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A new generation of compact equipment
In 2009, John Deere introduced its D Series skid steers and compact track loaders (CTLs), marking a significant step forward in the evolution of compact construction machinery. Deere had already established itself as a leader in agricultural and construction equipment, but the D Series represented a direct response to customer feedback, incorporating features that operators had long requested. With nine new models, including the 318D, 320D, 326D, 328D, and 332D skid steers, as well as the 319D, 323D, 329D, and 333D CTLs, Deere expanded its lineup to cover a wide range of applications from landscaping to heavy-duty construction.
Terminology clarification
One of the most noticeable upgrades in the D Series was the redesigned cab. Deere increased interior space by 24% compared to earlier models, with six additional inches of headroom. The cab was also pressurized to reduce dust, featured a larger door opening for easier entry, and achieved a 50% reduction in noise levels. A high-performance HVAC system with eight adjustable vents further improved operator comfort. These changes reflected Deere’s recognition that operator fatigue directly impacts productivity.
Industry-first features
The D Series introduced several innovations uncommon in compact loaders at the time:
Performance and customization
Deere also introduced the EH Performance Package, allowing operators to tailor machine response to specific applications. Key options included:
Market comparisons
The largest skid steer in the lineup, the 332D, offered a rated operating capacity of around 3,200 pounds, comparable to the Bobcat S330. With optional counterweights, the ROC could be increased to 3,650 pounds. Deere’s machines also featured planetary gear drives on CTLs, providing greater pushing power and durability compared to chain-driven competitors.
Anecdotes and adoption
Contractors who tested the D Series noted that the quieter cab and improved visibility reduced fatigue during long shifts. Municipalities appreciated the reversing fan in dusty environments, such as street sweeping or landfill work. Landscapers valued the creeper mode for precision when operating augers or trenchers. These real-world applications demonstrated how Deere’s design choices translated into measurable productivity gains.
Conclusion
The John Deere D Series skid steers and CTLs represented a major leap in compact equipment design, blending operator comfort, advanced cooling, and customizable controls with proven durability. By listening to customer feedback and integrating features from larger machines, Deere created a lineup that not only competed with industry leaders but also set new standards for performance and efficiency. The D Series remains a milestone in Deere’s construction equipment history, illustrating how innovation and customer-driven design can reshape an entire product category.
In 2009, John Deere introduced its D Series skid steers and compact track loaders (CTLs), marking a significant step forward in the evolution of compact construction machinery. Deere had already established itself as a leader in agricultural and construction equipment, but the D Series represented a direct response to customer feedback, incorporating features that operators had long requested. With nine new models, including the 318D, 320D, 326D, 328D, and 332D skid steers, as well as the 319D, 323D, 329D, and 333D CTLs, Deere expanded its lineup to cover a wide range of applications from landscaping to heavy-duty construction.
Terminology clarification
- CTL (Compact Track Loader): A tracked version of a skid steer, offering better flotation and traction on soft or uneven ground.
- ROC (Rated Operating Capacity): The maximum load a skid steer or CTL can safely lift and carry, typically 35–50% of tipping load.
- EH Controls (Electro-Hydraulic Controls): Electronic joystick systems that allow customizable control patterns and sensitivity.
- V-Plenum Cooling System: An advanced cooling design with side-by-side coolers and a rear-mounted fan for improved airflow and reduced debris buildup.
One of the most noticeable upgrades in the D Series was the redesigned cab. Deere increased interior space by 24% compared to earlier models, with six additional inches of headroom. The cab was also pressurized to reduce dust, featured a larger door opening for easier entry, and achieved a 50% reduction in noise levels. A high-performance HVAC system with eight adjustable vents further improved operator comfort. These changes reflected Deere’s recognition that operator fatigue directly impacts productivity.
Industry-first features
The D Series introduced several innovations uncommon in compact loaders at the time:
- Auto Idle: Automatically reduces engine speed when controls are inactive, saving fuel and lowering noise.
- Reversing Hydraulic Fan: A variable-speed fan that adjusts to cooling demand and can reverse to clear debris from radiators.
- V-Plenum Cooling: Larger aluminum coolers arranged side by side, reducing pressure drop and improving cleaning access.
Performance and customization
Deere also introduced the EH Performance Package, allowing operators to tailor machine response to specific applications. Key options included:
- Switchable control patterns (ISO or H-pattern).
- Creeper mode, enabling wheel or track speed adjustment in 10% increments independent of engine RPM.
- Adjustable boom and bucket metering with three speed settings: precision, utility, and production.
Market comparisons
The largest skid steer in the lineup, the 332D, offered a rated operating capacity of around 3,200 pounds, comparable to the Bobcat S330. With optional counterweights, the ROC could be increased to 3,650 pounds. Deere’s machines also featured planetary gear drives on CTLs, providing greater pushing power and durability compared to chain-driven competitors.
Anecdotes and adoption
Contractors who tested the D Series noted that the quieter cab and improved visibility reduced fatigue during long shifts. Municipalities appreciated the reversing fan in dusty environments, such as street sweeping or landfill work. Landscapers valued the creeper mode for precision when operating augers or trenchers. These real-world applications demonstrated how Deere’s design choices translated into measurable productivity gains.
Conclusion
The John Deere D Series skid steers and CTLs represented a major leap in compact equipment design, blending operator comfort, advanced cooling, and customizable controls with proven durability. By listening to customer feedback and integrating features from larger machines, Deere created a lineup that not only competed with industry leaders but also set new standards for performance and efficiency. The D Series remains a milestone in Deere’s construction equipment history, illustrating how innovation and customer-driven design can reshape an entire product category.
