News & Events

John Deere’s Setting Directions – Turf product launch sees the addition of two new zero-turn mowers to the company’s range of riding lawn equipment, which includes the existing Z425 model. The Z225 is an entry level machine, while the Z645 has been designed to meet the requirements of semi-professional users.
 
Both these new John Deere zero-turn mowers represent state of the art mowing productivity and operator convenience, and are backed by the world class John Deere dealer network.
 
The homeowner solution: Z225
The Z225 is a new entry level zero-turn machine for fast, efficient and comfortable mowing. Equipped with a twin-cylinder engine developing 14.6kW at 3150rpm, it provides plenty of power and torque, whether you are discharging grass clippings to the side or using the optional collection system or mulching kit. The electronic ignition allows easy starting, while premium power and fuel economy are provided by the V-twin overhead valves and cast iron cylinder liners, which ensure a long engine life.
 
The Z225 can travel at speeds of up to 11.3kph and benefits from efficient, adjustable twin lever controls, which are very easy to use and feature shock absorbers for more comfortable operation. The large 33cm (13in) diameter front caster wheels and 18x8.5-8 rear drive tyres provide solid traction and a smoother ride.
 
A newly designed operator station on the Z225 features excellent visibility. In particular, the edge of the cutting deck can be easily seen when trimming up against obstacles. In addition, all the controls are colour coded for simple identification and operation.
For optimum safety, the operator must sit in the seat, engage the park brake and ensure both control levers are in the outward position before the engine can be started. The engine will also stall if the operator leaves the seat without the control levers in this position, and the park brake engaged.
The deep design of the 107cm (42in) mower deck helps to lift the grass for a clean and even cut. The mower’s high level of performance can be maintained by using the deck’s wash port, which allows a hosepipe to be connected directly to the deck for automatic cleaning.
The semi-professional solution: Z645
John Deere’s larger semi-professional zero-turn mower, the Z645, is equipped with a V-twin engine developing 15.4kW at 3350rpm. This provides high torque levels for all applications, with low vibration and noise levels. The Z645 is more robustly designed than the smaller Z225 and Z425 models and features an increased specification, including a heavy-duty pump and wheel motor transmission for extra reliability and long life.
The Z645 is equipped with a durable 122cm (48in) high-capacity mower deck, which is designed to handle larger volumes of grass and stand up to the most challenging mowing conditions. In addition, a foot pedal system makes it easy to lift and lower the deck, which is particularly useful when faced with obstacles such as kerbs and paths, for example.
The operator station features a deluxe high back seat, which can be easily adjusted in position for different operators. The control panel is conveniently located and provides easy access to the ignition switch, deck engagement and engine/choke controls, which also include the engine rpm speed control.

John Deere’s new X305R rear-discharge lawn tractor with collection system replaces the previous X300R model, and features a range of enhancements which make it even more versatile and productive.
 
The X305R has a powerful two-cylinder Kawasaki engine developing 12.2kW at 3100 rpm, which has been specifically manufactured for John Deere. This engine provides sufficient power to handle difficult working conditions while also providing a high level of fuel efficiency.
 
The TurboStar mowing system on the X305R lawn tractor offers excellent grass collection properties. Its enhanced fan features larger diameter, reinforced 8mm blades, and the fan is directly mounted on top of the mower deck for improved material flow into the collection hopper.
 
A low lift blade is used to feed the fan more efficiently, which improves material collection even further, and the mower stops automatically as soon as the hopper is full. This means the hopper’s capacity can be fully utilised, and blockages are avoided.

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.

Following the introduction in spring 2011 of the new 8R Series tractors from 260 to 360hp, designed to meet European Stage IIIB emissions regulations, John Deere has announced a number of significant updates to the range for 2012.
The 8260R, 8285R, 8310R, 8335R and 8360R tractors feature the new fuel efficient PowerTech PSX 9-litre six-cylinder engine, which provides higher horsepower and torque while utilising field-proven technology to meet the new emissions standards. These new tractors each offer an increase of 15hp over the previous 8R models, with the potential to add a further 35hp boost using Intelligent Power Management (IPM) in non-stationary pto and transport applications.
This engine utilises established exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) technology, with the addition of an exhaust filter that contains a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) and a diesel particulate filter (DPF), as widely used in the construction and automotive industries. This automatically cleans itself during normal machine operation.
New tracked versions of the top three models will be available from November 2011, designated the 8310RT, 8335RT and 8360RT. These machines offer increased traction, flotation and pulling power for specific applications, and feature the established AirCushion suspension system.
A new integrated front hitch with a lift capacity of 5.2 tonnes is now available ex-factory, providing enough power to lift heavy front-mounted implements such as mowers or seed hoppers. The front hitch is compatible with the John Deere intelligent Total Equipment Control (iTEC) system, which allows the operator to automate multiple tractor functions simultaneously.
Available in three versions, a new independent 1000rpm front pto delivers up to 175hp and is equipped with an interchangeable flanged shaft. This gives the operator more flexibility to use both older front-end equipment and the latest available models. In addition to the front hitch improvements, the new 8R Series tractors feature up to six SCVs at the rear, providing even greater versatility for the most demanding applications.
There is the same choice of 16/5 automatic PowerShift or AutoPowr continuously variable transmissions on all new models, wheeled and tracked, except the top of the range 8360R, which is AutoPowr only. Independent Link Suspension (ILS) is also available as standard with the 50kph AutoPowr transmission, and optional on the 40kph AutoPowr and PowerShift transmissions.
The new range is available with complimentary JDLink Ultimate telematics plus Service ADVISOR remote monitoring and diagnostics systems for the first year, as well as a new, advanced GreenStar 3 CommandCenter cab display. New ActiveCommand Steering (ACS), which won a DLG gold medal at Agritechnica in 2009, is also optionally available. The new John Deere 8R Series tractors are also fitted as standard with CESAR Datatag and immobiliser systems, with a unique transponder based key.

With more than 550,000 units produced by the Mannheim factory since 1992, John Deere’s 6000 Series is Europe’s most successful tractor range. The newly styled 6R Series models now introduce new levels of power, performance and operator comfort, including improved suspension, unprecedented cab visibility, more powerful hydraulics and increased lift capacities. For added security, 6R tractors are also fitted as standard with CESAR Datatag and immobiliser systems, with a unique transponder based key.
Three large frame models are initially available, the 6170R, 6190R and 6210R, equipped with a Stage IIIB 6.8-litre six-cylinder PowerTech PVX 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.
This is more power than the existing 7830 tractor from the 7030 Series, yet it weighs 1.5 tonnes less, at under 8 tonnes, which provides the ultimate power-to-weight ratio for this category of tractor. Based on John Deere’s established full-frame design, these new models also have a longer wheelbase of 2.8m and can be fitted with larger Group 48 tyres with a maximum diameter of 205cm, the same size as 8R Series tractors.
This will help to deliver extra traction by delivering all the power to the ground, while at the same time minimising soil compaction, thus increasing overall productivity and performance. The heavy-duty rear axle also provides fast and stepless tread setting changes. A 2.25m tread setting is available for either fixed or adjustable wheels, with the option of a flanged or rack & pinion axle for extra versatility.
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. The loaders are available in non self-levelling (NSL), mechanical self-levelling (MSL) and hydraulic self-levelling (HSL) versions, with a wide range of attachments.
The loader boom suspension can be switched on and off from the cab via a button on the new mechanical joystick control lever, which can operate up to three independent hydraulic functions simultaneously. The new loaders also feature the established MemoSystem for automatic positioning of the bucket or implement.
John Deere’s fuel efficient diesel-only engine uses field proven technology to meet the latest emissions standards, based on exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), with the addition of an exhaust filter that contains a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) and a diesel particulate filter (DPF), as widely used in the construction and automotive industries. An innovative distributed cooling system further improves engine performance.
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, the operator 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.
The new 6R ComfortView cab has over 20 per cent more space and a similar increase in visibility. It offers a completely new level of operator comfort, with features such as the 7in full-colour GreenStar 3 CommandCenter display with optional touch screen and video capability, adjustable air suspended seat, integrated climate and radio controls, Bluetooth connectivity and an optional panorama roof. The display is fully compatible with ISOBUS and tractor-implement automation (TIA) applications.
The right-hand CommandArm console helps to maximise productivity with hot keys for field cruise control, the iTEC automatic implement control system, transmission and pto settings, all hitch functions and MFWD controls. It also accommodates the radio, air conditioning and light controls. The optional all-in-one GreenStar 2630 display has a robust touch screen with backlit LCD, This enables powerful applications such as Guidance Pro modules, advanced ISOBUS capability, documentation and video monitoring of implements.
Further options include the new HCS Plus hydraulic cab suspension and TLS Plus triple link suspension for the front axle, to provide optimum traction and field performance. TLS Plus transfers up to 7 per cent more power onto the ground, and features +/-50mm of suspension travel as well as automatic adjustment of axle sensitivity and the suspension rate.
The new versatile lighting system on 6R Series tractors delivers 185 per cent more light output compared to previous models. It includes up to 10 cab lights integrated into the front, rear and sides of the roof line to provide 360 degree visibility, plus six adjustable belt-line and rear fender field lights, and six field, spot and road lights on the bonnet grille. Eight optional Xenon lights are also available, and all the lights are controlled from the CommandCenter display.