John Deere Improves Smooth Boom Control System & Offers Enhanced Seating Options For Feller Bunchers, Harvesters & Shovel Loggers

    Posted On: December 21, 2021

    In addition to a Premium XM radio option, John Deere is making available a dual-density foam seat and heated and ventilated seat options for its M-Series tracked feller bunchers, harvesters, and shovel loggers. (Photo courtesy of Deere & Company.)

    Deere recently announced that it has improved the operation of the Smooth Boom Control (SBC) system included with its M-Series tracked feller bunchers, harvesters, and shovel loggers to give operators greater feel and control over movements, particularly during fine metering. The forestry machine manufacturer has also introduced a Premium XM radio option and new seating options for the M-Series machines. The seat options include an improved dual-density foam seat that provides greater support and comfort, and a heated and ventilated seat (HVS) that also provides additional comfort.

    Operator Adaptable

    The SBC system uses high-capacity controllers, a simplified CAN bus network, and a streamlined electrical system for precise boom control with nominal malfunctions and fast troubleshooting, Deere says. SBC provides such advantages as reduced signal delay at the beginning and end of operator commands, enhanced joystick and foot pedal response, less machine wear and tear, greater productivity, and a smoother operator experience. SBC features include auto head leveling, automatic arm sequencing, quick release, and single joystick-engaged forward motion of the boom, stick, or head. The improved SBC reduces the pressure needed to operate a function, thus allowing for a wider tuning range for individual functions and an improved setup for multiple operator preferences and skill levels.


    Deere has enhanced the Smooth Boom Control (SBC) system available with its M-Series feller bunchers, harvesters, and shovel loggers to reduce operator fatigue and give them greater control. (Photo courtesy of Deere & Company.)

    "A machine's ability to adapt to any operator using equipment for extended periods is vital to productivity," says Deere Product Marketing manager Jim O'Halloran. "Continuous improvement is always top of mind when it comes to our equipment, and enhancing the machine control and operator comfort levels are prime examples of offering a greater customizable functionality to operators."

    Take A (Comfier) Seat

    Deere says the better seat cushioning, built-in contoured lumbar and thigh support, and added clearance for thighs that the new dual-density foam seat includes mean operators of any size will be comfortable in any seating position they prefer. Deere says the seat options also add adjustable suspension dampers that cut down on vibrations and provide more variable dampening. Deere makes available a standard, wide lap belt or optional four-point harness for all seat configurations.

    Source: Deere & Company

      Blog Archive
    What's New At Sandhills Global
    Posted 11/2/2026
    Learn about the latest Sandhills features, including the new VIP+ Dashboard inventory overview, the Sandhills System business system, and My Consignments. ...
    Read the full blog post
    Equipmentfacts Brings The Local Auction Ring To The World
    Posted 10/28/2026
    Live auctions used to have limited reach and a local pool of bidders, but Equipmentfacts’ simulcasting technology opens live auctions to bidders everywhere. ...
    Read the full blog post
    Essential Equipment For Storm Cleanup & Disaster Recovery
    Posted 10/26/2026
    Whether recovering from a hurricane, tornado, flood, or severe thunderstorm, renting the right equipment can help cleanup crews clear affected areas and begin restoration efforts. ...
    Read the full blog post
    Get Precise Asset Valuations With Value Insight Portal (VIP)
    Posted 10/26/2026
    VIP is a publicly available, mobile-friendly tool offering the industry’s most accurate valuations for construction equipment, farm machinery, commercial trucks, and trailers. ...
    Read the full blog post
    Fast Track Iron Dealer Network Unlocks Wholesale & Exclusive Benefits
    Posted 10/23/2026
    Sandhills’ Fast Track Iron dealer network offers wholesale buying and selling, valuable information on asset listings, and exclusive sales tools. ...
    Read the full blog post
    Sell On Your Own Terms With Standalone Timed Auctions
    Posted 10/21/2026
    Standalone timed auctions on AuctionTime let you customize the date, time, and pace of your auction to more effectively reach your target buyers. ...
    Read the full blog post
    Use Real-World Auction Results From Auction Values To Your Advantage
    Posted 10/14/2026
    Mispricing assets can be costly, which is why auctioneers, dealers, and other sellers rely on Auction Values for making data-backed pricing decisions. ...
    Read the full blog post
    Run Your Business Like A Well-Oiled Machine With The New Sandhills System
    Posted 10/12/2026
    The new Sandhills System lets dealers quote and invoice, manage rentals, and monitor incoming leads, and it comes with a complete CRM system. ...
    Read the full blog post
    AuctionTime Is The Online Auction Platform For Year-End ROI
    Posted 10/9/2026
    AuctionTime.com is the preferred venue for end-of-the-year sales of construction equipment, farm machinery, trucks, and more, with cross-platform marketing. ...
    Read the full blog post
    Sandhills Sees Optimism in the Farm Equipment Market as Corn Prices Rise During Harvest Season
    Posted 10/6/2026
    Find the latest construction equipment, farm machinery, truck, and trailer market news with Sandhills Global's September market reports. ...
    Read the full blog post