John Deere is continuing the performance tiering journey that began in 2020 and chose CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2023 as the world stage to introduce new models and technology features. At the event, the company unveiled new models in the small dozer, large scraper, compact track loader, skid steer loader and cold planing attachment line-ups.
"At this year's CONEXPO/CON-AGG show, we are thrilled to debut equipment in a variety of product categories, helping expand offerings for customers seeking a smarter, more efficient job site," said Ryan Campbell, president, construction and forestry division and power systems, John Deere. "What better place to launch these new machines than first-hand with the customers and operators they were intended for."
Featuring the entry level solution EZ Grade in base models with EH controls, as well as optional slope control and 2D laser capabilities, the 450, 550 and 650 P-Tier machines are technology-packed, offering intuitive operations. All models are compatible with laser receivers, helping to control elevation and slope while utilizing a rotating laser. The P-Tier small dozers with EH controls arrive from the factory with EZ Grade features, however, the owner can upgrade to Slope Control or SmartGrade technology in the future, if desired. As an additional feature, the new 8-in. touchscreen cab display offers navigation of slope control and machine settings on EH machines.
For operator performance, the new P-Tier small dozers feature a variety of strategic design choices aimed to support visibility and comfort. Featuring a 14% larger cab than previous models, the P-Tier machines offer storage space and easier ingress or egress capabilities. In addition, customers can now proportionally control the blade's angle and change travel direction through the use of the integrated FNR switch. Impacting operator visibility, the new hood design, straightened and lowered 5-in. on 650 P-Tier and 7-in. on the 450 and 550 P-Tier models, helps with forward visibility and straight sightlines to the front of the machine. Also, with the removal of the DEF system, the 450 P-Tier model offers maintenance and reduced system complexity while meeting emissions regulations. Lastly, the optional LED light package and rear-view camera support visibility on the jobsite.
Designed as an additional method of earthmoving, the John Deere 3812 large scraper, paired with the latest 460 P-Tier articulated dump truck, offers a 38-yd. capacity and can be used in push load or top load applications. The 3812 is the first Articulated Dump Truck drawn scraper to enter the John Deere lineup and features scraper controls that fully integrate with the 460 P-Tier ADT. Once the ADT is in scraper mode, the operator simply goes to work as the ADT and Scraper pan are integrated as one machine. Meanwhile, the ADT automatically optimizes engine torque curves and differential locks and selects a maximum cut gear. Further integration includes scraper brakes, Deere encoded cylinders and a scraper pro package that enables push-button sequencing, additional cameras, scraper position and feedback to the operator all through the new high-resolution display. Lastly, the hitch and platform design allow conversion between an ADT with a dump bin or pulling a scraper, giving customers fleet flexibility and utilization of their equipment.
On the compact front, John Deere is expanding its performance tiering strategy and introducing a new generation of large frame compact track loaders and skid steer loaders. At the show, three of the five machines in this generation were on display, including the 333 P-Tier and the all-new 334 P-Tier skid steer loader and 335 P-Tier compact track loader models. These machines have features like redesigned cabs with creature comforts including heated and vented seats, touchscreen displays, hands-free Bluetooth technology and JDLink telematics, as well as can be equipped with optional surround view capabilities. The brand new 334 P-Tier and 335 P-Tier are optimized for customers who require more horsepower and hydraulic flow from a compact machine. Featuring 118 gross horsepower in addition to pressure compensated load sensing hydraulics, these machines are designed for demanding applications. Complementary to these machines, John Deere will also launch two new mulching head attachments, the MK76 and the MH72D.
John Deere cold planer attachments powered by Wirtgen cutting technology were also showcased at CONEXPO. Compatible with some current G-series skid steer models, as well as P-Tier skid steer loaders, four widths, including 18, 24, 30 and 40-in. sizes, will be available to match customer's milling needs. These cold planers provide intuitive in-cab controls, including tilt float activation for pass matching across rolling terrain. Visible indicators for side plate depth, tilt angle and milling drum cut boundary helps with jobsite accuracy, while an optional pressure gauge aids in monitoring milling performance. Also, an optional water tank mounts within the cold planer frame for filling and the nozzle kit suppresses dust. The incorporated indicators help monitor drum width and cut boundary during operation.
