John Deere Skidder Features Autoshift For Improved Operability and Decreased Fatigue

Photo Credit: John Deere

John Deere has announced the introduction of new Autoshift functionality on its popular line of H-Series Skidders.

According to John Deere, the elimination of shifting allows operators to use their right hand to run the grapple and focus on pulling the load, which effectively makes the skidder easier to operate, increases productivity and decreases operator fatigue.

Photo Credit: John Deere

The Autoshift option leverages the fuel efficiency advantage of direct drive and lock-up torque converter (LUTC) transmissions, and automatically selects the optimal gear for a given load.

"The H-Series skidders are built to maximize uptime, satisfy a wide-range of customer preferences, and keep operating costs down," said Elizabeth Quinn, Product Marketing Manager, Skidders and Wheeled Feller Bunchers. "Faster load gathering and ground speed combined with best-in-class fuel efficiency ensure the H-Series Skidders move the most wood at the lowest cost per ton."

Source: John Deere

The New Caterpillar TH514 Telehandler Designed To Handle Tough Applications

The Caterpillar home page introduces the new Caterpillar TH514 telehandler, designed for general construction and industrial markets, as well as specialty markets including power plants and wind farm applications.

Photo Credit: Caterpillar

Caterpillar reports load-sensing, flow-sharing hydraulics allow for all three boom functions to be operated simultaneously and proportionally. The system provides smooth control of the boom and work tools for increased accuracy, especially when placing loads in challenging applications.


The 74.5 kW (101 hp) Cat C4.4 DITAAC mechanical control, turbo charged engine is standard and certified to Stage IIIA (Tier3) emission regulations. This engine is designed to provide excellent power and torque levels to meet jobsite requirements.

The new cab is comfortable and stylish with all-around visibility, and features a new heating and ventilation system with optional air conditioning. The single lever joystick with roller switches is easy to use, and all controls, including auxiliary hydraulics, are fully proportional. An in-cab LCD displays a wide range of information, and the keypad can be used to select various operating modes, including three different steering modes.

Source: Caterpillar

BROWSE: Caterpillar Heavy Equipment On Equipment Trader Online

The John Deere SeedStar XP Provides Real-Time Information About Planter Performance and Seed Placement

The John Deere homepage features details on the new SeedStar XP monitoring system from John Deere.

Photo Credit: John Deere

According to John Deere, the SeedStar XP provides more real-time information about planter performance and seed placement to the operator in the tractor cab, making it easier for the operator to make on-the-go adjustments to the planter for optimal seed placement and increased productivity.

The GreenStar 2 compatible SeedStar XP system features a user-friendly, full-color planting monitor, or it can be integrated with a producer's existing GreenStar 2 display to eliminate clutter in the cab. The system is supported by a series of row-unit sensor nodes and downforce sensors configured to the specific model of planter.

Source: John Deere