Increase productivity by combining up to three windrows at time of cut, with the new John Deere Merger Attachment. It provides a versatile solution with the option of creating a center windrow discharge or a side windrow discharge. This solution helps enable the operator to get the windrow width and volume they desire. By raising the merger the operator can discharge the crop under the traction unit, creating their desired center windrow shape.
In order to side windrow discharge, the merger is engaged by lowering the merger table. The Self-Propelled Windrower will detect when the merger is installed, which will automatically intergrate the merger lift state identifier, merger drive status, master merger switch, and the belt slip indicator into the display. The merger attachment is capable of moving crop either on top of or next to another windrow, so when the merger attachment is engaged, the operator can combine up to three windrows together.
Ease Of Use
The merger offers integrated functions, including the lift state identifier, merger drive status, master merger switch, and the belt slip indicator. It detects merger and head engagement and notifies the operator if the merger is in the down and off position. Certain features are automatically pre-set by default when the merger master switch is turned to on, it automatically integrates the preset 1/2/3 commands with the automation buttons. When the merger master switch is on, button one raises the head and merger to be used at the end of a row, button two lowers the head and merger while engaging the merger, and button three prepares the head for a center windrow discharge. Conversely, if the merger master switch is off, these commands will not be displayed. The merger presets can be toggled On/Off using the automation button run page.
Other features like TouchSet™ and AutoTrac™ guidance, can also be controlled with the press of a button from the intergrated in cab hydro-handle. TouchSet allows for platform features like windrow width formation, swath flap, forming shields, and roll gap adjustments to be controlled from the comfort of the cab. The AutoTrac guidance system enables precise steering and path accuracy, minimizing overlaps and skips during operation, resulting in improved efficiency and field coverage. These features contribute to the overall ride experience and mowing performance.
Adjustability
On the John Deere Merger Attachment, the options for adjusting merger to crop conditions include modifying the belt speed and belt angle.
Belt speed is adjustable to include a variety of throw distances that include options for next-to or on-top-of discharge, enabling the operator to get the windrow shape they desire. To make adjustments the operator can increase or decrease belt speed by increasing or decreasing the set point on the merger display screen or can control the belt speed by using the hydro-handle rear scroller. The merger height can also be adjusted by using the height adjustment buttons found on the merger run page.
The merger angle is adjustable by adjusting the four bolts on the lift system to the desired angle and by adjusting to the desired speed. Altering the merger angle affects the trajectory of the crop. These adjustments empower operators to attain their preferred windrow shape. Additionally, no adjustments are required for belt tracking because the merger features self-aligning belt tracking and is equipped with a single-point belt tension.
The merger attachment comes with an industry exclusive belt slip notification feature,, which protects merger components and impacts job quality. which detects any belt slippage, indicating something is wrong. The belt slip indicator shows the current status of the belt by having the indicator hover over the colors green, yellow, or red, which helps the operator understand the conditions of the single belt while cutting. This improves decision-making and drives overall operational efficiency.
Green | Merger is running in healthy conditions. |
Yellow | Will warn the operator to check the system, which could indicate plugging, belt tension, hydraulic leak, or crop build up. |
Red | Means extreme slip and will shut off merger belt and head to protect the system. |
The John Deere merger attachment is compatible with the R500 roll conditioner platform only, as well as the W235M, W235R, W260M, and W260R Self-Propelled Windrowers.
See compatability table below:
John Deere Merger Attachment (Compatible Windrowers & Platform)
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W235M |
R500 Roll Conditioners ONLY
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W235R | |
W260M | |
W260R | |
*Merger attachment is NOT recommended with the R400 Platform and R500 Impeller Head *Merger attachment is NOT recommended with the W200M Windrower
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NOTE: Mowing and Swathing used interchangeably.
Mowing Documentation in John Deere Operations Center™ allows the following information to be available anytime, anywhere.
The W200M, W235M, and W260M Self-Propelled Windrowers come with a cab that offers a comfortable and quiet working environment with plenty of visibility, storage, and features.
The R-spec cab comes in three different trim levels:
| Select | Premium with air suspension | Premium with active suspension | |
Comfort and Convenience | Seat |
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Infotainment |
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Interior upholstery | Upholstery without right-hand storage | Upholstery with right-hand storage | Upholstery with right-hand storage | |
Exterior styling | Without exterior styling panels | With exterior styling panels | With exterior styling panels | |
Visibility | Lighting | Halogen | LED | LED |
Mirrors | Manual | Electric heated | Electric heated | |
Sunshades | Front | Front/rear | Front/rear | |
Wipers | Front | Front | Front | |
Seat suspension | Air (passive) | Yes | Yes | No |
Active suspension | No | No | Yes | |
Precision Ag Technology | Integrated StarFire™ receiver | Integrated StarFire ready | With Integrated StarFire | With Integrated StarFire |
Extended display | No | No | No |
Bluetooth is a trademark of Bluetooth SIG, Inc.
The CommandARM console provides the operator with unmatched control of the windrower and platform. Controls are designed and positioned to enhance ergonomics and are easy to locate and use. Operators will appreciate the look and feel of the control console in the windrowers, which are similar to the design used in John Deere tractors and combines.
Adjustment of the CommandARM console meets the needs of every operator. It adjusts at an angle, fore/aft, and up and down for precise operator comfort.
The CommandARM console provides access to the most frequently used windrower controls:
The controls vital to the operation of the W200 Series Windrowers are conveniently located on the multi-function lever. The ergonomic multi-function lever gives the operator fingertip control of the following functions:
The multi-function lever is also associated with the following functions:
The cornerpost display features electronic instrumentation and blends well with the narrow, right-hand cab post, providing excellent visibility to the header. The cornerpost display is divided into an upper and lower region. The upper region provides traction unit information, and the lower region provides platform-specific information.
The W200 Series Self-Propelled Windrowers feature several improvements over previous designs to keep the engine operating at optimal levels and improve engine life. Design features include:
The W200 Series Windrowers are tested in tough conditions of over 37.8° C (100° F) to ensure that the drives stay properly cooled for maximum life and reliability. The 94.6-L (25-gal.) oil reservoir supplies oil to the pumps. Oil is cooled as it passes through the combination oil cooler and air conditioner condenser assembly at the rear of the machine.
Live monitoring of the hydraulic oil temperature at the left and right drive motors and reservoir limit switch protects against overheating during drive motor stall or high-grade terrain conditions
The eight-blade cooling fan incorporates a viscous drive system that provides precise control over fan speed during operation. Optimization of the viscous fan speed leads to significant reductions in parasitic losses in certain operating conditions.
The fan speed is controlled by various factors such as engine coolant temperature, intake manifold air temperature, or hydraulic oil temperature. This level of control allows the fan to operate only at the required speed to keep the engine and cooling package at optimal operating temperature and reduces engine noise levels.
The diesel fuel and diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) fill locations on the W200 Series Self-Propelled Windrowers provide convenient filling from the ground level.
The DEF sight gauge keeps operators from overfilling the tank, preventing spills and damage from freezing and expansion in cold weather.
A remote batter terminal, conveniently located on the left-hand platform near the fluid fill, provides power for the 12-V fuel pumps on refueling tanks.
Constant header speed is a feature unique to the W200 Series Self-Propelled Windrowers. It is made possible by a state-of-the-art platform hydraulic pump control system that monitors platform speed and controls the pump to maintain a required speed. Constant header speed translates to a consistent cut quality and uniform windrow formation throughout varying crop conditions and terrain changes.
As crop conditions change, causing the header to slow, or if the engine begins to load as terrain changes, the control system diverts more oil flow to the platform drive motor to maintain the header speed set point. This widens the peak power range of the header, delivering optimal power when it is needed most.
Other advantages of constant header speed include:
The industry-exclusive, rear-wheel steer assist system provides added control to the windrowers, enabling higher cutting and transport speeds.
IntelliAxle steer assist also has independent rear suspension, smoothing out the roughest field and road conditions and decreasing operator fatigue during long days in the field.
The independent rear suspension contributes to a better quality of ride and less fatigue for the operator. The torsion axle design absorbs the shock experienced in rough terrains, allowing faster cutting speeds.
The rear-wheel steer assist system allows easier, more positive handling in the field as well as on the road during transport. Improved from the 450 Series design, the W200 Series features an electrohydraulic, proportionally controlled rear steering system that provides tighter steering and better control at higher speeds.
In-field working speeds up to 27.3 km/h (17 mph) and road speeds up to 38.6 km/h (24 mph) are achieved with the help of this improved axle design.
Smooth, fluent steering helps the operator to maintain complete control of the windrower during sharp turns and aggressive field conditions. The steering sensitivity is manually tuned by the operator using the CommandCenter™ display to match operator preference and field conditions.
The steer assist system provides three modes of steering aid as the machines travel through the speed ranges:
Faster field and transport speeds are achieved with the increased controllability and stability provided by the rear-wheel steer assist system and independent rear-wheel suspension. The IntelliAxle system, when coupled with the integrated AutoTrac™ steering system, delivers unmatched performance and productivity.
The W200 Series Self-Propelled Windrowers exhibit the industry’s first fully integrated AutoTrac steering system without the use of electrohydraulic pumps or universal type add-ons. The steering system features the industry’s only steering design, utilizing multiple steering systems to maximize controllability.
Additionally, this increased accuracy and controllability allows for faster operating speeds. Integrated AutoTrac on the W200 Series can run up to 27.4 km/h (17 mph) if conditions allow.
A unique hydraulic over mechanical design controls coarse adjustments of the drive pumps, and an electrohydraulic proportional rear steering system executes fine adjustments, delivering the most accurate steering system in its class.
W200 Series Self-Propelled Windrowers are AutoTrac ready from the factory and require only a display, AutoTrac activation, and StarFire™ receiver to enable. Click here to learn more about required components for AutoTrac on W200 Windrowers.
AutoTrac ensures more consistency and that more of the platform engages the crop at all times, leading to increased productivity. This adds value to the operation by providing more consistent windrows, longer operating hours, and less fatigue.
Integrated AutoTrac on the W200 Series far outperforms previous windrower options, delivering faster cutting speeds and more acres cut in less time.
Uneven cutting surfaces such as irrigation berms and pivot wheel tracks make for challenging cutting. The W200 Series Windrowers feature independent platform float suspension to improve cut quality on non-level surfaces and deliver improved performance.
The independent float suspension delivers improved cut quality along irrigation berms and pivot tracks.
Adjusting the float suspension independently allows the platform to ride on the raised surface with proper floatation, reducing gouging and dirt buildup on the platform. Less dirt buildup means increased uptime and less dirt in the windrow, delivering higher quality hay and forage.
With TouchSet, the adjustments to the R500 header can be made from the cab. You can adjust the formation shields, roll gap, and swath flap on the go.
To perform windrow width adjustments previously, you had to crawl under the machine to loosen and adjust the forming shields.
With TouchSet, the operator can select and adjust the swath flap, roll gap, and forming shield settings easily right from the display.
TouchSet comes with a preset library of different crops to select while cutting. The crop selection automatically adjusts the header for that particular crop.
You can also customize your own preset for a particular field and/or cutting. This allows you to quickly adjust the swath flap, forming shields, head tilt, and cutterbar speed.