Farming Monthly National September 2018 | Page 40

| Machinery CommandPRO for all 6R Series tractors ohn Deere’s CommandPRO joystick is now available for all small and mid-range 6R Series tractors. These models also feature the new CommandCentre 4200 display, which provides all six AEF* certified ISObus functions (*Agricultural Industry Electronics Foundation). In addition, all 6R Series models above 130hp now meet Stage V emission standards. aunched at the end of 2016, Mannheim’s flagship 6230R and 6250R with CommandPRO set new standards for John Deere tractors, with the joystick introducing a new dimension in ergonomics and versatility. Top speed can be reached with just one push, and 11 programmable buttons are available for the hitch, PTO, SCVs, AutoTrac controls etc. The functionality of CommandPRO allows the tractor to be controlled from top speed to zero with a simple push or pull of the joystick, and lower speeds from 0 to 2kph can be achieved with the creeper control function. L Both the joystick and pedals can be operated at the same time, and there is no need for an external ISObus joystick as the driver can also operate the tractor and ISObus functions simultaneously. CommandPRO will be available on the wider 6R Series range in combination with John Deere’s AutoPowr transmission, and both features are standard on the 6R Ultimate Edition models. CommandPRO can be ordered in combination with either the 4600 or the new 4200 CommandCentre display. The 4200 replaces the 7in 4100 unit and features a larger 8.4in screen. This terminal controls AutoTrac, Section Control, data d ocumentation and other applications. It is also ready for all AEF certified ISObus functions such as joystick control and data transfer between tractor and implements. Furthermore, all 6R Series tractors can be equipped with variable ratio steering (VRS). This requires less arm movement and significantly less steering effort, allowing quick and smooth headland turns. The system can be activated and deactivated from the tractor’s CommandCentre control console. Additional operator comfort is provided by the leather steering wheel as well as a self-cancelling turn signal. Equipped with a larger hydraulic pump, the 6145R and 6155R models now deliver a powerful maximum flow of 155 litres/min. This is an increase of 23 per cent compared to the previous pump. With the larger 6R Series models above 130hp featuring Stage V compliant engines, John Deere is already achieving the stringent emission values that will apply from 1 January 2019 for tractors above 170hp. The latest PowerMix test in Germany clearly shows that there is no conflict between low emission values and engine efficiency. The 6250R has set a new fluid efficiency benchmark at the DLG test centre in Groß- Umstadt, achieving the best result in this horsepower segment with a total fluid consumption of only 364g/kWh in transport mode. New tracks and higher performance for John Deere combines John Deere is expanding its range of innovative, advanced technology combine harvesters for 2019. n addition to the all-new W330 and W440 compact machines, the W- and T-Series are being updated with higher performance features, and completely new tracks are being introduced, with numerous options and benefits. The next generation of John Deere track systems sets a new standard in the combine industry, offering 20 per cent more comfort, a 30 per cent larger footprint and 50 per cent more uptime. Manufactured by Soucy, the new rubber tracks are available for all I S-Series combines plus the T560, T660 and T670 models. On average the footprint is now 30 per cent larger compared to existing systems on the market. Due to a significantly longer track belt design, the 24in (609mm) track option for the S700 and T- Series combines has the same footprint as competitive 30in (762mm) versions, while transport width remains below 3.5m and is only 3.29m on the five-walker T- Series model. Top speed is up to 40kph on all models, while ride comfort has been improved by an undercarriage with five pivot 40 | Farming Monthly | September 2018 points. Measurements taken at the axles and the cab floor have confirmed a 20 per cent more comfortable ride compared to a competitive make. Increased uptime is achieved by using four instead of three steel cord layers on the new tracks, while the track profile has also been improved, with the lugs now deeper and angled at 55 degrees. In addition, track durability has been road tested using a front- mounted eight-row maize header. With the combine running at a test speed of 40kph for seven hours a day over 20 days, the result was 50 per cent more durability than the previous design. The tracks can be replaced by wheels if required for field work or to enable easier resale of the combine. More details from the John Deere website. www.farmingmonthly.co.uk