John Deere is giving contractors more ways to get precise grading work done with compact equipment.
The company has introduced two new SmartGrade Box Blade attachments, the BX07 and BX08, for its 333 and 335 P-Tier compact track loaders. The attachments combine grading hardware, machine controls and SmartGrade technology to help operators complete finish grading with less guesswork.
John Deere says the new attachments are designed to improve grading efficiency while expanding what contractors can do with their compact track loader fleets.
“Our new SmartGrade Box Blade attachments for the compact track loader lineup expand customer capabilities through precision technology that speeds up the grading process with accuracy,” said Emily Pagura, product marketing manager at John Deere.
Bringing Precision Grading to Compact Equipment
The BX07 and BX08 are designed for finish grading applications, giving operators more control when working to achieve a precise surface.
The attachments are available with 2D SmartGrade capability, while laser and full 3D SmartGrade capabilities are planned for the future. That gives contractors options as their grading needs and technology requirements change.
The box blades also include features aimed at making them easier to use across different jobsites. Hydraulically actuated flip-up front wheels and adjustable wheel height allow operators to adapt the attachment to changing conditions.
A recessed valve block is designed to improve visibility from the operator's position, while a heavy-duty box and edge protection are intended to withstand demanding grading work.
For contractors already using John Deere compact track loaders, the attachments offer another way to take on grading work without bringing larger equipment to the jobsite.
Added Protection for High-debris Work
John Deere is also expanding its equipment protection options with a new fire suppression system for large-frame skid steer and compact track loaders.
The system is designed for applications where machines regularly work around heavy amounts of debris, which can increase the risk of equipment fires.
The machine-integrated setup includes a 20-pound fire suppression tank and a compact control panel that can be securely installed on the equipment.
Rather than relying on a separate system, the setup is designed to become part of the machine, giving contractors another option for protecting equipment in demanding environments.