Farm machinery powerhouse John Deere is set to expand its current 8R series workhorse line-up to include six new wheel and three new tracked models.
The six new wheel models – 8245R, 8270R, 8295R, 8320R, 8345R, and 8370R; along with its tracked cousins 8320RT, 8345RT and 8370RT are expected to arrive in Australia and New Zealand in mid-2014.
John Deere says the new additions will be available with either a US EPA Tier 2 emissions regulations compliant John Deere PowerTech Engine or a US Tier 4 compliant John Deere PowerTech PSS SCR engine ranging from 180 to 272kW (245 to 370 hp).
John Deere Limited Marketing Manager Steve Wright says the company recognises the need to provide Australian and New Zealand producers with choice when it comes to engine preference.
“The more economically priced Tier 2 engine provides no fuss power and performance and exceptional customer value,” he says.
“We’ve also increased the engine power ratings of all 8R models and booted the max hydraulic flow capacity by up to 41 per cent to 321 LPM (85 gpm).”
“This 8R option allows customers to operate at reduced engine speed while handling larger implements such as planters that require high, constant flow rates.”
The new 8R tractors are available with a 16-speed PowerShift or a John Deere Infinity Variable Transmission (IVT).
The 8345R, 8370R and all three track models feature the IVT as standard.
In addition, Group 49 rear tyres are available on all wheel models which John Deere says will help improve traction, increase load-carrying capacity and reduce soil compaction in the field due to a larger tyre footprint.
Another important new feature on the new models, John Deere adds, is a completely redesigned John Deere CommandARM console with improved ergonomics and integration of intuitive controls for major tractor functions such as AutoTrac resume, throttle, transmission, SCVs, PTO and hitch.
The CommandARM comes with a 10-inch 4600 CommandCenter display that swivels with the operator and can be equipped with John Deere GreenStar software such as AutoTrac. The display has 800×600 DPI resolution, four USB inputs, four video inputs and 32GB of memory.
“The new CommandARM with the larger CommandCenter display adds greatly to the improved operator control and comfort of the new 8R and 8RT tractors,” Wright says.
“The new display is easy to use and operators can customise the pages to view the functions that are most important.”
“It comes standard as a touch-screen display with video-streaming capabilities for remote cameras that can be attached to planters or other implements.”
A new CommandView III Cab with a 40-degree right-hand swivel operator’s seat is also part of the package, which John Deere says will give operators a more comfortable unrestricted view to the rear of the tractor and implements.
“For models ordered with the US EPA Final Tier 4 engine, we’ve designed the new CommandView III Cab with laminated glass, a strategically placed insulation barrier, and an optional carpet floor mat to reduce noise and vibrations,” Wright says.
“Other enhancements include additional sunshades, window wipers, and improved key location which are complemented by the swivel seat to make it a quieter and more comfortable work environment.”
Both 8R and 8RT models come with JDLink and John Deere FarmSight capabilities for improved visibility to operational and machine data via Wireless Data Transfer and Remote Display Access.
“With the selection of power and optional features available, these 8R/8RT tractors will fit a wide variety of farming operations and provide years of reliable service in the field,” Wright says.
Interested Australian and NZ customers are urged to place their orders for the new models now with arrival of machinery estimated to be in July 2014.
For more information, visit John Deere’s website.
Specifications of the new models will be added as soon as we receive them.
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