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John Deere continues K series loader update

June 25, 2015  By  Andrew Macklin



June 25, 2015 – John Deere continues to update its K-Series wheel loader lineup to adhere to Final Tier 4 emissions standards and better meet the needs of today’s operators. The 444K, 524K and 544K utility-class wheel loaders are designed for jobs that demand extra agility and ability on the jobsite.

The implementation of a John Deere PowerTech EPA Final Tier 4 (FT4)/EU Stage IV diesel engines enable operators to work anywhere, even in non-attainment areas. The PowerTech engine delivers solid torque, 444K (124 hp), 524K (141 hp), 544K (163 hp), to help maintain good boom and bucket speed in and out of the pile for heaped loads, even in wet or hard-packed material.

The K-Series loaders implement excavator-style hydraulics that sense the load and deliver the flow needed for smooth combined functions and fast work cycles. A PowerShift torque-converter transmission employs Smart-Shift technology to continuously evaluate speed and load conditions. The 544K’s new standard five-speed transmission with lockup torque converter in gears 2–5 offers increased acceleration, speeds cycles, and optimizes power and fuel efficiency during transport, roading, and ramp climbing.

The three models come standard with several features to make the operator’s job easier. These improvements include an enhanced multifunction monitor with diagnostic and maintenance information, tinted glass and a Level 1 sound suppression package that reduces engine noise heard by the operator and bystanders, thus decreasing operator fatigue and increasing productivity on job sites that are in or around areas that have noise restrictions.

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Similar to other John Deere construction machines, operators will find comfort in the high-back air-ride seat of the K-Series. A keyless start and easy push-button operation of a number of machine functions allows the operator to get extra productivity from their wheel loader. Operators will also have two optional radio offerings – an AM/FM/WB with auxiliary port or an AM/FM/WB and XM Satellite Radio™ with auxiliary port, USB and Bluetooth connectivity.

To eliminate downtime, the K-Series models are equipped with remote battery terminals for faster and easier jump-starting. The engine compartment can remain closed and locked to charge the batteries, which reduces the threat of vandalism. These machines also feature an optional right-side platform and steps for easy access to the right side of the machine.

The utility class wheel loaders continue to boast strong onboard diagnostics providing detailed troubleshooting information for faster diagnosis and repair. Like their predecessors, the models will feature John Deere’s exclusive Quad-Cool system to provide the highest cooling efficiency and ease of cleaning.

Operators looking to get the most out of their 444K, 524K or 544K can rely on Ultimate Uptime featuring John Deere WorkSight. With Ultimate Uptime, operators receive pre-delivery and follow-up inspections; three years of JDLink telematics, machine heath prognostics and remote diagnostics, and programming capability; and the ability to add dealer-provided uptime solutions to customize the package to individual needs.


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