option of turning eco on or eco off. This allows the operator to select two different minimum engine speeds. In the advanced settings page, operators can adjust auto shift engine speed droop and load anticipation, similar to custom mode.
Advanced transmission settings
Additional transmission settings can be customized to the operators’ specific desires.
AutoClutch sensitivity can be adjusted on the transmission settings page in the CommandCenter display. Operators can turn off AutoClutch or choose from high, medium, or low sensitivity. Operators can fine-tune AutoClutch by delaying the response time, based on load, travel speed, etcetera. This allows the trailer brakes to be applied before AutoClutch engages.
High: for light or no trailer (load) – factory default
Medium: for medium trailers (load)
Low: for heavy trailers (load)
AutoClutch Off: to operate e23 just like a traditional powershift
The AutoClutch sensitivity factory default-setting is set to high, which supports most operations.
AutoClutch sensitivity settings are available in all three modes – auto, custom, and manual.
Efficiency manager
Set speed buttons and set speed adjuster
Efficiency manager is automatically enabled in full AUTO and custom mode. Efficiency manager can be turned on in manual mode by selecting the set speed one or two on the CommandARM. The set speed adjuster on the top of the single-lever gear selector allows the operator to dial in the desired ground speed to establish set speed one or two in Efficiency Manager.
Efficiency manager allows the transmission to up or down shift and change engine rpm to maintain the set wheel speed. To reach the desired set speed, the throttle must be set to full engine rpm. This allows efficiency manager to shift the transmission and adjust engine speed to maintain the desired wheel speed. For more information on Efficiency Manager refer to the operator’s manual.
e23 operation
Both right-hand reverser and left-hand reverser control options provide full powershifts for on-the-go shifting; no need to stop or clutch when bump shifting or shuttle shifting between forward and reverse.
The single-lever shifter allows for quick and convenient shifting with minimal physical effort.
Shifts are made either by bumping the lever or by holding the lever in a forward or rearward position.
Transmission is in neutral when the shift control or left-hand reverser is not in park, forward, or reverse.
Operator presence feature prevents the transmission from going into gear when the operator is not seated or has the brake or clutch pedal depressed.
Transmission can be programmed to start in 1F – 13F or 1R – 6R.
A forward gear between 1F and 13F may be preselected by depressing the clutch pedal and pushing or pulling the shift lever. The transmission will then start in the preselected forward gear when clutch pedal is released.
Cornerpost display
The cornerpost display shows the commanded gear instantaneously once selected.
Option code Description
1493 e23 Transmission 42 km/h (26 mph) with Efficiency Manager
1494 e23 Transmission 50 km/h (31 mph) with Efficiency Manager
2701 Right-hand Reverser Bump-Shift-Type Transmission Controls
2702 Left-hand Reverser Bump-Shift-Type Transmission Controls
Rapid shifting
Rapid shifting
When the tractor is working in a light-load condition, for example in transport, the transmission can be shifted rapidly by bumping the shift lever.
To reach transport speeds quickly:
Depress clutch pedal and rapidly bump shift lever to 13F
Transmission will shift directly to 13F when clutch pedal is released
Transmission will skip some gears as it keeps up with the operator’s command, allowing the tractor to accelerate to transport speed quickly
Once tractor is underway in 13F, bump the shift lever to reach desired ground speed
Double shifting
The transmission can skip a gear when operating under load by double bumping the shift lever.
This aids the ease of deceleration/acceleration when approaching and departing headland turns.
Ground speed matching
When the tractor is slowing down and the clutch pedal is depressed, the transmission will match a gear to the ground speed of the tractor when the clutch is released. Ground speed matching only engages in gears 13F higher.
Setting start-up gears
The transmission defaults to 8F and 3R at start-up. However, these default start-up gears can be adjusted from 1-13F and 1-6R through the CommandCenter. Refer to the operator’s manual for additional information.
Start-up gears in advanced settings
Releasing the park brake
The e23 transmission utilizes a spring-engaged/hydraulically-disengaged park brake. The park brake control feature prevents accidental park brake engagement when tractor is moving at high speed.
On tractors equipped with air brakes, the park brake automatically activates the air brake system.
7R Series cooling package
Pull-style fan and radiator access
The 7R Series Tractors feature an increased front area (IFA) cooling system that utilizes a pull-style fan that improves cooling efficiency over an increased surface area that provides better cooling capacity and reduces fan noise during increased power levels or while under heavy loads.
Hood screen area
Engine hood with side shields
The 7R Series Tractors also have an increased screen area on the hood and redesigned side shields to help reduce debris buildup. The new cooling system provides easy, cooler cleanout and service accessibility without sacrifice to turning radius or front hitch and front power take-off (PTO) applications.
The optional Tractor-Baler Automation (TBA) makes baling easy. This exclusive system manages most of the baling process and gives the customer the following advantages:
High baling comfort a single action to bale instead of four.
Error proof baling – even after 10 working hours, the system does not forget any action; a true advantage for an inexperienced driver.
Constant bale quality – same diameter bale after bale
Constant productivity – no reduced efficiency due to operators fatigue.
When used with a John Deere ISOBUS tractor, electric selective control valve (E-SCV), and (IVT™) transmission, the system will be able to:
Stop the tractor when bale size is reached
Wrap the bale
Open the gate
Close the gate when bale is unloaded
The only action remaining is to forward reverser and manage the steering.
If the John Deere tractor is not equipped with IVT but has E-SCV and ISOBUS, opening and closing can be automated.
A single touch on SCV, brakes, or reverser will disengage the automation. In the same way, automated open/close can be momentarily stopped when unloading in hilly conditions.
Tractor-Implement Automation is an exclusive green on green advantage. This advanced technology option has won awards at SIMA and Agritechnica farm equipment show in Europe, a true cost/value guarantee.
NOTE: to run through fully automated mode, a John Deere Isobus tractor with E-SCV and IVT is required. A baler activation key and a tractor activation key (different) have to be ordered.
ISOBUS certified balers
Plug in and bale with ISOBUS
ISOBUS certified = compatibility guarantee
The 990 and 960 Balers offer ISOBUS compatibility as base equipment. This standardized communication not only allows the use of John Deere Greenstar2 1800, 2600, or 2630 Displays, but also the use of other ISOBUS conform competitive monitors.
Adapter harnesses for non-ISOBUS tractors are available.
User friendly interface
Main page with simple and clear pictograms
Bale or soft core density adjustments
The Baler interface displays information that is needed. The 900 Series monitors provide all required information:
Bale shape and diameter
Drop floor and knives position
Variable core activation
Tying process status
Gate position
Maintenance status
Adjustments can also be managed from the operators station:
Bale size and density
Variable core diameter and density
Net and twine tying parameters
Knife selection
Automated lubrication
Tractor-Baler Automation status
Bale counter resets
Greenstar™2 1800 has the ideal display for baling application
Greenstar2 1800 Display ordered with the baler
The 900 Series Balers can be teamed with all ISOBUS certified displays. The Greenstar2 1800 monitor can be ordered with the baler to match traditional baling requirements. When not baling this display can be used for other functions such as guidance and spraying applications when connected to an appropriate receiver and implement.
All ISOBUS display will fit the 900 Series
GreenStar3 2630 fits the most demanding user needs
The 960 and 990 Balers can be ordered without a monitor for customers who already have an ISOBUS display, or for those who search more advanced application (field management). Displays other than John Deere Greenstar2 1800 can be purchased through Ag Management Solutions (AMS) pages.
The 4100 and 4600 CommandCenter, also known as the Generation 4 CommandCenter, create the primary user interface for 6R, 7R, 8R/8RT, and 9R/9RT/9RX Tractors; F4365 High-Capacity Nutrient Applicator; 4 Series Self-Propelled Sprayers; and S700 Combines. The Generation 4 CommandCenter provides an excellent, user-savvy, efficient operating experience.
Display options
Generation 4 CommandCenter is available in the following configurations:
177.8-mm (7-in.) display on the 4100 CommandCenter
254-mm (10-in.) display on the 4600 CommandCenter
For growers wanting to maximize their viewing real estate, the 254-mm (10-in.) touchscreen color display is an excellent choice. With the 254-mm (10-in.) display, the title bar and all shortcut keys may be viewed at all times. Operators can monitor more information at once on the 254-mm (10-in.) touchscreen display.
John Deere 4100 CommandCenter
A. Next run page
B. Status center
C. Expand shortcut keys
D. Menu
E. Run page
John Deere 4600 CommandCenter
A. Next and previous run page
B. Status center
C. Shortcut keys
D. Menu
E. Run page
F. Title bar
John Deere Generation 4 CommandCenter processors
A Generation 4 CommandCenter is made up of a processor and a display. Two processor options are available for the Generation 4 CommandCenter.
The 4600 Processor is the premium processor, offered as an option on all 6R*, 7210R, and 7230R Tractors and is standard on 7250R, 7270R, 7290R, 7310R, 8R/8RT, 9R/9RT/9RX Tractors, F4365 Nutrient Applicator, 4 Series Self-Propelled Sprayers, and S700 Combines.
Available features with the premium processor include:
Compatible with 254-mm (10-in.) touchscreen display Four video camera inputs
Four USB inputs
AutoTrac capable (machine-specific activation sold separately)
CommandCenter Premium activation (machine-specific activation sold separately) – enables AutoTrac™ guidance system, Documentation, Section Control, and John Deere Wireless Data Transfer (WDT) (with a JDLink™ Connect subscription)
Export screenshots and troubleshooting information
*Only compatible with infinitely variable transmission (IVT™) and DirectDrive™ transmission
4600 CommandCenter 254-mm (10-in.) Display
The 4100 Processor is base equipment and only offered on 6R, 7210R, and 7230R Tractors.
It offers:
Compatibility with 177.8-mm (7-in.) touchscreen display
One video camera input
One USB input
AutoTrac capable (machine-specific activation sold separately)
4100 CommandCenter 177.8-mm (7-in.) display
Vehicles
Model year
4100 Processor
4600 Processor
John Deere large ag tractors
6R (AutoQuad™ transmission/CommandQuad™ transmission) Series
2015 and newer
Standard
Not applicable
6R (IVT transmission/DirectDrive), 7210R, 7230R Series
2015 and newer
Standard
Option
7250R, 7270R, 7290R, 7310R Series
2014 and newer
Not applicable
Standard
8R/8RT Series
Mid-2014 and newer
Not applicable
Standard
9R/9RT/9RX Series
2015 and newer
Not applicable
Standard
John Deere nutrient applicators
F4365 Nutrient Applicator
2017 and newer
Not applicable
Standard
John Deere self-propelled sprayers
4 Series Sprayers
2018 and newer
Not applicable
Standard
John Deere combines
S Series Combines
2018 and newer
Not applicable
Standard
Expect machine productivity gains, along with increased operator confidence, thanks to a simple, customizable interface. The improved design of the Generation 4 CommandCenter also aids in an optimal operating experience and maximizes uptime.
Some of the easy-to-use benefits of the Generation 4 CommandCenter include:
Custom-defined views
Intelligent warnings
Context-based help
Ability to import, export, and delete files
Producers can use a variety of implements with the Generation 4 CommandCenter as it is Agricultural Industry Electronics Foundation (AEF) ISOBUS compliant for manual control of IOSBUS implements (UT) as well as automatic section control (TC SC) and documentation in ISOXML Format (TC-Basic).
Layout manager
Layout manager selection page
Layout manager module build
The Generation 4 CommandCenter features a modular-designed layout manager, so operators can easily create the page views that meet their needs. From the factory, machines are equipped with default run pages. An unlimited number of run pages can be added to the Generation 4 CommandCenter based on operator preference or operational needs. Toggling between run pages is as easy as swiping the screen or using the arrow buttons on the top right portion of the title bar.
Users and access
Users and access allow the owner or manager to lock out certain functions to prevent operators from accessing or changing settings. Lock-out functions are managed with a defined four-digit code.
Lock-out features are available for:
Factory data reset
Hitch
Hydraulic
Transmission
Power take-off (PTO) FieldCruise™ system
Display
Machine monitor
On-screen help and diagnostic text
There are a number of different ways to get meaningful on-screen help when navigating the Generation 4 CommandCenter. Operators can find the help icon on the shortcut bar on the bottom of every page. This icon gives detailed information on everything from tractor operation to application information. Simply select the help icon and navigate to the information section that is needed.
Help icon
Help center main page
Additionally, application-based help is also available in all locations of the CommandCenter. Simply click on the {i} icon available on the title bar and it will lead directly to more information on the application currently being used.
Context-based help icon
Context-based help iTEC™ system main page
Diagnostic text and information is available for better understanding of whether applications are operating as directed.
Machine monitor
Machine monitor page
The machine monitor application provides the operator instantaneous readings about the status or condition of the machine. Values shown in the machine monitor vary by application, but typically include parameters like engine speed, coolant temperature, and ground speed. The machine monitor supports run page modules in the layout manager, allowing the operator to populate specific machine parameters directly to a run page.
NOTE: The machine monitor application replaces part of the universal performance monitor in previous machines.
Work monitor
Work monitor page
The work monitor application displays the performance information about the task being performed by the machine. The operator is shown averages, totals, and productivity of the machine, such as area worked, average working speed, and fuel usage. The values of the work monitor can be reset by the operator at any time. Specific values of the work monitor can be configured by the operator to be shown on a run page.
NOTE: The work monitor application replaces part of the Universal Performance Monitor in previous machines.
Work setup application
Work setup places the settings needed to properly setup AutoTrac, Documentation, and Section Control in a single location.
Settings include:
Client, farm, and field
Crop type
Machine and implement dimensions
Variety/hybrid and planting/ seeding rates
Variable rate prescriptions
Product and application rates
Application rates through the implement screens
Work setup can be quickly accessed from a shortcut key or the display menu, allowing operators and managers to quickly review display and machine settings to ensure a job is completed properly.
Work setup shortcut key (far left)
Work setup
Video capability
Tractors with a 4100 CommandCenter Display are equipped with one video input, and the 4600 CommandCenter Display has four video inputs. The operator has the ability to set a variety of triggers, including reverse, PTO, hitch, and selective control valve (SCV) levers to activate the camera. Once triggered, the image will then appear on the CommandCenter display. The camera (video observation system) is available through JD Parts and Ag and Industrial (A and I) Products.
NOTE: 6R Tractors equipped with a 4600 CommandCenter Display have two video inputs.
Document field boundaries
Manually drive field boundaries with the Generation 4 CommandCenter or import existing boundary information from GreenStar™ 3 (GS3) 2630 Display or John Deere Operations Center. Gen 4 documentation data can be used to create boundaries from coverage within the John Deere Operations Center.
The display uses a streamlined boundary creation process that generates exterior and interior field boundaries from coverage, simplifying the process and reducing steps. Operators can delete interior boundaries without impacting the exterior boundary or headlands. In addition, operators can chose to turn boundaries off for section control, while using them for field locator and documentation.
Headland boundaries can also quickly be generated by simply entering a distance or the number of passes from exterior boundary.
Boundary creation from coverage
Headland creation
Boundaries can be imported from the following sources:
John Deere Operations Center
Directly from a GS3 2630 Display or another Gen 4 Display
APEX™ software or another farm management information system (FMIS) system that exports in GS3 2630 Display format
Dual-display mode
Dual display
Generation 4 CommandCenter display and GreenStar displays comparison and compatibility
Generation 4 CommandCenter works in dual-display mode with GS3 2630 Display, GS2 1800 Display, and GS2 2600 Display. For complete feature comparison and dual display compatibility information, please see the display comparison chart and GS3 and AMS display compatibility chart.
Generation 4 CommandCenter may be configured to run with the following John Deere displays connected at the cornerpost:
GS2 1800 Display
GS2 2600 Display
GS3 2630 Display
4640 Universal Display
All precision activations purchased on GS2 or GS3 Display are defaulted to run on the cornerpost display while in dual-display mode. Activations cannot be shared between GS2 or GS3 Displays and the Generation 4 CommandCenter. The second display must have its own activations to run AMS applications. Remote Display Access (RDA) can be used on either GS3 2630 Display or Generation 4 CommandCenter in the same session.
Precision ag applications, such as AutoTrac assisted steering system, Documentation, and Section Control cannot run on both displays at the same time. When a cornerpost display is installed, precision ag applications will be available on the cornerpost display and default to disabled on Gen 4 CommandCenter. For full dual-display compatibility reference the Dual Display – GreenStar display and Generation 4 CommandCenter configuration table.
NOTE: SeedStar 4HP software will require the latest mid-year software update for use in dual-display mode with a 4640 Universal Display and Gen 4 CommandCenter in spring of 2018. Please refer to SeedStar 4HP software updates to provide the latest compatibility with this configuration as current software does not support. Gen 4 Extended Monitor is the recommended solution for the use of an additional screen with a 4600 CommandCenter Display.
Vehicle applications will always be located on the Gen 4 CommandCenter.
View on-screen help to properly set up the display when in dual-display mode.
On-screen help can be located on any page where this icon is locatedOn-screen help can be located on any page where this icon is located
ActiveSeat and controls
John Deere’s ActiveSeat utilizes electrohydraulic technology in combination with air suspension, providing the operator with enhanced ride quality over standard air-suspension seats.
Operator movements are monitored in order to reduce vertical movement. An ActiveSeat suspension can isolate the operator from up to 90 percent of vertical movements typically seen in tractor applications.
The system uses a hydraulic cylinder that is connected to a control valve assembly. Electrohydraulic valves located in the control valve assembly automatically react to inputs from two sensors, a position sensor and an accelerometer. Inputs from these two sensors control oil flow from the tractor to the hydraulic cylinder to reduce the vertical movement of the operator.
ActiveSeat left armrest
The John Deere ActiveSeat has many of the same features of the ComfortCommand™ seat with the addition of a ride firmness switch. The ride firmness switch is located on the left-hand armrest and replaces the suspension shock-dampening seat attenuation lever on the front right-hand side of the ComfortCommand seat controls.
The ride firmness switch has three positions: plus, minus, and mid position. The three positions provide three different levels of seat performance:
The plus position provides the greatest degree of ride firmness. This position allows more of the tractor’s inputs to be felt by the operator (slightly rougher ride).
The minus position provides the least degree of ride firmness, allowing minimal tractor inputs to reach the operator, resulting in maximum seat performance.
The mid position allows a balance between the plus (+) and minus (-) settings.
The ActiveSeat is also available as a heated leather seat for increased comfort and easier cleaning. For tractor applications where operating speed is not limited by the implement, the ActiveSeat can allow for faster field speeds and increased overall comfort and productivity.
NOTE: The John Deere ActiveSeat is not available on track tractors.
Option code
Description
2061
Premium CommandView III Cab with Active Seat
7R Series Tractor with front hitch
The 7R Series Tractors offer two front hitch options to best fit a variety of applications.
Standard (non-ground-engaging) hitch option for applications including, but not limited to:
Front-mounted mowers, toppers, and snow blowers
Carrying front seed hoppers and plow packers
Carrying front ballast
Operating light-draft implements
Premium (ground-engaging) hitch option for applications including, but not limited to:
Operating primary tillage equipment and standard blades
Premium hitches include a push bar and heavier lift arms:
Hitches with zero front auxiliary valves include one mid-mount valve.
Hitches with one front auxiliary valve include two mid-mount valves.
Hitches with two front auxiliary valves include three mid-mount valves.
To ensure adequate hydraulic availability, up to two selective control valves (SCVs) can be included with a front hitch.
Joystick control
Paddle pot SCV
Tractors equipped with a factory front hitch have the option of selecting a joystick control or paddle pot SCV controls. The joystick control is not compatible with the sixth rear electrohydraulic SCV because of the CommandARM™ controls space required for the front hitch joystick.
Features of John Deere factory-installed front hitches include:
Standard
Premium
Lift capacity at ball ends (ISO)
5200 kg (11,464 lb)
5200 kg (11,464 lb)
Lift range
750 mm (29.5 in.)
750 mm (29.5 in.)
Overhang when folded
55 mm (2.2 in.)
55 mm (2.2 in.)
Approach angle (depending on tire and axle setup)
25.5 – 38.7 degrees
25.5 – 38.7 degrees
Reinforcing push bar
Field-installed option
Standard
Auxiliary valve with front couplers
Optional
Standard
(optional second valve)
Category 3N hitch
Standard
Standard
7-pin connector – for implement lights
Standard
Standard
9-pin harness and connector (ISO)
Field-installed option
Field-installed option
Front-mounted remote switch
Standard
Standard
Hitch damping
Triple-Link Suspension (TLS™) axle, same effect
TLS axle, same effect
Hydraulic mode select
Single and dual
Single and dual
Electronic position control
Yes
Yes
Full ground clearance
Yes
Yes*
iTEC™ compatible
Yes
Yes
Power take-off (PTO) compatible
Yes
Yes
Installed weight (with push bar)**
—
455 kg (1003 lb)
Installed weight (no push bar)**
345 kg (760 lb)
—
*Hitches with a push bar maintain front axle to ground clearance for row-crop applications and can be used with ground-engaging implements, including primary tillage implements and standard blades.
**Equals weight of added hitch components.
The integrated and styled compact hitch design maintains full maneuverability even with the larger front tires. The hitch extends only 55-mm (2.2-in.) ahead of the front support when the arms are folded.
Standard (carrier version) hitches can be converted to a premium (ground-engaging) hitch by ordering and field installing a conversion kit that includes push bar and heavier lift arms.
All factory-installed front hitches are capable of single- and dual-acting hydraulic cylinder modes. This allows the operator the flexibility to choose the correct mode for a variety of front hitch applications. Single acting provides hydraulic force for retracting the front hitch cylinders and allows front implements to follow the contour of the ground or surface. For example, this would be the correct mode for a front-mounted snow blower. Dual acting provides hydraulic force in retracting and extending the front hitch cylinders to provide down force for ground-engaging implements.
Additional hitch features include:
Integrated and protected routing of oil lines
Category 3 top link with storage position
Integrated towing clevis with pin
Compatible with group 42 – 44 front tires
7R position sensing
The 7R with front hitch comes equipped with position sensing that allows operators the ability to establish an upper height limit set point and lower limit set point through CommandCenter™ display. Position sensing maintains the height of the hitch arms based on the set points.
Position sensing provides the following benefits:
Add to iTEC™ display sequence (raise/lower set points)
Limit height for front-PTO implement (stay within desirable driveline angles)
Set lower position for ground-engaging depth or blade position
Maintain set height without added fixed link (position will auto correct)
Prevent inadvertent hitch operation outside of desired range of motion (takes guesswork out of placing height of front implement)
Less fatiguing for repetitive-type work where the same position is required over and over
For a 9-pin connector, order kit RE322555. The kit includes all necessary components and allows ISO implement communication.
NOTE: 7R Series Tractors with a factory-installed front hitch do not ship with a front weight support.
Front hitch – Field-installed options:
For more information on ordering a front hitch ready configuration, refer to Attachments, front hitch/power take-off (PTO) ready
For tractors ordered non-hitch or non-hitch ready please contact LaForge® company for front hitch options.
Laforge Systems Inc.
4425-C Treat Blvd. #230
Concord, California 94521
Phone: (925) 827-2010 or 1-800-422-5636
Web site: www.fronthitch.com
LaForge is a trademark of Laforge Corporation.
Front hitch options:
Standard front hitch with zero front couplers, 5200-kg (11,450-lb) maximum lift capacity at hitch balls
NOTE: 3150-kg (6944-lb) International Organization for Standardization (ISO) lift capacity.
Less push bar (hitch raise/lower hard plumbed to mid-mount valve)
Includes zero front auxiliary couplers.
ISOBUS connector available through Parts. Standard front hitch with one front auxiliary coupler, 5200-kg (11,450-lb) maximum lift capacity at hitch balls
NOTE: 3150-kg (6944-lb-) ISO lift capacity.
Less push bar (hitch raise/lower hard plumbed to mid-mount valve)
Includes one front auxiliary couplers.
ISOBUS connector available through Parts. Premium front hitch with one front auxiliary coupler, 5200-kg (11,450-lb) maximum lift capacity at hitch balls
NOTE: 3150-kg (6944-lb) ISO lift capacity.
Includes push bar (hitch raise/lower hard plumbed to mid-mount valve)
Includes one front auxiliary couplers.
ISOBUS connector available through Parts. Standard front hitch with two front auxiliary couplers, 5200-kg (11,450-lb) maximum lift capacity at hitch balls
NOTE: 3150-kg (6944-lb) ISO lift capacity.
Less push bar (hitch raise/lower hard plumbed to mid-mount valve)
Includes two front auxiliary couplers.
ISOBUS connector available through Parts. Premium front hitch with two front auxiliary coupler, 5200-kg (11,450-lb) maximum lift capacity at hitch balls
NOTE: 3150-kg (6944-lb) ISO lift capacity.
Includes push bar (hitch raise/lower hard plumbed to mid-mount valve).
Includes two front auxiliary couplers.
ISOBUS connector available through Parts. CommandARM™ paddle pot SCV controls
NOTE: Not compatible with joystick control.
Provides proportional paddle pot SCV control for mid-mount valve(s). Joystick control
NOTE: Does not include mid-mount valve or loader-ready components.
ISOBUS compatible.
Not compatible with six rear SCVs.
Not compatible with CommandARM SCV controls.
Premium lights
The 7R, 8R, and 8RT Series Tractors feature two lighting package options:
Standard
Premium
The cab lighting pattern provides 330 degrees of coverage while the hood lighting provides the remaining 30 degrees for completely programmable 360-degree, stadium-style lighting. This ensures there are no dead zones or lighting adjustments needed. The lighting configurations are available to match various applications and ensure maximum around-the-clock productivity.
Bulb housings are large, allowing for optimum total lumens and available light. The standard lighting packages use 65-W halogen bulbs, whereas the premium lighting package uses light-emitting diode (LED) lights. In the premium lighting package, these tractors take advantage of the high-performing and efficient LED technology.
The low- and high-beam driving/work lights are adjustable. Please refer to the electrical section in the operator’s manual for complete details on adjusting lights.
7R/8R/8RT lighting
Yellow circles
All lighting packages: 65-W halogen: road low beam
Red circles
Standard: 65-W halogen
Premium: LED
Blue circles
Standard: 65-W halogen; field and road high beams
Premium: LED
Orange circles
Standard: blank
Premium: LED
Adjustable high-beam driving light/work light
License plate bracket with light
Rotary beacon
Fixed halogen light
Adjustable low- beam driving light/work light
Fixed amber light
Adjustable halogen light
Adjustable mid-body halogen light
Fixed high-intensity discharge (HID) light
Adjustable HID light
Mid-body hazard, turn, and width indicating light
Amber turn and brake light
Standard lighting
Standard lighting (8R)
Standard lighting (7R)
Six front grill-mounted lights:
Two 65-W low-beam driving/work lights (mid grill screen)
Two 65-W high-beam driving/work lights (top of grill screen, hood mounted)
Two front corner-facing halogen work lights (top of grill screen, hood mounted)
10 cab roof-mounted lights:
Two rear-facing 65-W floodlights
Four side-facing 65-W floodlights
Four corner-facing amber lights
Other lights:
Two rear fender-mounted floodlights
Two rear turn signal and brake/tail lights (fender mounted)
Two folding-extremity lights
Plus these lights:
Two adjustable front roof 65-W halogen floodlights
Two front belt-line floodlights
Rotary beacon light
Premium lighting
Eight front grill-mounted lights:
Two 65-W low-beam halogen driving/work lights (mid grill screen)
Two LED high-beam driving/work lights (top of grill screen, hood mounted)
Two front corner-facing LED work lights (top of grill screen, hood mounted)
Two front-facing LED working lights (top of grill screen, hood mounted, inner position on the sides)
12 cab roof-mounted lights:
Four side-facing LED lights
Four corner-facing amber lights
Two rear-facing LED lights
Two adjustable front roof LED lights
Other lights:
Two rear fender-mounted LED lights
Two rear turn signal and brake lights (fender mounted)
Two folding-extremity lights
Two front belt-line LED floodlights
Rotary beacon light
The premium lighting package replaces all previous halogen and HID lights with LED lights. The only lights that are not LED are the low-beam driving lights, they remain halogen. This allows each LED light to work at a lower temperature and no one light works harder than any other. The uniformity in LED coverage allows only one type of light output surrounding the tractor.
The lighting pattern in the premium package provides industry-leading performance in nighttime visibility. LED bulbs provide maximum brightness and a true color output for excellent field definition that is easy on the operator’s eyes.
The LED lights provide 40 percent greater coverage width and 10 percent more light coverage in the rear. LED lighting packages use 45 percent less amps than standard halogen lights and have an increased life expectancy over HID lights which leads to lower costs of ownership over the life of the tractor.
NOTE: Lighting packages may vary depending on region.
Selecting a lighting mode/programmable lighting
Lighting mode selector
Operators can quickly select a lighting mode on the steering console:
Lights, off position
Road lights
Field lights
The CommandCenter™ display
The CommandCenter display allows operators to customize light settings. Operators can select only the lights they need or want for a given application and store these settings. The operator-programmed configurations can then be turned on or off with the push of a button on the CommandARM™ controls.
Programmable field lights 1
Programmable field lights 2
Beacon light
Emergency flashers
NOTE: Road/loader lights are also referred to as high-mounted driving lights for use in front hitch applications that obscure the headlights. See the Attachments section.
The battery power saver feature is also standard. When the engine is off and the outside lights have been left on, this feature is designed to avoid battery run down.
After the lights have been left on for 30 minutes and the key is in the off position, the lights cycle or blink on and off five times as an alert. The lights continue to illuminate for one more minute and then automatically shut off to protect the battery.
Programmable exit lighting
Another feature is programmable exit lighting. Exit lighting allows the lights outside the cab to stay on for up to 300 seconds. They can be programmed in increments from 0 to 300 seconds.
Refer to the operator’s manual for complete instructions on programming field, driving, and exit lighting.
Field-installed options
Field-installed options are also available. To find this information, use the Build Your own Configurator application for US/Canada or Build & Price in John Deere Sales Centre for Australia/NZ.
Option code
Description
7201
Standard lighting
7206
Premium lighting
The steering system uses load sensing of hydraulic pressure required to efficiently complete the designated tasks. The pressure- and flow- compensating pump produces excellent stationary or creeping ground speed steering response to handle demanding applications.
ActiveCommand Steering (ACS™)
7R in transport
With ACS, John Deere has designed one of the most robust and full-encompassing steering system in the industry. Whether in the field or on the road, ACS reduces steering effort, which can result in reduced operator fatigue and can improve operator comfort.
There are four key features of the ACS system:
Dynamic road wheel offset
A gyroscope senses tractor yaw and can automatically make small steering adjustments to provide unprecedented line-holding abilities. Drive down a bumpy road and experience how ACS makes it easier to keep the tractor straight, even over rough terrain. ACS delivers the ultimate in comfort.
ACS works to prevent oversteering when a sudden obstacle causes the operator to make a quick steering reaction.
Variable ratio steering
Approximately 3.5 turns lock to lock at in-field speeds for quick headland turns.
Approximately 5 turns lock to lock at transport speeds.
Elimination of steering slop and hand wheel drift
Steering wheel drift and slop are eliminated with the ACS electronic control system.
Variable effort steering
Steering wheel resistance automatically changes with ground speed to deliver light steering effort at slower speeds for less effort during headland turns, and higher steering wheel torque at transport speeds for better operator comfort.
A fail operational system
The ACS system is fail operational, which means steering is still functional in the event of any single-point failure. John Deere has gone to great lengths to help ensure the operator can steer the tractor if something goes wrong in the steering system.
For example, if the primary controller fails, a second controller takes over. If power from the alternator is lost, the battery resumes control. If the engine quits running and is unable to supply hydraulic oil to the system, an electric-driven backup pump is used to supply the oil.
ACS components
The ACS system consists of several key components:
Gyroscope: this is used to measure the yaw rate (turn rate) of the tractor during transport speeds.
Road-wheel angle sensors: these sensors simply measure the steer angle of the tractor.
Power supply module: this module distributes the power of the battery and alternator throughout the ACS system.
Hand-wheel angle sensors and tactile feedback unit: this includes the steering wheel position sensors and a brake, which can increase or decrease resistance dependent on speed. Lighter feedback is desired during normal field use, and slightly heavier feedback is desired during transport and while the tractor is cornering at high speeds.
Controllers: two controllers are located in the back of the tractor and are the brains of the system.
Control valves: also known as steering valves, control valves are used to steer the tractor.
Electric-drive backup pump: this pump supplies oil to the steering system, brakes, and park brakes (for towing) if there is no longer a sufficient oil supply to the steering and brakes.
Option code
Description
1833
John Deere ActiveCommand Steering (ACS)
Value of ACS
Improves line holding when driving at transport speeds
Fewer turns lock-to-lock: 3.5 turns lock-to-lock in the field for quicker headland turns and 5 turns lock-to-lock at transport speeds
Eliminates hand-wheel backlash and drift
Reduces steering effort, resulting in reduced operator fatigue
Smaller hand-wheel diameter for improved operator comfort and visibility
Maintains operator feel and touch points of traditional steering column system
Fully integrates with AutoTrac™ guidance system
Compatible with suspended and non-suspended front axles
Compatible with wide- and narrow-section width tires
7R with TLS Plus
The optional TLS Plus is a fully integrated, self-leveling front suspension system available on 7R Series Tractors equipped with the 1300 mechanical front-wheel drive (MFWD) axle. TLS Plus provides exclusive front suspension using a hydro-pneumatic self-leveling system to increase productivity and improve ride dramatically. TLS Plus provides more control over the front suspension of the tractor.
CommandCenter screen
In the Generation 4 CommandCenter™, the operator is able to select maximum pressure to accommodate for the transfer of heavy loads with minimal front axle movement.
TLS Plus increases both transport and field productivity with superior stability, ride, and comfort. Loader operators appreciate the enhanced performance when transporting bales or a full bucket of silage. In the field, the TLS Plus front suspension maintains ground-to-tire contact, enabling more power to the ground.
The TLS Plus front axle is available with or without wet-disc front brakes. While TLS Plus is available on all 7R Series Large-Frame Tractors, it is a requirement for the following:
Two double-acting-control cylinders act independently or together to dampen shock loads, while supplying a constant down force on the axle for better traction. In addition to the cylinders, a pan-hard rod limits lateral motion while an electronic sensor signals a priority valve to automatically move the control cylinders as needed.
The cast driveline draft member controls fore-aft suspension of the axle. This heavy-duty conical casting encloses the entire driveline and transfers longitudinal forces to the tractor’s center of gravity.
1300 axle with TLS Plus
1300 axle cutaway with TLS Plus
Operating characteristics:
TLS Plus self-levels at engine start-up with the implement attached and the hitch in the raised or lowered position.
TLS Plus self-levels whenever the tractor speed exceeds 0.9 mph (1.5 km/h). Differential lock
CommandARM™ controls with automatic differential lock engaged
CommandARM controls with manual differential lock engaged
The differential lock is another feature of the 1300 Series MFWD axle with Triple-Link Suspension (TLS) PLUS, driveline shield, hydraulic on/off differential lock, and wet-disk front brakes. When the rear differential lock is engaged or disengaged, the front differential lock is also engaged or disengaged. This also includes a driveline shield.
If one wheel begins to slip, the differential lock can be engaged on the go and the axles are hydraulically locked together for maximum traction. There are two ways to engage the differential lock feature.
Manual differential lock – differential lock can be engaged manually using a switch on the floor or by manual depressing button on CommandARM. When brakes are depressed, the differential lock will disengage
Automatic Differential lock – when in auto mode, differential lock is engaged when the tractor is driving forward. Differential lock will disengage when front wheel turn angle meets disengage wheel angle setting defined by the operator via the CommandCenter or when either brake pedal is depressed. Differential lock will automatically engage when brakes are released or front wheels are turned straight.
Automatic differential lock angle adjustment
CommandView III cab
The Standard CommandView III cab offers unsurpassed visibility, operator comfort, control placement, and ride and sound quality.
Features:
ComfortCommand™ seat with air suspension, lumbar support, swivel, fore-aft and lateral attenuation, backrest angle adjustment, adjustable left-hand armrest, and 40-degree right-hand seat swivel
Operator presence system that warns if the operator is out of the seat while operating key functions
Folding instructional seat
CommandARM™ console with integrated controls
4100 or 4600 Generation 4 CommandCenter™display
Behind-the-seat storage
Left-hand storage compartment
Passive noise reduction system
Service ADVISOR™ data port
Tilt/telescoping steering wheel with position memory
Swing-out rear window, opens 30 degrees
Right- and left-outside mirrors (manually adjustable mirror head)
Monitor mounts on right-hand front post and rear cab post
Standard radio package, including AM/FM stereo and weatherband with remote controls, auxiliary input jack, four speakers, and an external antenna
Laminated glass
Air conditioner and heater with automatic temperature controls (ATC)
Two 12-V convenience outlet (cigarette lighter style)
One 12-V 3-pin outlet with adapter (provides switched and unswitched power)
One International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 9-pin connector
Power strip with convenience plug adapter
Hitch control lever lock and selective control lever lock
Two-speed and intermittent front and rear wiper with washer
Front pull-down sunshade
Digital cornerpost display with:
Fuel level gauge, including low fuel warning
Temperature gauge
Diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) gauge, including low DEF warning
Engine rpm
Transmission commanded gear or speed
Vehicle system functions, such as iTEC™ system, that are operating
Inside-mounted rearview mirror
Beverage holders sized to accommodate various containers
Interior left-hand dome light
ComfortCommand seat
ComfortCommand seat improves ride quality and helps to reduce operator fatigue.
Features include:
Armrests, lumbar support, and backrest angle are easily adjusted to match operator preference.
Shock absorbers dampen the motion effect of the tractor for an improved ride.
Seat height adjustments are conveniently located on the left armrest.
Fore-aft adjustment is easy to reach located on the left front of the seat.
Swivel adjustment, located on the front of the seat, allows the seat to be swiveled 40 degrees to the right or eight degrees to the left of the center position.
Operator presence switch warns if the operator is out of the seat while operating key functions.
Seat belt retractor.
Centered cab seat, providing excellent over-shoulder visibility.
Adjustable shock absorber permitting ride adjustment from soft to firm to match the operator’s desired comfort level.
Removable cushions for easy cleaning. CommandARM
CommandARM controls
John Deere 7R and 8R Series Tractors feature the CommandARM with integrated Generation 4 CommandCenter display. The control layout of the CommandARM utilizes a clean and efficient design which groups controls by function and builds upon John Deere’s history of intuitive and ergonomic control placement and operation. The design of the CommandARM allows for a 40 degree right seat swivel and adjustable positioning matching the operator’s preference.
Controls located on the CommandARM include:
Engine throttle
FieldCruise™ system
Minimum engine speed – CommandQuad™ transmission, 16-speed PowerShift™ transmission (PST), e23™ transmission
Eco mode – Infinitely Variable Transmission (IVT™)
Foot pedal lock (if equipped)
Transmission control
Hitch/selective control valve (SCV) controls
Rotary encoder hitch control
Power take-off (PTO) controls
Mechanical front-wheel drive (MFWD) on/automatic
Differential lock on/automatic
iTEC sequence switches
AutoTrac™ assisted steering system resume switch (if equipped)
Joystick (if equipped)
Radio
Beacon light on/off
Hazard lights on/off
Field lights 1/2
Heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) system
Transmission controls
John Deere 7R Series Tractors with CommandQuad transmissions feature a left-hand reverser. 8R Series Tractors equipped with 16-speed PST are equipped with right-hand reverser. 7R Series Tractors equipped with e23 PST offer a left- or right-hand reverser. 7R or 8R Series Tractors equipped with AutoPowr™/IVT transmissions are offered with either a left-hand or a right-hand reverser.
The transmission control lever is placed on the left side of the CommandARM closest to the operator for convenient setting and adjustment.
Left-hand CommandQuad/e23 reverser
Right-hand IVT and PST reverser
16-speed PST right-hand reverser
Hydraulic and hitch controls
Hydraulic and hitch controls utilize fingertip paddle pots for raise/lower and extend/retract functions. An optional crossgate joystick replaces fingertip paddle pots for control of SCVs and allows for programmable hydraulic functionality according to operator preference. Rear hitch position can also be controlled with the encoder wheel located on the right side of the CommandARM. The encoder wheel allows for finite positioning of the rear 3-point hitch.
Three buttons near the encoder are for hitch set, lock, and return to height. Adjustment knobs for the 3-point hitch are located under the cover for the CommandARM control’s storage compartment and allow for adjustment of the rate of drop, hitch height limit, and depth control.
Fingertip paddle pots
Encoder wheel
Hitch controls
Optional crossgate joystick
Throttle
The throttle design incorporates buttons which control FieldCruise speed, foot pedal mode (if equipped), and transmission eco settings.
Throttle
Foot throttle
Tractor function controls
Located just to the right of the throttle is the AutoTrac activation button and four sequence controls for iTEC functions. Behind the iTEC sequence controls, there are buttons which control the activation and deactivation of MFWD and differential lock. Differential lock can also be activated by the foot switch on the cab floor.
AutoTrac resume and iTEC strip
Controls for radio, lights, rotary beacon (if equipped), hazard flashers, and HVAC system are located to the center-right on the CommandARM, along with PTO for both front (if equipped) and rear PTO.
Radio, HVAC, hazard flashers, and PTO controls
Seat swivel
The design of the CommandARM allows for up to 40 degrees of right-hand seat swivel.
Seat swivel
CommandCenter
Generation 4 CommandCenter
The Generation 4 CommandCenter features fast adjustment of tractor functions and controls and are integrated into the CommandARM to create a seamless control center. The 4100 CommandCenter features a 178-mm (7-in.) touchscreen display and is standard equipment on 7210R and 7230R models, while the 4600 CommandCenter features a 154-mm (10-in.) touchscreen and is standard equipment on 7250R – 7310R models, as well as all 8R and 8RT models.
The following functions can be adjusted using the CommandCenter display:
Hydraulic settings
Hitch settings
Transmission settings
FieldCruise
iTEC programming functions
Radio
Lights
100 Years of Tractors sunscreen
To celebrate 100 years of John Deere tractors, all Waterloo-built tractors will feature the 100 Years of Tractors rear window sunscreen featuring “100 Years of Tractors, John Deere, Waterloo Since 1918” text.
This unique sunscreen will be standard equipment on all Waterloo-built tractors for model year 2018.
100 Years of Tractors rear window sunscreen
Exterior cab lighting
Halogen lighting is used to give the operator excellent visibility when operating at nighttime or low-visibility conditions.
Automotive-type lamps use replaceable bulbs for easy service.
Six headlights are mounted on the cab to illuminate the cutting area in front of the platform.
When transporting in road range, the running lights and flashing hazard lights come on automatically.
Rear-mounted lights
Two rear-facing lights mounted in the assembly are included as base equipment.
HID lighting location (combine shown)
An optional Field Vision™ high-intensity discharge (HID) lighting package is available to meet operator requests for additional lighting. The lights are installed on the front of the cab roof replacing two of the halogen lights. See 70 Series Combine lighting and service lights for more information on light package.
Additional light option
Four optional lights are available to provide additional lighting to the sides and rear of the windrower. These lights mount on the upper rear corners of the cab.
Adjusting chain drive
The adjustments are fewer and easier on the 600 Series Platforms.
Platform adjustments are made from standing on the ground, using one 24-mm (15/16-in.) wrench. All adjustments are made from the left-hand side, with the exception of the reel pitch and platform auger position on the right-hand side.
Connect the electrical, hydraulics, and lock pins
A single-point connection located on the platform and combine allows easy hookup from the ground without the use of tools, saving time when moving from field to field and when changing header types.
One easy motion of the lever connects the electrical circuits, hydraulic circuits, and header retaining pins.
Ground contacting sensor arms
The updated mechanical header height sensing system for 600R Platforms is a major improvement to rigid platform operation. This system maintains a consistent cut height from 100 mm to 355 mm (4 in. to 14 in.).
Sensing is done close to the cutterbar.
Poly skid shoe pads are replaceable and prevent sparking in dry conditions.
Header height sensor arms can be easily locked out. Rugged construction allows turning while on the ground and backing up.
Epicyclic knife-drive gearbox
Heavy-duty epicyclic knife-drive gearbox provides an enhanced knife-drive system that increases drive capacity with less vibration and improved reliability.
89-mm (3.5-in.) knife stroke adds a more efficient cutting action. The increased stroke improves the cutterbar’s ability to cut even in adverse conditions, such as large-stemmed crops or weeds, without plugging.
Knife speed is 520 rpm on both rigid and flexible platforms.
In-line vs. wobble-geometry knife head oscillates in a straight line and not through a radius like the previous knife drive, increasing the knife head’s reliability.
Knife head and gearbox attachment is improved. Two capscrews can be easily removed if any service to the knife is required.
The 600FD Series HydraFlex Draper Platform features HydraFlex, an industry-exclusive hydraulic float system allowing for superior ground following capabilities over a wide range of crops and conditions.
Feature benefit:
The HydraFlex system hydraulically controls the float of the cutterbar by the turn of a knob in the cab for ease of operation
Provides exceptional cutterbar flexibility throughout the entire working pressure range for increased machine performance
Unique cutterbar float arms offer a dual purpose allowing for superior ground-following capabilities, plus support to the cutterbar and draper belts for increased productivity
Hydraulic cylinder in the float arm
Float arm on 600FD
Functionality
From the cab, the operator can simply adjust the armrest encoder knob which varies the hydraulic pressure in the float arm hydraulic cylinders. This controls the cutterbar ground pressure depending upon conditions.
With the HydraFlex float system, the operator varies the cutterbar ground pressure but does not affect the cutting height of the crop, even at high ground speeds. The hydraulic float system features a 19-cm (7.5-in.) float range, allowing for optimum float pressure. To lock out the HydraFlex draper into rigid mode, the operator increases the float pressure to maximum.
John Deere Machine Sync adds unprecedented automation to combine harvesting. This automation, coupled with harvesting logistics information, has revolutionized the harvesting experience.
The adoption of on-the-go unloading during harvest continues to increase as combines spend more time with the unloading auger on while harvesting record-setting yields. By offering a new level of automation, John Deere Machine Sync minimizes operator stress and maximizes the benefits of on-the-go unloading.
John Deere Machine Sync facilitates on-the-go unloading by synchronizing tractor speed and direction of travel with the combine. This provides greater ease of operation with improved efficiency, resulting in higher productivity during harvest.
Productivity gains are credited to tractor/grain cart operator’s ability to be in the right place at the right time with in-field logistics information.
The automation and logistics information provided by Machine Sync is made possible with the John Deere Machine Communication Radio.
The John Deere Machine Communication Radio creates a network between the fleet of tractors and combines, allowing automation between the combine and tractor. The network can be any combination of tractors and combines up to 10 machines. The GreenStar™ 3 2630 Display shows in field logistics including grain tank fill status, direction of travel, and location for each combine and tractor in the networked fleet.
John Deere Machine Sync is designed to:
Maximize benefits with on-the-go unloading
Increase efficiency with logistics information
Be easily set up with six steps
Enhance machine optimization
Provide additional options available with Shared Signal and StarFire™ 3000 Receiver
Dual knife drive
Dual knife drive is standard on 600FD HydraFlex™ Draper Platform for harvesting rice, tough crop, and wet or green crop conditions. This unique dual knife drive system is timed, creating the smoothest possible reciprocating knife drive system currently in the industry.
Positive, reliable, power take-off (PTO) shaft and driven, dual epicyclical in-line knife drives with built-in driveline protection provides producers with the strongest knife drive system in the industry.
NOTE: Single-knife drive is available on the 630FD, but increased cutterbar vibration may occur.
The speed of the side draper belts can be controlled by an adjustment on the CommandARM™ controls from within the cab. Combine software gives operators the option to slow down the side belts to a fixed speed with a push of a button on the CommandARM. Additionally, a draper belt protection system is integrated into the 600FD HydraFlex™ Draper Platform family to minimize side belt damage should slippage occur.
Feature benefit:
Optimal performance in varying crops and conditions through side draper belt speed that ranges from 22.6 m to 228 m (74 ft to 748 ft) per minute and shows on the display in the cab
The center draper belt speed is fixed at 211 m (692 ft) per minute for optimal feeding to the combine feederhouse
Speed sensors monitor the speed of the idler rollers and should major slippage be experienced, the belts will shut off and an operator warning is shown on the CommandCenter™ display
Side belt speed reduction is designed to improve draper performance when the operator is not harvesting the full platform width or when coming out of a headland
Increased uptime as the side belt speed reduction feature is engaged/disengaged from the CommandARM controls
CommandARM controls for S700-Series Combines
0.64-cm (16-in.) feed drum
The 41-cm (16-in.) feed drum improves the crop handoff from the draper belts, resulting in increased material handling and productivity of the 600FD HydraFlex™ Draper Platform.
Feed drum retractable auger finger
A feature for 600FD Draper Platforms is a feed drum retractable auger finger to improve crop feeding at the corners of the feed drum. In some crop conditions, the crop can hesitate at the corners of the feed drum, and the retractable drum fingers keep the crop moving into the combine. This results in smoother feeding and better performance of the combine.
The HydraFlex system hydraulically controls the float of the cutterbar by a simple turn of a knob in the cab. This provides exceptional cutterbar flexibility throughout the entire working pressure range. Higher ground speeds can be accomplished with HydraFlex, compared to the conventional float systems.
Feature benefit:
Float arms, with hydraulic cylinders at every other channel, have replaced the mechanical linkage. These cylinders provide the cutterbar with the ability to float over uneven ground conditions with improved operator control.
The platform HydraFlex system with an accumulator maintains a constant ground pressure over changing ground conditions. Manual mode is for locking out the cutterbar in the rigid mode.
Float arms
Hydraulic cylinders at every channel
Functionality
In automatic mode, the operator sets a desired cutterbar ground pressure, and the system will maintain this setting. If a different set point is desired, the operator adjusts the encoder on the armrest board, and an updated cutterbar float pressure reading will be shown on the cornerpost display. For increased ground following in uneven terrain, decrease cutterbar pressure to make the cutterbar heavy to the ground. If soil pushing occurs, increase the cutterbar pressure to make the cutterbar lighter to the ground.
The heavy-duty epicyclic knife drive gearbox provides an enhanced knife-drive system that increases drive capacity with less vibration and improved reliability.
Feature benefit:
Provides high level of reliability and durability
Minimizes vibration
Fast, efficient cutting action for higher harvesting speeds
Epicyclic knife-drive gearbox
Functionality:
89-mm (3.5-in.) knife stroke adds a more efficient cutting action. The increased stroke improves the cutterbar’s ability to cut even in adverse conditions, such as large-stemmed crops or weeds, without plugging.
Knife speed is 520 rpm.
Reliability is improved with in-line versus wobble-geometry knife head, which oscillates in a straight line and not through a radius like the previous knife drive.
Knife head and gearbox attachment are improved. Two cap screws can be easily removed if any service to the knife is required.
Enhanced single-point latching system
John Deere’s single-point header latching system provides combine operators a fast and easy method for connecting all front-end equipment. One easy motion of the lever connects the electrical and hydraulic circuits along with header retaining pins.
Feature benefit:
Reduces the time required to change over headers, so there is more time available for harvesting.
No tools required to remove headers for transport or storage.
Functionality:
The enhanced single-point latching system, starting in model year 2016, will include a valve assembly mounted to all platform and corn head back sheets. These assemblies will include an orifice valve unique to the header type as well as a pressure override valve. Together, these ensure optimum performance and reliability of header hydraulic functions.
Compatibility for prior headers or combines to model year 2016 equipment is provided by attachments specific to the header and combine being used.
The 630D, 635D, and the 640D Draper models can be equipped with an integral, slow-speed transport system.
Customer Value:
Dual-front dolly wheel tires with an extendable tongue and two-gauge wheel tires carry the complete weight of the draper when in transport, eliminating the need for a header trailer
One person can convert the draper from field to transport mode in a few minutes without the use of tools, expediting road transport
600D integral transport system
600D integral transport system pulled by tractor
Theory of Operation:
Step 1-lock left-hand gauge wheels in place
Step 2-lock right-hand gauge and transport wheels
Step 3-position transport warning lights
Step 4-install transport tongue
In field mode, the dual wheels become the left- and right-hand gauge wheels. For transport, the left-hand dual-dolly wheels support one side of the draper frame and the right-hand dual wheels are repositioned to support the right-hand end of the frame.
The transport package includes warning lights, which can be plugged into a seven-way power source for road transport with a 32.2-km/h (20-mph) speed limit for farm equipment transport.
NOTE: The 630D, 635D, and the 640D Drapers are equipped with two 20.5 x 8.0 12-ply equivalent gauge wheel tires as base equipment and four 20.5 x 8.0 12-ply equivalent gauge wheels with the low-speed transport option.
Reel resume and reverse are features on the 600D Drapers. The combine operator can store two different reel positions with one setting for normal conditions and another for down, tangled, short, leaning crops.
Customer Value:
Added time savings and convenience with saved reel positions, lowering operator fatigue
Reel-reverse feature reverses the reel in conjunction with the center feed drum and belt to back out plugs and increase harvest efficiency
Draper drum
Draper reel
Cutterbar epicyclical gearcase
Knife drive shaft
The unique dual-knife-drive system is timed, creating the smoothest-possible reciprocating knife-drive system currently in the industry. The positive, reliable shaft-driven dual epicyclical in-line knife drives with built-in driveline protection provide operators with the strongest knife-drive system.
John Deere Machine Sync adds unprecedented automation to combine harvesting. This automation, coupled with harvesting logistics information, has revolutionized the harvesting experience.
The adoption of on-the-go unloading during harvest continues to increase as combines spend more time with the unloading auger on while harvesting record-setting yields. By offering a new level of automation, John Deere Machine Sync minimizes operator stress and maximizes the benefits of on-the-go unloading.
John Deere Machine Sync facilitates on-the-go unloading by synchronizing tractor speed and direction of travel with the combine. This provides greater ease of operation with improved efficiency, resulting in higher productivity during harvest.
Productivity gains are credited to tractor/grain cart operator’s ability to be in the right place at the right time with in-field logistics information.
The automation and logistics information provided by Machine Sync is made possible with the John Deere Machine Communication Radio.
The John Deere Machine Communication Radio creates a network between the fleet of tractors and combines, allowing automation between the combine and tractor. The network can be any combination of tractors and combines up to 10 machines. The GreenStar™ 3 2630 Display shows in field logistics including grain tank fill status, direction of travel, and location for each combine and tractor in the networked fleet.
John Deere Machine Sync is designed to:
Maximize benefits with on-the-go unloading
Increase efficiency with logistics information
Be easily set up with six steps
Enhance machine optimization
Provide additional options available with Shared Signal and StarFire™ 3000 Receiver
Transport system
Although an integrated transport is not available for the 625D Draper, there is still a solution to move the 625D from field to field quickly. This solution is the HT12 Header Transport from Frontier™ products.
All John Deere 600D Drapers include a double-cut knife which features a hydraulic tilt that is controlled from inside the cab. All 10.6-m (35-ft) and 12.1-m (40-ft) draper cutterbars also have knifeback reinforcement straps to strengthen the knifeback.
Customer Value:
Longer stroke of knife section provides a faster, cleaner, and smoother cut which allows operators to harvest at faster ground speeds maximizing productivity
Reinforced knifeback strengthens cutterbar for tough harvesting conditions maximizing performance
Hardened sickle sections and unique boron treatment extends wear life
Hydraulic tilt optimizes the cutterbar angle for varying conditions, extending the harvest day and providing the lowest-possible cut height
Double-cut cutterbar system
Double-cut rock guard
Theory of Operation:
The 100-mm (4-in.) cutting action produces a cleaner cut versus the tearing effect of shorter-stroke cutting systems. Knife hold-downs are easily adjusted to help maintain harvesting performance.
Tilt cylinder
The cutterbar hydraulic tilt adjusts a full 8 degrees while maintaining excellent visibility to the cutterbar throughout the tilt range. For improved ease of use the optional advanced hydro handle can be configured to control the platform tilt.
ACI increases throughput in tough threshing small grains and rice without sacrificing overall grain savings. This system allows producers to continue to harvest outside the optimal harvest window and conditions. The concaves are suspended by hydraulic cylinders that increase the amount of crop that is being threshed as well as reduces the amount of rotor noise that is heard by the operator.
Customer value:
In tough threshing small grains customers can see up to a 10 percent increase in machine capacity while maintaining their loss level when the combine is equipped with a Tough Crop Packages
In tough material handling conditions the Tough Crop Packages improve the throughput of the combine up to 20 percent, to better utilize true machine performance outside the optimal harvest window and conditions, while accepting increased loss levels.
Improved drivability and ability to handle slugs
Enhanced durability and uptime with the elimination of sheer bolts in the system
Increased operator comfort with the reduction of concave banging noise
ACI
Theory of operation:
The ACI feature hydraulically suspends the concaves; the consistency of the concave gap is increased along with decreasing sensor drift for a more accurate concave distance. Material flow through the threshing section of the machine is smoother giving more consistent threshing.
The industry-exclusive variable-stream rotor features a tapered design in the threshing section which improves crop flow, enhances grain quality, and reduces power consumption. The variable-stream rotor with adjustable top cover transport vanes is recommended for producers of rice and tough threshing conditions.
The variable-stream rotor smoothens crop flow during tough handling conditions to maximize throughput. Along with the tough material handling capabilities of the variable-stream rotor configuration, the straw quality and length can be improved due to the electrically adjustable top cover transport vanes.
Customer Value:
The longer rotor taper in the threshing area allows improved material handling by providing smoother crop flow through the combine maximizing threshing performance and fuel efficiency.
Electrically adjustable transport vanes allow operators to change the vane angle from the cab for improved straw quality.
S-Series variable-stream rotor
Theory of Operation:
Fifteen, cast-constructed threshing elements provide superior handling, improved durability, serviceability and maintain excellent grain quality. The elements spiral around the rotor to move and control the material. In some harvesting conditions, 12 additional bolt-on threshing tines maybe installed for increased material handling.
Rear discharge flights and a tapered rear cone improve material handoff to the rear discharge beater.
Electrically adjustable transport vanes allow operators to change the vane angle within the cab. Longer straw length can be accomplished when vanes are in the advanced position.
Electric actuator for adjustable vanes
The TriStream rotor is unique to John Deere because it features a slightly tapered design in the threshing area for best in class grain quality while dramatically reducing the growling that often comes with heavy rotor loads. The TriStream rotor is recommended for producers who harvest mainly coarse grains along with easy threshing small grains.
The spiral vanes surrounding the rotor, guide the crop material through the threshing and separating area in a pull and release affect to improve performance. This John Deere S-Series Combine feature is going to generate less power consumption.
Customer Value:
TriStream rotor technology reduces the force required to move material through the combine by as much as 20 percent, maximizing fuel efficiency.
The rifling grooves on the threshing elements allow the bullet-shaped rotor to move material more efficiently maximizing crop threshing performance and grain quality.
Heavy-duty vanes on the top covers propel the crop smoothly rearward through the length of the rotor ensuring all the threshed grain is separated.
S-Series TriStream rotor
Theory of Operation:
Fifteen cast-constructed threshing elements provide superior material handling with excellent grain quality. The elements spiral around the rotor to control material flow. In some harvesting environments, the dense-pack configuration (nine additional threshing elements) may be necessary.
Conical top covers
TriStream threshing elements
Conical top covers allow for smooth material movement within the threshing and separating area. The top covers have a radius larger than the rotor, allowing the material to expand as it travels along the top of the rotor. This design uses the pull and release action of crop material, aiding in the threshing and separating to reduce power consumption.
Platform tilt is an option that allows growers to hydraulically adjust the fore-aft pitch of front-end equipment at the touch of a button from inside the cab to adapt to changing crop and field conditions.
Customer value:
Maximizes performance of header in down crop or changing field conditions to extend the harvest day by up to one hour
Achieves customized fore-aft angle of header with 17 degrees of tilt
Adjusts from inside the cab, on the go
Hydraulic fore-aft feederhouse
Hydraulic fore-aft hydro handle
The platform tilt feature includes a different multi-function lever (hydro handle) to adjust the feederhouse tilt frame from the cab.
Theory of operation
Model year 2015 and newer S660, S670, S680, and S690 Combines provide an optional hydraulic header fore-aft tilt capability from the cab. However, all S-Series Combines include a front-tilting faceplate as standard equipment. This tilting faceplace allows static fore-aft adjustment of up to 17 degrees of tilt on the feederhouse to accommodate different header and tire combinations to ensure a parallel cutterbar to ground relationship. This prevents the cutterbar knife guards from bulldozing or the platform healing on the rear of the skid shoes.
NOTE: Hydraulic fore-aft adjustment range is limited based upon the front-end equipment attached to prevent header frame damage. Check availability in local Price Pages.
The industry-exclusive ProDrive system uses PowerShift™ transmission technology to automatically shift between two speed ranges as ground conditions and terrain change, to keep the combine harvesting at the desired ground speed. Valuable harvest time will no longer be lost shifting on hills and when exiting fields to start transporting.
Customer Value:
Precise control of the combine speed (when going up or down hills), without the need to continuously monitor and adjust the hydrostatic control handle
Retains high levels of productivity through the speed ranges with shift-on-the-go technology
Maintains ground speed when engaging four-wheel drive (4WD) (if equipped)
Operator-selected maximum speed within each range, allowing for more precise control of the combine in delicate operations (for example, when hooking up headers)
The ProDrive system on S-Series Combines includes an integrated Harvest Smart™ feedrate control system to provide the maximum productivity and reduce operator stress and fatigue.
Theory of Operation:
The ProDrive hydrostatic motor has a higher displacement than the previous hydrostatic systems. Both the pump and motor are variable-displacement components that allow ProDrive to maintain high levels of torque to the ground throughout each of the two operating-speed ranges.
Range one can be set for typical harvesting speeds. Range two can be used when higher speeds are needed during harvest or when transporting the combine.
The ground speed can be infinitely varied within both modes by the operator, using the multifunction control handle on the CommandARM™ armrest console. The multifunction handle regulates the high-capacity, variable hydrostatic pump and motor that drives the ground speed.
Using the navigation tools on the armrest, the operator can dial in the desired maximum-attainable speed within each of the two speed ranges. The maximum forward speed in either range can be set from 0 to 38.6 km/h (0 to 24 mph). The maximum speed in range one cannot be set higher than the maximum speed for range two. For example, if a maximum harvest speed of 13 km/h (8 mph) is desired and set, the full forward position of the hydrostatic control handle will deliver the speed of 13 km/h (8 mph).
The ProDrive transmission is equipped with an electrohydraulic differential lock with a four-pinion differential. Non-ProDrive combines have a two-pinion differential. When operating in muddy, hilly terrain or in sandy conditions that may cause one of the tires to lose traction, this differential lock enables the operator to maintain productivity. If traction is lost, the operator can quickly and easily engage the differential lock by pressing the differential lock button on the CommandARM armrest console. An indicator light within the button alerts the operator that the differential locking feature is engaged.
The Harvest Smart system is an adaptive, on-the-go control system designed to enable automatic ground speed control during harvest operation. Harvest Smart ensures the combine maintains a consistent crop load (feedrate) by automatically changing the combine ground speed to compensate for variations in crop that are not readily visible to the operator.
During the course of a long harvest day, operators are challenged to maintain the combine at peak performance due to varying crop conditions that affect the crop load entering the combine. The Harvest Smart system will adjust to changing conditions faster than an average operator, maintaining a consistent crop load into the combine. Since the Harvest Smart control system automatically keeps the machine at maximum load capacity, as set by the operator, fatigue and stress are reduced and overall harvesting productivity is increased.
Customer Value:
Keeps a consistent crop load in the separator (rotor) for better utilization of machine capacity
Maintains a consistent combine loss level for reduced overall field losses
Reduces operator fatigue and stress during long harvest days
Maintains consistent grain quality and cleaner grain sample due to more consistent crop loads in the combine
Theory of Operation:
The Harvest Smart system uses three main inputs from the combine to automatically adjust the ground speed of the combine. The system uses information on:
Crop load in the separator (rotor)
Grain loss from the VisionTrak™ monitor
Engine load
Smart mode (rotor pressure and grain loss monitor):
Smart mode monitors rotor pressure and loss level while maintaining operator established parameters (loss monitors must be calibrated). While harvesting with machine optimized at the operators acceptable loss level, the system is set when the calibration button on the grain loss screen is pressed. When loss monitor levels are consistently above or below operator desired levels, system increases or decreases material flow levels, bringing loss levels back into desired range. Smart mode is not an immediate or instant adjustment; the system will change ground speed while not exceeding the parameters established by the operator.
Capacity mode (rotor pressure):
Capacity mode maintains a constant material flow, allowing the machine to increase ground speed when crop materials are lighter and decrease ground speed when crop material is heavier. Capacity mode does not monitor the grain loss system since the mode is only maintaining a constant material flow.
NOTE: Capacity mode should only be used when loss monitors are not reliable, such as when sensors are matting over with crop.
The Dyna-Flo Plus cleaning shoe is the heart of the S700 Combine cleaning system. The system is made up of a unique design consisting of aluminum and high-strength steel that reduces overall weight while maintaining overall strength. The Dyna-Flo Plus cleaning shoe also features an enhanced drive system that requires only one flywheel for optimal shoe performance and maximizes uptime.
Feature benefit:
Increased size of the sieve area by 12 percent for up to an additional 0.6 ha (1.5 acres) per hour of productivity.
Tailings volume reduction of up to 28 percent in coarse grains and up to 14 percent in small grains.
Weight reduction of 180 kg (396 lb) for smoother operation and reduced combine ground compaction.
670 Disks use the same straight cast standards as John Deere’s rugged tandem disks.
670 Disks use massive straight standards. Straight standards direct thrust forces up, to eliminate twisting of the gang tube when an obstacle is encountered.
The single-point depth control is base equipment.
Conveniently located at the front of the disk
Provides an infinite range of depths
Eliminates lost or broken mechanical depth stopsen an obstacle is encountered.
Dura-Flex bearings (3 + 1) are standard on 670 Offset Disks:
Installed in a wide flange to protect seals from wire and twine
Dynamically self-aligns to minimize preload and thrust loads
Triple-lip seals (3) to keep grease in and dirt out
Housing lip (1) inside flange to allow the bearing to dynamically self-align in housing
Re-greasable
Two-year warranty life in lighter, non-sticky soils.
Combination or rigid scrapers are available on the 670 Offset Disk.
Combination scrapers are desirable in sticky soil conditions:
Lock rigid to prevent wear in abrasive and dry soils
Self-adjusting for sticky soils
Positioned for excellent residue handling
Rigid scrapers complement the strength of the 670 Disk and are adjustable for long-wear life in lighter, non-sticky soils.
Blade spacing
The 225 Disk is available in 229-mm (9-in.) blade spacing, and the 425 Disk is available with 229-mm (9-in.) or 279-mm (11-in.) blade spacing.
Blade spacing recommendations for best performance are as follows:
229-mm (9-in.) spacing
279-mm (11-in.) spacing
Seedbed preparation
All primary tillage
Chemical incorporation
Heavy residue conditions
Light primary tillage
Average residue levels
Blade choices
Cone-type or spherical blades are available in a variety of sizes with a solid or cutout design.
559-mm (22-in.) or 610-mm (24-in.) diameter solid or cutout design on 225 Disk
610-mm (24-in.) or 661-mm (26-in.) diameter solid or cutout design on 425 Disk
Blade tapers and furrow filler
Right rear gang is tapered and includes two smaller disks to feather the soil.
Blade size (diameter)
Blade taper size (diameter)
559 mm (22 in.)
One 508 mm (20 in.) and one 457 mm (18 in.)
610 mm (24 in.)
One 559 mm (22 in.) and one 508 mm (20 in.)
661 mm (26 in.)
One 610 mm (24 in.) and one 559 mm (22 in.)
Reduced furrow filler blade
A 356-mm (14-in.) diameter furrow filler (arrow) is available to further smooth and level the soil.
A scraper is included with the furrow filler.
The mainframe on 225 and 425 Offset Disks is made of one-piece, heavy, structural steel tubing to resist torsional forces on the frame:
102 mm x 102 mm x 5 mm (4 in. x 4 in. x 3/16 in.) on the 225 Offset Disk
76 mm x 127 mm x 10 mm (3 in. x 5 in. x 3/8 in.) on the 425 Offset Disk
Hitch bar (1), adjustment holes (2), clevis (3)
The hitch can be set to work directly behind the tractor or offset to the right or left, which is ideal for orchards or vineyards.
Moving the tongue on the hitch bar (1) provides a course adjustment.
Changing the angle of the hitch tongue, through a series of holes (2), fine-tunes adjustments.
The clevis (3) can be assembled so a disk harrow can be used with tractors having either a straight or open-type drawbar.
A safety chain and hose support are included in base equipment.
The mainframe on 225 and 425 Offset Disks is made of one-piece, heavy, structural steel tubing to resist torsional forces on the frame:
102 mm x 102 mm x 5 mm (4 in. x 4 in. x 3/16 in.) on the 225 Offset Disk
76 mm x 127 mm x 10 mm (3 in. x 5 in. x 3/8 in.) on the 425 Offset Disk
Hitch bar (1), adjustment holes (2), clevis (3)
The hitch can be set to work directly behind the tractor or offset to the right or left, which is ideal for orchards or vineyards.
Moving the tongue on the hitch bar (1) provides a course adjustment.
Changing the angle of the hitch tongue, through a series of holes (2), fine-tunes adjustments.
The clevis (3) can be assembled so a disk harrow can be used with tractors having either a straight or open-type drawbar.
A safety chain and hose support are included in base equipment.
Blade spacing
The 225 Disk is available in 229-mm (9-in.) blade spacing, and the 425 Disk is available with 229-mm (9-in.) or 279-mm (11-in.) blade spacing.
Blade spacing recommendations for best performance are as follows:
229-mm (9-in.) spacing
279-mm (11-in.) spacing
Seedbed preparation
All primary tillage
Chemical incorporation
Heavy residue conditions
Light primary tillage
Average residue levels
Blade choices
Cone-type or spherical blades are available in a variety of sizes with a solid or cutout design.
559-mm (22-in.) or 610-mm (24-in.) diameter solid or cutout design on 225 Disk
610-mm (24-in.) or 661-mm (26-in.) diameter solid or cutout design on 425 Disk
Blade tapers and furrow filler
Right rear gang is tapered and includes two smaller disks to feather the soil.
Blade size (diameter)
Blade taper size (diameter)
559 mm (22 in.)
One 508 mm (20 in.) and one 457 mm (18 in.)
610 mm (24 in.)
One 559 mm (22 in.) and one 508 mm (20 in.)
661 mm (26 in.)
One 610 mm (24 in.) and one 559 mm (22 in.)
Reduced furrow filler blade
A 356-mm (14-in.) diameter furrow filler (arrow) is available to further smooth and level the soil.
A scraper is included with the furrow filler.
The StarFire™ 6000 Receiver has 252 channels and tracks both GPS (United States) and GLONASS (Russia) satellites. Tracking as many GNSS satellite signals as possible increases the chances of retaining accuracy and performance in challenging areas such as when operating near trees.
Improve uptime with multiple StarFire signal tracking
The StarFire 6000 Receiver is capable of simultaneously tracking correction signals from up to three StarFire correction satellites. The receiver tracks and uses correction signals from all StarFire satellites in view and intelligently chooses one that will deliver the best performance. When the receiver moves into an area where the primary StarFire signal is blocked such as near a tree line, the receiver will automatically switch to an alternate StarFire signal (if visible) to help maintain accuracy and performance. Compare this to the previous StarFire 3000 Receiver that was only capable of tracking one StarFire signal at a time and could wait up to four minutes to initiate the switch to the next available signal.
With the StarFire 6000, the user gets improved performance and uptime when operating precision agriculture systems like AutoTrac™ assisted steering system and Section Control in challenging areas when compared to the previous StarFire 3000.
NOTE: Some locations have visibility to two StarFire signal satellites and some locations have visibility to three.
Multiple StarFire signal trackingMultiple StarFire signal tracking
Gracefully coast through StarFire signal outages
The StarFire 6000 is capable of coasting through StarFire signal outages of up to 20 minutes in duration in case the producer needs to operate AutoTrac in an area where all StarFire signals are temporarily blocked by trees or other obstructions. Accuracy will slowly degrade during this 20-minute period and will be shown to the operator via the accuracy indicator on the display.
Quickly recover to full accuracy after GNSS signal outages
The StarFire 6000 also delivers a faster and more robust rapid recovery feature, which allows the system to quickly recover to high-accuracy performance after losing track of GPS/GLONASS signals for short durations. This means the operator spends less time waiting for the system to recover to full accuracy after temporary shading events, such as turning around near a headland shaded by trees.
Take advantage of RTK Extend™ system for up to 14 days
RTK mode
RTK communication lost
RTK operators have experienced the value that RTK Extend provides when operating in areas where communication with the RTK base station or mobile RTK network is challenging, such as in hilly terrain, areas with many trees, or areas with poor cellular connection (mobile RTK). The StarFire 6000 makes another step change in RTK Extend performance compared to its predecessor, delivering RTK Extend for up to 14 days.
A possible scenario to understand this enhanced RTK Extend feature:
Machine receiver (rover) is communicating with the RTK base station or network and is running in RTK mode
Time 0 – machine receiver loses communication with RTK base station or network due to an obstruction blocking line of site or due to the machine moving outside of base station or network coverage:
StarFire 3000 – automatically switches to RTK Extend (RTK-like accuracy and repeatability)
StarFire 6000 – automatically switches to RTK Extend (RTK-like accuracy and repeatability)
Time – 15 minutes:
StarFire 3000 – automatically switches to SF2 fallback (+/- 5-cm [2-in.] accuracy with no repeatability)
StarFire 6000 – remains in RTK Extend (RTK-like accuracy and repeatability)
Time – 14 days:
StarFire 3000 – SF2 fallback ends and operator can switch to SF1 if desired
StarFire 6000 – RTK Extend ends and operator can switch to SF1 if desired
The StarFire™ 6000 Receiver offers multiple differential correction signal levels to match receiver performance with the needs of the operation.
StarFire 6000 horizontal pass-to-pass accuracy:
SF1: +/- 15 cm (5.9 in.)
SF3: +/- 3 cm (1.2 in.)
Radio RTK: +/- 2.5 cm (1.0 in.)
Mobile RTK: +/- 2.5 cm (1.0 in.)
NOTE: Horizontal pass-to-pass accuracy specifications are 1D and are based upon a 15-minute time period, 95 percent confidence interval, clear view of the sky, no signal interference, no scintillation, and ideal atmospheric conditions (free from solar disturbances and other ionospheric/tropospheric activity). Performance may vary based on GNSS constellation health.
NOTE: Radio RTK horizontal accuracy specification is based on the maximum supported baseline (distance from the RTK base station) of 20 km (12 miles) and a properly installed RTK base station.
NOTE: Mobile RTK horizontal accuracy specification is based on a 20-km (12-mile) baseline (distance from the nearest network RTK base station). Performance will vary based on network geometry.
What does pass-to-pass accuracy really mean for the user?
Pass-to-pass accuracy defines how accurate the receiver is at calculating its position over a relatively short (15-minute) time window. For each point in time during that 15-minute window, a pass-to-pass error value is calculated based on the difference between the desired track spacing at the receiver and the actual track spacing based on the receiver’s calculated position. The error values for the entire 15-minute period are combined and the pass-to-pass accuracy value is defined as the 95 percent confidence interval of the data set, meaning 95 percent of the error values are less than or equal to the specification.
Pass-to-pass accuracy is measured at the receiver and does not take into account additional error sources such as AutoTrac™ control system error, ground conditions, or implement drift.
Pass-to-pass accuracy
Pass-to-pass accuracy has a direct impact on guess-row spacing during jobs like planting, strip till, or fertilizer application, which can have a direct impact on yield potential. Guess-row spacing is also critical for operational efficiency and reducing crop damage in operations that mix implements of various widths.
Guess-row spacing
Pass-to-pass accuracy also has a direct impact on the amount of skip or overlap that occurs during operations like spraying, fertilizer spreading, or conventional tillage, which has a direct impact on yield potential and input costs.
Skip/overlap
StarFire 6000 repeatability:
SF1: no repeatability, position drifts over time
SF3: +/- 3 cm (1.2 in.) in-season repeatability (where applicable)
Radio RTK: +/- 2.5 cm (1.0 in.) long-term repeatability
Mobile RTK: +/- 2.5 cm (1.0 in.) long-term repeatability (where applicable)
NOTE: Repeatability specifications are based on a 95 percent confidence interval, clear view of the sky, no signal interference, no scintillation, and ideal atmospheric conditions (free from solar disturbances and other ionospheric/tropospheric activity). Performance may vary based on GNSS constellation health.
NOTE: Radio RTK repeatability specifications are based on a properly installed RTK base station and a base station position that has not been modified after initial setup.
NOTE: Mobile RTK repeatability may be impacted by updates to network reference frames or adjustments for tectonic plate movement. Networks in some areas of California, Oregon, and Washington will be updated more frequently due to tectonic plate movement.
NOTE: SF3 repeatability specifications have been validated through at least a 9-month period. A guidance-line shift may or may not be required after a period longer than 9 months. SF3 repeatability claims are only valid after the receiver has completed a full pull in and is operating at 100 percent accuracy. SF3 repeatability may be impacted by large unpredictable geological events such as earthquakes.
NOTE: SF3 repeatability performance may vary in the locations marked No in the table below due to the unpredictable nature of local tectonic plate movement or lack of historical data to verify SF3 tectonic plate models. The StarFire 6000/SF3 system will still apply repeatability modeling and attempt to correct for tectonic plate drift in these areas unless the receiver is located very close to a tectonic plate border, but performance may vary by location:
Country
SF3 In-season repeatability modeling verified?
Notes
Canada
Yes (see notes)
Western portion of British Columbia is not verified due to proximity to a tectonic plate boundary
United States
Yes (see notes)
Locations not verified include Alaska, California, Hawaii, Oregon, and Washington due to the random nature of tectonic plate movement in those areas
What does repeatability really mean for the operator?
Repeatability defines how accurately the receiver can calculate its position over a relatively long time window. Repeatability is measured at the receiver and does not take into account additional error sources such as AutoTrac control system error, ground conditions, or implement drift.
In-season repeatability is critical when using AutoTrac for multiple jobs throughout the growing season. One example would be creating AutoTrac guidance lines during planting, then using those same guidance lines to complete subsequent jobs such as side-dressing fertilizer, post-emerge spraying, and harvesting.
Long-term repeatability is critical when mapping interior and exterior boundaries for later use as input to John Deere Section Control on planters, sprayers, and fertilizer applicators. Long-term repeatability is also critical for growers that use the same AutoTrac guidance lines over multiple seasons for operations like subsurface-drip irrigation, controlled traffic, or alternating planter spacing between the rows from a previous season.
RTK users have benefited from repeatability of guidance lines, boundaries, and coverage mapping since the launch of that technology. RTK positioning uses a local base station to generate corrections for the signals received from GPS and GLONASS satellites. Since the RTK base station is located relatively close to the rover (machine receiver), any drift experienced over time is common to both the base station and rover, therefore the user experiences long-term repeatability from that system.
Figure 18 – RTK repeatability from local base stationFigure 18 – RTK repeatability from local base station
StarFire SF1 and SF2 users, however, have traditionally experienced position drift that is common with satellite-delivered correction signals. This position drift can make operations that require guiding a machine or implement back to the same place over an extended period of time very challenging and may cause the need for guidance line shifts or re-mapping of boundaries.
Figure 19 – Global StarFire networkFigure 19 – Global StarFire network
The SF3 signal changes the game when it comes to repeatability from satellite-delivered corrections from the John Deere StarFire network. This global SF3 system uses advanced modeling of tectonic plate movement, solid earth tides, ocean tides, and polar tides to compensate for position drift over time and deliver in-season repeatability for the user.
For example, Australia moves about 8 cm (3.1 in.) per year to the northeast. If a grower creates a guidance line in Australia one day and wants to steer to that exact same spot one year later, the guidance line could be at least 8 cm (3.1 in.) off of the intended course if not corrected. Due to the fact that the StarFire 6000 Receiver and SF3 signal compensate for this movement, the system can deliver in-season repeatability of +/- 3 cm (1.2 in.). Current testing has shown that these models are accurate for at least a 9-month period, which provides value for many precision agriculture practices throughout the growing season. A guidance line shift may or may not be required outside of this 9-month period.
Dealer subscription or none (with own base station)
John Deere Mobile RTK subscription and JDLink™ subscription
Additional hardware required
None
None
None
RTK Radio
MTG
* StarFire 3000 SF2 specs for comparison purposes only, not available with StarFire 6000
The StarFire™ 6000 Receiver offers improved pull-in performance compared to its predecessor. That means the operator spends less time waiting for the receiver to achieve full accuracy and can get high-precision jobs like planting and nutrient application started even faster. It also means less time waiting to reacquire full accuracy after an extended shading event, such as running next to trees while planting headlands.
StarFire 6000 pull-in time:
SF1: ~10 minutes
SF3: <30 minutes
Radio RTK: <1 minute
Mobile RTK: <1 minute
StarFire 6000 pull-in timeStarFire 6000 pull-in time
NOTE: Pull-in time specifications are based on a clear view of the sky, no signal interference, no scintillation, and ideal atmospheric conditions (free from solar disturbances and other ionospheric/tropospheric activity). Performance may vary based on GNSS constellation health.
The figure below displays test results from a case study that compares the pull-in performance of a StarFire 3000 Receiver using SF2 next to a StarFire 6000 Receiver using SF3.
NOTE: This testing was completed using static receivers in an environment with no shading or signal interference. Results will vary depending on operating conditions. The values shown in the figure below are absolute 2D accuracy with a 90 percent confidence interval, they should not be compared to pass-to-pass accuracy values used elsewhere in this document.
Pull-in time case studyPull-in time case study
Avoid waiting for pull-in by using hours on after shutdown and QuickStart
The StarFire 6000 Receiver has two features that reduce the amount of time required to achieve full accuracy, or pull-in, when using SF1 or SF3.
Hours on after shutdown is a user-configurable feature that allows the receiver to remain powered on for up to 24 hours (0-, 3-, 6-, 12-, and 24-hour options) after the machine is powered down. If the machine is parked outside and the receiver has a clear view of the sky during this time it will continue to track satellites and retain accuracy. There is no need for the receiver to complete a new pull-in if the machine is started within this defined period.
QuickStart is a feature that can help reduce StarFire pull-in time if hours on after shutdown has expired or is not used. QuickStart works when the machine is shut down and the receiver is able to save a known location (must have a clear view of the sky and good SF1/SF3 accuracy). When the receiver is powered back on it can recover to full accuracy in less than 6 minutes if the machine is not moved during this time window. There is no need for the receiver to complete a new pull-in if the machine is not moved before the QuickStart completes.
