John Deere has expanded availability of SmartGrade, its proprietary grade control technology, into the 333G compact track loader.
The implementation of SmartGrade is the first time a fully integrated grade control technology will be available on a compact machine.
“Already, the 333 has a really good reputation in the market,” said Gregg Zupancic, product marketing manager for skid steers and compact track loaders at John Deere Construction and Forestry.
“So, what we’re doing is integrating technologies that can help customers being more productive and more accurate.”
The SmartGrade 333G compact track loader will expand the capabilities of customers working in site development, roadbuilding, landscaping, residential and commercial building operations, by enabling them to take on new tasks and larger jobs that require accuracy.
By leveraging the latest grade control technology, the SmartGrade 333G machine levels the playing field with contractors running larger fleets.
“It has all the same attributes as a compact piece of equipment, even though this is more of a purpose-built package,” Zupancic said.
The SmartGrade 333G is designed to increase productivity by helping to automatically complete grading tasks, with fewer passes and less rework compared to working without grade control technology.
As well, operators can reap the benefit of a versatile, yet transportable, machine where the grade control system is fully integrated into the machine’s structures and software, delivering precise grading performance while eliminating vulnerable masts and cables.
SmartGrade meets DozerMode
In addition to introducing SmartGrade on the 333G, operators will also benefit from the launch of DozerMode, a breakthrough control solution that enables the EH joystick control system to function like a crawler dozer.
“At a push of a button, you can change the control pattern of the machine from a typical skid steer pattern to more of a dozer control pattern,” Zupancic said.
DozerMode is beneficial when operating the machine-equipped six-way dozer blade attachment that can both cut a grade and spread materials, streamlining attachment needs and setup time.
“This is robust enough to push material really well,” Zupancic said
The blade is fine-tuned to meet the performance needs of a compact track loader and does not require tools to change between other attachments.
It also enhances the versatility of the machine by accurately and automatically cutting or finishing light materials in tight spaces. In conjunction with SmartGrade technology, the blade reduces the amount of operator input, ultimately lowering operator fatigue.
“In a market that becomes more competitive by the day, it’s important we provide our customers with leading-edge equipment,” Zupancic said.
While the 333G is the first compact machine to feature SmartGrade, other machine may feature the technology in the future. “We’re dipping our toes in the market with this first,” Zupancic said. “We’re testing the waters. If it goes well we will make this technology available on smaller compact track loaders too.”
