Sept. 11, 2018 11:59 AM

All-new deck design and rear torsional suspension increase performance and productivity

This item has been supplied by a forage marketer and has not been edited, verified or endorsed by Hay & Forage Grower.

New John Deere E12 Rotary Cutter features a 75-hp gearbox and Category4 driveline.

With an all-new deck and cutting chamber design, John Deere cuts no corners when it comes to improving mowing and cutting performance with the introduction of a new family of rotary cutters. A variety of working widths and configurations are available to mow grass, pastures, CRP land, road sides, parks, crop stalks or maintain large commercial lots.

The new John Deere Rotary Cutter lineup includes the E-, M- and R-Series that replace the existing John Deere MX, HX and CX Flex-Wing Rotary Cutter Series. E-Series Rotary Cutters include a new 12-foot (3.6 m) E12 along with a 15-ft (4.5 m) E15. Next up is the M-Series with M15 (15-ft / 3.6 m) and M20 (20-ft / 6.1 m) models. The top-end R-Series includes a 10-ft (3.05 m) size, followed by the R15 (15-ft / 3.6 m) and R20 (20 ft / 6.01 m) models.

With an emphasis on improved cutting performance, the foundation of all three model designations is a new deck and cutting chamber design. “The all-new cutting chamber has been designed from the ground up to control air flow under the deck,” explains Cristina Guzman, marketing representative for John Deere. “This improves cutting performance and cut material distribution from below the deck while reducing material accumulation on top of the cutter deck.” A larger volume cutting chamber improves cutting quality when operated at today’s desired higher ground speeds.

Up front, a new suspended front mount improves machine stability by isolating the movement of the cutter deck relative to the tractor and vice versa. “This helps reduce stress on the machine while delivering a comfortable ride for the driver,” says Guzman.

A new torsional rear suspension system is an option for the M Series and is included in the base package for the R Series. The suspension further improves machine stability while delivering an improvement on cutting height. This is the same field-proven technology that’s been available on John Deere windrowers for more than a decade. Maintenance free bushings and sealed wheel bearings (R Series only) reduces maintenance requirements and improves reliability and uptime.

E-Series Cutters feature a 75-hp gearbox and Category 4 driveline. A 100-hp gearbox and Category 5 driveline are base equipment on the M-Series, with an option to upgrade to a higher-performing 125-hp gearbox with Category 6 driveline. All R-Series Cutters feature a new 125-hp gearbox and Category 6 main driveline for more capacity, improved durability and performance.

New E-, M- and R-Series Rotary Cutters will be shown at fall farm shows across the country. For more information and a full listing of options available for the new rotary cutter lineup, contact your local John Deere dealer or visit JohnDeere.com/ag.