February 19, 2007 - Hay producers are always looking for ways to improve efficiency with hay handling equipment. With that in mind, John Deere announces the introduction of a new line of round balers that allow faster field speeds, improved feeding, and additional productivity features to help bale more hay in less time.

"We've replaced the 7 Series with the upgraded, more productive 8 Series Round Balers," says Bernie Allport, Product Development Manager, John Deere Limited. "Eight new models will be available to help producers make perfectly-sized and shaped round bales."

A significant feature on the new 8 Series Round Balers is the optional MegaWidePlus™ Pickup. This high-capacity pickup is 30 centimetres wider than the bale chamber and is designed with heavier pickup teeth to help gather in crop in wide or wind-blown windrows. It also features a new Roller Baffle™ that is self-adjusting and produces a much smoother crop flow across the width of the pickup for improved feeding in all crops.

"The MegaWidePlus™ Pickup and Roller Baffle™ allows for increased ground speed with less chance of plugging for increased productivity," explains Allport. "Producers will be able to bale faster and smoother with the new balers. And, gauge wheels are standard equipment on this new pickup to help protect the baler from damage in uneven ground conditions."

The 8 Series Round Balers also feature a stronger tractor hook-up driveline. This is standard equipment on all balers and weight has been rebalanced on the driveline to allow for easier tractor hook-up.

"Available on the 468, 468 Silage Special, and 568 models are large 21.5x16.1 high-flotation tyres," says Allport. "These tyres provide a smoother ride in rough or pivot track ground and help to decrease overall compaction. They facilitate increased ground speed for increased productivity and can only be ordered with the MegaWidePlus™ pickup."

Standard equipment on the 468, 468 Silage Special, and 568 baler is a new twine storage system with 33 percent more twine-carrying capacity. The balers feature an eight ball storage system with four balls on each side of the machine. This system keeps the operator more productive in the field by reducing the stops needed to reload twine.

"Diamond Tough™ Triple Weave Belts are standard equipment on all balers except the 448 and 458 Standard models,” explains Allport. "These new belts are designed with Mato-type riveted plate splices for longer life and improved reliability. They are more puncture/tear resistant and are the most dependable belts on the market."

Other features on the 468, 468 Silage Special, and 568 models include heavier drive chains, idlers, and sprockets for longer life. Also, for CoverEdge™ Surface Wrap machines, the lube lines have been lowered to make grease points easier to reach. Gate close switches have been relocated and improved for reliability.

For more information on John Deere products visit our Web site at www.deere.com.au or FREECALL 1800 800 981 in Australia or 0800 303 100 in New Zealand to contact your local John Deere dealer.