How good are John Deere Tracks?

John Deere tracks for tractors were introduced in 2020. The 8-Family Tractor lineup featured 8RX tractors with fixed-frame four-track, 8RT two-track tractors, and 8R wheel tractors.

The company claims that the introduction of the newer 8RX tractors drives like a wheel tractor, yet, experience the benefits of tracks. The four independent tracks take the tractor to a new high level in terms of operator comfort. Unparalleled ride quality, floatation, and traction are all delivered by the newest John Deere tractor models and tracks.

So, how good are the latest track tractor innovations of John Deere?

Provide better traction on wet conditions

A range of conditions is similarly worked on by both tracks and tyres. However, better traction is provided by tracks when worked on very wet soil. The impact on the wet soil is better achieved by tracks than tyres. Ruts are often the end product left by tyres when made to handle wet soil. Tracks, on the other hand, won’t leave ruts when they encounter very wet terrain.

Soil compaction

The rate in compaction comparison between wheeled and tracked tractors is an ongoing debate. It’s a given that unnecessary soil degradation happens with compaction. With this, tracked tractors have the edge when it comes to soil compaction. It has been proved that tracks win when it concerns superficial compaction. How is this so? Tests done on both wheeled tractors show above 35 psi inflation pressure. Tracked tractors show lower contract pressure compared to their tyred counterpart.

Better Manoeuvrability

The track tractors designed and created by John Deere are more manoeuvrable than wheeled tractors. The capability of tracked tractors to zero-turn on the spot makes them easily move to the end of crop rows. However, even with this great manoeuvrability, the utmost precaution and care should be practiced. The risk of the tractor jack-knifing along with its attached implements is likely to happen when precaution is ignored.

Fuel efficiency

Climate and the type of soil are the factors that affect fuel efficiency. Tracks performed better fuel efficiency when used for ploughing and tilling the stubble under. The wetter the ground being worked on, the better fuel efficiency is given by tracks. It is with heavier payloads that track truly outperform. Around 1 hp per gallon is the fuel efficiency difference provided by tracks compared to tyres when used on heavier payloads.

In a nutshell, the top advantages provided by track tractors include:

  • No fear of flat tyres
  • Implement hook-up is quick and easy
  • Absence of power hop
  • Smoother ride or rough terrain
  • Eliminates tyre pressure adjustments
  • Ballast changes are minimal
  • Offers better stability on hillsides
  • Offers more tractive efficiency over a variety of soil conditions
  • Better flotation

The Challenges of Tractor Tracks

As with everything else in this world, John Deere tractor tracks come with some challenges.

  • Price tag
  • A heftier price tag is with tracked tractors compared to the same HP wheeled counterpart.
  • Requires ongoing maintenance
  • Replacing worn tyres is all wheeled tractors need. The variety of components with tracks needs regular attention, fixing, and cleaning.

Your operation is the single top factor to determine whether it can benefit with track tractors. The John Deere track tractor is the best option when your project involves small spaces and generally wet and muddy soil.

Find a shop near you that is supplying John Deere tracks.