S-Series tailored to field conditions

The S-Series harvesters are the most productive harvesting machines ever designed and built by John Deere.

For model year 2014, new features will be offered to optimise performance and provide more comfort and control for the operator, according to marketing manager Steve Wright.

"We continuously look at our harvesting line-up, gain feedback from our customers, and test new features to bring more productivity to our machines and headers," he said. "For the first time ever, John Deere will be offering 26 inch and 36-inch tracks to Australian and New Zealand producers for better flotation with reduced compaction and fuel use in challenging field conditions."

The tracks allow reduced ground pressure and the ability to harvest in a variety of conditions because of a large footprint.

Mr Wright said they were designed with a high-idler configuration for enhanced performance and easy changeability between tracks and tyres.

"When harvesting in tough conditions, operators will be able to get in the fields earlier and harvest longer with the new track options," he said.

Other enhancements to the S-Series line-up include a new Interactive Combine Adjustment in base equipment which automates harvester settings while harvesting on-the-go.

This simplifies overall operator adjustment and brings more consistency and accuracy when harvesting in varying field conditions.

"We also added a new heated and ventilated leather seat with lumbar support," Mr Wright said.

"A leather-wrapped steering wheel and leather instructor seat completes the new comfort package.

"Operators spend many hours in their machines during harvest and with our large cab, increased visibility, improved heating and cooling systems, the S-Series harvesters provide a comfortable and productive operator environment."

There is also a new Dual Adjust Chaffer to provide an additional adjustment for improved grain tank cleanliness. An eight-wing feed accelerator will help to improve material flow in tough harvest conditions for customers with the Variable Stream Rotor.

The S-Series will also be available to Australian and New Zealand producers with a US EPA Tier 2 engine.

Mr Wright said John Deere recognised the needs of Australian producers varied to those overseas.

"This is why we offer Australian and New Zealand producers the more economically priced Tier 2 engine on model year 2014, S-Series harvesters," he said.

"We strongly believe in tailoring our harvesting solutions to meet the needs of our Australian and New Zealand customers and their operation.

"Regardless of their track or wheel preference, our customers will receive what they've come to expect from John Deere - a vehicle configured for exceptional productivity, backed by our world-class dealer network committed to keeping them up and running during harvest."