Deere refines 4-series sprayer range

John Deere has made a series of updates on its 4-series self-propelled sprayer models which include a new drive system on the smaller models for improved comfort, and additional enhancements to the optional carbon fibre boom across the range.

John Deere Production and Precision Ag Tactical Segment Manager, Marko Koelln, said the updates would further boost producers’ ability to apply the right product at the right rate and at the right time.

“Reducing input costs and maximising productivity are critical to efficiency and profitability, and producers having greater control over the way they run their businesses,” Koelln said.

“Through these changes, John Deere is not only providing optimised operator comfort but also helping to ensure we’re working with our customers to integrate features that have direct impact on their bottom line.”

In the model year 2021 line-up, the R4038 and R4030 models will feature John Deere’s CommandDrive all-wheel drive system which is already available on the R4045 and R4060 models.

Deere said the addition of the CommandDrive will help producers traverse all sorts of terrain more easily, allowing operators to travel over hills, wet spots, and soft ground.

It is an intelligent system that uses a single hydrostatic pump to power all four variable-displacement wheel motors. If one or more wheels lose traction, the system adjusts to slow the slipping wheel and directs more flow to the other wheels with traction, to power the sprayer over the terrain.

In addition, CommandDrive works in tandem with the engine and entire sprayer system to automatically increase RPMs when more power is needed and to maintain proper spraying. The Auto Mode setting allows operators to maintain selected ground speed and application rate at lower engine RPMs and automatically reduces the engine's RPM to 900 when the machine is stopped, hence reducing fuel consumption by up to 20 per cent, Deere said.

“The addition of flotation tyres can help to further reduce compaction to help farmers get in the paddock sooner and spray later, while hitting tight application windows that can make a marked difference to yields,” Koelln said.

Some options that are available on the new MY21 4-series sprayers include ExactApply – Deere’s precision application technology, AutoTrac Vision auto steer system and RowSense which offers a higher degree of accuracy for in-row crop applications using a camera or paddles.

Another key upgrade to the 4-Series update is an improved carbon fibre boom which comes as an option.

Some of the enhancements to the boom include new T6 and T7 rope design, an additional breakaway bumper for more stability, new breakaway strap wear plate and new breakaway solenoid design to improve fold functionality.

John Deere dealers are now taking orders for the new sprayers with delivery expected to be in late 2020 or early 2021.