John Deere: 7R Series tractors revealed

John Deere’s new range of 7R Series tractors feature new levels of power, manoeuvrability and adaptability to road transport, combined with enhanced operator comfort and improved ergonomics. Designed as versatile work-horses for contractors and medium sized to large arable farms, there are five new models rated at a maximum 230-310hp with Intelligent Power Management (IPM).
Having optimised the performance of its field-proven and user-friendly high-pressure common rail PowerTech Plus engine technology, John Deere has focused on keeping things simple with a single fluid approach on these latest models. The new 7R Series engines all conform to the stringent Stage 3B emission standards, while applying the diesel-only principle.
The 9.0-litre PowerTech PVX engine on the three larger models – 7230R, 7260R and 7280R – features a variable geometry turbocharger, cooled exhaust gas recirculation and exhaust filters, which include a diesel oxidation catalyst and a diesel particulate filter. The two smaller models – 7200R and 7215R – are powered by 6.8-litre PowerTech PSX engine using a series turbocharger, which combines a low-pressure fixed geometry and a high-pressure variable geometry turbocharger system.
With IPM, both the 9.0-litre and 6.8-litre PowerTech PVX and PSX engines deliver an additional 30hp, providing higher power density for transport and non-stationary PTO applications. As a result, these tractors feature instant acceleration when needed most, for example when travelling uphill with a heavy load. The 544-litre fuel tank also provides many productive hours of continuous operation, with fewer stops to refuel.
Besides the engine, several other features make a significant contribution to optimum fuel economy, such as the electronically controlled viscous fan cooling system which automatically adjusts fan speed to match load changes. A ‘push fan system’ manages airflow direction to maximise efficiency of the cooling system, with the air being pushed into the engine compartment instead of pulled in. This helps to minimise dirt intake and keeps the radiator clean.

The new 7R Series from John Deere has been designed with road transport applications in mind.

The transmission also plays an important role, with fuel efficiency the direct result of the driver’s skill. To match the variety of a contractor’s operations, John Deere 7R Series tractors offer a choice of four field- and road-proven transmission technologies:

• The 20 forward/20 reverse speed PowerQuad Plus automatically selects the best possible gear when shifting between ranges (Speed Matching). It features a hand declutch function that makes range shifts smoother, and a SoftShift mode that automatically adjusts the engine throttle to facilitate smooth gear changes.
• With its FieldCruise and EcoShift functions, the 20 forward/20 reverse speed AutoQuad Plus transmission also features the hand declutch function.
• John Deere’s newly designed CommandQuad transmission includes an Efficiency Manager that makes sure the gear and throttle work hand in hand to optimise fuel efficiency. There is a choice between a fully automatic mode, with gear and engine rpm selection depending on load, and a manual mode for targeted speed applications, which includes five ranges and four power speeds per range. In addition to the convenient CommandArm control, this transmission features 42 and 50km/hr Eco options and a left hand reverser for easy direction changes.
• For maximum fuel efficiency, the AutoPowr infinitely variable transmission has been completely redesigned. This enables the driver to smoothly shift from zero to maximum speed with no clutching at all, and keeps the speed steady by automatically responding to load changes.

    Along with the narrow engine bonnet design and the sleek and modern styling of the entire tractor, the new 7R Series machines feature a newly designed CommandView II cab for long working days in the field and on the road. New levels of comfort are provided by the spacious interior, the armrest controlled and roof-integrated air-conditioning system, all-round visibility both day and night with the additional glass surface area and 360-degree lighting pattern, comfortable seat options and more storage space than ever before.
For maximum operator comfort, the 7R Series tractors are optionally available with ActiveSeat suspension to compensate for up to 90 per cent of the tractor’s vertical movements, as well as hydraulic cab suspension. This is a semi-active dampening system that anticipates loads and braking to maintain the overall balance of the cab, while providing the driver with an accurate feel for the tractor and ground surface.
The new right-hand CommandArm console with its integrated CommandCenter display puts all key tractor functions within easy reach of the operator. The seven-inch CommandCenter display, which is isobus compatible and includes Access Manager as standard, offers touchscreen and video options and accommodates key functions such as the canbus controlled SCVs and intelligent Total Equipment Control (iTEC), which allows the operator to automate multiple functions, simultaneously.

The 7R series features the CommandArm console first seen on the 8R tractors. It is seen here with the AutoPowr control lever (front left).

In addition, important AMS precision farming applications can now be operated via the CommandCenter display, including AutoTrac and Sprayer Pro. The CommandArm console features the settings for cruise control, iTEC, transmission and PTO settings, hitch functions, air-conditioning and radio controls, front-wheel-drive engagement and the light controls. John Deere 7R Series tractors equipped with PowerQuad Plus or AutoQuad Plus transmissions feature an alternative right-hand control console.
Another option is the GreenStar 2630 display, a robust touch screen monitor equipped with USB ports and a backlit LCD. This enables the use of AutoTrac and Guidance Pro modules, and provides isobus capability, documentation, video functionality, Access Manager and a stand-by mode.

John Deere’s new H Series loaders are ideally matched to the 7R Series tractors.

The newly designed structural chassis of the 7R Series tractors takes advantage of the high power density to cope easily with demanding load and draft applications. For putting maximum power onto the ground, the tractors are equipped with Triple Link Suspension Plus. This features self-levelling and automatic adjustment of axle sensitivity.
Also optionally available on the new 7R Series tractors is John Deere’s exclusive fly-by-wire ActiveCommand Steering, which reduces steering effort in order to minimise operator fatigue and improve driving comfort and control. This fully electronic steering control system automatically adjusts the road wheel angle based on the lateral acceleration of the tractor. This system improves control when cornering at transport speeds, as well as the tractor’s ability to hold a straight line. Furthermore, the system’s Variable Ratio Steering module reduces lock-to-lock turning in the field, for quicker headland turns. Compared to a conventional steering system, ActiveCommand Steering enables a 75 per cent reduction in typical hand movement.
To keep the new 7R Series tractors running at night, they can be equipped with up to 12 working lights, which can be integrated into the cab roof to provide 360-degree visibility. Also available are four adjustable belt-line and rear fender field lights, and eight field, spot and road lights on the bonnet grille to guide the operator from dusk till dawn if necessary. Additional lighting options are available for large front-mounted implements. Overall the 7R Series tractors feature a 74 per cent increase in available luminescence over standard lighting packages.
Other key features of John Deere’s all-new 7R Series tractors include:

• Hydraulics: closed-centre, pressure and flow compensated hydraulic system with up to six rear SCVs and up to three mid-mounted SCVs. Three hydraulic pump options from 121-222 litr/min. Oil take-out capacity of up to 85 litres for a maximum pressure level of 200 bar.
• Rear hitch: lift capacity up to 9,562kg on the 7200R, 7215R and 7230R and 10,788kg on the 7260R and 7280R.
• Front hitch: lift capacity up to 5,200kg, remote raise/lower switch, and front isobus-ready set-up. Up to two SCVs, optional push bar.
• Rear PTO: up to three speeds, including economy speed, with three-speed PTOs shiftable directly via the CommandCenter display – 1,000rpm, 1,000/540rpm, 540E/1,000/1,000 E rpm and 540/540E/1,000rpm.
• Front PTO: factory installed 1,000rpm front PTO supports remote engagement, as well as clockwise and counter-clockwise engagement.

    John Deere’s new 7R Series tractors provide instant access to all critical functions and parts for fast and easy daily servicing. John Deere dealers are able to keep the tractors running in optimum condition, for example using the Service Advisor diagnostics system, which can also be remotely operated for fast and reliable service inspections.

7R Series tractor specification

For more information visit: www.johndeere.co.uk.