(Photo: John Deere)
John Deere is building on its lineup of compact equipment by expanding its performance tiering strategy with three new G-tier models of compact wheel loaders: the 184 G-tier, the 204 G-tier and the 304 G-tier. The new machines were designed to provide end users with expected capabilities, optimal performance and lower maintenance costs.
“Customer’s needs are unique, and they require personalized solutions to meet their diverse set of tasks,” said Luke Gribble, solutions marketing manager for John Deere’s Construction and Forestry Division. “These machines are not only rugged, but they boast simple and intuitive machine controls that are a great fit for operators of all experience levels, while also offering options that promote operator comfort and productivity.”
The 184, 204, and 304 G-tier Compact Wheel Loaders provide solutions for customers in such applications as site development, landscaping, agriculture, snow removal and rental. The easy-to-operate models come standard with limited slip differential, which automatically engages if one wheel loses traction, providing enhanced safety for the operator and the machine. Optional ride-control reduces spillage from the bucket when travelling over rough terrain, reducing job site clean-up, and improving ride quality for the operator. Ride control can also be set to engage and disengage at certain speeds.
Cab offerings include both a canopy or enclosed cab configuration, giving operators flexibility when working in a variety of different geographies. Built with operator visibility in mind, the redesigned enclosed cab features a frameless, fully glass door, floor-to-ceiling front windshield and remounted machine display to provide a clear line of sight to machine surroundings. The right-side full glass window also swings out 180 degrees to further enhance overall visibility for the operator.
Additional features include an adjustable steering column, slip-resistant steps, and an optional LED lighting package. The spacious cab includes amenities such as improved air conditioning systems and ergonomic low-effort controls.
All G-tier models offer enhanced serviceability features such as ground-level service and increased capacity fuel tanks to help simplify daily maintenance, keeping machines up and running on the job.
The smaller G-tier models, including the 184 G-tier and 204 G-tier, were designed to provide customers with a rugged, compact design helping the operator maneuver within the tightest areas while maintaining complete control of the machine. With a canopy height of 8” and 5’10” in width, these machines are nimble enough to fit through smaller door openings or other smaller areas, making them an ideal solution for job sites of all sizes. The new 0.9 cu. yd. (0.7 m³) bucket is optimally sized to pair with the 184 G-tier and 204 G-tier and can be attached to either a Quik-Tatch or hook-style coupler.
The largest of the three new models, the 304 G-tier, offers a travel speed of 18.6 mph (30 kph), measures 8’8” tall with cab and 6’5” wide. It can be equipped with an optional Attachment Assist Package, including proportional mini-joystick third function control with detent, combined creep control and throttle lock, and integrated electrical attachment controls.
