2007 Construction and Forestry News Releases and Information

MOLINE, Ill. (July 18, 2007) - The new John Deere 848H Skidder features a new Tier 3 PowerTech Plus™ engine with 224 peak gross horsepower and an exclusive lock-up torque converter for unmatched power and fuel efficiency.

The lock-up torque converter combines the benefits of a torque converter and direct drive to create a powerful, responsive and fuel efficient system, according to Keith Wilson, product manager for John Deere Construction & Forestry Company.

"Traditionally, the torque converters are easier to get going with a load of wood, while direct drives offer a bit more fuel efficiency," Wilson said. "The combination torque converter-direct drive on the 848H starts as a torque converter, then locks up as a direct drive, to deliver the benefits of both—the 848H stays engaged during shifting, resulting in higher productivity and a better ride for the operator."

Operators will be more productive and optimize uptime with the enhanced features available on the 848H. Like the rest of the H-Series, the 848H features best-in-class axles and grapples, and innovative features like dual-mode steering.

 The dual mode steering option allows operators to alternate between standard steering and quick-steer mode with the flip of a switch. The quick steer mode 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 the 848H 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."

Like the rest of the H-Series, the 848H comes 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. An easy to reach swing-out cooler and radiator simplifies cleaning, as well.

"Customers are impressed with our cooling system - they like the fact that they don’t have to clean out the engine compartment and they don’t have to worry about debris buildup," Wilson said. "And, our new cooler design, with the swing-out radiator and cooler placed side-by-side, allows for great service access and makes maintenance of the system easy."

Industry-leading, heavy-duty axles are a continued feature on the 848H. 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 848H Grapple comes standard with a 16 square foot area and 130 inch wide opening that can securely handle as much wood as larger competitive grapples. With the widest selection of innovative options and configurations, the 848H is tailored to meet each customer’s needs, according to Wilson.

"The 848H is built to do what skidders do best: get the job done," Wilson said. "Durable and efficient, this machine delivers the performance equipment owners expect from John Deere."

Key Specifications*

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

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