2006 Construction and Forestry News Releases and Information

MOLINE, Ill. (March 7, 2006)—With greater visibility to the work tool and an improved load path, the new John Deere High Visibility Coupler helps loader operators be more productive, as well as improving machine performance.

"The hooks are farther apart, in line with the boom arms and higher on the bucket," said David O'Keeffe, product marketing manager, John Deere Construction & Forestry Company. "This opens up an area in the middle to give a much larger sight line to the attachment, so the operator can work faster and more productively."

The design of the Hi-Vis coupler reduces the load on the locking components due to an improved load path, significantly enhancing the reliability. It also ensures that the attachment mounts closer to the machine, which improves the stability of the loader and enhances breakout performance. The Hi-Vis coupler also is compatible with some other OEM attachments.

Coupler sizes include the 444J, 544J and 624J Z-Bar and Powerllel™ models. Buckets that work with this coupler include 2.0, 2.5, 3.0 and 3.5 cubic yard hook-on versions. Fork frames are either 60 or 90 inches wide, with 48 and 60-inch fork tines and an optional backrest for each size.

About John Deere: 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. Additionally, John Deere manufactures engines used in heavy equipment and provides financial services and other related activities that support the core businesses. Since it was founded in 1837, the company has established a heritage of quality products and services providing performance that endures to customers worldwide.

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

Tara Wiles
913/901-2192
wilest@weyforth-haas.com