2017 International Forest Industries Magazines April May 2017 | Page 70

The John Deere M-Series tracked feller bunchers
help logging contractors meet the demands of any application , increasing efficiency and comfort , as noted by customers .
“ It ’ s the prize unit here on this job ,” stated Harv Dethlefs , Big Logging Corporation . “ It ’ s increased our production – without it we wouldn ’ t be able to cut this steep of ground and we would have probably ended up hand felling and yarding it with a yarder .
“ The 909M is so surefooted on this steep of ground . The machine will cut the equivalent in one day as probably what four or five timber fallers would cut .”
The M-Series tracked feller buncher features a longer , wider undercarriage for increased stability and traction , and tilt and leveling cabs maximize operator comfort and productivity , even in challenging terrain . The 859M , 909M and 959M models
incorporate a patented levelling control system that uses sensor technology to maximize the forward tilt angle ( 26 ° forward ), while electronically preventing any possible mechanical interference when also tilting to the side .
The levelling envelope boundaries are set automatically and the patented system provides a smooth transition when approaching the levelling limits . The M-Series machines are equipped with a powerful engine , delivering premium performance , fluid efficiency and reliability . Optional Rapid Cycle System ( RCS ) combines automated felling-head arm cycling with simple boom control , dramatically reducing operator fatigue while increasing efficiency and productivity . RCS can be tailored to individual skill levels and specific harvesting conditions .
One of the most popular
features in the M-Series is the redesigned operator station . Fully adjustable armrests provide fingertip control of all machine functions , and the air-conditioned seats offers daylong comfort in the climate-controlled cab .
As stated by Peter Schmidt , Forest Trotter Contracting : “ Our operators are what make this business go round . They sit in these machines day in , day out . There ’ s a lot of legroom .
“ And this machine has that cab in the right place so you get that operator comfort the best you can in this rough terrain . They ’ re not as tired at the end of the day and in that sense , we find a higher production .”
The cab also offers better visibility , with floor-to-ceiling front and side windows plus an overhead skylight , expanding the view of the cutting area by 22 %.
According to Schmidt : “ The
visibility in this machine is great . The front windshield is much better - the way it ’ s positioned and the way you can see through it . Also through the side , if you have your boom all the way back and up , you can see out that right side window .
“ Along with the great lighting package it comes with , it ’ s a good machine even for night shifts .”
L-Series wheeled feller bunchers The L-Series wheeled feller bunchers are designed to be reliable and productive , crucial features when tackling rugged work day in and day out . Best-inclass power-to-weight ratio ensures steady multifunction performance in wet or hilly conditions , and optimal weight distribution and a longer wheelbase improves balance for better stability .
The increased head tilt provides
68 International Forest Industries | APRIL / MAY 2017