2006 Construction and Forestry News Releases and Information

MOLINE, Ill. (February 6, 2006)—The new John Deere 27D Compact Excavator provides even more productivity due to reduced cycle times and a long arm option, as well as better operator comfort with updated controls and a redesigned cab. Additionally, great fuel economy and long service intervals combine to deliver low operating costs.

"This versatile, productive machine is ideally suited to a wide variety of applications," said Mark Wall, product marketing manager, John Deere Construction & Forestry. "We've kept the best features of the C-Series—overall design and great fuel economy—while enhancing numerous features to deliver the hardest-working, most comfortable compact excavator on the market."

Productivity receives a boost from numerous improvements, including increased operating speeds, 50 percent more drawbar pull and automatic shifting between high and low travel speeds. Cycle times have been cut by 18 percent, allowing operators to dig more cubic yards per hour. A new long arm/counterweight option adds approximately twelve inches of dig depth and reach. Powered by a Yanmar 3TNV88 engine, the 27D engine displacement has increased from 1.496 L to 1.642 L. This engine also features a higher torque curve. The operator's station provides significant improvements that greatly enhance operator comfort. The cab is five inches wider and both hand and foot control levers have been better positioned for easier operating and to provide more room. Foot room also has increased due to relocation of the speed selector switch and new foldable travel pedals. The repositioned monitor provides better visibility, as well as two trip meters that can be set to remind operators when service is required. The cab door now features a bi-fold design that allows the operator to lock it back against the cab in the open position. Factory-installed air conditioning is standard when the optional ROPS cab is ordered. A cup holder also is standard.

Several new features enhance uptime in this machine. Key among these enhancements is an updated undercarriage that sheds dirt easily and reduces the time it takes to clean the machine. Improved rubber tracks are harder and have a reshaped core to resist cracking. Additionally, the drive sprocket and track idler have increased in diameter to provide additional durability and help reduce the chance of "throwing" a track.

Other improvements also maximize reliability. The boom cylinder guard has reinforcement ribs that improve strength and reduce the likelihood of cylinder damage. Easily replaced front hoses in the swing post transition area can quickly be replaced without tilting the cab or routing the hoses to the control valve.

"John Deere compact excavators have always been among the most reliable units on the market—however, we're continually striving to reduce interruptions and lower daily operating costs," Wall said. "The redesigned undercarriage and other features further ensure the 27D works longer and harder than competitive machines."

The 27D has been designed to be easily serviced and maintained. The operator station tilts forward 50 degrees for easy access to the control valve and front side engine components. All service checks can be performed by opening just two covers. In addition, extended service intervals save both time and money, with a 500-hour interval for engine oil change and greasing, and 2,000-hour interval for hydraulic oil change. A variety of Worksite Pro™ buckets—including all of the tools that worked with the 27C ZTS—work with the 27D. Compatible breakers, augers and thumbs also are available and enhance the versatility of this machine. Buckets for the 27D also are interchangeable with the quick-coupler option on the 110TLB and 35D.

About John Deere: John Deere (Deere & Company-NYSE:DE) is the world's leading manufacturer of agricultural and forestry equipment; a major manufacturer of construction equipment; and a leading supplier of equipment used in lawn, grounds and turf care. Additionally, John Deere manufactures engines used in heavy equipment and provides financial services and other related activities that support the core businesses. Since it was founded in 1837, the company has established a heritage of quality products and services providing performance that endures to customers worldwide.

Key Specifications*:

* Specifications subject to change. Please contact your local dealer  for more detailed information.

Contact:
Lara Holy
913/901-2119
holyl@weyforth-haas.com

Tara Wiles
913/901-2192
wilest@weyforth-haas.com