Tractor Talk: John Deere, The Next Generation

When John Deere debuted what the company called the “Next Generation of Tractors” in 1960, the transition from the long-stroke, two-cylinder tractors were dramatic in the extreme. When the Generation II tractors debuted in August 1972, it wasn’t quite so dramatic, but a big leap ahead in many ways. As it did in 1960, the debut would keep John Deere at the forefront of tractor sales and technology for many years to come.

Probably the most notable and noted change in the Gen II tractors was the Sound-Gard cab. Not only did it offer unparalleled noise protection and comfort, it offered rollover protection never before seen in a stylish, comfort-oriented cab. The cab was fully isolated from the tractor on four hefty rubber mounts and so to the seat and controls. The driver was surrounded by tempered glass, but protected by a four-post ROPS (Roll Over Protection System) that doubled as cab pillars. The cab was pressurized to keep out dirt. A heater and A/C system were both optional.

When you spend 10 to 12 hours a day grinding over rough, exceedingly boring ground, comfort is important and the Sound-Gard delivered in that department. You could buy a Gen II tractor without a cab in this era, but you don’t see many. The Sound-Gard cab made believers out of many die-hard farmers.

The Generation II tractors brought more to the table than a great cab. The entire line was revised and a few new models were introduced as well. Another notable styling change was the new sloping hood, which offered better visibility and a more timely look. Most of the tractors got new designations along with the other improvements and that brings us to the 100-plus horsepower 46 Series tractors, but we need to go back a couple of years to set the stage.

Deere introduced its first turbocharged tractor in 1969, the 4520 (see the March, 2013 issue Tractor Talk). Cranking out 120 PTO ponies, the 4520 was a timely addition to the 100-plus hp tractor market. It had a few teething issues, one of the few notable John Deere faux pas. They upped the ante in 1971 with the 4620, which added an intercooler (among other improvements) to the turbocharged 404-cid diesel giving it a 135-hp output. For the Gen II era, JD introduced the 4630, which made 150 hp from a more finely tuned 404. Optional transmissions included the tried and true Synchro-Range manual unit, the equally tried and true Power-Shift and the new Quad-Range. Qua- Range combined a Synchro-Shift with a hydraulically operated hi-low range to further split gears. A new Category 3N hitch was offered that allowed both Cat 2 and 3 implements to be used.

The 4630 was offered from 1973 into 1977 and replaced by the slightly upgraded 4640 that year. It was a good tractor. Strike that… it was a great tractor in terms of quality and design, but it had a weak link. It was too powerful for rear drive only. The 1970s was the era when power began to exceed the tractive abilities of what had been the standard rear drive layout for decades. Duals and ballast notwithstanding, it was still difficult to get a 150-hp tractor to put all that power to the ground. It was no accident that as the Gen II tractors debuted, John Deere was seriously pushing MFWD and four-wheel-drive tractors as primary tillage tractors and the 4630 would be offered this way as well. Two-wheel-drive tractors were fine for utility and PTO work, but the big tillage implements needed an extra driving axle and that was that. In many ways, you could think of the 4630 as one of the last of the old school big power tractors. DW

SOURCE:

Northwest Tractor, Ottawa, Ohio

419.538.7072

Findlay-IMP.com

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What unexpected problem arose from the quietness of the new tractor cab, and how was it addressed?

The surprising tranquility of the new Sound-Gard tractor cab led to an unforeseen issue: operators began reporting a rougher ride experience. This puzzled engineers who had designed the cab to offer an exceptionally smooth ride.

To investigate, they looked into a similar situation faced by GMC. In an experiment, drivers adjusted a knob in a test vehicle, believing it controlled seat comfort when, in fact, it only altered interior noise levels. Consistently, drivers equated increased noise with improved comfort because the added noise captured more of their attention, detracting focus from minor physical sensations.

With the tractor cabs, the reduced noise allowed operators to become more aware of the physical feel of the ride, previously masked by sound. Instead of compromising the quiet atmosphere of the cab, the solution was to provide operators the ability to make personal adjustments to their comfort settings, ensuring satisfaction without increasing noise levels.

How were the new engines tested, and what concerns existed regarding competitor awareness?

The new engines underwent rigorous testing using a dynamometer, which is a device that measures force, torque, or power. During this process, the exhaust produced by the engines was directed outside through the building’s roof. A major concern during these tests was the potential for competitors to discover and capitalize on the project details. This anxiety stemmed from the distinct sound of the engines being tested, which was noticeably different from that of traditional single-cylinder engines. However, it appeared that no industrial espionage activities took place, and no competitors managed to gather information by eavesdropping on the testing site.

How did the engineers overcome the time-consuming process of gear design before computerization?

Breaking Barriers in Gear Design: The Dawn of Computerization

Before the advent of computerization, designing gears was a labor-intensive and time-consuming process. Engineers faced the challenge of meticulously crafting each gear design by hand, which required extensive calculations and adjustments. This method, while effective, was far from efficient.

One innovative engineer sought to revolutionize this method. After putting in long hours at his regular job, he dedicated his nights to exploring new technologies. He traveled three hours to his company’s headquarters in Moline, Illinois, with a singular mission: to determine if computers could streamline the gear design process.

His relentless pursuit paid off. By applying early computer technology, he discovered that tasks taking hours could now be accomplished in just 15 minutes. This breakthrough was a revolutionary step, marking the creation of the first computer program for gear design. This innovation not only drastically reduced the time needed for gear design but also set a precedent for incorporating computers into engineering.

Through his pioneering efforts, the engineer demonstrated that computerization could transform laborious tasks into efficient, swift processes—forever changing the landscape of engineering design.

How long did the development of the “New Generation” tractors take, and why was it considered a significant feat?

The development of the “New Generation” tractors took an impressive seven years. While this might sound like a lengthy period, it was actually a remarkable achievement. Designing and producing a completely new line of tractors involves intricate engineering, rigorous testing, and substantial innovation. This timeline highlights the dedication and expertise required to bring advanced agricultural machinery to market.

How did Deere & Company collaborate with Frigidaire to improve the air conditioning unit for tractor cabs?

Deere & Company embarked on a collaborative journey with Frigidaire to enhance air conditioning units for tractor cabs. Initially, a top engineer from Deere persuaded Frigidaire, a division of General Motors, to supply what was considered the market’s best available unit at that time. However, Frigidaire stipulated that no alterations could be made to their units.

Despite this restriction, Deere encountered significant issues during testing; vibration and dust severely impacted the air conditioners after roughly 200 hours of operation. Undeterred, Deere engineers dedicated over two years to developing an innovative seal and bearing solution that effectively addressed these problems.

In a pivotal moment of transparency, Deere informed Frigidaire of the modifications they had implemented. Rather than severing ties, as initially feared, Frigidaire embraced the alterations. This collaboration not only improved the product but also led to the changes becoming a new standard within the automotive industry.

What challenges did Deere & Company face in achieving standardization across international tractor manufacturing?

Challenges in Achieving Standardization Across International Tractor Manufacturing

Deere & Company faced significant hurdles in their quest for international standardization in tractor manufacturing. In the early days, one of the primary issues was the lack of uniformity across different countries. Each region, driven by diverse market demands and production capabilities, resulted in varied tractor designs and specifications.

Lack of Standardization

Manufacturing tractors in different countries came with the complexity of differing standards, leading to inconsistencies. This disparity made it difficult for factories worldwide to collaborate effectively, as there was no common blueprint to follow. As a consequence, there was no streamlined process for unifying tractor parts across the globe.

Blueprint and Manufacturing Challenges

Another significant challenge was the difficulty of producing parts on a global scale using U.S.-specific blueprints. Factories located outside the United States found it cumbersome to translate and adapt American design plans into parts that could be manufactured with the same precision.

The New Generation Shift

To overcome these challenges, a transformative approach was needed. Deere & Company introduced the concept of the New Generation tractor—a universal design intended to meet worldwide needs. This initiative marked a pivotal shift in their manufacturing strategy. By developing a standardized design platform, they enabled any of their factories worldwide to produce parts seamlessly, regardless of location.

In summary, Deere & Company’s strides towards global standardization necessitated overcoming challenges related to inconsistent designs and complex cross-border manufacturing logistics. Through innovation and strategic change, they laid the groundwork for a more cohesive and efficient production model.

Why did companies start to focus on styling?

Companies began to prioritize styling due to research indicating its influence on buyer decisions, especially when other product attributes were evenly matched.

What role did external influences, such as family members, play in purchasing decisions?

The presence of a spouse during the purchasing process could significantly sway the decision towards selecting a tractor with better aesthetics.

Why was the introduction considered groundbreaking?

The introduction was groundbreaking because it introduced truly revolutionary advancements in tractor design, setting them apart from previous evolutionary updates.

What was the nature of the change introduced by the “New Generation” tractors?

The “New Generation” tractors marked a significant shift, characterized by groundbreaking innovations rather than gradual modifications seen in earlier models.

What were some of the innovative features of the operator’s platform in the New Generation tractors?

Innovative Features of the Operator’s Platform in New Generation Tractors

The New Generation tractors boasted a revolutionary operator’s platform, setting them apart from competitors. Among the standout features was a uniquely designed seat, offering unparalleled comfort and support that was absent in other tractors at the time.

Additionally, the platform was engineered with ergonomics in mind, ensuring that controls were within easy reach to enhance operability. This design minimized driver fatigue during long hours of work.

• Enhanced Visibility:Operators enjoyed improved sightlines for increased safety and precision.
• Advanced Instrumentation:A state-of-the-art control panel allowed for intuitive operation and monitoring.
• Noise Reduction:The platform was optimized to decrease noise levels, ensuring a quieter cab experience.

These features collectively transformed the farming experience, significantly boosting efficiency and comfort for users.

How did the hydraulic system of the New Generation tractors compare to competitive models?

The hydraulic system of the New Generation tractors outclassed its competitors by delivering significantly higher performance. While most competitive models offered between 10 to 15 gallons per minute (gpm) at pressures of 800 to 1,000 pounds per square inch (psi), the New Generation tractors pushed these boundaries.

Their advanced hydraulic system produced an impressive 20 gpm at an elevated pressure of 2,000 psi. This technological leap empowered the tractors with a closed-center hydraulic system, a design that maximizes efficiency by delivering power only when needed.

In terms of engine power, the New Generation tractors set a new standard by using merely 1½ horsepower (hp) from the engine for hydraulic operations. This was considered remarkably economical and efficient at the time, contributing to the system’s superior performance and setting a benchmark for tractors over 80 hp.

How many new models and configurations were developed for the New Generation tractors?

A remarkable development in the New Generation tractors saw the introduction of no fewer than five new models. These models were crafted in a diverse range of configurations to meet various agricultural needs. In total, up to 13 different configurations were available, catering to specialized purposes such as row-crop, utility, high-crop, orchard, industrial, and even crawler types. Additionally, these configurations could be equipped with engines running on gas, diesel, or LP gas.

What was unique about the development process of the New Generation tractors?

What Made the Development of the New Generation Tractors Unique?

The development of the New Generation tractors was nothing short of revolutionary, setting a distinct benchmark in the industry. While most model upgrades only tweak existing components slightly, this overhaul was different. Over 95% of the parts in these tractors were entirely new, a rare feat in itself.

Rigorous and Costly Innovation

The stakes were high for the design team, led by Hansen, as they were tasked not just to match the competition but to redefine industry standards. This ambitious goal came with immense challenges, including a significant financial investment. The redesign of the manufacturing process alone, especially for the new engines, incurred costs equivalent to about $70 million today.

Intensive Design and Testing Process

Creating each new part involved a meticulous cycle: design, engineering, fabrication, and a relentless series of testing and modifications. Each component underwent a rigorous validation process before passing the scrutiny of both prototype and manufacturing engineers. This ensured that every part was not only innovative but also feasible for production.

Versatile Model Range

Moreover, the team was simultaneously developing no less than five distinct models, each catering to a diverse range of applications. From row-crop to utility, high-crop, orchard, industrial, and even crawler versions, the flexibility was unprecedented. In total, up to 13 configurations were made available, all offering the choice of gas, diesel, or LP gas engines.

The unique blend of extensive innovation, rigorous testing, and versatile offerings distinguished the New Generation tractors from any other development process in the industry.

How extensive were the changes in the New Generation tractor parts compared to previous upgrades?

When John Deere debuted what the company called the “Next Generation of Tractors” in 1960, the transition from the long-stroke, two-cylinder tractors was dramatic in the extreme. Over 95% of the parts were completely new, marking a significant leap forward in engineering and design. This wasn’t just about catching up with competitors; it was about surpassing all marketplace standards, setting a new bar for innovation in the industry.

The redesign was a costly venture, with the price of changing the manufacturing lines to produce the new engines alone carrying a price tag of around $70 million in today’s dollars. This substantial investment underscored the company’s commitment to maintaining its leadership in tractor technology.

When the Generation II tractors debuted in August 1972, it wasn’t quite so dramatic, but a big leap ahead in many ways. As it did in 1960, the debut would keep John Deere at the forefront of tractor sales and technology for many years to come. The ongoing evolution ensured that the brand remained synonymous with cutting-edge agricultural machinery, continually pushing the boundaries of what tractors could achieve.