John Deere Updates GP-Series Motor Graders

Our staff attended the digital event of John Deere

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Adding industry-exclusive features, John Deere demonstrates the precision of its Grade Pro (GP)-Series motor graders. Building upon the releases of Machine Damage Avoidance and exclusive Blade-Stow added in November 2020, two additional industry-exclusive features, Auto-Pass and Auto-Shift PLUS, further enhance machine capability. These fully programmable, intuitive, and versatile features are ideal for any job, and help increase productivity with new and seasoned operators.

“The John Deere motor grader lineup has a legacy of technological and mechanical innovation, dating back decades, with the notable introduction of the industry’s first mastless 3D grade control system in 2019,” said Matt Goedert, solutions marketing manager, John Deere.

“Fast forward to today, and we’re still striving to deliver industry-leading capabilities that allow any operator —new or experienced —to work more efficiently on the job site. The latest features build upon that legacy, allowing us to put even more power and precision into the hands of the operator.”

The industry-exclusive Auto-Pass feature programs machine movements at the beginning and end of grading passes. While adjusting the speed of these movements and rotating the blade 180 degrees, the machine will simultaneously place the blade on the ground while preparing for the next pass. Available as an option on the GP-Series models and standard on the SmartGrade motor graders, this feature can also be programmed to raise and rotate the blade at the end of a grading pass, mirroring the finished angle.

Building upon the success of last year’s launch of the AutoShift transmission, Auto-ShiftPLUS, also an industry-exclusive feature, removes the need for using the inching pedal. This enables the operator to use the throttle and brake, offering increased control of the machine. Auto-Shift PLUS allows for the machine to come to a complete stop without stalling, helping reduce fatigue while cutting smoothly around obstacles or structures.

Another standard feature now included on all GP-Series machines is Configurable Float. With this feature, float switches can be programmed to control any auxiliary function, allowing programming of up to three float switches through the monitor, which adds versatility in applications where auxiliary functions are used often.

Now a standard feature on the SmartGrade motor graders, SmartGrade Remote Support connects the dealer to the machine, even from miles away. The dealer can troubleshoot machine issues and update grade control software from the dealership, reducing downtime. For customers, SmartGrade Remote Support enables the remote transfer of project files, eliminating the need to visit the machine in person. Additionally, any machine issues can be addressed from a remote location, providing an efficient solution for equipment fleets of all sizes.