Customers purchasing a new John Deere 8R tractor can now specify a fully integrated tyre pressure control system, ex-factory, complete with independent link suspension.
Using an onboard compressor, the in-house developed system allows the tractor driver to monitor and adjust tyre pressure at the push of a button. This means that tyres can be optimised for field and roadwork to improve tractor performance and reduce ground compaction.
Low pressures in the field reduce ground pressure, while also improving traction and minimising slippage and bulldozing. Increasing tyre pressure on the road improves driving performance while reducing rolling resistance and tyre wear. In both cases, fuel consumption is reduced, adding an environmental and economic benefit.
The system can be adjusted through the CommandCenter display and is said to offer rapid inflation and deflation times. For example, the pressure of a large tyre combination (710/75 R42s with 650/60 R34s) can be increased from 0.8 bar to 1.8 bar in less than six and a half minutes, or conversely deflated in less than four minutes. This is achieved by the large inside diameter of the airlines, said to be 33% larger than other solutions on the market.
An external air connection provides even faster inflation when connected to a slurry tank compressor for example. It is also possible to connect an air gun for cleaning purposes. Instead of plastic hoses, strong fabric hoses are used throughout the system, secured to the front and rear wheels.
The release of this new system coincides with the company offering wider choice of Very High Flexion (VF) tyre options, allowing operators to work at the lowest possible tyre pressures.
John Deere will retail the system at £13,490 in the UK, or €14,555 in Ireland.
For more information go to www.deere.co.uk