All work and no play? Not with John Deere recreational Gators. All the power and durability of John Deere agriculture equipment is packed into these recreational utility vehicles to give you a break from the stress of a hard day’s work. Deere produces four types of Gators: recreational, crossover, traditional, and military. Each series is designed with a certain goal in mind, and while the other three are primarily focused on getting a job done, the recreational Gator models are all about entertainment.

The terrain and environment around you can act as a natural playground in which to use your Gator. Here are 5 suggestions for how you can “play” with your recreational utility vehicle.

Sand Dune Surfing: The traction and four-wheel-drive of the recreational Gators offer optimal conditions for climbing over miles of sand dunes or arid terrain. Cruise up and down sandy slopes without losing control of vehicle speed and brake anywhere, thanks to the TEAM Industries tight belt CVT system. The features of these Gators won’t let slippery sand be a deciding factor in how you navigate the terrain.

Muddin’: Water is no issue for the JD Gators, thanks to the fully sealed CVT cases. You can successfully and safely cross through wet and muddy areas without worrying about getting stuck. The strong frame prevents leaks or water damage when crossing small rivers and streams, and the strong traction of the tires and the front and back end suspension keep the wheels from losing grip on slick ground.

Photo Finishes: In partnership with engineers from NASCAR, Formula One, and Indy Race Car teams, Deere engineers designed the recreational Gators with sport-like features. These utility vehicles can turn on a dime and reach speeds of up to 53 mph. The sport specific models of the recreational series are built with motorcycle engines, which give them the power to tear across land with ease and speed.

Back Woods Bumps: Not only do John Deere recreational Gators have the same capacities as an ATV to climb rocks, roots, and mud in wooded areas, but their Fox Monotube™ Shocks offer a smooth ride over turbulent spots. Powering through rough areas can jostle an ATV quite a bit and you want to be sure you have a solid handle on your machine. To be sure the recreational Gators would be sturdy in tough terrain, Deere engineers designed them with front and back suspension to prevent rollovers.

Trail Blazing: The agility and horsepower of JD Gators make them perfect for navigating through mountain trails, wooded forests, or rocky plains. The steering geometry of the recreational Gator is based off of Ackermann Steering Principle, which states that the correct wheel angle can prevent tire wear and increase steering responsiveness.

These are fairly general suggestions for what you can do with your John Deere recreational Gator, but hopefully they offered a kicking off point for sparking more great activities. If you have any other ideas for how to get the most fun out of your Gator, we’d love to hear them!

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Every vehicle requires an extent of care and maintenance; the John Deere Gator is no different. Whether you use a Gator for carrying heavy loads, trail riding, or towing, there is always a need for regular checks on brakes, tires, fuel, and any signs of wear or damage.

A John Deere Gator utility vehicle is an investment that is built to last. Deere engineers do all they can to prepare the Gator for all types of situations and variables, but once it leaves the dealership, it’s up to you to maintain the quality of your equipment.

Routine upkeep can help optimize the performance of both new and used Gators to ensure their innovative features are taken full advantage of. These 5 tips will help guide you in the right direction for maintaining the appearance, operation, and safety of your John Deere Gator.

1. Operator Training: Before firing up your newest piece of John Deere equipment, it’s always essential to get a handle on the ins and outs of the machine. The user manual is a great place to start if you are unfamiliar with operating a Gator. Safety is the number one concern when operating a powerful machine like a Gator; there is a lot to know before hitting the throttle.

2. Tire Care: Because the John Deere Gator climbs over such rough terrain, it’s critical to have tires that are always in the best shape. This includes ensuring tire pressure isn’t too high or low, checking for bubbles and cracks, and making sure there is no rim damage.

3. Brake Checks: Brakes on a John Deere Gator are designed to stop quickly and safely in every type of terrain. To keep the brakes reliable, it’s important to regularly test response time. If you notice the brakes aren’t as quick to respond as they once were, check the brake pads and fluids. Keep the brakes clean with a solvent that can be sprayed on and wiped off to protect against wear and damage.

4. Fluid Changes: Not only is it essential to know when to change oil, fuel, and coolants, but it’s critical to know the influence these fluids can have on you, your Gator, and the environment. Oil and filters should be changed after 20 hours of use; when changing oil make sure to wipe up any spills as it is highly flammable. Old or dirty oil prevents your engine from being properly lubricated and cooled, which can cause it to seize up.

5. Proper Storage: A Gator should be stored in an area protected from harsh weather and environmental conditions. Rain, snow, and extreme temperatures can do some serious damage to any utility vehicle. By keeping your Gator in a locked garage or trailer you are protecting it from rust, dents, and theft.

This is by no means an exhaustive list; for the full run down of Gator maintenance, service, and safety reference the user manual. Before putting your John Deere Gator utility vehicle to work (or play), familiarize yourself with warnings, control use, safety settings, operator practices, and what’s going on under the hood.

Your local John Deere dealership is also a great resource to learn more about what makes your utility vehicle tick. Talk to a Deere expert in your area about how to get the best performance from your Gator.

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There are many possible preventive measures to take in an effort to keep your tractor out of repair. One of the simplest techniques is to create a tractor maintenance checklist to run-through before each trip out on the field to ensure a fully productive day’s work during this indispensable time of year.

1. Know Your Machine: This seems simple, but it can easily be overlooked. Before you head out on the field, refresh yourself about the tractor’s features and specifications by thoroughly looking through the owner’s manual. This will make sure you know every square inch of your machine and how it functions before you run through the rest of the maintenance checklist.

2. Establish a Relationship with Your Dealer: The purchase of your machine should not be the end of a relationship with the dealer. Having a reliable contact at a nearby dealer will ensure responsiveness and speedy repair if a part or attachment needs immediate repair. Without a relationship with your dealer, you run the risk of losing valuable time in the field while searching for reliable repair centers.

3. Check Fluid Levels: Before each use, run a simple check of all fluid levels on your tractor. Fluids to check include engine and hydraulic oil, transmission and brake fluid, and radiator coolant. This will allow you to see if there are any leaks within expensive parts. Catching leaks as they form could save you from replacing these parts altogether.

4. Check Air Filters: Large tractors often times run on diesel fuel, which demands a large amount of air intake. During planting season, machines are often being run on extremely dusty fields which can easily clog the filter. When these filters become dirty, use an air compressor or powerful vacuum to remove material.

5. Check Brakes and Tires: The tires on your tractor are the support system, and keep your machine rolling during long days on the field. Quickly check tire pressure, as over-inflated tires could cause excessive spinning on soil, wasted fuel, and unnecessary wear on the machine and tires. While the tires are being checked, be sure to check the condition of the tractor’s brakes, as worn-down brakes could add damage to the tractor.

6. Attachments, Pins, and Bolts: Make sure to take a walk around your tractor to check the condition and existence of any attachments, pins, or bolts. Tighten any loose pins or bolts, as loose fasteners can cause damage to thread parts, linkages and bushings. Neglecting to tighten any bolts or attachments securely could cause additional damage to other parts of the tractor.

7. In the Cab Features: As you climb into your machine before the day’s work, run a scan of all cab features to ensure full-functionality. This includes power steering, lights, horn, switches, and any other technology that might be vital for the day’s work.

8. Protect Your Machine and Keep It Clean: When the long day is over, provide any lubricants that may be needed, and be sure to thoroughly clean your tractor to prevent build-up and allow for easy identification of parts that need repair. Store your machine in a safe place away from damaging outdoor conditions as these preventive measures could prove to increase tractor life.

Before taking to the field for a full day of work on your tractor, be sure to establish your own tractor maintenance checklist. A daily or weekly scan will likely save your machine from costly repairs or damage that could otherwise be prevented. Feel free to let us know what your tractor maintenance checklist includes!

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For municipal operators or commercial contractors, the most valuable piece of equipment is one that can adjust to a variety of jobs and situations. The John Deere 6170M tractor in particular is recognized for its strength and versatility and is designed to match operator needs.

So what gives the John Deere 6170M tractor its power and versatility? Let’s take a look.

POWER

The 6170M is designed with top of the line technology, parts, and materials. The PowerTech™ PVX engines react to speed and power demands to give a boost of horsepower when needed without wasting fuel.

Oil-cooled PTO and PowerFill™ brakes allow for smooth engagement and reliable stopping at the switch of the clutch. These brakes and clutches last longer and give the operator maximum control over the machine. The PowerFill™ brake system comes standard with the John Deere 6170M tractors to reduce the amount of pedal force needed to brake quickly and safely.

The hydraulic design of the JD 6170M gives it sensing capabilities that are responsive to load weights. With heavy loads, a high-pressure response will be initiated and then returned to low-pressure when power isn’t needed. This features reduces the load on the engine, improves fuel efficiency, reduces internal leakage, reduces hydraulic noise, and there is less strain on the hoses and seals.

The PowrQuad™ transmission is a standard feature of the 6170M tractor that delivers four, clutch-free shifts to give you the ability to maneuver your machine with ease, perfect for loader tasks. PowrQuad™ gives the engine of the 6M series an even higher level of performance.

VERSATILITY

The combination of engine and hydraulic power make the 6M series capable of carrying out tasks like snow removal, along with heavy-duty material handling. By offering both engine and hydraulic power, the John Deere 6170M can be used for construction and agriculture jobs; these two industries require different levels and placement of strength. Typically, you would choose a tractor with a specific type of power system, but this line of equipment doesn’t make you choose.

It’s everything all in one. The only choice you need to make is deciding which model will best accommodate your tasks. Along with the versatility of the power sources, the John Deere 6170M tractors are compatible with all types of Deere tractor attachments.

The John Deere 6170M tractor has the ability to adjust to almost any task making it one of the most valuable tractors for sale today. Whatever tasks you have at hand, you can be sure that the JD 6M series has you covered. 

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As technology continues to advance, the engineers at Deere take every available opportunity to increase the capacities of every part, model, and machine. Take a look at the key features that were implemented into the JD 615P belt pickup platform and consider how this innovative platform can improve your crop pickup productivity.

FieldGlide™ Suspension

Improved suspension ensures that the belt picks up crops in even the roughest terrain conditions.

Wider Pickup Belts

The wider pickup belt prevents seed loss and eliminates the need for a complicated center-support roller.

Dual-Belt Draper

Material flows through more smoothly into the auger with the dual-belt draper due to its additional transfer belt.

Hydraulic Adjustable Windscreen

Control crop flow at the pickup during changing windrow conditions without sacrificing productivity.

Each of these features gives the JD 615P belt pick up platform its capacity to be one of the most efficient, reliable, and productive pieces of farm equipment available. Every innovation from Deere holds its own unique characteristics that act as a puzzle piece in the overall success of every machine.

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Small grain harvesting season is the time of year when farmers begin to realize the results of all the work they’ve put into the planting season. As agricultural technology continues to advance, new machines and equipment become available that can simplify the harvesting process.

In this post, we’ll take a look at one of these new advances: the John Deere D450. Boasting many features that can assist with your small grain harvest this season, the JD D450 will help remove some of the stress that comes with long days in the field. So let’s take a look!

1. Powerful Engine and Simple Maintenance: The Tier-3 compliant John Deere PowerTech E 6.8L, six-cylinder, turbocharged engine inside the D450 has the power to fulfill the higher productivity standards of commercial harvesters. The 200hp engine offers enough power to match even the toughest rotary-cutting conditions; if a problem does arise, all engine service points are located on the left-hand side of the engine for operator convenience and a quick fix. 

2. Compatibility: The John Deere D450 is a versatile machine, providing small grain crop producers with the option to connect with a variety of John Deere drapers. The D450 is compatible with the John Deere 625D, 630D, 635D, and 640D draper platforms, offering grain harvesters a machine that will connect with the preferred draper.

3. CommandCenter at Operator’s Fingertips: Full command of the machine is available on the armrest display, designated for draper applications. The location of the CommandCenter allows for an unobstructed view of the head while providing insight through various informational pages. These pages include the CommandCenter home screen (header height, belt speed, vehicle/platform hours, etc.), Draper information page, Draper setup page, and Active alarms page, giving the operator a complete digital look into their functions.  

4. Consistent Production with AutoTrac: All John Deere D450s are AutoTrac Universal (ATU) ready, ensuring that more of the platform is engaging crop at all times, which leads to increased productivity. The automated steering and guidance system provides more consistent windrows, longer operating hours, less fatigue, and more acres cut in less time, at a lower cost. 

5. Powerful Lighting System: During the small grain harvest, long hours can often translate into harvesting during the night, or during unfavorable conditions. The D450 includes six exterior halogen lights to fully illuminate the cutting area in front of the platform, as well as two rear-mounted lights.  Additional lighting features are also available to provide even more light to the sides and rear of the windrower, as needed.

6. IntelliAxle Gives a Smoother Ride: The IntelliAxle system on the D450 features a rear-wheel steer assist system, which provides added control, enabling higher cutting and transport speeds. The system also includes independent rear suspension, which changes even the toughest conditions into a comfortable ride and also reduces operator fatigue throughout a long day of work. 

Power, compatibility, comfort, and a smooth ride are all available with the John Deere D450 Windrower, making the small grain harvest a much simpler process this season. A machine like the D450 comes prepared to harvest in any weather conditions, and a prepared farmer often means a productive farmer.

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The models of the John Deere S-Series Combines line are designed with the latest technology and consumer input in order to give operators what they need. In fact, by inquiring about consumer needs and expectations, Deere engineers can ensure the machines become the best they can be with the resources available.

Your senses will confirm that these combines are the cream of the crop; let your eyes, hands, and ears take in the smart and powerful features of the S-Series.

See: John Deere S-Series Combines are large-scale machines. Once you’ve gotten over the sheer size of the S-Series, your eyes will likely be drawn to the width of the header, which can harvest up to 18 rows of crops (40 feet) at once. Inside the cab you’ll have a 180° view that gives you clear sight lines of your field while the combine is harvesting your crop.

Feel: A comfortable seat, plenty of leg room, and easily accessible foot and hand controls might make you forget you’re operating a big green harvester. The infrastructure under the combine’s hood allows for smooth handling and crop flow to ensure fewer tossed ears of corn, less ear shelling, and less debris fed through the combine. 

Hear: A four-hour playlist put together especially for your days of harvesting? Sync any mp3 device or Bluetooth™ to listen to tunes while you work and stay connected to your phone contacts. If you opt out of listening to music, you will hear the swift slice of the StalkMaster™ Corn Head Chopping System that cuts corn stalks at a height that can be adjusted while harvesting.

The idea behind the John Deere S-Series combines is that they will be perfect for the operator needs as well as the task at hand. Each model in the series comes with unique attributes that allow it to be form fitted to specific harvesting jobs. No farm, region, or plant is the same and the design of the S-Series allows farmers to manipulate these variables through the machines’ versatility.

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Zero turn mowers from John Deere are not a new concept, although new models are being released every year. For those of us with used John Deere zero turn mowers, we know firsthand what kind of durability, precision, maneuverability, and productivity we’re working with. For lawn-care enthusiasts who haven’t yet had the privilege of perfecting their property with a JD zero turn, check out the following used mowers for your landscaping this season.

Attention to Detail

When trimming grass on a lawn that poses physical obstacles or uneven terrain, it can be challenging to get a nice even cut. Moving around trees, garden beds, and the like is no problem with a zero turn mower because the maneuverability is on point. Thanks to such a tight turning radius, operators can get as close as necessary without bumping into something or accidentally trimming the head off a flower.

Details in the machine itself add to the experience of driving John Deere zero turn mowers. The interior layout of the mower deck prevents debris from getting stuck inside and obstructing blade movement while the mower deck lip prevents debris from flying out and hitting someone or something.

Tried and True

Deere equipment is meant to last; no one plans on replacing a mower or lawn tractor every year. While the new models have technology innovations and features that may not be included in earlier versions, used John Deere zero turn mowers still hold the same promise of quality. Landscaping needs and tasks can be accomplished with a used Deere and still exceed your outcome expectations.

Although every machine and piece of farm equipment eventually reaches its final day of service, used John Deere zero turn mowers have yet to reach that stage. Putting a used JD to work this season will result in some of the most efficient and  productive landscaping you’ve ever seen!

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Every model in the 7R series offers a comfortable and spacious cab, optional ActiveCommand Steering, JDlink telematics, “DieselOnly” PowerTech engine, 360 degree light system, and cast-iron mounting frames compatible with an assortment of attachments.The differences among the five models are found primarily in the engine size, horse power, torque, and hydraulics.

The sheer size of these row crop tractors is enough to make you stop and stare. Although we can’t give you a firsthand view of tractors in the series, we can provide you with this gallery of photos that highlights the 7R series‘ striking appearance. Take a look at the newest members of the green and yellow family:

John Deere 7200R

The 7200R model has a 6.8 l “diesel only” PSX engine, 230hp, 936 Nm , and 222 l/min hydraulic flow.

 John Deere 7215R

The 7215R model has a 6.8 l PSX engine, 245 hp, 1007 Nm, and 222 l/min hydraulic flow.

 John Deere 7230R

The 7230R model has a 9.0 l PVX engine, 260 hp, 1077 Nm, and 222 l/min hydraulic flow.

John Deere 7260R

The 7260R model has a 9.0 l PVX engine, 290 hp, 1217 Nm, and 222 l/min hydraulic flow.

 John Deere 7280R

The 7280R has a 9.0 l PVX engine, 310 hp, 1305 Nm, and a 222 l/min hydraulic flow.

Each model in the John Deere 7R series is designed with unique features and abilities, but they share the common trait of productivity, durability, and strength. For more information on these impressive machines, check out the Deere product brochure.

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Whether row-cropping, haymaking, or transporting material, the John Deere 6R Series tractor includes several features that can make the operator’s everyday workload a bit simpler. Take a look at a few ways 6R Series tractors can boost performance and productivity.

1.     Ample Power for Arduous Tasks: No matter what project lies ahead, John Deere’s Power Tech Engines provide ample power for the task. The 6140R to the 6210R are equipped with Stage IIIB 6.8-litre six-cylinder PowerTech PVX engines that provide between 140-210hp depending on the model, while the 105-130 models run on Stage IIIB 4.5-litre four-cylinder PowerTech PVX engines. These fuel-efficient diesel engines meet the latest emissions standards while still providing ample power.

2.     Direct Drive Transmission: The John Deere 6R Series tractor includes some of the newest technology in the agricultural equipment industry, including a 24-speed DirectDrive transmission which features a double-clutch, much like those found in cars. This allows the operator to experience handling comfort, combining infinitely variable shift transmission (IVT) with the power of mechanical transmission. This transmission system is prime for any field work, from plowing to towing.

3.     Powerful Lift Capacity: The 6R Series tractors provide hitch capabilities strong enough for heavy-duty implements. They have an available 3-point hitch lift capacity of up to 12,213 pounds (6210 model), which features electronic load sensing for various load conditions and hitch dampening for improved ride stability.

4.     Ag Management Solution Capabilities: These models are compatible with the full range of John Deere Ag Management Solutions (AMS), which provide operators with guidance and documentation solutions to help reduce input costs and increase efficiency. Factory installation of the GreenStar-Ready wiring harness and Auto-Trac ready components make technology handling on the machine simple.

5.     Comfortable, High-Visibility Cab: There is plenty of room to stretch out in the cabs of the 6R Series tractors, featuring 20 percent more space than previous models with great visibility as well. Along with integrated climate and radio controls, the 6R Series offers access to an optional panorama roof for maximum visibility.

6.     High-Quality Lighting System: Whether your day has run out of sunlight, or you’ve started your work before the sun has come up, the lighting system in the 6R Series will illuminate whatever tasks you’re working on. The 6R Series offers an estimated 185 percent more outdoor light compared to previous models.  It includes up to 10 cab lights integrated into the front, rear, and sides of the roof line to provide 320 degree lighting, plus six adjustable belt-line and rear fender field lights. An additional six field, spot, and road lights on the grille complete the lighting possibilities, as well as eight optional Xenon lights that are all controlled from the CommandCenter display.

The John Deere 6R Series tractor is a blend of power and comfort, great for the long days on the field during planting season. From the engine to the cab, the 6R series’ features will simplify your planting season.

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