Revamped John Deere 6R gets new cab and sharper handling
© John Deere John Deere has overhauled the top end of its popular 6R tractor range, fitting a bigger cab and uprating the running gear for better handling.
For now, only models on the two largest chassis sizes will benefit from the upgrades, but it’s just a matter of time before they percolate to the lower ranks.
To mark the changes, Deere has reshuffled its numbering system. Four versions will now be offered in the so-called large frame size: the 6R 180, 6R 200, 6R 220 and 6R 240.
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The latter is considerably more powerful than the current 6R 215 range topper in this chassis size.
While that makes do with a max power of 259hp with boost, the 6R 240 pushes this to 291hp.
Change is also afoot in the “xtra large” camp, where the existing 6R 230 is joined by a 6R 260.
It replaces the 6R 250 and, as the number suggests, gets roughly 10hp of extra rated power, stretching to 305hp with boost – a smidge more than its predecessor.
This flagship 6R will also get the option of an alternative transmission to the AutoPowr CVT.
The e19 box is a fully mechanical powershift, armed with dual clutches and proportional control valves that claim to deliver jolt-free shifting.
Upgraded workspace
© John Deere
The cab changes are arguably the biggest the 6R series has seen since its launch in 2011.
Thanks to a redesigned frame with forward sloping C pillars and a curved rear window, there’s more space for operators to get comfortable. Deere says visibility is better and it’s quieter, too.
Several changes are to thank for this, such as better cab mounts, more sound deadening material in the floor and quieter air conditioning blowers.
Relocating steering and braking valves outside the cab has also jettisoned a few decibels.
Unsurprisingly, there’s a raft of new technology, much of which has trickled down from the firm’s recently refreshed 8R prime movers.
A slicker version of Deere’s CommadArm armrest is now mounted to the seat, with a secondary “convenience” display for adjusting for adjusting seat, climate control, audio and other cab settings.
Other perks include a touchscreen radio with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless phone charging, a compressor-cooled refrigerator and a more powerful air conditioning system. It’s even possible to have a seat with neck ventilation.
More useful, perhaps, is an automatic display pre-booting function that brings screens to life as soon as the door opens. This should make it quicker to start work than waiting to wake them with the turn of the key.
Other upgrades include Category 4 cabin filtration, a 320deg windscreen wiper and a right-hand side wiper.
All new 6R tractors will be delivered with a Starfire 7500 GPS receiver, G5 display and JD Link system, meaning they’re geared up guidance from the off.
Sharper handling
In a bid to sharpen up on-road prowess, a new “sport package pro” has been introduced.
Central to this is an updated TLS Pro front axle armed with adjustable suspension dampers that continuously adapt to changes in speed, load and surface.
The cab suspension has also been improved with low-friction hydraulic cylinders, a slicker controller and upgraded mountings.
On top of this, Deere has fitted a displacement-based braking system and automotive-style pedals that the driver can use with their heel rested on the floor.
Heavy-duty loaders
For those that want to team their large or extra large frame 6R with a loader, Deere has introduced two new models.
The 665R and 685R now have latch point cut-outs that make them easier to attach and tweaked geometry that prevents spills from heavily loaded buckets and grabs.
Visibility has been improved too, and there’s the option of a multi-position camera that can be moved between the loader boom or cross tube, depending on what operators want to see.
