Deere Unveils L-Series II Skidders & Wheeled Feller Bunchers

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Deere improved the L-II Wheeled Feller Buncher in a number of ways, but left untouched the features that operators loved about the original. (Photo courtesy of Deere & Company.)

Moline, Illinois,-based John Deere just introduced its L-Series II Skidders and Wheeled Feller Bunchers, for tackling a variety of high-demand forestry workloads.

A Significant Upgrade

According to John Deere Construction and Forestry Product Marketing Manager Brandon O’Neal, the improvements of the L-Series II machines compared to the previous generation are the result of taking customer feedback to heart. “The new L-Series II machines offer decreased downtime without any changes to power and productivity.” In broad terms, Deere improved the L-Series II Skidders and Feller Bunchers by streamlining maintenance tasks as much as possible, reducing the complexity of the electronic and hydraulic systems, swapped in parts that deliver more uptime, and altered component placement to make the machines easier to work on. These machines also boast more ergonomic controls, ample storage space, joystick steering, and an optional rotating seat.

Oldies But Goodies

Not everything in Deere’s L-Series II Skidders and Wheeled Feller Bunchers needed an overhaul. There are a handful of favorite features ported over from the previous models, including the comfortable, well-appointed operator station. Also returning are the older models’ rugged grapples and durable Outboard-Extreme axles, which employ a pressurized continuous-lube system and independent axle filters to improve operating lifespan. Deere also carried over the previous models’ remarkable weight distribution, a multitude of tire options, and high-speed hydraulics.

The L-Series II Nitty Gritty

The L-Series II Skidder now offers up to 10 percent more grapple squeeze force, new articulation steering sensors that make the machine handle better, and an improved two-speed 4000 winch that gives the operator more flexibility in determining how best to get the job done. These machines feature a Continuously Variable Transmission that combines the best features of a hydrostatic transmission and a lockup torque converter for smoother, more fuel-efficient performance.

Another feature that operators of the new wheeled feller bunchers will appreciate is the one-button Quick Dump, which simply and safely releases the trees in a single motion. The machine’s head-tilt and arm functions have also been combined, so you can easily get more done in less time.

Source: Deere & Company

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