JOHN DEERE RECENTLY introduced a new row-crop tractor line called the 8R series and 8RT track series. The line includes six wheeled models and three track models. Deere also released a number of new products in its application, forage and precision equipment lines. Deere adds valuable horsepower to an already high-horsepower, rowcrop tractor line.
The top end of the new 8R and 8RT series is a tractor with 345 engine hp, about 15 hp more than the 8030 series tractor that it replaces. The bottom of the line offers 225 engine hp. The tractors are equipped with PowerTech Plus, 9-litre, 6-cyl. engines with 2,100 rpm.
The most visible change in the new tractor series is the spacious and sleek CommandView II cab. Deere's engineers say it has 10 per cent more space than the previous CommandView cab and more features. It comes with a premium sound package, redesigned control arm, easy-toread display and instructor seat that converts into a desk for a laptop or storage. The air conditioning unit has been put back on the roof (where it used to be) and10 vents have been installed around the operator. The result is similar to going from a window air conditioner to central air. Deere also improved the operator's view by adding more glass and repositioning cab supports. A new lighting package offers 360° vehicle illumination to help keep an operator from becoming fatigued when he or she works late into the night.
