New 7020 series tractors with John Deere infinitely variable transmission (IVT)

New technology, more productivity, and greater value to the customer are the hallmarks of the new 7020 tractors introduced by John Deere. The new 7020 Tractor Series features four models, the 7220 to 7520, with range from 95 to 125 PTO horsepower.

These tractors are available in the following configurations:

Leading off the line-up of new features is the John Deere Infinitely Variable Transmission (IVT) that combines electronic engine management and transmission control to provide seamless transmission ratio changes from 0 to 25-mph.

"This new transmission is very user-friendly," says Don Worner, division manager, marketing, Waterloo Tractor Works. "John Deere IVT provides an infinite range of speeds to perfectly match any work application on the farm."

A single lever controls the infinite range of speeds and eliminates shifting on the go. There is absolutely no clutching required, even to stop. The footbrake, with an integrated AutoClutch, stops the tractor and holds it stationary, even at full engine rpm. When both brake pedals are depressed, the tractor will ratio down to a stop from any ground speed or engine rpm, and will accelerate to its previously commanded speed when the brakes are released.

"The IVT eliminates the need to buy a creeper option," says Worner. "All John Deere IVT tractors now include creeper mode, and the user is able to select from 164 ft/hr to 25-mph with the single lever control."

This transmission also features a left-hand reverser that has integrated park-lock, free rolling neutral, and PowerZero positions.

The PowerZero function can hold the tractor and load in a desired position, without rolling, regardless of the engine rpm or slope. There is no need to brake or clutch, and PowerZero is useful in all applications, especially transport and front loader work; where maintaining a powered position while loading allows greater operator productivity.

"John Deere IVT allows the operator to match the exact speed and engine power to any task, even under heavy load conditions," explains Worner. "Through advanced electronic management of the engine and transmission, the John Deere IVT tractor consistently works at high productivity levels."

The IVT control system automatically provides for maximized fuel efficiency, regardless of field or transport conditions. By simply selecting the Fuel Economy mode, operators ensure constant vehicle speed at reduced engine speed, dramatically improving efficiency in medium or light load conditions. Additionally, at these lowered engine rpm levels, in-tractor noise levels and long-term durability are greatly enhanced.

This function also provides an automatic Load Control Mode. The load function provides automatic transmission ratio changes under load to maintain constant peak power levels, when needed to pull through tough spots in the field or during transport work.

"Overall results of the new John Deere IVT for the operator are more productivity and efficiency, measurable in more acreage worked every hour and less fuel consumed for each task performed," says Worner. "This user-friendly system, increases operator comfort, and exactly matches operating speed and engine power to the task at hand."

This revolutionary transmission provides exceptional value for growers and producers, and will be available on 7320, 7420, and 7520 tractors. (John Deere IVT will also be available as an option on 6420, 7710, and 7810 model tractors.)

The 7020 tractors also feature a new PowrQuad™ Plus transmission with a left-hand reverser. This value-oriented transmission is ideal for fieldwork, loader applications, and transport. Operators can choose between 30K (19-mph) or 40K (25-mph) transport speeds with or without a creeper option.

A single-lever, push-button electronic gear selector makes shifting very easy and has four powershift speeds in each synchronized range. The right-hand shift lever is mounted on the console and, in combination with the left-hand reverser, increases operational productivity when performing loader work.

PowrQuad Plus also features speed matching. When traveling greater than 4.3-mph and making a range shift, the transmission automatically selects the optimal gear that best matches ground speed. Riding comfort and convenience are greatly enhanced with the smooth gear transitions this transmission delivers.

The new 7020 tractors sport a new look with a redesigned body style and sloping front hood that fully tilts open for easier engine access. The engine compartment is fully enclosed and outside noise has been reduced by 3 dB(A).

"Improved fuel economy, increased operating efficiencies, and newly enacted federal emissions regulations require an enhanced cooling system," details Worner. "The 7020 tractors are designed with a dual-temperature cooling circuit, to give the high-performance engines additional cooling. The radiator has been divided into a high and low temperature cooling circuit that allows higher efficiencies with a single fill point and overflow reservoir. Components are conveniently located and easily serviced."

Increased airflow is also very important on the 7020 tractors and a new viscous fan design supplies 7 percent more air without robbing engine horsepower. A new high-efficiency pre-cleaner has been incorporated to remove moisture and dirt before entering the air filter. The air filter delivers 25 percent higher levels of filtration performance.

Operator comfort has never been better in these tractors and customers will have a choice of two cabs – ComfortGard Cab that offers the PowerQuad Plus transmission and mechanical SCV’s, and ComfortGard Deluxe Cab that offers CommandArm, Electro-Hydraulic SCV’s, low-frequency air suspension seat, and the exclusive John Deere IVT transmission.

"To increase operator comfort, especially with higher transport and field speeds, the 7020 tractors feature a new hydraulic cab suspension," says Worner. "This new suspension system keeps the cab level, and reduces vibration. Hydraulic shock absorbers are linked to accumulators that provide a constantly compensating system to improve operator comfort."

The field-proven Triple Link Suspension (TLS) system is also available on the 7020 tractors. This front-axle suspension system puts more power to the ground, operates at faster field and transport speeds, and offers more stability in the field. Operators will experience optimum levels of comfort and control when TLS is teamed up with the hydraulic cab suspension and the air suspension seat.

An advanced 26.7-gpm closed center pressure and flow compensating hydraulic system is standard on these tractors. Electro-hydraulic selective control valves (E-SCVs) with adjustable flow rates and timed detents located in the CommandArm for easier operation are available on ComfortGard Deluxe Cab tractors. The operator simply adjusts hydraulic flow from the seat, on-the-go. A digital display shows the flow rate and flow time. Mechanical selective control valves are standard on ComfortGard Cab equipped tractors.

Other features include a new lighting package that provides 25 percent better visibility with multi-focus halogen headlights, multi-faceted reflectors, and an overall brighter beam in front of the tractor. Lighting has also been improved 3X on the rear of the tractor with optional high intensity discharge (HID) lights.

Four adjustable roof-mounted front work lights allow the operator to direct lighting to meet specific needs. A lighting control center, integrated into the right-hand side console, allows quick, easy selection of the required working lights to meet field and transport requirements.

Other features include increased hitch capacity, more fuel tank capacity, two fender mounted hitch control systems, and a single-piece front windshield. The 7020 tractors are also electronically equipped to hook-up GreenStar® Guidance Systems including the StarFire satellite receiver, and GreenStar mobile processor and universal display.

"With all the new features, John Deere has designed the most reliable, versatile, and productive tractor in this horsepower class," says Worner. "Operators will appreciate the value gained from a more comfortable working environment, unlimited working speeds, and efficient performance from these new 7020 tractors."