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2007 Construction and Forestry News Releases and Information

John Deere Skidders Reflect Dedication to the Woods

New H-Series Offers Fuel Efficiency, New Features, and Optimal Reliability

MOLINE, Ill.(June 27, 2007)—The new John Deere H-Series Skidders—including the 640H, 648H and 748H models provide loggers with an even higher level of productivity and overall performance. Featuring fuel efficient 6.8L Tier 3 PowerTech Plus™ 6068 engines with up to 202 peak gross horsepower, these machines deliver unmatched power in any condition.

“The H-Series Skidders demonstrate why John Deere is the industry leader,” said Keith Wilson, product manager for John Deere Construction & Forestry Company. “ With best-in-class axles and grapples, and innovative features like dual-mode steering, these skidder are built to take on any logging application.”

 John Deere Forestry - 748H Skidder

Operators will be more productive and optimize uptime with the enhanced features available on the H-Series Skidders. Models 640H and 648H come standard with a Powershift™ torque-converter transmission.  A direct drive Powershift transmission feature, optional on the 640H and 648H and standard on the 748H, puts the most power to the axles for working on mostly firm ground and for short-to-medium skidding distances.

The dual mode steering option allows you to alternate between standard steering and quick-steer mode with the flip of a switch. The quick steer mode on these machines is similar to the steering mode offered by other skidder brands, where the machine will continually steer with little input to the wheel. But the advantage of John Deere skidders is that operators are given the choice between two steering modes. The quick steer mode is particularly good for working in tight quarters and backing up to trees, while the standard mode works best with long skids or when “roading.”

All models come equipped with a hydraulically driven fan that automatically reverses every 20 minutes, ejecting debris from the radiator and coolers for more uptime and productivity. Operators can also initiate the cleaning cycle manually at the touch of a button.

Industry-leading, heavy-duty axles are a continued feature on all three models. Further durability enhancements include a new center-hinged seal that extends the life of the center joint by keeping out abrasive debris. The axle-mounting joint also has been improved, with two additional bolts to each joint.

The 648H and 748H Grapple skidders are available in either four single-function or three dual-function models to suit the application. The 748H Grapple comes available with an optional 16-square-foot area and 130-inch–wide opening that can securely handle more wood than larger competitive grapples. The 640H Cable skidder is easily operated with a single lever. With the widest selection of innovative options and configurations, the 648H and 748H models are tailored to meet each customer’s needs, according to Wilson.

“Whether skidding logs or moving a log loader, these workhorses are purpose-built to do what skidders do best: get the job done,” Wilson said. “Durable and efficient, they deliver on the performance our customers expect from John Deere.”

 

Specifications*:

 

640H/648H with Direct Drive

640H/648H with Torque Converter

748H

Engine

6.8L Tier 3 PowerTech Plus

6.8L Tier 3 PowerTech Plus

6.8L Tier 3 PowerTech Plus

Rated gross hp

172 hp (128 kW)

185 hp (138 kW)

189 hp (141 kW)

Peak gross hp

184 hp (137 kW)

NA

202 hp (151 kW)

Tong opening at tips

115 in. (2921 mm) (648H only)

115 in. (2921 mm) (648H only)

127 in. (3236 mm)

Grapple area

10.4 sq.ft. (1 m2) (648H only)

10.4 sq.ft. (1 m2) (648H only)

14.9 sq.ft. (1.4 m2)

Wheelbase

135 in.

137 in.

149 in.

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

John Deere (Deere & Company - NYSE: DE) is the world’s leading provider of advanced products and services for agriculture and forestry and a major provider of advanced products and services for construction, lawn and turf care, landscaping and irrigation. John Deere also provides financial services worldwide and manufactures and markets engines used in heavy equipment. Since it was founded in 1837, the company has extended its heritage of integrity, quality, commitment and innovation around the globe.

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

Mary Young
913/901-2192
youngm@weyforth-haas.com


 




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