The HydraFlex system hydraulically controls the float of the cutterbar by a simple turn of a knob in the cab. This provides exceptional cutterbar flexibility throughout the entire working pressure range. Higher ground speeds can be accomplished with HydraFlex, compared to the conventional float systems.

Feature benefit:

• Float arms, with hydraulic cylinders at every other channel, have replaced the mechanical linkage. These cylinders provide the cutterbar with the ability to float over uneven ground conditions with improved operator control.
• The platform HydraFlex system with an accumulator maintains a constant ground pressure over changing ground conditions. Manual mode is for locking out the cutterbar in the rigid mode.

Functionality

In automatic mode, the operator sets a desired cutterbar ground pressure, and the system will maintain this setting. If a different set point is desired, the operator adjusts the encoder on the armrest board, and an updated cutterbar float pressure reading will be shown on the cornerpost display. For increased ground following in uneven terrain, decrease cutterbar pressure to make the cutterbar heavy to the ground. If soil pushing occurs, increase the cutterbar pressure to make the cutterbar lighter to the ground.

The heavy-duty epicyclic knife drive gearbox provides an enhanced knife-drive system that increases drive capacity with less vibration and improved reliability.

Feature benefit:

• Provides high level of reliability and durability
• Minimizes vibration
• Fast, efficient cutting action for higher harvesting speeds

Functionality:

• 89-mm (3.5-in.) knife stroke adds a more efficient cutting action. The increased stroke improves the cutterbar’s ability to cut even in adverse conditions, such as large-stemmed crops or weeds, without plugging.
• Knife speed is 520 rpm.
• Reliability is improved with an in-line versus wobble-geometry knife head, which oscillates in a straight line and not through a radius like the previous knife drive.
• Knife head and gearbox attachment are improved. Two cap screws can be easily removed if any service to the knife is required.

John Deere’s single-point header latching system provides combine operators a fast and easy method for connecting all front-end equipment. One easy motion of the lever connects the electrical and hydraulic circuits along with header retaining pins.

Feature benefit:

• Reduces the time required to change over headers.
• No tools required to remove headers for transport or storage.

Functionality:

The enhanced single-point latching system, includes a valve assembly mounted to all platform and corn head back sheets. These assemblies include an orifice valve unique to the header type and a pressure override valve. Together, these valves ensure the performance and reliability of header hydraulic functions.