News & Events

Designed as versatile workhorses for contractors and medium sized to large arable farms, John Deere’s newly styled 7R Series tractors feature more power, manoeuvrability and operator comfort than their 7030 Series predecessors. There are five models in the range, developing a maximum of 230 to 310hp with Intelligent Power Management (IPM), according to 97/68EC ratings.
For added security, 7R Series tractors are fitted as standard with CESAR Datatag and immobiliser systems, with a unique transponder based key. In addition, new models will be supplied with complimentary JDLink Ultimate telematics plus Service ADVISOR remote monitoring and diagnostics systems for the first year.
Having optimised the performance of its field-proven and operator-friendly high-pressure common rail (HPCR) PowerTech Plus engine technology, which consistently achieves leading fuel efficiency results in independent tests, John Deere has maintained the single fluid, diesel-only approach on these latest models to conform to Stage IIIB emission standards.
The 9-litre PowerTech PVX engine on the three larger models – 7230R, 7260R and 7280R – features a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and exhaust filters, which include a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) and a diesel particulate filter (DPF). The two smaller models – 7200R and 7215R – are powered by 6.8-litre PowerTech PSX engine using series turbochargers, which combine a low-pressure fixed geometry and a high-pressure variable geometry turbocharger. With IPM, both engines deliver an additional 30hp for transport and non-stationary pto applications.
The electronically controlled viscous fan cooling system automatically adjusts fan speed to match load changes. To maximise efficiency of the cooling system, air is pushed into the engine compartment instead of being pulled in. This helps to minimise dirt intake and keeps the radiator clean, as well as increasing fuel efficiency by 3 to 6 per cent, depending on the application.
There is a choice of four transmissions, including PowerQuad Plus with speed matching and AutoQuad Plus with FieldCruise and EcoShift functions. The newly designed CommandQuad transmission includes an Efficiency Manager, which makes sure that the gear and throttle work hand in hand to optimise fuel efficiency, with automatic range shifting on the road.
There is a choice between a fully automatic mode, with gear and engine rpm selection depending on load, and a manual dial-up mode for targeted speed applications, which includes five ranges with four power speeds per range. In addition to the convenient CommandArm control, this transmission features 42kph Eco and 50kph options and a left hand reverser for easy direction changes. For maximum fuel efficiency, the AutoPowr continuously variable transmission has been completely redesigned, with all new hardware and control software.
The 7R Series tractors feature the same newly designed CommandView II cab as the 8R Series machines. New levels of comfort are provided by the spacious interior, the armrest controlled and roof-integrated air conditioning system, all-round visibility both day and night from an increased glass surface area and 360-degree lighting pattern, which delivers a 74 per cent increase in available luminescence, and more storage space than ever before.
For maximum operator comfort, these new tractors are optionally available with either ActiveSeat suspension to compensate for up to 90 per cent of the tractor’s vertical movements, or HCS Plus hydraulic cab suspension. This is a semi-active dampening system that anticipates loads and braking to maintain the overall balance of the cab, while still providing the driver with an accurate feel for the tractor and ground surface.
The new right-hand CommandArm console with its integrated CommandCenter display puts all the key tractor functions within easy reach. The 7in CommandCenter display is ISOBUS compatible and includes Access Manager as standard, while the optional touchscreen version also includes video capability. Both standard and touchscreen versions accommodate key applications such as the CAN-bus controlled SCVs and intelligent Total Equipment Control (iTEC), which allows the operator to automate multiple functions simultaneously.
In addition, important GreenStar precision farming applications can now be operated via the display, including AutoTrac and SprayerPro. The CommandArm console also incorporates the settings for cruise control, iTEC, transmission and pto settings, hitch functions, air conditioning and radio controls, mechanical front wheel drive (MFWD) engagement and the light controls. Tractors equipped with PowerQuad Plus or AutoQuad Plus transmissions feature an alternative right-hand control console. The optional GreenStar 2630 display enables the use of AutoTrac and Guidance Pro modules, and provides ISOBUS capability, documentation, video functionality, Access Manager and a stand-by mode.
The newly designed structural chassis of 7R Series tractors takes advantage of the high power density to cope easily with demanding load and draft applications. For putting maximum power onto the ground, the tractors are equipped with TLS Plus triple link suspension, in combination with MFWD. TLS Plus features self-levelling and automatic adjustment of axle sensitivity.
Also optionally available for these new tractors is John Deere’s exclusive ActiveCommand Steering system, which reduces steering effort in order to minimise operator fatigue and improve driving comfort and control. This fully electronic steering control system automatically adjusts the road wheel angle based on the lateral acceleration of the tractor.
This improves control when cornering at transport speeds, as well as the tractor’s ability to hold a straight line. Furthermore, the system’s Variable Ratio Steering module reduces lock-to-lock turning in the field, for quicker headland turns. Compared to a conventional steering system, ActiveCommand Steering produces a 75 per cent reduction in typical hand movement.
New large capacity pumps deliver increased oil flow and lift capacity from the closed-centre, pressure and flow compensated hydraulic system, which can operate a maximum of eight SCVs, up to six at the rear and up to three at the front of the tractor. Maximum lift capacity of the rear hitch is 9562kg on the 7200R, 7215R and 7230R and 10,788kg on the 7260R and 7280R, while the fully integrated front hitch (with pto) has a lift capacity of up to 5200kg. The tractors also feature a new pick-up hitch.
John Deere 7R Series tractors have a slightly longer wheelbase than previous models, and the top two models can be fitted with larger Group 49 tyres with a maximum diameter of 215cm. There is also the option of a flanged or rack & pinion rear axle for extra versatility, and the shorter overall length of the tractors has improved turning radius by 18 per cent.

John Deere has installed two new Titan FuelMaster 5000-litre tanks at its Langar, Nottingham headquarters. These have replaced existing 20,000-litre single-skinned steel tanks, which had become fouled and heavily corroded over time with sludge and sediment.

The installations were specified by The Oil Tank Company Ltd, who are Titan accredited suppliers and installers based in Rutland; the company offers a full maintenance service for both commercial and domestic installations.

Both the new plastic FuelMaster tanks are bunded (a tank within a tank), and they have dual 10-micron particle and water filters fitted as standard. The fuel from one tank is being used for on-site demonstrations of the latest John Deere tractors and other self-propelled machines, while the second tank, along with another new installation, a Titan EcoSafe 5000 bunded tank, stores oil for the company’s warehouse heating system.

The switch to the FuelMaster range has been driven by the industry’s shift from red diesel to ultra-low sulphur diesel (ULSD), which is better suited to power the modern tractor engine. Plastic tanks do not react with the diesel components, thus preventing the build-up of sludge and residue, and the finer filters with water traps protect the demonstration fleet’s fuel systems.

“With the change to ULSD and the likelihood of a bio-oil content within the new fuel, we had to make sure that our fuel hygiene was top of the class,” said John Deere’s division customer support manager Bob Holt.

“Our previous steel tanks were decades old, and there was no point in running the risk of contaminating the fuel systems of our demonstration machinery fleet. We are simply employing best practice, and would encourage our customers to take a long, hard look at not only their fuel storage facilities but also the quality of the fuel that they are purchasing.”

The Oil Tank Company has been dealing with Titan for the last 10 years – a testament, according to the company’s founder and managing director, Simon Ellis, to both the quality of the product and the customer service they offer.

He said: “Titan has long been the market leader in fuel storage; their products and service are second to none. For example, the FuelMaster range comes fully set up ready to be installed, and only requires connecting to an electrical supply. We then maintain the systems after installation, typically going in after 12 to 18 months to check the filters and pipeworks.”

The FuelMaster tanks were installed with new bases and firewalls, and the installation is fully compliant with the Control of Pollution (Oil Storage) Regulations 2001.

John Deere’s HarvestLab sensor for self-propelled forage harvesters will, from next season, be able to analyse a range of crop constituents including sugars, starch, protein and crude fibre content, quickly and accurately while on the move.
 
Farmers and contractors looking to generate extra income can therefore benefit from this new advance in precision farming technology. The ability to now measure sugar levels in real time also provides the opportunity to manage the silage additive process more efficiently, using a range of commercially available automatic variable rate application systems.
 
This latest version of HarvestLab is the first commercial system of its kind on the market, and is based on near infrared (NIR) sensor technology manufactured by Zeiss Jena. Using the additional crop data, the HarvestLab sensor can help livestock farmers to optimise their herd’s performance from silage, more accurately balanced against the correct amounts of extra bought-in feeds when required.
 
Similarly, operators of bioenergy plants can more easily calculate the optimum amounts of biomass material to use for efficient energy production. John Deere’s 7050 Series i-specification self-propelled forage harvesters are ideally suited to harvesting maize and other energy crops for biomass, and can chop consistently to the necessary length for bioenergy plants, down to 4mm.
 
The forager’s integrated ‘intelligent’ technology package includes the HarvestLab sensor and AutoLOC. Using the machine’s infinitely variable transmission, this already provides automatic adjustment of the length of cut depending on the dry matter content of the crop being harvested. This is based on settings programmed in by the operator on the machine’s in-cab GreenStar 2630 touch screen display prior to work, according to end user requirements.
 
As the forage dry matter rate within a field varies due to differences in soil, seed varieties and other external factors such as trees on the headlands, AutoLOC automatically adjusts the chop length in 1mm increments based on the preset values, to produce the optimum feed quality from the harvested crop. HarvestDoc also records all the necessary crop and harvest data for the contractor’s invoicing process.
 
Mounted on the forager spout, the HarvestLab system has been independently verified by DLG to consistently deliver +/-2 points of accuracy.

John Deere has entered into a cooperation agreement with the Bank of Ireland to support retail financing solutions for its agricultural and turf equipment in the Republic of Ireland.
 
Effective from 1st August 2011, this non-branded agreement will be administered by the agricultural and commercial finance company Bank of Ireland Finance (BIF).
 
John Deere believes this is an extremely positive step, not only in supporting its business partners but also as a commitment to its growing agricultural and turf customer base in the Republic of Ireland.
 
The agreement enables John Deere dealers to offer customers a full range of flexible machinery financing options.

THE DAIRY EVENT & LIVESTOCK SHOW 2011, NEC, SEPTEMBER 6 & 7
 
John Deere’s new 6R Series tractor makes its UK show debut at this year’s Dairy Event & Livestock Show in September, alongside a new 7R Series tractor and 900 Series round baler with Fast Release System.
 
The newly styled 6R Series models offer more power, performance and operator comfort, and feature improved suspension and cab visibility, more powerful hydraulics and increased lift capacities. For added security, 6R tractors will also be fitted as standard with CESAR Datatag and immobiliser systems, with a unique transponder based key.
 
Three large frame models are initially available from November this year, the 6170R, 6190R and 6210R. They are equipped with a new Stage IIIB 6.8-litre six-cylinder PowerTech PVX diesel-only engine rated from 170 to 210hp, or a maximum of 200 to 240hp with Intelligent Power Management (according to 97/68EC). This makes the top of the range 6210R the biggest tractor ever built at Mannheim, and the first model to be produced by the factory with over 200 rated hp.
 
An optional front pto and an integrated front hitch with a lift capacity of 4000kg are also available ex-factory for the first time on 6R Series tractors, while maximum lift capacity of the rear hitch is 9550kg on the 6210R. The front hitch is fully compatible with the new John Deere H Series front loaders, which have been developed to provide maximum visibility and to match the new tyre size and tractor chassis dimensions.
 
Transmission options include the established AutoPowr continuously variable transmission, as well as AutoQuad Plus and PowerQuadPlus with SoftShift for smoother gear changes under load. The 40kph AutoQuad Plus EcoShift transmission can produce lower engine rpm at high transport speeds, to maximise operator comfort and reduce fuel consumption.
 
With the new AutoPowr drive pedal mode, operators can choose between three different settings depending on the application or their driving style. Once the desired engine rpm is set using the hand throttle, forward speed can be independently adjusted using the drive pedal.
 
A new 6210RE model with electric drive will also be available from spring 2012, in addition to an innovative transmission option that is due to be previewed at Agritechnica in Germany, in November.
 
Machinery demonstrations
 
John Deere is once again sponsoring the main machinery demonstration area at the event (adjacent to the John Deere stand no. MA451, near the event entrance), which this year features silage choppers/shredders and cubicle bedders from Garnett Farms Engineering, JF-Stoll, King Feeders, Kuhn Farm Machinery, Lucas G, RECO, Shelbourne Reynolds, Suton Machinery, Teagle Machinery and Woodchuck, all of which are being demonstrated on both days of the event.
 
These demonstrations are designed to provide visitors with an opportunity to compare models from different manufacturers, working under the same conditions. For further details, visit the event website at www.dairyevent.co.uk

John Deere’s PowerGard Maintenance and PowerGard Protection programmes are now available for new compact and utility tractors, including the 20 Series and 3036E compacts and 5 Series utility models. Combining both plans allows customers to budget for their machinery maintenance and repair costs.
 
“During busy times, it’s easy to fall behind with the maintenance procedures recommended in the tractor operator’s manual and service record book,” says John Deere Limited’s aftermarket sales manager James Morley. “This can lead to unexpected repairs that create unbudgeted expenses. These in turn cause problems with the operator’s cash flow, on top of disrupting work.
 
“Our commercial turf customers in the UK and Ireland can now benefit from a maintenance plan to help fix costs, budget more accurately and avoid unexpected outlays. These new PowerGard programmes are specially designed to control operating costs, remove the worry and allow compact and utility tractor users to choose the best plan to suit their individual needs.
 
“These are much more than simple extended warranty programmes; PowerGard is a complete maintenance and protection plan that allows the user to budget for the full operating costs of the tractor, while ensuring that it is properly maintained throughout its working life to provide years of reliable service.”
 
PowerGard Maintenance is an agreement between the dealership and the customer to do all the maintenance work on the machine according to the service schedule in the operator’s manual, and the dealership must perform at least one annual inspection. Customers can pay at each service, in regular instalments or for the entire contract in advance, with the cost of the plan including all parts, maintenance fluids and routine labour.
 
There are two levels of PowerGard Protection plan that cover the cost of machinery repairs for up to five years, and must be bought with a PowerGard Maintenance plan. The basic PowerGard Protection is for limited coverage of the powertrain and engine, while PowerGard Protection Plus provides more comprehensive coverage of all key machine components.
 
Full details of covered items are available from John Deere dealers. Subject to acceptance by John Deere Credit, it is possible to fund the PowerGard Protection programmes within a finance package; payments will vary depending on the tractor model, length of the plan and payment option chosen.
 
“By budgeting for preventive care in this way, and having the tractor fully maintained by the dealer, the operator can save on maintenance costs by locking into current parts and labour prices, as well as saving on his own time and labour,” says James Morley.
 
“He can also be secure in the knowledge that his tractor is being well cared for by a skilled, fully trained John Deere technician using state of the art tools, who is certified by the industry standard LTA programme. This in turn gives him reliability and performance advantages, and he will have a complete service record book, fully stamped by the dealer, which will add value to his tractor when it is traded in.”

Specifically designed for European crops and conditions, John Deere’s new W and T-Series combine range for the 2012 harvest season features models from 260 to 431hp (maximum rating at ECE R120), providing new levels of grain harvesting productivity and operator comfort.
W and T-Series models feature the largest active separation areas in the industry, at up to 3.36m2, and the largest grain tank available on a straw-walker machine, at 11,000 litres.
Key features include a newly designed transmission and Premium cab; a wider range of cutting platforms up to 10.7m (35ft), including the versatile PremiumFlow header; an enhanced residue management system; and a wider range of flotation tyre options.
The newly consolidated John Deere range for 2012 will consist of the W540, W550, W650 and W660 conventional five and six straw-walker combines, and the restyled five- and six-walker T550, T560, T660 and T670 models, featuring the company’s established tangential tine separation technology.
All the combines are powered by Stage IIIB compliant 6.8- or 9.0-litre John Deere PowerTech PSX engines to meet emissions regulations. These high-pressure common rail (HPCR) engines are equipped with two in-series turbochargers for higher boost pressures, a four-valve cylinder head for enhanced airflow, electronic engine control and an exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system.
John Deere’s diesel-only engine solution requires no urea, by combining a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) and a diesel particulate filter (DPF) to reduce harmful emissions while maintaining high levels of fuel efficiency. These engines are designed to make it easier to harvest up to the limit of the combine’s capacity, especially when unloading while harvesting.
The proven ProDrive transmission is optionally available on the top three T-Series models. This features smooth, automatic shifting between two speed ranges, and has an electrically activated diff lock. It offers speed selection for normal harvesting conditions or for faster field work and road transport, and allows individual speed adjustment via the hydrostatic control lever.
The newly designed three-speed Push Button Shift Transmission (PBST) is standard on all T-Series combines, and allows the operator to select the required gear by simply pressing one of three buttons on the armrest console. As with ProDrive, this transmission applies the parking brake automatically once the hydro lever is pulled into the neutral position.
All four W-Series combines are equipped with a basic three-speed transmission as standard, with PBST optionally available. T-Series combines also feature improved serviceability, with easier access to the sides of the combine and the main drives.
The all-new Premium cab on the T-Series combines provides 30 per cent more space, lower noise levels and an almost uninterrupted view of the harvesting operation. The four-way adjustable air suspension seat is more comfortable and includes lumbar adjustment for greater back support, while the larger passenger seat can be easily converted into a field office with space for a laptop computer, if required.
The cab features the same basic, easy to use operational layout as John Deere’s new 8R Series tractors, with effortless control of the harvesting operation provided by the CommandTouch armrest console, GreenStar 3 CommandCenter display, digital corner post display and tiltable steering column. The optional GreenStar 2630 touch-screen display supports the full John Deere i-solutions package, including HarvestSmart automatic feedrate control, Harvest Monitor yield monitoring and AutoTrac automatic steering.
An optional video camera can be installed to monitor the rear of the combine, the grain tank and the unloading auger for all-round visibility and control from the single GreenStar 3 display. Additional cab features include an efficient air conditioning system, sunshades, a refrigerator and a premium radio package.
A new button on the master control lever enables activation of AutoTrac for increased field efficiency, while the corner post display includes a new power meter. This displays the percentage of power being used, which allows the operator to maximise the machine’s overall harvesting capacity when required.
The W and T-Series combines‘ residue management system features a fine-cut chopping system with even residue distribution behind the machine, for effective no-till or minimum-till cultivation. An optional two-speed chopper drive allows the operator to change quickly between the speed ranges when working in different crops. To keep an even spread pattern in cross winds or hilly conditions, electrically adjustable vanes on the chopper can direct the spread to the left or right of the combine.
The optional John Deere HillMaster self-levelling system is available on all models, and compensates for slopes of up to 15 per cent by levelling the entire combine body automatically on the move. Combined with the SlopeMaster sidehill kit, this provides full harvesting performance on slopes of up to 22 per cent. With HillMaster, John Deere offers the largest full body self-levelling straw walker combine in the industry.
John Deere’s web-based JDLink telematics solution will also be supplied free, as standard, with all new W and T-Series combine models for the first year of ownership. This system offers three specification levels, allowing it to be tailored to individual business needs. JDLink provides data on machine location, fuel consumption and harvest performance, as well as machine hour and location tracking, geofencing to protect a machine from misuse, and maintenance planning. This enables fleet owners and managers to determine, for example, if operators need more training.

Designed specifically for larger arable farms, John Deere’s new R962i 6200-litre sprayer is now the biggest model in the company’s trailed range, with the highest ever pump capacity. Designed and manufactured at the Horst sprayer factory in the Netherlands, this high specification machine is equipped as standard with a number of intelligent and automated features designed to make spraying easier, more accurate, more efficient and more profitable.
The R962i has been engineered for maximum stability under all spraying conditions. The main solution tank has a low-profile design with compact dimensions, despite its high capacity. An optional wheel steering system provides accurate tracking on the headlands to reduce wheeling damage, and the new proportional steering control provides smoother operation and easier set-up in the field. Combined with the sprayer’s low centre of gravity, this hydraulic control system offers optimum stability and manoeuvrability, both in the field and on the road.
Built on strong foundations, the R962i sprayer has a structurally rigid chassis featuring a malleable cast cross-structure, which spreads and dissipates chassis loads to ensure a long machine life. The machine is also equipped as standard with ProRoad axle suspension, a double-link system featuring maintenance-free polyurethane dampers, and has a maximum transport speed of 40kph, even with a full tank.
A wide choice of durable steel spray booms is available, from 24 to 28m (double-folding) and 24 to 40m (triple-folding). These feature a central pendulum for boom levelling, the BoomGuard anti-yaw suspension system, vertical and horizontal boom breakaway protection, and durable pivot points. The BoomGuard system also protects the spray boom during road transport by minimising shocks and vibrations through the folded boom, for increased boom life.
The optional BoomTrac system provides perfect boom stability during spraying, by measuring the actual boom height 50 times a second and comparing this with the target height. When a difference occurs, BoomTrac automatically adjusts the spray boom height and boom tilt angle to ensure the optimum boom position, whether spraying in the field or turning at the headland.
Originally designed for the 5430i self-propelled sprayer, the Solution Command automatic solution management system lets the operator accurately fill, agitate, spray and multi-cycle rinse the sprayer, and dispose of residues, at the push of a button on the GreenStar display. Alternatively, all the same liquid controls can be operated by a series of rocker switches protected by a sealed perspex panel on the front of the sprayer, which replaces the usual levers and valves.
Solution Command is equipped as standard with AutoDilute, which allows the operator to select the appropriate rinsing or dilution programme on the display. This has been developed to meet the requirements of all EU legislation, and ensures that even less experienced operators can achieve good results every time.
Powerful, high-capacity piston diaphragm spray pumps supply liquid at 560 litres/min for fast automatic filling and spraying. An optionally available centrifugal pump boosts filling capacity to 700 litres/min.
For maximum productivity and accuracy, the R962i trailed sprayer can be equipped with the latest StarFire 3000 satellite receiver and advanced GreenStar 2630 touch-screen display. The StarFire receiver works at all accuracy levels (EGNOS, SF1, SF2 and RTK), and with both GPS and GLONASS satellites.
The standard 2630 display supports a full range of guidance, documentation, ISOBUS implement control and performance monitoring features; this and the multi-function joystick are the only two operator controls in the cab. The optional GreenStar 1800 display also offers ISOBUS compatibility, and supports guidance systems from the entry level GreenStar Lightbar to hands-free AutoTrac.
John Deere’s suite of i-Solutions includes Spray-to-Map, a prescription mapping tool that enables the operator to spray variable rates of fertiliser or crop protection chemicals, following the creation of an application map on the office computer which can then be imported into the GreenStar 2630 display.
Sprayer Pro automatic boom section control helps to minimise overlaps and misses, and avoid wasting valuable inputs. Sprayer Pro automatically switches the boom sections on or off when the operator leaves or enters a predefined area or the headland.
The R962i is also equipped as standard with a range of other intelligent solutions for more accurate and efficient spraying. These include a spray nozzle calculator and nozzle flow cross-check, overflow protection, digital tank level sensor for the solution tank, automatic pressure and flow sensor selection at low flow rates, droplet size indication for standard nozzles, programmable default valve settings to prevent overdosing after refills, a low tank level warning and agitation performance control.
Using information from the tank fill calculator, the operator can swing out the generously sized PowrFill chemical inductor for safe and easy filling of liquids, powders and granular material from ground level. A spray gun at the hopper and special storage lockers for clean clothing or contaminated protective gear are standard, as well as a separate 20-litre fresh water wash tank. Further options include a BASF ECOMATIC closed chemical transfer kit for safe and convenient handling of chemicals in larger, refillable containers, and a 100 bar high-pressure washer for cleaning the sprayer and boom.