Harvesting in rolling ground and slopes
Valuable harvest time will no longer be lost shifting on hills, on slopes, and when exiting fields to start transporting. The ProDrive propulsion system is a high-capacity feature that enables John Deere S-Series Combines to maintain high levels of productivity in all terrain and ground conditions.
The system uses powershift transmission technology to automatically shift between two speed ranges as ground conditions change, to keep the combine harvesting at the desired ground speed.
Mode one can be set for typical harvesting speeds. Mode two can be used when higher speeds are needed during harvest or when transporting the combine.
The ground speed can be infinitely varied within both modes by the operator, using the multifunction control handle on the CommandARM™ armrest console. The multifunction handle regulates the high-capacity, variable hydrostatic pump and motor that drives the ground speed.
The productivity advantages of ProDrive include the following:
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Precise control of the combine speed (when going up or down hills), without the need to continuously monitor and adjust the hydrostatic control handle
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No need to stop to shift between transmission gears
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Automatic powershift technology between speed ranges
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Operator-selected maximum speed within each mode, allowing for more precise control of the combine in delicate operations (for example, when hooking up headers)
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High-capacity, high-torque ground drive performance during harvest and transport
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No loss of ground speed when engaging four-wheel drive (if equipped)
The ProDrive system on S-Series Combines includes an integrated Harvest Smart™ feedrate control system to provide the maximum productivity and reduce operator stress and fatigue.
ProDrive basic specifications
The ProDrive hydrostatic motor has a higher displacement than the previous hydrostatic systems.
Both the pump and motor are variable-displacement components that allow ProDrive to maintain high levels of torque to the ground throughout each of the two operating-speed ranges.
ProDrive system operation
ProDrive buttons on armrest
ProDrive provides operators with superior control of the combine ground drive through the CommandARM armrest console.
Using the navigation tools on the armrest, the operator can dial in the desired maximum-attainable speed within each of the two modes.
The maximum forward speed in either range can be set from 0 to 24 mph. The maximum speed in range one cannot be set higher than the maximum speed for range two.
CommandTouch™ ProDrive mph screen
For example, if a maximum harvest speed of 8 mph (13 km/h) is desired and set, the full forward position of the hydrostatic control handle will deliver the speed of 8 mph (13 km/h).
This feature provides more precise and comfortable control of the combine ground speed throughout the travel range of the hydro handle.
The adjustability of the range of speed can also make maneuvering the combine in close quarters and connecting header equipment much easier.
ProDrive transmission brakes
Park brake button
ProDrive comes equipped with hydraulic wet-disc brakes; five brake discs per side provide ample braking performance during transport or when operating on hills.
When transporting, it is recommended the two independent brakes pedals be locked together. When in field mode, the brakes pedals can be pushed individually for various terrain conditions.
When the hydro handle is moved to the neutral position, the park brake is automatically engaged to prevent unintended movement and can be locked in this mode with the touch of the park brake button on the CommandARM armrest console.
An alarm in the CommandARM display alerts the operator the park brake is engaged, if it has not been released prior to hydro handle movement. When the combine engine is turned off, the park brake is automatically applied.
The ProDrive transmission is equipped with an electrohydraulic differential lock with a four-pinion differential. Non-ProDrive combines have a two-pinion differential.
When operating in muddy, hilly terrain or in sandy conditions that may cause one of the tires to lose traction, this differential lock enables the operator to maintain productivity. If traction is lost, the operator can quickly and easily engage the differential lock by pressing the differential lock button on the CommandARM armrest console. An indicator light within the button alerts the operator that the differential locking feature is engaged.
This feature eliminates the need for the operator to control the drive wheel slip manually with the independent brake pedals. When turning, the differential lock disengages automatically if one of the brakes is applied, or if the operator presses the button to disengage the differential lock.