MOLINE, Ill. (March 5, 2007)-John Deere's D-Series Motor Graders have been updated with several enhancements that deliver a significant boost in productivity. These improvements include a mid-mount scarifier for the 670D, 672D, 770D and 772D  machines; an integrated grade control package that will save installation time and provide a more professional integration for the entire D-Series line; and for all-wheel-drive machines, a new low-speed precision mode and improved steering.

The new mid-mount scarifier option comes equipped with a full set of 11 teeth and is mounted between the blade and the front wheels. John Deere continues to offer both the front-mount scarifier and the rear-mount ripper-scarifier, as well.

"Our updated graders now offer sturdy and durable mid-mount scarifiers with a V-shaped design and excellent balance. The attachment is not only heavy-duty, it gives great ground penetration and visibility," said Jeff Rowan, product marketing manager, John Deere Construction & Forestry Company.

The Integrated Grade Control (IGC) option is available on all John Deere D-Series graders. IGC is a factory-installed option-when the tractor is delivered, all the machine owner will need to do is drop in the plug-and-play components and the tractor is ready to roll. The Integrated Grade Control is fully compatible with sonic, laser or GPS systems.

Factory installation of the harness, plumbing and control valves makes the finished product cleaner inside and out, according to Rowan. "There's less risk of fluid contamination or wiring problems caused by improper installation-the installation is very clean. And, since we're adding this feature at the factory, the machine is delivered with plug-and-play convenience," he said.

Finally, John Deere's industry-leading  all-wheel-drive machines (672D, 772D, 872D) provide a precision mode that lets the operator proceed at a super-slow speed. Because of the hydrostatic front wheel drive, the operator can now dial down the tractor speed in first, second, and third gears to about one-quarter mile per hour. "This slow ground speed allows the operator to do really fine, precise grading." Rowan said.

The powerful super-slow speed will come in handy when working around obstacles near complex curbs and foundation work. Another important application is for training, according to Rowan. "As complicated as graders are to run, precision mode is very useful for training or for less experienced operators," he said.

In addition to this new mode, all 6WD graders have been upgraded with differential front steering.  With the addition of a steering angle sensor, the hydrostatic system now senses steering angle and automatically adjusts front wheel speed to increase pull in a turn. This capability is built into the all-wheel drive system and will be seamless to the operator, but will allow the machine to turn tighter with 6WD engaged. 

"In addition to simplifying operation, these enhancements result in an incredibly productive and precise grader," Rowan said. 

John Deere (Deere & Company-NYSE: DE) is the world's leading manufacturer of agricultural and forestry equipment, a major manufacturer of construction equipment, and a leading supplier of equipment used in lawn, grounds and turf care. John Deere also manufactures and markets engines used in heavy equipment and provides landscape and worldwide financial services. Since it was founded in 1837, the company has extended its heritage of integrity, quality, commitment and innovation around the globe.

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