JOHN DEERE CONSTRUCTION & FORESTRY P-TIER ADTS MAINTAIN PERFORMANCE WHILE ADDING IMPROVED CAB LAYOUT

John Deere has expanded its Performance Tiering strategy with the introduction of two articulated dump trucks, the 410 and 460 P-Tier. The P-Tier models retain many of the features of John Deere’s E-II trucks, including the dump body and drive modes, but have updated external styling and an improved interior cab layout.

Improved Cab Is More Comfortable For Operators

John Deere has placed cab components in more reachable locations, while also grouping features based on application. The cab is pressurized and designed for quiet operation. It features an easy-to-read monitor and rear-camera display. A high-back air suspension seat with multiple adjustment options is standard, with a premium seat available. Optional automatic temperature control lets operators pick a comfortable temperature and stay there.

“The P-Tier models were built with the operator in mind to support ease of use and operator comfort,” says Justin Steger, solutions marketing manager, John Deere Construction & Forestry. “Redesigning the layout of the components in the cab and grouping features together and packaging them in a mean- ingful way based on the application are a couple of examples of how we’re incorporating customer feedback and delivering further improvements.”

Two trim levels are available, packaging features together for easier selection. The first trim package offers manually adjusted rear-view mirrors and temperature controls, a standard seat and radio, black exhaust stack, a 15-amp converter, and halogen vehicle lights. The second trim package offers additional features, John Deere says, with power adjusted rear-view mirrors, a premium seat and radio, a 25-amp converter, automatic temperature control in the operator’s station, a chrome stack, and LED vehicle lights.

An optional LED lighting package provides a total of 11 lights, including work lights that are three times brighter than halogen. LED drive lights have twice the lumen output of standard halogens.

Drive Modes Include Eco For Lower Fuel Burn

The 410 P-Tier has a rated payload of 82,157 pounds and a heaped capacity of 30 cubic yards. It is powered by a John Deere PowerTech engine producing 441 hp. At 92,197 pounds, the 460 P-Tier is a 481-hp machine that can handle a heaped capacity of 32.9 cubic yards.

The P-Tier machines feature three drive modes. In standard operation, Normal mode can be used. Traction mode applies added control to the auto-differential-lock system and powertrain, aiding in improving grip on soft and slippery ground. Eco drive helps cut fuel consumption in some working conditions through smoother throttle operation, reducing maximum rpms and optimizing the transmission response.

A number of standard features are offered on P-Tier ADTs that both make the machines easier to operate and improve safety. Rollover protection, for example, lets operators know if the dump angle is unsafe, and will stop the cycle if needed. Downhill dump protection calculates the position of the truck to ensure safety when emptying downhill. A frame protection system cushions the return of the dump box as it comes down after a partial dump to reduce aggressive frame seating. Shuttle shifting allows for the transmission to be shifted without coming to a stop, which improves cycle times.

A hill hold feature sets the brakes when the ADT stops on an uphill slope, allowing the operator to move from brake to throttle without a backward roll. Heading down a hill, the machines can take advantage of descent control, which regulates speed using the transmission retarder.

Additionally, the machines have dump body limits, standard transmission warm-up cycles, and maximum speed limits that aid in keeping the operator and machine safer. These also help keep the machine running longer.

Dump Bodies Are Strong Without Added Weight

P-Tier dump bodies are built of high-alloy steel, delivering strength and rigidity while keeping extra weight off. The boxes retain material well while lowering the loading height and centre of gravity. A bin rail with angled top cuts down on material spillage while moving. The machine remains under 12 feet in width, making it easier to move between job sites.

To improve ruggedness, these machines feature robust machine sensors and simplified routing of electrical harnesses and hydraulic hoses. This combines with fewer connections and shorter hose lengths to make the system less complex and more reliable. All daily checks and periodic service points are accessible from ground level. Factory-installed, electrically powered auto-lube is available as an option and integrates with machine diagnostics, making daily maintenance easier.

Technology features include an optional on-board weighing system, which shows payload on the in-cab monitor during loading and can transmit through the JDLink system. Also available through the monitor is a system that limits how far off-level the rear chassis can be when unloading. If the limit is breached, the machine will stop the dump body from raising and alert the operator.

JDLink connectivity tracks machine location, utilization data, and alerts to ensure the machine is producing the way it should. Connected Support, remote diagnostics, and other dealer monitoring features can also be used.