2008 News Releases and Information

LENEXA, Kansas (August 07, 2008)– John Deere announces new updates for its 458 Standard Baler, and its popular lines of windrowers and mower conditioners that can help producers bale more efficiently and speed up the drydown process after cutting.

A new automatic-tie feature is now available for new John Deere 458 Standard Balers and includes the John Deere BaleTrak™ PRO monitor-controller.

"If you bale with twine, this easy-to-use, automatic tie feature, reduces operator fatigue during long work days and speeds up the baling process. It's a cost effective way to get great looking, consistently-tied bales from start to finish. Plus, this new system only requires a single hydraulic remote and it's compatible with most older tractors," says Shane Rourke, division marketing manager, John Deere Ottumwa Works.

In addition to its baler update, John Deere is also doubling its conditioner option choices for its 994 Rotary Platforms that are available on 4995 Windrowers, and 946 and 956 Mower Conditioners. Now producers can also choose the new John Deere Tri-Lobe™, or V-10 roller conditioners.

"Exclusive John Deere Tri-Lobe steel roll conditioners have three intermeshing chevron lobes that crush the length of the stem for improved conditioning and fast drydown. This reduces curing and bleaching in alfalfa and accelerates drydown in heavy, thick-stemmed crop. In addition, steel conditioner rolls offer extended wear life, especially in adverse crop conditions," explains Rourke.

The new V-10 rolls are ideal for producers who want the benefits of roll conditioning but who work in extra-tough crops such as sudan, sudex, or cane.

"Our V-10 rolls feature intermeshing steel flutes that provide consistent conditioning to maintain crop nutrients – even in the most demanding conditions. You get more crimping edges for improved conditioning, improved feeding, and better windrow formation, compared to a straight-flute design. V-10 rolls are also an ideal choice for custom operators who put a high number of hours on their machines each year," says Rourke.

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