John Deere provided dealers and media a preview of two machines to be available later this year. Machine specifications have not been finalized, but the earthmovers were available for inspection and operation at its Sacaton, Arizona, facility.
The 850L crawler dozer will have a bigger engine, tentatively rated at 225 horsepower with an operating weight between 47,578 to 51,356 pounds. An eight-roller undercarriage will provide 130 inches of track on ground. It will also be available as a pipe layer, designated PL100.
The L Series production class loaders, with the 844L aggregate handler on site, has a new joystick steering system. The steering wheel has been removed, although Deere said it will be available if requested. The hydraulic system has a dedicated steering pump. Preliminary specs call for horsepower ranging from 315 on the 744L to 417 on the 844L. The agg handler boasts 429 horsepower.
Deere emphasized operator stations on both machine types, highlighting the movement of the HVAC system outside the cab envelope to provide several inches of additional interior space. Both dozer and loaders have new seats, improved controls, and increased glass area for visibility.
