The four new 9RX tractor models range in engine power from 470hp to 620hp. According to John Deere, the tractor features a large undercarriage and track system engineered to provide durability and improved ride quality, especially when handling large implements in the field.

The 9RX undercarriage features a positive-drive track system that effectively delivers more power to the ground. John Deere claims this is ideal for heavy draft applications such as cultivating, ploughing, discing, subsoiling and large-scale drilling applications.

The 9470RX and 9520RX tractors are powered by 13.5-litre John Deere PowerTech PSS engines, whereas the 9570RX and 9620RX use 15-litre Cummins QSX engines.

Featuring cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), turbocharger technology, diesel particulate filter (DPF) and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) technology, both engine makes are compliant with Stage IV/Final Tier 4 emission regulations.

The engines power a large-diameter drive sprocket and drive lugs that, along with placed idlers and mid-rollers, work to deliver exceptional horsepower to the ground with less track slippage.

The 9RX tractors are equipped with rugged, puncture-resistant Camso Durabuilt 3500 and 6500 Series belts with Duradrive Technology. The 76cm wide track belts are designed for increased durability and remain within the overall machine width limit of 3m, according to John Deere. Extra-wide 91cm tracks are optionally available.

Transmission

Like its 9R and 9RT siblings, the new four-track 9RX tractors are available with the responsive, e18 transmission with Efficiency Manager for automated control of the engine and transmission.

John Deere claims this transmission responds quickly and automatically in the field for improved performance and increased fuel savings. The new tractors also feature an articulated steering system and optional Active Command Steering (ACS), which improves manoeuvrability in the field and line-holding ability. On the road, the tractors have a top speed of 40km/h.

The 9RX CommandView III cab features a new cab suspension system that improves the tractor’s ride quality by allowing up to 10cm of vertical travel. This helps to control movement and isolates the cab and operator from sudden impacts and vibration.

Features

Other ergonomic cab features include the fully integrated AutoTrac guidance and JDLink Connect information management systems, and the Generation 4 CommandCenter display with custom-designed pages to provide fingertip control of tractor and implement functions.

Up to 24 LED lights spread daytime-quality light around both the tractor and implement for long days of work.

In addition, to meet the speed and high hydraulic power demands of large implements, the hydraulic system has been redesigned and now includes up to eight SCVs delivering a standard flow of 220 litres/min or an optional 435 litres/min.

This tractor has its sights firmly set on large-scale tillage operations, and interestingly, especially for minimum tillage operations, it is looking like tracked tractors could make an impact.

Could we see a scheme incentive to protect soil structure giving support for farmers to invest in this type of specialist tractor?