John Deere knows that loggers working in the forestry industry need equipment and machinery that they can rely on for operational success. Whether you’re looking to expand your fleet or it’s time to replace one of your skidders, you might want to take the John Deere 648L-II Skidder into consideration. Not only is this high-performing model prepared to take on rugged terrain, but it was designed with durability in mind. This means that operators never have to worry about downtime eating into their bottom line, and maintenance is a breeze.
What is the John Deere 648L-II Skidder?
The John Deere 648L-II Skidder is a cable skidder that boasts up to 237 horsepower and 756 feet-pound of gross torque. It also has a maximum grapple capacity of 17.5 square feet, meaning it can streamline the delivery of wood to your landing with fewer overall skids. The 648L-II is also easy to operate with electrohydraulic controls, which are mounted directly on the armrest. It can be steered with a joystick, and everything from direction to ground speed can be managed intuitively from the operator’s seat. Users have six forward and reverse speeds to choose from while utilizing the skidder, and the transmission ensures that switches are always smooth.
What Can the John Deere 648L-II Skidder Do?
The John Deere 648L-II Skidder is designed to help loggers seamlessly move wood through forests without skipping a beat. Its grapple delivers constant pressure, reducing the odds of losing logs, even when a load is jarred. The skidder also combines its horsepower and power-to-weight ratio for more responsiveness while in operation. No pulling power is lost when operators are climbing hilly terrain or hauling heavy loads. The front and rear axles can be engaged independently to account for changes in terrain as well.
With JDLink connectivity and access to John Deere Connected Support, operators will be able to seamlessly manage the new machine as it integrates into their existing fleet. Features, such as TimberManager, can help business owners remotely monitor progress at their job site. The data that can be harnessed through this technology also gives users the opportunity to find areas where they can make improvements. In turn, this can result in a boost in efficiency and their bottom line over time.
What Are the Important Features of the John Deere 648L-II Skidder?
John Deere knows that loggers are up against several challenges while working in the woods. These factors were kept in mind while integrating features into the 648L-II Skidder. Some of its important features include its powerful grapple, continuously variable transmission (CVT), and much more.
Easy-to-use CVT transmission
The CVT of the John Deere 648L-II Skidder is designed for ease of use, meaning that operators of all skill levels will have no problem handling the machine. The transmission automatically senses the load being carried, which signals to the skidder that more torque is necessary to maintain the set speed.
Steering Sensors
This skidder has steering sensors, which control the articulation speed when approaching frame-to-frame contact. In turn, the impact is reduced upon full articulation, which ultimately improves operator comfort.
Rock-Solid Stability
The John Deere 648L-II Skidder combines its power-to-weight ratio and horsepower with its engine speed. As a result, operators never have to worry about a lack of stability while the machine is in use. High responsiveness gives users peace of mind and the ability to focus on the task at hand. While being used on steep terrain, the 648L-II Skidder doesn’t miss a beat, maintaining its pulling power and efficiency. This makes it an ideal skidder for hauling larger loads as well.
John Deere Connected Support™
With JDLink connectivity, operators can take advantage of John Deere Connected Support. This allows them to monitor all of the John Deere 648L-II Skidder’s alerts, as well as its engine hours, location, fuel level, and idle time. On the other end, a John Deere dealer can also monitor alerts and remotely connect to the skidder to troubleshoot issues, if necessary. Software updates can also be performed from the dealership, and Expert Alerts are delivered to operators to stay on top of potential downtime in the future.
What Are the Key Specs of the John Deere 648L-II Skidder?
The John Deere 648L-II Skidder has several key specifications that customers will want to familiarize themselves with as they determine how the machine will fit into their fleet.
PowerTech PSS 6.8L Engine Model
The engine of the 648L-II Skidder is a John Deere PowerTech™ PSS 6.8L, which operates with six cylinders consisting of four valves per cylinder. It utilizes a high-pressure common rail fuel system and features a dual-stage air cleaner. Glow plugs are integrated into the engine’s cold-start system.
237 hp Engine Output
This skidder has a maximum gross engine output of 237 horsepower.
415 in. Displacement
The engine displacement of the 648L-II Skidder clocks in at 415 cubic inches.
103.5 US gal. Fuel Tank
With a fuel tank that can hold up to 103.5 U.S. gallons, operators are assured that they’ll spend less time refueling, ultimately boosting daily efficiency.
24.74 kph Travel Speed
The 648L-II Skidder can reach a travel speed of 24.74 kilometers per hour (15.37 miles per hour), and it has six different forward and reverse speed ranges.
Commonly-Asked Questions About the John Deere 648L-II Skidder
It’s not uncommon for customers to have questions about the 648L-II Skidder, given its numerous features and capabilities.
How Much Does a John Deere 648L-II Weigh?
The weight of the 648L-II Skidder maxes out at 42,159 pounds.
What is the Overall Length of the John Deere 648L-II?
The overall length of this skidder is 320 inches, based on an 8.5-foot boom.
Where Can I Find the John Deere 648L-II Skidder?
More information on the John Deere 648L-II Skidder can be found by contacting your local John Deere dealer.
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