| Manufacturer | John Deere |
| Price | 144,175(USD) |
| Model | 8970 |
| Equipment Type | Four-wheel Drive 4WD Tractors |
| Factory | Waterloo, Iowa, USA |
OCED TRACTOR TEST 1673 2
| Description | Diesel PowrSync 4WD October 26 - December 1, 1993 Link: OCED Tractor Test 1673 file PTO performance Drawbar performance |
| Power at rated engine speed | 354.45hp / 264.3kW |
| Fuel use | 20.1gal/hour / 76.1l/hour |
| Power at rated PTO speed | 393.39hp / 293.4kW |
| Max power | 313.92hp / 234.1kW |
| Max pull | 34,302lbs / 15559kg |
JOHN DEERE 8970 POWER
| Engine (gross) | 400hp / 298.3kW |
| PTO (claimed) | 339hp / 252.8kW |
| Drawbar (tested) | 313.92hp / 234.1kW |
| PTO (tested) | 354.45hp / 264.3kW |
ENGINE DETAIL
The John Deere 8970, equipped with a powerful Cummins turbocharged 6-cylinder engine, delivers a gross output of 400hp at 2100 RPM, making it suitable for heavy-duty agricultural applications. Its 14.0L displacement and 14.0:1 compression ratio enhance torque and efficiency, but rigorous maintenance of the dual paper element air cleaner and substantial oil (36qts) and coolant (72qts) capacities is critical to prevent overheating and maintain performance. This tractor's robust specifications ensure it can handle challenging conditions, but operators should consider the need for compatible attachments and appropriate fields to maximize productivity.
| Description | Cummins turbocharged aftercooled diesel 6-cylinder liquid-cooled |
| Displacement | 855ci / 14.0L |
| Bore/Stroke | 5.50x6.00inches / 140x 152mm |
| Power (gross) | 400hp / 298.3kW |
| Air cleaner | dual paper elements with aspirator |
| Compression | 14.0:1 |
| Rated RPM | 2100 |
| Starter volts | 12 |
| Oil capacity | 36qts / 34.1L |
| Coolant capacity | 72qts / 68.1L |
JOHN DEERE 8970 ENGINE
The John Deere 8970 is powered by a Cummins 14.0L 6-cylinder diesel engine, providing robust torque and efficient power delivery suitable for heavy-duty agricultural applications. Its large displacement offers advantages in fuel efficiency and durability, but maintenance costs may rise due to the engine's complexity. Ideal for large-scale operations, the 8970 excels in tasks like plowing, tilling, and transportation, where high power and stability are essential.
| Description | Cummins 14.0L 6-cyl diesel |
TRANSMISSIONS OVERVIEW
The John Deere 8970 features a 12-speed partially synchronized transmission, allowing for smoother gear transitions under load, which enhances operational efficiency. Its optional 24-speed two-speed power shift increases versatility in various field conditions by providing more tailored speed selections. However, the complexity of a full power shift may require more advanced operator training to optimize performance during demanding tasks.
| Description | 12-speed partially synchronized 24-speed two-speed power shift 12-speed full power shift |
TRANSMISSION 1
The John Deere 8970 features a partially synchronized transmission with 12 forward and 3 reverse gears, allowing for smoother shifts in low to moderate speed ranges, particularly in tough field conditions. The PermaClutch hydraulic wet disc system enhances durability and reduces wear, making it reliable for extended operations. However, the limitation of synchronization in gears 4-12 may challenge quick shifting during high-speed tasks and could require more operator finesse.
| Transmission | Syncro |
| Type | partially synchronized |
| Gears | 12 forward and 3 reverse |
| Clutch | PermaClutch hydraulic wet disc |
| Description | Three synchronized gears (1-3) in four ranges (A-D) |
TRANSMISSION 2
The John Deere 8970's PowrSync transmission offers efficient power transfer with a two-speed power shift design, providing flexibility through 24 forward and 6 reverse gears. The hydraulic wet disc clutch enhances durability and reduces slippage during shifting, allowing for smoother transitions across the six gear ranges (A-D). This transmission is particularly advantageous for varied field conditions, although operators may need to acclimate to synchronized shifting, especially when optimizing for specific applications.
| Transmission | PowrSync |
| Type | two-speed power shift |
| Gears | 24 forward and 6 reverse |
| Clutch | hydraulic wet disc |
| Description | Six gears (1-6) in four ranges (A-D). Power shift between gear pairs 1/2, 3/4, and 5/6. Synchronized shifting between other gears and ranges |
TRANSMISSION 3
The John Deere 8970 features a full power shift transmission, allowing for smooth gear transitions without the need to manually operate a clutch, which enhances operator comfort and reduces fatigue during prolonged use. With 12 forward and 2 reverse gears, this tractor provides versatile speed ranges to accommodate various field conditions and tasks, making it suitable for both heavy tillage and transport applications. However, the hydraulic wet disc clutch may require more maintenance compared to traditional dry clutches, presenting a potential challenge for long-term ownership.
| Transmission | Power Shift |
| Type | full power shift |
| Gears | 12 forward and 2 reverse |
| Clutch | hydraulic wet disc |
MECHANICAL
The John Deere 8970 features a robust 4x4 articulated chassis, providing excellent maneuverability in various terrains, particularly advantageous for tight field conditions. Its inboard planetary final drives enhance durability and reduce maintenance needs, while the hydraulic wet disc brakes offer superior stopping power and longevity. The transmission options, including a 12-speed partially synchronized and a fully power-shift variant, allow for optimal performance across different applications, catering to both speed and torque requirements.
| Chassis | 4x4 articulated 4WD |
| Final drives | inboard planetary |
| Steering | articulated power |
| Brakes | hydraulic wet disc |
| Cab | Sound-Gard cab standard |
| Transmissions | 12-speed partially synchronized 24-speed two-speed power shift 12-speed full power shift |
CAPACITY
| Fuel | 220gal / 832.7L |
| Hydraulic system | 38gal / 143.8L |
HYDRAULICS
| Type | closed center pressure compensated |
| Capacity | 38gal / 143.8L |
| Pressure | 2530psi / 174.4bar |
| Rear valves | 3 to 5 |
| Pump flow | 44.8gpm / 169.6lpm |
| SCV flow | 33.3gpm / 126.0lpm |
POWER TAKE-OFF (PTO)
| Rear PTO | independent (optional) |
| Clutch | hydraulic wet disc |
| Rear RPM | 1000 (1.75) |
JOHN DEERE 8970 TIRES
The John Deere 8970 offers versatile tire options, with a focus on Ag tires such as 24.5R-32 and 30.5-32 for optimal traction and flotation in various soil conditions. Its robust design and powerful engine make it suitable for heavy tillage and high-draught applications, although it may present challenges in navigating compacted or muddy terrains due to weight distribution. Consider the tire selection based on specific agricultural tasks to enhance performance and reduce soil compaction.
| Ag front | 24.5R-32 / 30.5-32 / 20.8R-38 / 710/70R38 / 20.8R-42 / 18.4R-46 |
| Ag rear | 24.5R-32 / 30.5-32 / 20.8R-38 / 710/70R38 / 20.8R-42 / 18.4R-46 |
DIMENSIONS
| Wheelbase | 134inches / 340cm |
| Length | 268.9inches / 683cm |
| Shiping weight | 31,879lbs / 14460kg |
| Operating weight | 33,655lbs / 15265kg |
| Front axle | 4.331 by 128inches / 110by 3251mm |
| Rear axle | 4.331 by 128inches / 110by 3251mm |
DIMENSIONS & TIRES
The John Deere 8970 features a substantial wheelbase of 134 inches (340 cm), providing stability during heavy-duty operations. With a weight range of 31,879 to 33,655 pounds, this tractor is well-suited for demanding tasks, although the higher weight may impact maneuverability in tighter spaces. Its uniform tire size of 24.5R-32 ensures balanced traction and load distribution, crucial for optimizing performance on diverse terrains.
| Wheelbase | 134inches / 340cm |
| Weight | 31879 to 33655 pounds |
| Front tire | 24.5R-32 |
| Rear tire | 24.5R-32 |
8970 SERIAL NUMBERS
| Location | Left side of tractor hinge |
| 1993 | 1001 |
| 1994 | 1991 |
| 1995 | 2995 |
| 1996 | 6001 |
ELECTRICAL
| Ground | negative |
| Batteries | 3 |
| Battery CCA | 925 |
| Battery volts | 12 |