With nearly 60 years of motor grader manufacturing, John Deere graders are known for their blend of precision, power and reliability. Now, with SmartGrade technology — the company’s integrated 3D grade control system — users can achieve new levels of accuracy and efficiency in earthmoving operations.
To tell us more, we spoke with John Deere’s own grader guru, Global Motor Grader Product Manager Matt Costello. Based in the USA, Matt has spent 15 years with John Deere, starting as a factory engineer and later working in fabrication, welding and new product development. He’s also served as a technical instructor, focusing on technician development and readiness.
“In sales, I held the role of Product Consultant, spending a lot of time in the field on customers’ sites. I worked with dealers to help sell the value of John Deere equipment and onboard operators, to ensure they know the features we have to offer,” Matt said.
Given his experience, there’s hardly anything about John Deere equipment that Matt isn’t aware of. When it comes to graders, Matt knows each model inside out.
Power, precision and choice
Six-wheel-drive models feature precision mode for consistent speed control, and the powertrain delivers increased horsepower and torque for demanding jobs.
“On-the-go adjustments of the hydrostatic 6WD powertrain let operators tune traction and productivity to ground conditions,” Matt said.
“With eight models available in a combination of tandem and six-wheel drive configurations, two engine sizes and three control options, operators can choose between dual-joystick, fingertip armrest or conventional lever controls, with cross slope standard on all GP models.”
Operator experience and serviceability
All-around visibility is virtually unobstructed, with clear sightlines to the moldboard and beneath the front axle.
The LCD hi-vis monitor provides intuitive access to machine data and displays a high-resolution rearview camera image.
Daily service points are grouped for convenient ground-level access and the cooling package is designed for easy cleanout.
“Ground-level service setup makes daily checks efficient and the same-side filter bank simplifies fluid sampling and filter changes,” Matt said.
The foundation: Premium Circle
John Deere’s industry-exclusive Premium Circle is a sealed bearing solution.
“As a fully sealed system that has been in the market for more than five years, it doesn’t need daily greasing — it only requires grease every 500 hours, fitting nicely into your scheduled maintenance,” Matt said.
“It also eliminates the need for wear inserts or shimming, and there is no need to be constantly adjusting for circle wear.
“Achieving grade with 3D grade management solutions is a breeze.
“It also delivers 15 per cent more speed and 40 per cent more torque than traditional circles and reduces maintenance costs.
“Take a look underneath the draft frame and you’ll immediately see the difference.”
SmartGrade: integrated precision
SmartGrade is Deere’s mastless, integrated 3D grade management system that works on all jobsites.
“The system uses GNSS technology to track the machine’s position, an IMU sensor, and patented in-cylinder position sensing to track slope and blade angle in real time, automatically adjusting the blade based on the 3D site plan, allowing operators to achieve precise grading with minimal manual input,” Matt said.
“Unlike traditional systems, SmartGrade is fully integrated with no external masts or cables, improving safety, reducing setup time and minimising risk of component damage or theft.
“With the new SmartGrade platform, John Deere has taken more ownership of the hardware, software and display, while still integrating with the GNSS supplier that supports a customer jobsite.
“Touchscreen displays now offer remote display access and wireless data transfer, streamlining updates, troubleshooting and training.”
Automation suite: making grading easier
The John Deere automation suite makes grading easier with less input from the operator, which means long days in the cab are less fatiguing.
The suite includes industry-exclusive features such as Auto-Pass, Auto-Shift PLUS and Auto-Gain for Cross Slope, making it push-button easy to set.
The automations are available from the factory or as an addition to existing GP models and include:
- Machine-Damage Avoidance prevents blade damage to machine structures and tyres.
- Blade Flip mirrors the circle to a preset angle with a double tap.
- Auto-Articulation increases manoeuvrability by coordinating steering and articulation.
- Auto-Pass automates blade placement and grade-control activation at the start of a pass and resets at the end.
- Auto-Shift PLUS allows operators to work without the inching pedal and shifts automatically through roading gears.
- Auto-Gain for Cross Slope adjusts gain settings based on ground speed for optimal performance.
- Machine Presets prepare the machine for transport with one button.
“These features are adjustable and can be overridden, so whether you’re an experienced operator or a novice, automation can enhance your skills,” Matt said.
“John Deere offers a 500-hour Automation Demo program, allowing users to experience advanced features in real-world conditions and see how they enhance productivity.”
Connectivity and support
John Deere graders come with in-base connectivity, no subscriptions required.
The John Deere Operations Center — a cloud-based farm and equipment management system — enables remote monitoring, diagnostics and software updates, thanks to John Deere Connected Support.
Contractors and fleet managers can track productivity metrics such as fuel consumption, automation usage, machine hours and diagnostics in real time. SmartGrade is also linked to a telematics system for remote monitoring and diagnostics.
Regular updates ensure the system keeps getting better.
Check out the full range of John Deere Motor Graders at https://www.deere.com.au/en/motor-graders/ or see your local John Deere Dealer.
