John Deere New Model of 8000 Series Self-Propelled Forage Harvester

John Deere announces the addition of three new models to its lineup of 8000 Series Self-Propelled Forage Harvesters (SPFH). These machines offer forage producers more productivity, increased uptime, decreased cost of operation and are designed with the latest forage harvesting technology.

Growers can choose from three new models:

• 8300, 483-horsepower with a Tier 4 Final 13.5-liter engine
• 8700, 755-horsepower with a Tier 2, non-EGR 19.0-liter engine
• 8800, 832-horsepower with a Tier 2, non-EGR 19.0-liter engine

Each model can be equipped with HarvestLab, an advanced crop analysis and documentation component that uses constituent sensing to improve forage quality.

Headers for the SPFH machines include the John Deere Small Drum Rotary Harvesting units from 6-12 rows, John Deere Large Drum Rotary Harvesting units from 6-10 rows and the new 9 Series Hay Pick-ups. All the John Deere headers are automatically speed-matched to the length of cut.

Other features include the DuraDrum cutterhead with reverse sharpening and other technologies to improve forage processing and nutrient quality.

 “These models feature a new 770 Plus Rotary Harvesting unit, which reduces stalk and ear losses and improves ability to harvest down corn. The units also reduce plugging in weedy conditions,” says Tim Meister, division manager, marketing with John Deere.

The channel width is matched to engine horsepower, which customizes capacity to customer needs. Also included is a new spout design and turning mechanism, which allow for higher speed of operation and increased productivity. 

Another new feature, John Deere Active Fill Control, increases productivity and accuracy in the field. This new capability allows for automated filling of trucks and wagons, which results in reduced operator fatigue and crop losses.

Other available features include a dual tire option for reduced soil compaction and better traction in wet soil conditions, lengthened service cycles, reduced daily maintenance and cleaning needs, and a new stone detection system.

Finally, the new 8000 Series models provide forage producers with a more efficient cost of operation with improved fuel efficiency — up to 6% (gallons per ton) in corn and up to 15% (gallons per ton) in grass.