Surrounded by cows of the highest pedigree, the National Dairy Show in Millstreet was chosen as the location for the launch of the diesel-only John Deere 5R series. The local John Deere dealer Farmpower had the 115 hp 4-cylinder 5115R on show which boosts to a maximum power of 125hp.

It was fitted with the optional 543 front loader. This tractor does not require Ad-Blue but instead uses EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) and DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) to meet stage IIIB emissions standards.

First impressions sitting in the cab were the visibility over the bonnet and upwards thanks to the one-piece windscreen, panoramic roof and absence of a dashboard which has now migrated to the A-pillar.

The tractor is by no means short of specification either. Front axle suspension, front linkage and PTO, factory-fitted front loader and cab suspension are some of the external options available. In the cab, there are two transmission options. CommandQuad has four powershift gears in four ranges whereas Command8 has eight powershift gears across four ranges, all changed without clutching.

The latter is controlled from the optional CommandArm mounted electronic joystick. The compact tractor has a 2.25m wheelbase and 3.75m turning radius. Lift capacity is 5.3t at the linkage arm ends and HMS (Headland Management System) is available as an option.

The 543R front loader fitted to this tractor has a lift capacity of 2.2t and is controlled from a joystick. This can be either cable or electronic. A neat feature of this loader joystick is the direction change button which would be very useful during yard duties. Oil supply to this loader comes from a 117 l/min hydraulic pump. Gear and loader suspension can also be controlled from here.

Speaking to Jim O’ Mahony from Farmpower he said “there has been a lot of interest expressed in this compact hi-specification tractor that will appeal to a wide selection of customers. So far we have a number of units sold with more on order”.