W260M

Increase productivity by combining up to three windrows (14.6 m [48 ft]) at time of cut, with the new John Deere Merger Attachment. It provides a versatile solution with the option of creating a center windrow discharge or a side windrow discharge. This solution helps enable the operator to get the windrow width and volume they desire. By raising the merger (0.7 m [2 ft] from the ground), the operator can discharge the crop under the traction unit, creating their desired center windrow shape.

To side windrow discharge, the merger is engaged by lowering the merger table. The Self-Propelled Windrower will detect when the merger is installed, which will automatically integrate the merger lift state identifier, merger drive status, master merger switch, and the belt slip indicator into the display. The merger attachment allows the operator to efficiently move crop either on top of or next to an existing windrow, so when the merger attachment is engaged, the operator can combine up to three windrows (14.6 m [48 ft]) together.

By reducing the number of future passes required, this system minimizes the need for both merger and chopper passes. As a result, operators can enjoy lower fuel consumption and adopt a more sustainable harvesting approach, all while minimizing crop damage.

Ease Of Use

The merger offers integrated functions, including the lift state identifier, merger drive status, master merger switch, and the belt slip indicator. It detects merger and head engagement and notifies the operator if the merger is in the down and off position.

When the master merger switch is turned on, certain settings are automatically preset. With just the push of a button, operators can easily manage the merger’s functions:

• Button 1raises both the head and merger for use at the end of a row.
• Button 2lowers the head and merger while engaging the merger.
• Button 3prepares the head for center windrow discharge.

If the master merger switch is off, these commands will not appear on the display, and the merger presets can be toggled on or off using the automation button run page.

Additionally, features like TouchSet™ and AutoTrac™ guidance can be conveniently controlled from the in-cab hydro-handle. TouchSet allows you to adjust platform settings such as windrow width, swath flap, forming shields, and roll gap adjustments—all from the comfort of your cab. Meanwhile, the AutoTrac guidance system ensures precise steering and accurate path tracking, significantly reducing overlaps and skips during operation. Together, these features enhance your overall ride experience and improve mowing performance, making your work more efficient and effective.

Adjustability

The belt speed of the merger is adjustable to include a variety of throw distances that include options for next-to or on-top-of discharge, enabling the operator to get the windrow shape they desire. Different crop conditions often need different settings to ensure crop is reaching the merger table. Particularly in light crop conditions, operators may find it beneficial to adjust header settings including tilt position, roll gap, and forming shield positions to achieve optimal performance. With the John Deere TouchSet system, operators can adjust from the cab, streamlining the process in comparison to competitors

Operator can also increase or decrease belt speed by increasing or decreasing the set point on the merger display screen or can control the belt speed by using the hydro-handle rear scroller. The merger height can also be adjusted by using the height adjustment buttons found on the merger run page.

The merger angle is adjustable by adjusting the four bolts on the lift system to the desired angle and by adjusting to the desired speed. Altering the merger angle affects the trajectory of the crop. These adjustments empower operators to attain their preferred windrow shape. Additionally, no adjustments are required for belt tracking because the merger features self-aligning belt tracking and is equipped with a single-point belt tension.

The merger attachment comes with an industry exclusive belt slip notification feature, which protects merger components and impacts job quality, which detects any belt slippage, indicating something is wrong. The belt slip indicator shows the current status of the belt by having the indicator hover over the colors green, yellow, or red, which helps the operator understand the conditions of the single belt while cutting. This improves decision-making and drives overall operational efficiency.

 

Green	Merger is running in healthy conditions.
Yellow	Will warn the operator to check the system, which could indicate plugging, belt tension, hydraulic leak, or crop build up.
Red	Means extreme slip and will shut off merger belt and head to protect the system.

Integrated Smart Components

When merger components are connected to the windrower, the merger will be automatically identified on the display and all merger run functions will appear on the screen.

• Belt slip notification
• Camera option integrated into run page
• Operation of merger integrated into hydro handle
• Belt speed adjustments and function integrated into hydro handle

Integrated camera options improve operator experience on both M and R spec SPWs. See merger live from within the cab with merger camera or see center windrow formation with rear camera, all from within the cab. The merger camera is only for units ordered ‘merger ready’ from the factory or for units with merger retrofit kits. The rear camera is available for all models.

Compatibility

The John Deere merger attachment is compatible with the R500 roll conditioner platform only, as well as the W235M, W235R, W260M, and W260R Self-Propelled Windrowers.

 

See compatibility table below:

John Deere Merger Attachment (Compatible Windrowers & Platform)
W235M	R500 Roll Conditioners ONLY
W235R
W260M
W260R
*Merger attachment is NOT recommended with the R400 Platform and R500 Impeller Head *Merger attachment is NOT recommended with the W200M Windrower

 

The Self-Propelled Windrower merger retrofit kit is designed to enhance the functionality of existing ‘Non-Merger’ ready John Deere Self-Propelled Windrowers by allowing them to be equipped with a retrofit merger attachment kit. This upgrade provides operators with the ability to combine multiple windrows efficiently, improving overall productivity and reducing the number of passes needed in the field.

The merger retrofit kit is compatible with non ‘Merger Ready’ model year 2022 and newer W235M, W235R, W260M, and W260R Self-Propelled Windrowers and R500 Platforms only. There will be no John Deere merger attachment compatibility for pre-model year 2022 Self-Propelled Windrowers. 

NOTE: Mowing and Swathing used interchangeably.

Overview

In the John Deere Operations Center, Mowing Documentation equips operators with the tools they need to make informed decisions anytime and anywhere by providing comprehensive insights into in-field performance. This capability enables operators to monitor and track key metrics such as speed, productivity, working hours, and fuel efficiency for each machine and field.

Benefits

Optimize Your Mowing Schedule: Leverage the cut date history feature to identify which fields are due for mowing next. By reviewing previous cut dates, operators can efficiently plan upcoming mowing schedules. This information can be seamlessly sent to the operator’s display through a Work Planner file, ensuring timely and organized operations.

Evaluate Dry Down Times: Combine Mowing Documentation with Bale Documentation to assess dry down times effectively. By analyzing the days between mowing and baling, operators can optimize their processes and enhance the quality of their yield.

Identify Efficiency Opportunities: Use the data provided by Mowing Documentation to uncover efficiency opportunities at both the machine and operator levels. Evaluate metrics such as speed, productivity, fuel consumption per area, and fuel rate per hour. Coverage maps and seasonal performance reports available in Work Analyzer will help you gain a clearer understanding of field performance and identify areas for improvement.

Seamless Data Integration with JDLink™: With JDLink, the transfer of machine and agronomic data between your equipment and the Operations Center is seamless. This integration enhances monitoring, planning, logistics, and analysis, making it easier for operators to manage their tasks and optimize performance.

Effectively monitoring operator performance: Essential for maximizing field efficiency and ensuring a positive work environment. By tracking individual machine performance, managers can gain valuable insights into each operator’s strengths and areas for improvement. This data-driven approach allows for strategic adjustments, including the reassignment of operators to different functions when necessary to improve equipment efficiency and employee satisfaction.

Additional details

By utilizing Mowing Documentation and its associated tools, John Deere operators can enhance their efficiency, streamline their workflows, and make data-driven decisions that lead to improved outcomes in the field.

In-Cab Comfort: Enhancing Operator Experience
Operators spend long hours in Self-Propelled Windrowers while mowing and forming windrows, making cab comfort essential for reducing fatigue and maintaining productivity throughout the day. A well-designed cab can significantly enhance the operator’s experience, allowing them to focus on their tasks without the distractions of discomfort.

In-Cab Productivity: A Focused Working Environment
The Self-Propelled Windrower cab is engineered to maximize productivity. It features a quiet working environment, providing operators with the peace they need to concentrate. With ample visibility, operators can easily monitor their surroundings and make quick adjustments as necessary. Additionally, the cab is equipped with thoughtful storage solutions and user-friendly features that facilitate efficient work processes.

Both M and R Spec cabs provide rear camera options for all models, along with merger camera options specifically available for the W235M, W235R, W260M, and W260R windrower models ordered merger ready from the factory.

Compatibility: Tailored Options for Every Operator
John Deere offers Self-Propelled Windrowers with two distinct cab options: M-Spec and R-Spec. Each cab type is designed to cater to different operator preferences, offering unique in-cab features, advanced seat suspensions, and a variety of conveniences. The exterior cab designs are also tailored to enhance functionality and style, ensuring that operators not only feel comfortable but also have the tools they need for a successful day in the field.

By prioritizing in-cab comfort and productivity, John Deere Self-Propelled Windrowers provide operators with the ideal environment to perform at their best, reducing fatigue and maximizing efficiency on every job.

 

M-Spec	W200M, W235M, W260M
R-Spec	W235R, W260R

M-spec cab

		Select
Comfort and Convenience	Seat	Vision cloth Mechanical controls Mechanical lumbar 16-degrees right and 8- degrees left swivel
	Infotainment	AM/FM/WB Auxiliary and Bluetooth inputs Two speakers
	Interior upholstery	Upholstery without right- hand storage
	Exterior styling	Without exterior styling panels
Visibility	Lighting	Halogen
	Mirrors	Manual
	Sunshades	Front
	Wipers	Front
Seat suspension	Air (passive)	Yes
	Active suspension	No
Precision Ag Technology	Integrated StarFire™ receiver	Integrated StarFire Ready
	Display	25.7 cm (10.1 in.) G5 CommandCenter™ with the Cornerpost display
	Extended Display	No

R-spec cab

The R-spec cab comes in three different trim levels:

• Premium cab with air suspension seat

• Ultimate cab with air suspension

• Ultimate cab with air active seat

		Premium with air suspension (Base)	Ultimate Cab with air suspension (Option)	Ultimate Cab with Active seat (Option)
Comfort and Convenience	Seat	Vision cloth Electronic controls lumbar support 16-degrees right and 16-degrees left swivel	Leather seat Leather steering wheel Leather instructor seat Electronic controls lumbar support 16-degrees right and 16-degrees left swivel	Leather seat Leather steering wheel Leather instructor seat Electronic controls lumbar support 16-degrees right and 16-degrees left swivel
	Infotainment	AM/FM/WB – Car play radio option Bluetooth microphone Auxiliary and Bluetooth inputs USB input Two speakers	AM/FM/WB – Car play radio option Premium audio speakers Bluetooth microphone Auxiliary and Bluetooth inputs USB input Two speakers	AM/FM/WB – Car play radio option Premium audio speakers Bluetooth microphone Auxiliary and Bluetooth inputs USB input Two speakers
	Interior upholstery	Upholstery without right-hand storage	Upholstery with right-hand storage	Upholstery with right-hand storage
	Exterior styling	With exterior styling panels	With exterior styling panels	With exterior styling panels
Visibility	Lighting	LED	LED	LED
	Mirrors	Electric heated	Electric heated	Electric heated
	Sunshades	Front/rear	Front/rear	Front/rear
	Wipers	Front	Front	Front
Seat suspension	Air (passive)	No	No	No
	Active suspension	Yes	No	Yes
Precision Ag Technology	Integrated StarFire™ receiver	Integrated StarFire ready	With Integrated StarFire	With Integrated StarFire
	Display	32.5 cm (12.8 in.) G5Plus CommandCenter with the cornerpost display	32.5 cm (12.8 in.) G5Plus CommandCenter with the cornerpost display	32.5 cm (12.8 in.) G5Plus CommandCenter with the cornerpost display
	Extended display	Yes	Yes	Yes

Bluetooth is a trademark of Bluetooth SIG, Inc.

Automated temperature control – M- and R-spec

M Spec windrowers

The select comfort and convenience package is available for the M spec windrowers.

Cloth seat

• Improved swivel seat – 16 degrees to the right
• Air ride suspension
• Mechanical adjustment controls
• Mechanical lumbar support

Heated and cooled floor ventilation

• Floor vents located directly behind the operator’s feet improves airflow heating during cold mornings or cooling throughout warm days

CommandARM™ console

• Tablet mount holder integrated into the CommandARM rail

Plenty of storage

• Three cup holders
• Easily accessible storage compartments located to the right and behind the seat

Overview

The CommandARM console provides the operator with unmatched control of the windrower and platform. The whole functionality of the windrower can be controlled from one place. Controls are designed and positioned with ergonomics designed controls for easy access and usability.

Benefits

• Similar design used in John Deere tractors and combines, making it easy to use with a consistent layout.
• Usability and convenience are increased through ergonomics and button layout.
• Operator preferences realized through customizable independent fore/aft and height adjustment preferences.
• No need to move from the CommandARM.
• CommandARM developed to harmonize perfectly with CommandCenter™ display controls and multifunction control lever.

Additional details

Designed with operator comfort in mind, the CommandArm console can be adjusted in multiple ways – at an angle, fore/aft, and up and down for precise operator use and comfort. The CommandARM console provides access to the most frequently used windrower controls:

• Field/road speed range
• Float adjust
• Platform speed adjustments
• Throttle – low idle, variable idle, and high idle
• Platform engage/disengage
• TouchSet™ platform adjustments
• Windrower merger speed, raise, and lower (if equipped)
• Road hazard engage/disengage
• G5 and G5^Plus CommandCenter™ displays navigation
• Display menu shortcut buttons
• Climate control switches
• Worklight switches
• Beacon light switches

Multi-function lever

Benefits

The controls vital to the operation of the W200 Series Windrowers are conveniently located on the multi-function lever. The ergonomic multi-function lever gives the operator fingertip control of the following functions:

• Platform float suspension adjustment
• Windrower merger position, angle, and speed (if equipped)
• Platform presets (to raise, lower, and engage AutoTrac™ system)
• Increase/decrease cutterbar or draper speed
• Platform raise/lower
• Platform tilt

The multi-function lever is also associated with the following functions:

• Forward/reverse ground speed
• Automatically disengages the park brake when moved from the park position with the engine running
  • The park brake is automatically engaged when placed in park.
• With platform enabled and on rotary traction units only, automatically raises the platform when moved from forward to reverse position
  • This function prevents wrapping cut crop into condition rolls.

Additional details

The multi-function lever is linked to key operational features:

• Forward/Reverse Ground Speed Control: Seamlessly switch between forward and reverse speeds.
• Automatic Park Brake Disengagement: The park brake automatically disengages when the lever is moved from the park position with the engine running.
• Automatic Park Brake Engagement: The park brake engages automatically when placed in park.
• Platform Automatic Raise: On rotary traction units, the platform raises automatically when moving from forward to reverse, helping to prevent wrapping cut crop into condition rolls.

With the CommandARM console and multi-function lever, operators of the W200 Series Windrowers can enjoy a blend of comfort, control, and efficiency, allowing them to focus on achieving optimal performance in the field.

The G5^Plus CommandCenter is the new central information system used on all Windrowers. The G5 CommandCenter will be used on M spec machines, while the G5^Plus Command Center will be for the R spec windrowers, in both trim levels. The R spec windrowers also feature an optional G5^Plus extended monitor, available to order for improved in field performance. The G5^Plus display allows the operator to view various important harvest and diagnostic information during harvesting and organized in a layout based on operator preferences. The G5^Plus CommandCenter has been developed in combination with the CommandARM™ console and the multifunction control lever to deliver outstanding ergonomics paired with best-in-class natural navigation.

Benefits

• Display is easy to use due to its commonality across John Deere agriculture products
• Large area for information provided by a 32.5-cm (12.8-in.) screen
• Quick and easy navigation with touch functionality similar to Gen4 displays
• 10 percent less button presses compared to the previous design because of app-based interface
• Easy, logical, and intuitive operation with five run pages which can be customized by the operator
• Improved uptime due to display interface time savings, including shortcut keys below the display that allow access to the most important combine functions
• To increase the digital display area, an G5^Plus Extended Monitor is available for the R spec windrowers only.

Additional details

Five run pages can be configured by the operator according to their preferences for easy, logical, and intuitive operation. By scrolling to the left and right on the display, the operator can conveniently switch from run page to run page just like on a smartphone. In addition, the operator can switch the run pages from the multifunction control lever. This means the operator does not have to move their hand off the controls but is still able to navigate through run pages.

Overview

The corner post display will be equipped from the factory, mounted in-cab onto the right-hand cornerpost. The cornerpost display shares live windrower information to the operator all from a single view. This display is positioned such that the operator can obtain this important information while maintaining heads-up focus of what’s ahead of the windrower. Its design allows optimum viewing of the header around the display with no obstruction.

Benefits

The cornerpost display is divided into an upper and lower region. The upper region provides traction unit information, and the lower region provides platform specific information.

1. Traction unit information- ground speed, engine revolutions per minute, engine coolant temperature gauge, fuel level gauge, DEF level gauge, engine power meter indicator, high beam indicator, high exhaust system indicator, and right and left turn signal indicators.

2. Header positioning information- Header speed display, and float pressure display

NOTE: The display does not have touchscreen capability for Windrowers

The W200 Series Self-Propelled Windrowers feature several improvements over previous designs to keep the engine operating at optimal levels and improve engine life. Design features include:

• Increased screen area of 19 percent provides more air flow through the cooling package than previous models.
• Smooth, rounded path inside the wand and ducts keeps debris from slowing and plugging.
• Air lab engineered and field-tested ducting is sized for air velocity and continual removal of debris.
• Wand backer plate helps stop debris from being sucked against the screen from the cooling fan for better cleaning performance.
• Cool air intake draws air from above the chassis, minimizing debris intake to cooling package.
• A stamped metal rear screen provides easier cleaning.
• The air conditioner condenser and oil cooler assembly swing out for easy serviceability and cleaning.

The W200 Series Windrowers are tested in tough conditions of over 37.8° C (100° F) to ensure that the drives stay properly cooled for maximum life and reliability. The 94.6-L (25-gal.) oil reservoir supplies oil to the pumps. Oil is cooled as it passes through the combination oil cooler and air conditioner condenser assembly at the rear of the machine.

 

Live monitoring of the hydraulic oil temperature at the left and right drive motors and reservoir limit switch protects against overheating during drive motor stall or high-grade terrain conditions

The eight-blade cooling fan incorporates a viscous drive system that provides precise control over fan speed during operation. Optimization of the viscous fan speed leads to significant reductions in parasitic losses in certain operating conditions.

 

The fan speed is controlled by various factors such as engine coolant temperature, intake manifold air temperature, or hydraulic oil temperature. This level of control allows the fan to operate only at the required speed to keep the engine and cooling package at optimal operating temperature and reduces engine noise levels.

The heavy-duty drive motors are engineered to deliver an enhanced torque rating, ensuring reliable operation across a variety of challenging conditions, including field borders, irrigation wheel tracks, and rough terrain.

• M-spec machines, customers can choose between two speed options: 29 km/h (18 mph) and 38.6 km/h (24 mph).
• R-spec machines are exclusively offered at a speed of 38.6 km/h (24 mph), providing consistent performance tailored for demanding agricultural tasks.

The W200 Series Self-Propelled Windrowers are equipped with strategically positioned diesel fuel and diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) fill locations, offering unparalleled convenience for ground-level refueling. This design not only streamlines the refueling process but also enhances operational efficiency, ensuring that operators can quickly and easily maintain their machines, allowing them to focus on what truly matters—maximizing productivity in the field.

The DEF sight gauge is a valuable feature that helps operators avoid overfilling the tank, thereby preventing spills and mitigating the risk of damage caused by freezing and expansion in cold weather conditions. This design enhances operational safety and protects the integrity of the system, ensuring reliable performance even in challenging environments.

A remote batter terminal, conveniently located on the left-hand platform near the fluid fill, provides power for the 12-V fuel pumps on refueling tanks.

A conveniently positioned remote battery terminal on the left-hand platform, near the fluid fill area, delivers reliable power for the 12-V fuel pumps used with refueling tanks. This convenience enhances accessibility and efficiency during the refueling process, ensuring operators can easily connect and power the pumps as needed.

Overview

The W200 Series Self-Propelled Windrowers feature a unique constant header speed capability, enabled by an advanced hydraulic pump control system. This system continuously monitors platform speed and adjusts the pump’s output to maintain the desired header speed. As a result, operators experience consistent cut quality and uniform windrow formation, regardless of varying crop conditions or changes in terrain.

When crop conditions cause the header to slow down or when the engine experiences increased load due to terrain variations, the control system intelligently redirects additional oil flow to the platform drive motor. This proactive adjustment ensures that the header speed remains at the set point, effectively broadening the peak power range and delivering optimal performance when it is needed most.

Benefits

• Enhanced Fuel Efficiency: The ability to operate the header at slower speeds in lighter crops reduces overall fuel consumption, making it a more economical choice for farmers.
• Optimal Engine Performance: The system allows the engine to run below its rated RPM while still maintaining the set header speed, contributing to improved fuel efficiency and reduced wear.
• Increased Component Longevity: The improved ramp-up and ramp-down speeds during starting and stopping of the platform enhance the longevity of the header and platform drivetrain components, ultimately reducing maintenance costs.

Additional details

The constant header speed feature of the W200 Series Windrowers not only improves cutting efficiency but also optimizes fuel usage and extends the lifespan of critical components, making it an invaluable asset for modern agricultural operations.

Maximizing efficiency and minimizing operator fatigue are crucial for achieving optimal results. John Deere’s IntelliAxle Steer Assist, combined with the industry-exclusive rear-wheel steer assist system, provides operator to have more control of the windrower, enabling cutting and transport speeds.

IntelliAxle Steer Assist utilizes advanced algorithms to automatically adjust steering sensitivity based on speed and load conditions. This means that as the vehicle moves faster, the steering becomes more responsive, allowing for precise maneuvering in tight spaces. Conversely, at slower speeds, the steering is optimized for greater control and stability. The IntelliAxle Steer Assist system also has independent rear suspension, which effectively absorbs shocks from the roughest field and road conditions. This design enhances ride comfort and significantly reduces operator fatigue during long hours of work in the field.

Independent rear suspension

The independent rear suspension provides smoother steering inputs and reduces the effort required by the operator. The independent rear suspension further contributes to a superior ride quality, absorbing shocks from rough fields and creating a more comfortable ride experience and less operator fatigue during long working hours. Its torsion axle design effectively absorbs shocks encountered in rough terrain, enabling faster cutting speeds and improving overall performance.

Rear-wheel steer assist

The rear-wheel steer assist system enhances maneuverability both in the field and during transport, offering operators a more responsive and precise handling experience. The W200 Series incorporates an electrohydraulic, proportionally controlled rear steering system that delivers tighter steering and improved control at higher speeds.

This axle design enables in-field working speeds of up to 27.3 km/h (17 mph) and transport speeds of up to 38.6 km/h (24 mph).

The smooth, fluid steering allows operators to maintain complete control of the windrower, particularly during sharp turns and challenging field conditions. Operators can easily adjust the steering sensitivity through the CommandCenter™ display, tailoring it to their personal preferences and the specific demands of the field.

The steer assist system offers three distinct modes of steering assistance based on the machine’s speed:

1. Inactive Mode: Below 6.4 km/h (4 mph), the IntelliAxle steer assist system is disabled, with steering controlled solely by the front drive wheels.
2. Field Range Mode: Once speeds exceed 6.4 km/h (4 mph), the IntelliAxle system activates, providing hydraulic assistance to the rear caster wheels. Operators can set their preferred sensitivity for this mode directly via the CommandCenter display.
3. Transport Range Mode: In this mode, operators can independently adjust the steering sensitivity for transport, allowing for optimal control at higher speeds and providing additional flexibility.

This comprehensive steering system enhances the overall performance of the W200 Series, ensuring that operators can navigate their environments with ease and confidence.

• Range 1 Aggressiveness (B): Allows the operator to change the aggressiveness of the rear steering when range 1 is engaged. Use range 1 for low speed or field operation.
• Range 2 Aggressiveness (C): Allows the operator to change the aggressiveness of the rear steering when range 2 is engaged. Use range 2 for high speed or transport operation.

Faster field and transport speeds

Faster field and transport speeds are achieved with the increased controllability and stability provided by the rear-wheel steer assist system and independent rear-wheel suspension. The IntelliAxle system, when coupled with the integrated AutoTrac™ steering system, delivers unmatched performance and productivity.

The combination of the rear-wheel steer assist system and independent rear-wheel suspension enables faster field and transport speeds, significantly enhancing controllability and stability. When integrated with the IntelliAxle system and AutoTrac steering technology, it allows operators to navigate their tasks with greater efficiency, ensuring optimal results in both fieldwork and transportation. By also using AutoTrac it allows for accurate guidance and alignment in rows, ensuring optimal cutting performance while reducing overlap and missed areas.

Overview

The W200 Series Self-Propelled Windrowers are equipped with AutoTrac™ technology, an advanced assisted steering system that allows operators to take their hands off the steering wheel as the machine follows the designated guidance line in the field. This feature optimizes field operations, enhancing productivity while significantly reducing operator fatigue.

Although operators still need to turn the machine at the end of each row, they can easily resume AutoTrac control by pressing the resume button, allowing the system to steer the windrower down the adjacent pass. The accuracy and controllability of AutoTrac enable faster operating speeds, with the W200 Series capable of reaching up to 27.4 km/h (17 mph) under suitable conditions.

The system employs a unique hydraulic over mechanical design for coarse adjustments to the drive pumps, while an electrohydraulic proportional rear steering system handles fine adjustments. This combination delivers the most precise steering system in its class.

W200 Series Self-Propelled Windrowers come factory-equipped to be AutoTrac ready, requiring only a display, AutoTrac activation, and a StarFire™ receiver to enable the system. Click here to learn more about the necessary components for AutoTrac on W200 Windrowers.

By ensuring consistent engagement of the platform with the crop, AutoTrac contributes to increased productivity, providing more uniform windrows, extending operating hours, and reducing operator fatigue. The integrated AutoTrac system on the W200 Series significantly outperforms previous windrower options, enabling faster cutting speeds and allowing operators to cover more acres in less time.

Benefits

• Maximized Productivity: The combination of automated steering and precision guidance allows operators to cover more ground in less time, optimizing their cutting operation.
• Improved Yield: Reduce crop damage and enhance management practices contribute to better yield outcomes.
• Enhanced User Experience: The intuitive interface and customizable settings of AutoTrac make it user-friendly, allowing operators to easily adapt the system to their needs.

Cutting in challenging conditions, such as uneven irrigation berms and pivot wheel tracks, can significantly impact cut quality. The W200 Series Windrowers are equipped with an innovative independent platform float suspension system designed specifically to tackle these obstacles and enhance overall performance. The independent float suspension provides exceptional adaptability, allowing the platform to maintain optimal contact with the ground while navigating uneven terrain. This feature ensures that the windrower can effectively ride on raised surfaces with proper flotation, minimizing the risk of gouging and dirt accumulation. By allowing each side of the platform to adjust independently, the float suspension significantly improves cutting quality along irrigation berms and pivot tracks. This adaptability reduces the likelihood of dirt buildup on the platform, which can lead to increased downtime and contamination of the windrow.

Benefits

• The independent float suspension delivers improved cut quality along irrigation berms and pivot
• Improved flotation on non-level surfaces
• Less dirt accumulation, which results in higher quality hay and forage
• Minimized the amount of foreign material mixed in with the cut crop

John Deere’s TouchSet™ technology enhances the user experience and operational efficiency of their windrowers. This technology provides operators with intuitive control over key R500 platform settings, allowing for quick adjustments and improved productivity in the field. The operator is able to easily adjust and control various settings, like formation shields, roll gap, and swath flap on the go from within the cab, enabling precise management of the machine’s performance.

TouchSet is only available with the R500 rotary header.

Quick and precise adjustments

With TouchSet, operators can make real-time adjustments to critical parameters such as cutting height, platform tilt, and other operational settings. This capability ensures that the machine can swiftly adapt to changing field conditions, optimizing performance and cut quality. Previously, to perform windrow width adjustments, the operator had to crawl under the machine to loosen and adjust the forming shields.

Preset adjustments

TouchSet includes a preset library for various crops, allowing users to choose the appropriate crop type while cutting. This selection automatically adjusts the header to suit the specific crop. Additionally, operators have the option to create custom presets tailored to a particular field or cutting task. This feature enables quick adjustments to the swath flap, forming shields, head tilt, roll gap, and cutterbar speed.

Benefits

• Improved Operator Comfort: TouchSet technology reduces the complexity of machine controls, making it easier for operators to manage their equipment comfortably and efficiently.
• Consistency in Performance: Quick adjustments lead to more consistent performance across varying field conditions, ensuring high-quality cutting and windrow formation.
• Reduced Downtime: The ability to quickly and accurately adjust settings minimizes downtime, allowing for continuous operation and increased productivity during critical harvesting periods.