2017 International Forest Industries Magazines IFI Aug Sept 2017 v2 | Page 65

The L-Series models feature a Continuously Variable Transmission
Since introducing its first skidder
in 1965, John Deere has been
dedicated to developing machines
that meet the needs of the
operator, regardless of the jobsite
conditions they may face. Like
its predecessors, the John Deere
L-Series Skidders offer the quality
and reliability loggers need to
tackle tough jobs.
In order to maintain the quality
and performance that loggers
expect in a John Deere machine, the
L-Series Skidders were improved
this past spring. The updated
L-Series models boast best-in-class
horsepower and power-to-weight
ratio, an improved after-treatment
system, and new grapple and boom
options. These features, combined
with the quiet and spacious cab,
improve productivity and operator
comfort.
Increased power and
performance
The updated L-Series Skidders
offer operators increased
horsepower, increasing pulling
power and faster multifunctioning
capabilities. The 648L, 748L,
848L, and 948L models offer
the maximum horsepower for
each size class, with the 300 HP
948L Skidder boasting highest
horsepower on the market.
Enhancements to the 648L and
748L improve pulling power
during skidding activities, and
the 848L and 948L have better
multifunctioning capabilities for
increased handling performance.
The L-Series models feature a
Continuously Variable Transmission
(CVT) – a hydrostatically assisted
mechanical transmission that
automatically adjusts the output
torque, delivering maximum power
to the ground without manually
shifting gears.
By keeping engine speed
constant, the transmission
allows for maximum horsepower
utilization and increased fuel
efficiency with minimal heat
generation. This gives the L-Series
skidders the fuel efficiency of a
torque converter, with the smooth,
easy-operability of a hydrostatic
drive.
“The Continuously Variable
Transmission is really smooth
– there are no ‘shift shocks’ or
jerking,” said Buddy Lominick
of Big Pine Logging. “You have a
constant, steady pull so you don’t
lose anything.”
Excellent operator station
The L-Series Skidders are designed
to provide optimal comfort to
operators, reducing fatigue even
during long days on the job. Not
only does the John Deere skidder
feature the largest and quietest
cab on the market, but it also offers
fatigue-beating comforts like the
powerful HVAC system, ergonomic
controls and storage space.
A rotating seat with joystick
steering helps reduce strain on
the back and neck. As noted by
Peter Schmidt of Forest Trotter
Contracting: “Our operators are
extremely comfortable in these
new machines. The cabs are huge.
And with the rotating-seat option,
they’re not constantly straining
their necks over a long shift.”
New grapple and boom
options
The latest updates to the John
Deere skidders allowed for new
grapple and boom options to offer
customers additional solutions for
nearly any application. A new 17.5
ft2 (1.63 m2) grapple option for
all dual function models increases
productivity by reducing the
amount of trips needed in thinning
applications with the 648 and 748
models.
This option was added based
on customer requests and with the
additional grapple size it gives John
Deere industry-leading grapple size
options and a huge range of sizes.
“The grapple improvements are
unreal,” noted Schmidt. “They’re
bigger, tougher and stronger.”
The extended boom reach
option is designed for steep or
uneven terrain. The longer boom
allows for increase lift height and
improves rearward and downward
reach. The new booms also reduce
interference with the arch, fenders,
and tyres during turning and
grapple rotation.
Simplified service
John Deere also recently
made changes to simplify the
engine after-treatment system.
Redundant temperature sensors
have been removed, reducing
International Forest Industries | AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2017 63