Australasia's home for timber news and information

Harvesting window extended with new JD bogie skidder

John Deere has launched a new six-wheel 768L-II Bogie Skidder designed to conquer wet conditions and steep slope terrain. Incorporating the features found on the John Deere L-II Skidder line-up, the new 768L-II maximizes productivity, performance, and comfort when carrying hefty loads over long distances in challenging conditions. Source: Timberbiz

The 209kW (281hp) 768L-II features heavy-duty bogie axles, which incorporate large components to maximize durability and stability for long axle and tire life. The heavy-duty axles are purpose-built for tough applications, effortlessly pulling heavy loads and manoeuvring tough terrain.

The smooth, stable operation results in reduced machine vibration, ultimately minimizing operator fatigue. Another key feature is the excellent tractive ability and floatation. When combined with the bogie axles, ground pressure is reduced, allowing the 768L-II to work in wet terrain not accessible with a four-wheel skidder. As a result, the harvesting window is extended, adding more working days to the calendar.

The new arch design provides the operator with an expansive rearward view of the grapple and work area, providing excellent visibility. Improving manoeuvrability, the long wheelbase and boom-arch envelope boost reach and lift capability for the boom and grapple, increasing performance in the woods. The tight turning radius enhances agility at the landing.

The 768L-II retains the other customer-favourite features introduced on the L-II product line-up. Streamlined and redesigned electrical and hydraulic systems result in improved uptime and increased guarding and protection of key components. An improved grapple squeeze force and two-speed winch further increase productivity, while articulation steering sensors improve the operator experience.

The industry-exclusive Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) marries the efficiency of a direct-drive transmission with the smoothness of a hydrostatic drive. As a result, CVT provides more power to the ground by sensing the load, increasing torque and tractive effort as needed to maintain the desired speed.

To learn more about the updated 768L-II Bogie Skidder, as well as the full line of John Deere Forestry equipment, visit www.JohnDeere.com.au or your local John Deere dealer.