Walker mower engine swap. 2022 The Sixteen Best 48-52 Inch Zero Turn Mowers
22 The Sixteen Best 48-52 Inch Zero Turn Mowers
If you have 3/4 acre to 3 acres or more a 48 to 52-inch zero-turn mower is a great choice. These mowers let you mow your lawn quickly, yet are small enough to get around and through most obstacles. They trim around obstacles a lot better than 42-inch ZTRs, and cut better over dips, bumps and septic mounds better than the larger 54-72 inch ZTRs. The wider frames and larger tires make these ZTRs more agile and turn easier without tearing up the turf.
All the mowers that I list here are in a different class than what Consumer Reports tests. The fabricated deck models all mow very well, mulch well with optional bolt-in mulch kits and many have available rear baggers. The fabricated deck mowers are built well, rugged and will last you many years. In fact, the heavy-duty models will most likely be the last mower you have to buy.
My definition of mulching well: For example, Bluegrass/Fescue/Perineal Ryegrass lawns. Set your cut height at 3 to 4 inches. The fabricated deck mowers listed here will cut 1-2 inches of additional growth into fine particles and drop those clippings into the lawn. During late spring and early summer when the grass grows faster you may have to mow more often than once a week for your mower to mulch well. (If you can’t mow that often switch to side-discharge until the grass growth slows.)
Cub Cadet vs. Gravely vs. Walkers vs. Hustler | Who Wins?
Here are some points that will help you decide if a 48-52 inch zero turn is the best choice for you:
- Quicker Mowing: If your lawn is somewhere between 1 and 3 acres.
- A 42-inch lawn tractor will mow about 1 acre an hour at 3-4 MPH.
- A 42-inch zero-turn will mow about 1 1/2 acres an hour at 5-6 MPH.
- A 48-52 inch zero-turn will mow between 2 1/2 and 4 acres an hour at 6-9 MPH.
- The blade speed on zero-turn mowers is faster than on a lawn tractor so you can travel over the lawn faster and still get a great cut. 48-52 inch zero-turns will typically travel faster than 42-inch models and some models will cut grass as fast as 9 MPH!
- A zero-turn is more maneuverable so you can zip around obstacles and change direction significantly faster than with a lawn tractor. This helps to shorten your mowing time.
- A 48-52 inch zero-turns deck sticks out the side of the frame farther than a 42-inch deck. This allows you to get closer to fences and trees and landscaping. A front-deck ZTR lets you get under fences and low hanging bushes. This saves time because you won’t have as much trimming to do.
Note: Zero turns are made to mow your lawn. They mow quickly and will save you time trimming around obstacles. Inexpensive 48-52 inch zero-turns are NOT designed to pull heavy loads but mid-priced and high-end residential zero-turns have stronger transmissions and many will pull more than a garden tractor.
Dependable Engines and Hydrostatic Transmissions
Engines: You will find three brands of engines on most 48-52 inch residential zero-turn mowers. OEM Branded, Kohler 7000, and Kawasaki FR. The brands match these engines and engine size to the mower and all engines used currently have great reputations for quality and reliability.
- OEM Branded: Toro, Cub Cadet, and John Deere offer their own engines on select models. These engines all have great reliability and a few now offer EFI and electronic governors. EFI provides reliable starting, better fuel economy, and some will run on E15 fuels. Electronic Governor adds more power quicker, when you need it most and delivers up to 20% more available power to the engine. This results in less bogging down, higher blade tip speed, and a consistent cut when mowing in heavy, wet grass.
- Kohler 7000 series: The 7000 series has quickly gained a reputation as one of the best residential lawnmower engines on the market. Reliable, fuel-efficient, and very responsive to thicker grass. The Kohler 7000 will last you many years.
- Kawasaki FR: The Kawasaki FR is arguably the most popular residential zero turn mower engine. It’s smooth, reliable, and long-lasting.
- Commercial engines are also available in select high-end residential models.
- Briggs Vanguard/Briggs Commercial Turf: (Bradley Mowers) These are commercial-rated engines and will last the life of your mower.
- Kawasaki FX: The FX series is Kawasaki’s commercial series. Ariens and Cub Cadet offers it on the high-end residential ZTRs.
- Yamaha: A few high-end residential models are now offering Yamaha. These are commercial-rated engines and will last the life of your mower.
NOTE: I have no brand preference when it comes to engines on the 48-52 inch zero-turns. Kohler, Kawaski and the OEM Branded engines are all good engines and will last you many years.
Transmissions. Transmissions define what you can pull and how well the mower will last over the years mowing slopes. There are four hydrostatic transmissions commonly used in 48-52 inch zero-turns by all the mower brands. All the brands listed here match the size of the transmission correctly to the ZTR and what you expect the mower to do. The weight of the mower, the rider, a bagger, and how rough your lawn is are all factored in.
- Hydro-GearZT 2200 (EZT) up to 215 lb-ft, up to 7 mph, Total Weight 900 LBS, Axle Shaft Diameter 1.00 in. Residential mowers, flat/gently sloping, 2-3 bin baggers, 3-5 acres at a time. (Comparable to the K46 in your lawn tractor but with stronger axles)
- Hydro-Gear ZT 2800 up to 300 lb-ft, up to 8 mph, Total Weight 1000 LBS, Axle Shaft Diameter 1.00 in. Residential mowers, slopes/hills, 3-bin baggers, 5-7 acres at a time. (Comparable to the K58 in your garden tractor)
- Hydro-Gear ZT 3100 up to 350 lb-ft, up to 9 mph, Total Weight 1200 LBS, Axle Shaft Diameter 1.125 in. Entry-Level Commercial, multiple lawns up to 10 acres a day. (Comparable to the K66 in your garden tractor)
- Hydro-Gear ZT 3200 up to 470 lb-ft, up to 9 mph, Total Weight 1500 LBS, Axle Shaft Diameter 1.125 in. Standard-Duty commercial, multiple lawns up to 10 hours a day.
The List of 48-52 inch Zero Turn Mowers
I will break up the list below into three different types of residential zero-turn mowers
- Stamped Decks – Inexpensive – Mow well, bag well and are great for smooth lawns.
- Fabricated Decks – Good value residential mowers – Best for most people that want a mower that cuts well, handles rough lawns, and will last.
- Heavy-Duty Fabricated Decks – Built with many commercial components so the mower will take a beating – Good for acreages, estates, farm lawns, farm ditches, and mowing pastures monthly.
I rate products differently than most sites. I not only look at the products, the price, the craftsmanship, and the quality of cut but also the dealer network, ease of warranty service, and parts networks that support the product. That is what sets these sixteen mowers apart from the one hundred or so 48-52 inch residential zero-turn mowers available on the market for 2020. NOTE: Consumer Reports (CR) does not test most of the models on this list.
48-52 inch Stamped Deck – Up to 2.5 Acres
- Best Cut By CR: John Deere Z355R 48 in. 22 HP John Deere Gas Dual Hydrostatic ZT-2200 Transmissions. Accel deep Deck. This ZTR is lightweight and has one of the best cutting decks in the industry. Because of it’s lighter weight it works well for soft sandy soils and smooth lawns. It is not the best choice for slopes and not as rugged as the models below with fabricated decks. Available atThe Home Depot Also available at your local John Deere Dealer.
- Inexpensive: Ariens EDGE 52 Kawasaki® FR651 engine, ZT 2200 Transmissions. If you want a fabricated deck but don’t want to spend a lot of money the Ariens Edge is the best deal. It’s built to last with a heavier 11 ga steel deck but doesn’t have armrests and uses a slightly lighter frame than the Ariens IKON XD above. Find Your Local Dealer:Ariens Dealer Locator
- Inexpensive: Troy-Bilt Mustang 50 in. 679 cc V-Twin OHV Dual Hydrostatic ZT-2200 Transmissions Zero-Turn Riding Mower. This is the least expensive 48-52 inch ZTR I can recommend. This ZTR is lightweight and the deck cuts very well for “normal’ weekly mowing. It is not the best choice for slopes and not as rugged as the models below with fabricated decks but still a good mower for your suburban yard. Available atThe Home Depot Also available at TroyBilt.com
48-52 inch Fabricated Deck – Up To 3 Acres
- Best New ZTR for the Price: Toro Time Cutter 50 in. 23 HP Model 75750. Iron Forged Deck Kawasaki Dual Hydrostatic ZT-2200 Smart Speed Transmissions. I predict that this mower is going to be one of the most popular ZTRs in the 48-52 inch size. It’s priced right and comes with extra features like armrests and larger tires. The deck uses the same 10 ga steel as the heavy-duty decks below. Available atThe Home Depot Also available at Tractor Supply, ACME Tools and your local Toro Dealer.
- Basic Features with Excellent Cut. Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1 50 in. Fabricated Deck 23 HP Kawasaki FR Series V-Twin Gas Dual Hydrostatic ZT-2200 Transmissions. I’m predicting that this will also be one of the most popular ZTRs in the 48-50 inch range. The ZT1 50 offers an excellent cut from the 11 ga. fabricated deck. The fully-welded 2X2 inch frame is the strongest in its price range. Available at The Home DepotAlso available online throughcubcadet.com.
- Best For Rough Lawns Toro 50 in. 24.5 HP TimeCutter IronForged Deck Zero Turn Riding Mower with MyRIDE. Dual Hydrostatic ZT-2200 Transmissions. This mower is similar to the Toro 50 inch above but has the fully adjustable, fully independent operator platform that isolates you from the mower. This is the best choice if you have a rough lawn. Available atThe Home Depot Also available at Tractor Supply, ACME Tools and your local Toro Dealer.
- Rugged Great Cut:Ariens Ikon XD 52 52” Cutting Width Kohler 7000 V-Twin 24 HP/725cc Dual Hydrostatic ZT-2200 Transmissions. The IKON XD’s 11 ga steel fabricated deck handles taller grass better than most decks in this price range. This has all the features you want like armrests, large tires and easy to use deck height control. I highly recommend it for normal lawns and areas that you let grow to 12-18 inches tall. Find Your Local Dealer:Ariens Dealer Locator
- Best New Design:Cub Cadet Ultima ZT2 50 Dual Hydrostatic ZT-2800 Transmissions. features than the XT1 like armrests and 4 ply tires. Also available online throughcubcadet.com.
Flip-Up Deck: Country Clipper Boulevard, joystick or twin lever, easy on and off step and handrail. Dual Hydrostatic ZT-2800 Transmissions. The Boulevard is a “mid-level” ZTR meaning it uses thicker steel on the deck larger tires for a great ride and is built to last. It has been around for many years and is constantly updated to make it a really good, long-lasting mower. Find Your Local Dealer:Country Clipper
48-52 Heavy-Duty Fabricated Deck – 5-7 Acres
- Best For Rough Lawns: Toro 48 in. Titan IronForged Deck 24.5 HP Commercial V-Twin Gas Dual Hydrostatic Zero-Turn Riding Mower with MyRIDE ZT-2800 Transmissions. This mower has a fully adjustable, fully independent operator platform that isolates you from the mower. It’s one tough mower with a heavy-duty frame, heavy-duty deck, and heavy-duty transmissions. This is the best choice if you have a rough lawn and Toro states it will work well for pasture mowing. Available atThe Home Depot Also available at Tractor Supply, ACME Tools and your local Toro Dealer.
- Best Heavy Duty Residential: Ariens APEX 48 Kohler Model 991161 Kohler® 7000 V-Twin 23 HP/725cc, ZT-3100 Transmissions, and Ariens APEX 52 Kawasaki Model 991159 Kawsaki® FR691 Engine 23 HP/726cc, ZT-3100 Transmissions. This is one of the heaviest built 48-52 inch residential mowers on the market. Heavy frame, heavy deck, large tires, high back seat, and a comfortable ride. I highly recommend this mower if you want the very best ZTR for your property. Find Your Local Dealer: Ariens Dealer Locator
- Heavy Duty Residential: Cub Cadet Ultima ZTX4 48 in. Fabricated Deck 23 HP Kohler Pro 7000 Series V-Twin Engine, ZT-3100 Transmissions with Roll Over Protection. 48-inch deck 10-gauge AeroForce Max™ fabricated steel / double plate reinforced spindle mounts / 7-gauge side wraps /skid plate. This new mower is also one of the heaviest duty residential mowers on the market. Fully welded tubular frame, large tires and high back seat. Available at The Home Depot and Tractor Supply Also available online through cubcadet.com.
Flip-Up Deck – Great for owners with disabilities: Country Clipper XLT, joystick or twin lever, Dual Hydrostatic ZT-3100 Transmissions. Contour DTS gives a comfortable ride and the best quality of cut. If you have a hard time getting on and off a lawnmower CC offers an optional easy on and off step and handrail. The joystick control is also a great choice if you have shoulder issues. (the mower can be built specifically for you with left or right joystick control.) This is Country Clipper’s high-end residential mower. Everything about this mower is built with a great cut and long-lasting durability. I can easily see most homeowners getting 20 years out of this ZTR. Find Your Local Dealer: Country Clipper
48-52 Heavy-Duty Stand-On Fabricated Deck
- Best Stand-0n for Homeowners: BRADLEY 48″ or 52″ STAND-ON COMPACT MOWER. ZT-3400 Transmissions Briggs Commercial or Vanguard engines, ZT3400 transmissions. This mower is a true commercial mower but it is priced so many homeowners should consider it. Stand-on’s are a lot more agile for properties with a lot of landscaping and work better on slopes than sit-down models. Located near Kankakee, Il Bradley is a small manufacturer and has been around since the early 90’s. Their design and engineering is always state-of-the-art. Because they are a small manufacturer and don’t have a lot of overhead they can sell commercial quality mowers and a much lower cost than other brands. I highly recommend their products. Check out Bradley here: Bradley Mowers
By Paul Sikkema. Please Subscribe to my YouTube Channel Please Note: If you click on most of the links in this article and buy any product I will make a small commission from that sale. This is how I make money to keep this website up and running. Read more here: How to Support TodaysMower.com
Are Lawn Mower Decks Interchangeable? (Insider Tips)
Deck corrosion kills a lot of otherwise perfect lawnmowers. I see it all the time; It seems such a shame to chuck a mower when she’s got so much more to give.
So, are lawn mower decks interchangeable? Lawnmower decks are largely interchangeable. Engines will swap without issue. However, blades and drive systems may differ.
I’ve been a mower mechanic for over twenty years, and I’ve changed lots of decks. In this post, I’ll give you the heads-up on changing your deck. You’ll learn common mistakes to avoid and tips for a successful engine swap.
If you need video help, check out the “Mower repair video library”, it walks you through a ton of common mower maintenance and repair jobs like blade sharpening, pull cord repair, no-start troubleshooting, carburetor cleaning, self-drive faults, etc.
Old grass clippings are a deck killer.
Evaluate Your Mower
OK… so what does that even mean? It means we’ll need to make sure the other components of your mower are OK. Anyway, since it’s your mower, you probably already know pretty well how she starts and runs.
But it’s worth checking over the mower; not much point in changing out the deck to find a drive system is failing, or worse, an engine. Getting this wrong will be a waste of your dollars and your time. Make sense? Since the engine and drive system are the most expensive components to repair and replace, we’ll look for possible problems there first.
The following should be considered before swapping out a deck:
Engine Health
- Is engine swap is straight forward
- How’s engine health
- How’s the oil quality – very black or grey oil isn’t a positive sign
- How is the oil level? – low level may indicate engine wear, and a high level could indicate a carburetor issue
- Any oil leaks around or under the engine? – crankshaft seals are a common source of mower oil leaks
- Start the engine – does it start easily? – hard to start mower could indicate a tune-up needed or a replacement carburetor
- How does the engine run? – misfiring or spluttering means it may need a tune-up, but it could equally mean a more expensive repair is needed
- Does the engine rev cleanly without surging? – surging could mean a new carb needed
- Does the engine run without smoke? – smoke is a sign of engine wear; however, simply overfilling the oil will cause the engine to smoke too
The most common non-critical lawn mower engine faults I see include:
Drive System Health
Drive systems can be expensive to repair. If your mower is self-driven (most are), you’ll need to ensure the drive system operates well.
Some higher-end self-drive mowers are hydro-static transmissions and are hugely expensive to buy, they don’t offer spare parts, and they’re a real pain to fit. I wrote a post about trans-axles here.
So that said, let’s look at some drive system probing questions.
- Does the application of drive happen smoothly?
- When driving, does the mower pull well, is the action constant and smooth?
- Does the mower pull well on hills, or do you need to help by pushing it?
- Any grinding, squealing or otherwise strange noises when drive is applied?
- Is the trans-axle free from oil leaks?
- Is the drive belt in good condition?
The drive system includes a transaxle, wheels, pulleys, and belt.
Common Drive System Faults Include:
- Worn belts
- Frayed braided drive cables
- Damaged pulleys
- Worn drive pins
- Worn wheel drive gears
- Worn wheels
- Worn out transmissions
Check out the drive system repair video here “Video repair library page”.
Everything Else On The Mower
Under this heading, we’ll include:
- Handlebars
- Controls
- Blade
- Blade boss
- Grass flap
- Grass bag/box
Replacing drive controls can be expensive too.
Most of these components generally don’t cause many issues and are low risk. However, it’s often items such as these that make a mower uneconomical to repair. The blade and blade boss are the components from this list most likely to need attention but are easy to fit and not expensive.
Deck Replacing Tips
Is it worth it?
When it comes to replacing your lawn mower deck, there are a few mission-critical factors. Here’s what you need to know. All lawnmower engines are interchangeable. The engine mounting points are standard. So you can easily remove any engine and fit it to another deck.
However, while all engines are interchangeable, it doesn’t follow that all mower decks are interchangeable. While mower engine manufacturers agree on standard engine mounting specs, no such agreement is in place for any other mower component.
The easiest swap is either find an identical deck match for your old deck or – find a perfect pre-loved mower (same type deck or different) with a blown engine (check the length and width of crankshafts match) and swap over your good motor.
Either of these strategies will almost guarantee success. I’ll explain in further detail below.
Important Engine Specs
Crankshaft size is mission-critical – Get this wrong, and your blade won’t fit.
OK, so you know you can swap out any engine, and it will bolt to any deck, so what’s the problem? While all engines mounting points are the same, not all engine crankshafts are the same length or diameter.
So what does that mean? It simply means your engine crankshaft size (length and diameter) is paired with both your self-drive pulley and your blade boss (blade mount). These components must be swapped out as a set.
Important Deck Specs
You already know that lawn mower deck manufacturers don’t operate standards apart from the engine mounting points. So what does this mean to your deck swap? It means unless your new deck is a match for your old one, it’s unlikely your drive system will transfer across.
Other issues, like handlebar mounting points, will most likely also differ. And yes, of course, you can go all MacGyver on it and make them fit, but getting the drive system to fit and operate correctly probably won’t be worth all the effort.
Deck widths also vary, so your blade width must match your new deck width.
Although manufacturers don’t hold standard deck specs, they will very often share designs. So it is very common to find your identical deck fitted to a different brand. Generally, you won’t have a problem finding a new or used donor deck for your mower.
Avoid
I’d avoid attempting to re-engineer a drive system.
Related Questions
Can I put a bigger deck on my mower? Yes, you can fit a bigger deck to your mower, but engine power and deck size are often proportional.
T670 Combine
Threshing and separation concept of T-Series Combine
- Large, 660-mm (26-in.) diameter threshing cylinder with 10 rasp bars and increased concave area
- Smooth stripper roll and enlarged overshot beater
- Enlarged, 800-mm (31.5-in.) separator with high-performance separation grate
- Eight-wing, 400-mm (15.7-in.) rear beater and rear beater grate
- Seven-step straw walker design with welded or optional bolted universal and corn-cob mix (CCM) grids
- Sectional concave with quick adjustable de-awning plates
Large, 660-mm (26-in.) threshing cylinder with 10 rasp bars and enlarged concave
The unique multi-drum threshing system ensures a consistent crop flow by moving crop above the rear beater without sharp bends or abrupt changes in direction. This guarantees excellent grain and straw quality and reduces power requirements.
The large, 10-rasp bar threshing cylinder with 660-mm (26-in.) diameter provides excellent grain quality and gentle material handling.
Combined with the enlarged wrapping angle of 124 degrees, this ensures excellent threshing efficiency and unmatched capacity even in tough separating conditions.
- Four rasp bars are in constant contact with the crop against the concave area for excellent threshing and separating
- Provides a large concave area and allows a slow cylinder speed
- Ensures gentle threshing and separation to reduce grain damage
- Large, concave wrapping angle ensures high grain separation right at the beginning and reduces separation load on the straw walkers
- Wide, 1670-mm (65.7-in.) (six-walker) channel width grants maximum throughput even in tough separating conditions
Stripper drum and overshot beater
Stripper drum
Overshot beater
The T-Series Combine threshing system uses a smooth surface stripper roller behind the threshing cylinder to gently direct the material to the overshot beater. This prevents material from back feeding on the threshing cylinder, eliminating blockages of the cylinder. The stripper roller speed runs at 125 percent ratio of the threshing cylinder speed.
The 500-mm (19.7-in.) overshot beater on the T-Series Combine continues the material flow process. Material travels over the top of the beater and is directed into the separation drum.
Smooth crop flow is achieved without harsh angles or abrupt changes in direction.
The eight-wing beater has a constant speed. The serrated design of the wings’ leading edges engages the mat of material and moves the high volumes of tough, damp straw without buildup or bunching.
Sectional concave with quick adjustable de-awning plates
Sectional concave with small-grain inserts
- High versatility and flexibility with three different concave inserts available
- Uptime ensured with fast exchange design
- Easy access from stone trap and storage position for the concave inserts
Extra-large separator and dynamic tangential grate
The 800-mm (31.5-in.) extra-large separator drum provides additional separation capacity on the T-Series Combine. Due to the open design, the drum is not heavier in weight than the previous closed design.
The extra-large separator drum runs at two factory-installed speeds:
There is an optional 270-rpm speed reduction kit available for corn harvest which is included in the corn package. Swapping the belt speed can be done easily and quickly by changing the drive pulley via a lever-operated tension pulley.
The extra-large separator drum runs at a lower speed compared to the previous T670 design that was operated at 900/450 rpm. While it seems that higher drum speeds result in more efficient separation capacity caused by the higher centrifugal force, the opposite effect has been measured. While the centrifugal force has a vital impact on the separation capacity, speeds of the separator drum that are too high result in low exposure time in the high-performance separator grate. This is shown in the following graph.
Comparison of separator speed
Comparison of separator speed
The red line indicates the performance delta at a loss level of one percent between the different separator speeds.
The dynamic tangential grate (new beginning in model year 2019) features a completely updated design equipped with a full wire profile as described below.
Dynamic tangential grate
For model year 2019 and newer, the design was changed for fewer restrictions on crop flow and optimal separation that would not affect straw quality.
- All the transversal bars are produced with round edges for better crop flow and straw quality.
- All the wires are repositioned as close to the upper edge as possible to prevent any straw accumulation, therefore improving separation capacity.
- The wires are implemented on the complete area and replace finger rakes for larger opening areas (10 percent opening area versus model year 2016 tangential grate).
Rear beater and rear beater grate
Rear beater
The 400-mm (15.7-in.) rear beater on the T-Series Combine continues the material flow process. The beater delivers material to the straw walkers. The beater is driven directly from the extra-large separator drum and is operated at two speeds.
A separation grate is mounted underneath the rear beater. The grate is adjustable with a handle on the right side.
The rear separation grate features 14 percent more open area in the separator grid and a fully rounded profile on the wires and cross bars. This creates a better separation effect thanks to a faster, unobstructed crop flow over the grid with a thinner layer of material to boost the separation of kernels trapped in straw.
Two positions are available:
- Wide position recommended in rape seed, corn, peas, beans, or other sensitive crops
- Narrow position for small grain or grass seed
Inside the T-Series threshing and separation system is an eight-winged, rear beater drum that separates the remaining grain out of the straw mat. The rear beater grate provides additional active separation area.
Straw walker concept
Seven-step straw walker design
The T-Series Combine has a seven-step straw walker concept. Compared to the previous T-Series, the model year 2017 and newer straw walker is extended by 80 mm (3.15 in.), which results in a slightly increased overall straw walker area ( 0.1 m² [1.08 sq ft]). The concept of low walker rpm and high walker stroke provides efficient tossing to fluff even largest straw mats and open channels for the free grains to drop through. This results in most efficient grain separation capability. The straw walker is available with welded or bolted universal and CCM grids for best-in-class reconfiguration and ability to retrofit for all crops and conditions.
The straw walker is equipped with a closed walker trough at the rear, which ensures the grain is captured in the trough and feeds evenly on the walker return pan that is mounted below the front section of the walkers. Section dividers on the return pan help to maintain an even distribution of material onto the front chaffer of the cleaning system, even on slopes.
- High throw provides efficient tossing to fluff even the largest straw mats and open channels for the kernels to drop through.
- Maximum grain separation is achieved at the front section due to the impact of the straw mat when hitting the first walker steps.
- Four shallow, angled steps provide maximum separating efficiency.
Different walker grids are available to match all crop and conditions.
Overall threshing and separation system benefits:
- Greater level of productivity due to the enlarged concave wrapping angle, extra-large separator drum, and the high-performance separator grate
- Best-in-class grain and straw quality can be achieved with the threshing and separating concept
- Fast and easy adoption for different crops
- Lower power consumption and excellent straw quality, making this combine the optimal choice for straw producers
Theory of operation
Versatility on a combine is increasingly important as producers must handle multiple crops, sometimes changing between crops during the day.
The threshing needs are very different from crop to crop. Coarse grains like corn or peas require a round bar profile that is less aggressive to ensure optimal grain quality. Small grains including grass seed, vegetables seeds, and durum wheat need intensive threshing and require a small-grain concave profile which provides aggressive threshing to separate the grain.
The sectional concave is made with a fixed concave associated to a removable design on the front where the threshing begins.
Producers can install three different concave profiles:
- Small-grain concave inserts
- Universal concave inserts
- Round-bar concave inserts
- Sectional concave with round-bar concave inserts
Producers can exchange the concave inserts in 15 to 20 minutes by opening the stone trap.
Concave inserts can be exchanged on the combine
A screw is available on the left side and maintains the concave inserts in the working position. When the operator loosens the screw, he can easily remove the two inserts and replace them with another set of inserts.
On the right side, the operator has the capability via a screw to install or remove the swing in/out booster bar.
The machine is delivered with small-grain inserts installed and can receive additional universal inserts as factory installed (in storage) or round-bar inserts as dealer installed.
Second-largest cleaning shoe on the market to the John Deere X9 Combines
The T-Series Combine is designed for high capacity. The T670 has a total sieve and chaffer area of 6.3 m² (67.8 sq ft) according to ISO Norm 6689: 1997, which is the largest cleaning shoe following the John Deere X9 Combines.
- The Flat Tooth Comb (FTC) chaffer prevent short straw from falling through the grid as they are equipped with special noses.
- The returns are guided back to the cylinder and distributed evenly over the entire width of the threshing cylinder by an auger. The amount of material is recorded and then displayed in the cab via the electronic sensors. To visually inspect the content of the tailings returns, there is an inspection flap just outside the cab door.
- The completely redesigned fan delivers up to 740 m³ (26,133 cu ft) of air per minute and evenly distributes air over the entire width. The large air volume paired with the air flow and the large sieve area makes additional slope compensating features obsolete.
- One non-ventilated step plus two ventilated steps cascades the crop down by 41 cm (16.1 in.) to ensure effective pre-cleaning of chaff. Through intensive testing, John Deere has found the right balance between air pressure and air volume. The air pressure is used to separate the grain and the air volume allows for material to be carried away. This provides the perfect pre-separation effect and evenly divides the material between the front and rear part of the chaffer.
- The heavy-duty conveyor augers ensure active crop flow on slopes and under tough harvest conditions, meaning the cleaning shoe can be optimally loaded even in damp or sticky conditions.
- The total sieve and chaffer, with its considerably enlarged surface up to 6.3 m² (67.8 sq ft), offers high cleaning performance even under tough threshing conditions.
Remote adjustment of Dyna-Flo™ Plus cleaning system
The Dyna-Flo Plus cleaning system comes standard with electric adjustment on all T670 Combines.
The remote cleaning shoe adjustment can be either completed from inside the cab on display settings or with the armrest buttons. As an alternative solution, such as when inspecting the shoe from the outside, settings can also be adjusted from the left side at the rear of the machine.
The remote cleaning shoe adjustment motors are equipped with an integrated position sensor. This eliminates the need for recalibration of the electric motors. Calibrations only need to be redone in case the electric hardware or the cleaning shoe elements get replaced.
Increase threshing capabilities with the quick-engage booster bar
Quick-engage booster bar
Quick-engage booster bar adjustment
The quick-engage booster bar is adjustable from the outside via the stone trap with a 24-mm (0.95-in.) wrench. It has two positions. In the engaged position, the concave entrance features a profiled rasp bar. In the disengaged position, the concave entrance features a smooth transition plate. Adjustment can be completed easily within minutes.
Material flow coming from the feeder house passing the booster bar is slowed down; this increases the threshing efficiency. The booster bar does not have a negative influence on the crop flow or the grain quality. The booster bar increases threshing efficiency in hard-to-thresh crops without closing the de-awning plates, allowing maximum separation at the concave area.
NOTE: The booster bar is standard on the T670 Combine.
Save time unloading on the go with a peak unload rate of 125-L/s (3.55 bu/sec) and Machine Sync
125-L/s (3.55- bu/sec) peak unloading system on the T670 Combine
Extra-fast unloading system
The extra-fast unloading system provides a peak rate of 125 L/s (3.55 bu/sec) according to ISO 5687:1999 Norm. Compared to the John Deere S770 Combine’s unload rate of 116.3 L/s (3.3 bu/sec), the T670 has a faster unload rate that is also reflected in time saved when unloading on the headland. The extra-fast unloading system comes as the base option on the T670 Combine. Fast unloading on the go allows the operator to concentrate more on the crop by reducing unloading time.
The higher unload rate is achieved by the grain tank cross augers, an increased discharge housing including vertical auger, larger sprockets and chain, and an overall higher speed of the unloading system.
On the headland, the operator can reduce the rate by putting the machine at mid-idle or low idle; this allows for more precision, especially when the trailer is nearly full.
Machine Sync
Unload the combine fullest combines first with Machine Sync
With John Deere Machine Sync, the combine operator can have the tractor and grain cart drive alongside the combine while unloading. Once in position, the combine operator can control the ground speed and steering of the tractor-cart combination. Additionally, the grain cart operator can see the grain tank levels of several combines and can be called to empty the fullest tank. This saves time, diesel, nerves, and minimizes soil compaction.
Enhanced extra fine cut residue system for high quality chopping and residue distribution
Extra fine cut chopper rotor and housing
The improved extra fine cut straw chopper delivers excellent chopping quality and best-in-class residue distribution of chopped material in the field with a cutting width up to 10.7 m (35 ft) and 108 knives.
The extra fine cut chopper comes standard with serrated chopper knives, which ensure superior splicing of the straw and improved straw rotting process. This chopper is highly recommended for producers with no tillage or minimum tillage operations.
The optional dual-speed chopper drive provides flexibility to match all crops and conditions.
Armrest adjustment
The extra fine cut chopper comes standard with a remote adjustable tailboard.
The remote adjustable vane tailboard can be adjusted from the cab conveniently via armrest control buttons (button A). The in-cab adjustment includes a unique tailboard position swap button (button B); by pressing the button on the armrest, the tailboard vanes automatically swap from left to right stored position and vice versa.
False floor geometry housing
The extra fine cut chopper housing follows the contour of the rotating knifes. This false floor geometry narrows the gap between the rotating knife and the chopper housing to a 4- to 5-mm (0.16- to 0.2-in.) closing at a wrapping angle of 83 degrees. It requires no adjustments and does not require any maintenance or replacements.
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Wind paddle
The T670 with extra fine cut chopper comes standard equipped with wind paddles, which are factory installed on two knife rows. The wind paddles are mounted with bushings to withstand impacts from foreign objects. Equipped with wind paddles, the extra fine cut chopper can spread the chopped straw evenly up to 10.7 m (35 ft). Wind paddles are more effective than active radial spreaders, which are normally hydraulically driven.
Counter knives
Counter knives adjustment
The extra fine cut chopper comes standard with a counter knife row, which is infinitely adjustable with two large leavers on each side. To secure the position, only one bolt needs to be tightened at each side.
Grouser bar
Grouser bar adjustment
The extra fine cut chopper features a redesigned grouser bar, which is infinitely adjustable with a slide bar. To reduce the length of chopped material in green straw conditions, the grouser bar should be engaged. In dry straw conditions, it improves the splicing of the straw. To decrease fuel consumption, it is recommended to remove the grouser bar when chopping other crops such as corn, rape seed, beans, peas, and sunflower.
Tailboard angle adjustment
Tailboard angle adjustment
Tailboard vane adjustment
The tailboard angle can be adjusted without tools in three positions with a lever on each side.
In addition to the three-point tailboard adjustment, the vane angle can be set in four additional positions to ensure the spreading width of the residue matches all cutting platforms up to 10.7 m (35 ft).
The extra fine cut chopper comes standard with a 10-vane electrical tailboard design.
Windrow sheet
Windrow deflector plate
Straw chopper clutch
A single lever operates the windrow deflector plate. Operated on the right side, the straw is guided into the chopper or down on the ground for windrowing.
The straw chopper is directly driven from the main engine gearcase and automatically engages with the separator drive. A heavy-duty power belt reliably transmits drive power to the chopper. A reliable clutch is used for engaging and disengaging the chopper rotor.
Stay connected to your operation with the John Deere suite of technology offerings
The connected combine
Boost your productivity with connectivity
John Deere is committed to setting new standards in connected agriculture because this offers tremendous potential to boost productivity, save valuable time, and lower costs.
John Deere has identified the best technologies currently available on the combine market and brought them together into attractive packages:
- AutoTrac™ automatic steering
- Lifetime subscription to JDLink™ system
- Wireless Data Transfer (WDT) to John Deere Operations Center™ application
- Interactive Combine Adjustment (ICA)
- FarmSight™ service packages
Connected customer support
Maximize uptime with machine-to-office communication
Using the machine-to-office connectivity that your John Deere dealer can provide (with your permission) helps maximize machine uptime. For example, the dealer can remotely check machine health and identify potential issues before they stop you from working. With Remote Display Access (RDA), you or your dealer have a live connection from the office to the GreenStar™ 3 2630 Display on the combine to assist the operator with machine setup and operation without needing to drive out to the field.
Operations Center
The hub to all your data – MyJohnDeere.com
The Operations Center on MyJohnDeere.com is the hub for all your data. Store field locations, track the progress of your machines, assign work orders to your operators, view yield and moisture maps, and create, analyze, and share harvest reports with trusted advisors and customers. You can access this feature from any internet enabled device.
Achieve more with less effort through John Deere combine automation technology
Achieve more with less effort
With the John Deere satellite-based, hands-free AutoTrac™ steering system, every machine pass utilizes the full cutting width of your platform. This helps you save time and fuel and boost your combine performance – even at night, in dusty conditions, on hillside terrain, or after long hours of operation. The automatic steering relieves your operators and allows them to concentrate on productivity. When working with multiple machines in a field, the AutoTrac guidance lines can be shared from one machine to another so that all combines can harvest at the full cutting width. They can also be shared with the tractor or grain cart operator so the machines can drive exactly parallel to each other during unloading.
ICA increases the performance of a combine
With Interactive Combine Adjustment (ICA), you can increase the performance of your combine, minimize losses, avoid grain damage, and improve the quality of your straw. You can either optimize all parameters at the same time or FOCUS on one.
Automatic Combine Adjust (ACA)
Standard on all models within the T Series, Automatic Combine Adjust helps you effortlessly transition between crop types. By using standard John Deere values and retrieving data on your current threshing and separating conditions, it automatically adapts your machine to optimize performance. You can then use these proposed values or modify and save them for later use.
HarvestSmart™ system – Always the right speed
The HarvestSmart system automatically adapts the speed of the combine to maximize capacity or minimize losses with the highest output. Sensors on the threshing cylinder, engine, and dedicated loss sensors control the system with the goal of minimizing losses or maximizing the throughput rate.
