8030 Series tractors Wow John Deere dealers: the eight new models were introduced to dealers and the media in August.

Texas in August was just the setting for the hot reception that John Deere dealers gave the new 8030 Series tractors. Other updated and new products introduced at the Fort Worth gathering included the 60 Series STS combine updates, the GreenStar 2 system and Apex software, seeders, planters, mower conditioners and some Frontier haying and field equipment. The dealers also got a good look at the new fully integrated cabs for the 3000 TWENTY Series and the 4000 TWENTY Series.

By far, the most interest was shown for the eight 8030 tractors that were available in two-wheel drive (2WD), mechanical front wheel drive (MFWD), MFWD with Independent Link Suspension (ILS), and three track models. Table 1 shows the basic specs of those models.

Top Ten Countdown of 8030"s Features

10--Self-diagnosing SmartCircuit electrical system

The CAN-based electrical system integrates tractor functions, and the SmartCircuit load center has fewer fuses, fewer connections and simplified wiring.

9--Category 4N/3 hitch

This hitch can lift up to 18,300 pounds. It enables use of a new range of implements to adapt to higher engine power level and easily converts for older Category 3 implements.

8--Hydraulic system enhancements

Enhancements include lower drive train power losses, elimination of the ground drive pump, improved oil flow to implements and steering at lower engine rpm settings, and doubled hydraulic filter life. The redesigned hydraulic circuits combine steering, hitch and SCV function.

7--Ag Management Solutions (AMS) technology

Increased AMS integration with the tractor; new connections and an exposed corner post display connector for easy installation of StarFire iTC receiver and GreenStar display.

6--Cab's lower sound levels and enhanced instrumentation and controls

The popular CommandCenter, corner post display and right and left hand IVT controls are adapted from the 7020 Series. New sound resonators, cab-roof styling and storage box are standard. ActiveSeat suspension system is optional.

5--Updated Command Center

More information is at hand with color-coded controls, display monitors for fuel usage, hitch settings, customizable functions, counters and tractor systems. The GreenStar Display monitors show critical tractor functions and operates guidance systems.

4--Infinitely Variable Transmission (IVT)

Base equipment on the 8530 and available on the other 8030 Series Wheeled Tractors, the IVT automatically adapts to the power and speed requirements of most implements, with smooth shifting through the .03-26 mph speed range.

3--Vari-Cool system

The cooling package and patented fan drive system replaces the viscous and vistronic systems. The mechanical fan runs only at the necessary speed to meet the cooling requirements of the tractor--a variable speed designed operation. Airflow is dispersed to lessen dust, debris and crop kick-up, while a larger grill screen slows incoming air-flow.

2--PowerTech Plus 9.0L engine

Latest engine technology delivers more power, up to a 43 percent PTO torque rise and fuel efficiency. Cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) results in cleaner exhaust emissions without impacting efficiency, and engine sound levels are also reduced.

1--Powerful model line-up with updated styling

The five wheeled models in the 180- to 275-PTO horsepower range have increased horsepower over the 8020 Series. The three track models have more horsepower for each model.

Reducing fuel consumption

John Deere representatives are confident that the coordinated elements of the 8030 Series Tractors will result in a reduction in fuel consumed of 2 to 5 percent for a given amount of work completed, when compared with the tractors replaced by the 8030 models.

"By designing our own engines, cooling systems and other tractor elements, we can provide integrated technology to reach efficiency levels unprecedented in the market place," said Cory Reed, factory marketing manager, Waterloo Tractor Works.

Depending on the features and options, list prices for the 8030 Series tractors range from $118,454 to $216,265. The IVT transmission is included in the 8530's price, optional on the other wheeled models for $9,500. List prices for the 8030T tractors range from $168,553 to $197,332, and IVT transmission is not available for track models.

For more information about the new and updated products recently introduced by John Deere, visit the company's website (www.deere.com).

Among the speakers at the new product launch were John Lagemann, Vice President--Sales, and Markwart Von Pentz, Vice President--Marketing, both from John Deere Agricultural Marketing, U.S. and Canada. They told dealers and the press about the company's plans for marketing the new products in North America and how the company is working with dealers to supply the products wanted by their customers.

Table 1

Model                 PTO-HP                 Transmission

8130 (2WD/MFWD/ILS)   180                    16-Speed PST or IVT
8230 (MFWD/ILS)       200                    16-Speed PST or IVT
8330 (MFWD/ILS)       225                    16-Speed PST or IVT
8430 (MFWD/ILS)       250                    16-Speed PST or IVT
8530 (ILS)            275                    IVT
8230T (Track)         200                    16-Speed PST
8330T (Track)         235                    16-Speed PST
8430T (Track)         255                    16-Speed PST

                      3-point Hitch
Model                 Capacity Base/Option   Fuel Tank

8130 (2WD/MFWD/ILS)   12,400/15,200 lb.      180 gal.
8230 (MFWD/ILS)       12,400/15,200 lb.      180 gal.
8330 (MFWD/ILS)       13,800/15,200 lb.      180 gal.
8430 (MFWD/ILS)       17,300/18,300 lb.      180 gal.
8530 (ILS)            18,300 lb.             180 gal.
8230T (Track)         15,200 lb.             130 gal.
8330T (Track)         15,200 lb.             130 gal.
8430T (Track)         15,200 lb.             130 gal.