JOHN Deere says it is planning to put the region’s orchard, tree nut and vineyard industries back on track – with its next-generation “narrow gauge” 100 horsepower-plus 5ML Series of cab tractors.
Built specifically to meet the very individual needs of these industries, with its two front-axle configurations for working widths as narrow as 180cm down to 155cm (on the 5ML Narrow), the 5ML is a machine carrying premium features at a size suited to exacting applications.
Additionally, it will deliver superior operator comfort, as well as a new level of precision agriculture technology in this class.
JD Australia and New Zealand production system manager Stephanie Gersekowski says with 105, 120 and 130 models available, the 5ML will add power to the brand’s orchard tractor offering.
“We are excited to bring the 5ML to Australia to respond directly to the needs of growers looking for a low-profile cab, more power and industry-leading digital capabilities typically only available on machines in larger agriculture production systems,” Stephanie says.
Premium specifications
THE 5ML will feature PFC hydraulics, a load-sensing system which immediately initiates flow when required. When flow is no longer needed, the pump returns to low pressure and to no-flow standby mode, to improve fuel efficiency as much as 30 per cent.
Both the 5ML and 5ML Narrow come with programmable LED lighting, a front hitch to ensure operators can use heavier implements such as almond harvesters, and a front PTO for added versatility.
There is also the choice of an easy-to-use PowrQuad PLUS or Powr8 transmission.
Dedicated to orchards and vineyards
STEPHANIE says the 5ML’s organic cab carries the ideal dimensions to fit down tight orchard rows.
She adds a reconfigurable in-dash, three-screen LCD display allows operators to customise their view and makes it easy to set up guidance lines, make on-the-go adjustments with shift track and establish headlands with the encoder dial.
“The cab also has a flat floor, spacious headroom and ergonomic, well-placed controls to make them easy-to-use for operators with a variety of experience, while giving extra comfort during long days in the driver’s seat,” Stephanie says.
A Category IV Filtration System kit provides additional cabin filtration and pressurisation, preventing external chemical and particulate hazards from entering the operator enclosure, and eliminating the need for personal protective wear.
“This, coupled with the enhanced cab design, can also help to attract and retain a workforce in a tough hiring climate,” she says.
A new Limb Lifter kit can also be added to gently move away low hanging branches, reducing the potential for damage to the tree and tractor.
Integrated technology
THE 5ML will bring a new level of technology to John Deere tractors in the orchard, tree nut and vineyard markets, making available industry-leading precision farming capabilities to grow efficiency and production, including JDLink – an industry exclusive in this class – to track machine data remotely.
“This is ideal for large production high value crop customers with fleets of tractors as it allows them to manage equipment location, proactively monitor machine health and productivity, and give their team the information and direction they need to finish jobs accurately and on time,” Stephanie says.
“The 5ML is Greenstar/ISOBUS Ready for implement connectivity, to help more accurately apply liquid and dry products in environments where a GPS signal is not available – and to document those applications.
“AutoTRAC also comes as an option and offers customers the ability to eliminate implement overlap and optimise machine efficiency when completing jobs such as spraying, planting and mowing.
“The 5ML achieves a masterful combination of power, integrated technology and a width dedicated to orchard, tree nut and vineyard production and will prove invaluable in getting jobs like spraying, mulching, fruit handling, harvesting and towing transport wagons done, and done right.”
