John Deere, 744k, loader,--John Deere Launched IT4 744K Loader

John Deere has added an Interim Tier 4 (IT4) engine option for its 744K 4WD loader that gives customers an industry first: the first piece of big iron to meet the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) IT4 emissions regulations. The John Deere PowerTech 9.0-L IT4 diesel engine for installation in the 744K was certified by the EPA in March 2010 and uses cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) technology to meet emissions regulations while producing the same 304 hp and big-time torque as a 744K equipped with a Tier 3 engine.

"Customers asked us for a simple, proven technology to help them meet regulations that wouldn't skimp on the productivity or durability they're used to in John Deere wheel loaders," said Jahmy Hindman, product marketing manager for wheel loaders, John Deere Construction & Forestry.

"We responded with the 744K. The 744K with the IT4 engine is a tested, certified and proven wheel loader that's available at dealers right now. The fact that we're out with it early as an option is also a response to contractors who need the highest emission tier available, or Best Available Control Technology (BACT), on machines that can still qualify for use in non-attainment areas or when facing regional emissions laws," Hindman said.

Deere's chosen technology path for meeting IT4 emissions, cooled EGR with exhaust filter, is a simple solution to help customers meet emissions challenges.

"Our customers wanted a simple solution with one fluid – diesel fuel – and no concerns about storage or temperature, " Hindman said. "EGR is also field-proven in a variety of customer applications. It's the right technology in the right product, right now."

The 744K IT 4 machine has undergone thousands of hours of thorough customer testing in very harsh conditions. In Prudhoe Bay, Alaska, in February 2010, the 744K cleared snow and moved pipe in extreme cold. It was also operated at altitudes above 10,000 feet in typical quarry load-out use. In addition, it has been tested in continuous use applications like municipal waste transfer. Throughout, the 744K loader and IT4 engine delivered high performance and productivity.

The 744K IT4 unit features all the other hallmarks of Deere's K-Series 4WD loaders, including the Quad-Cool system and a multi-function easy-to-read color LCD monitor with onboard diagnostics. The NeverGrease pin joint option keeps joints tight longer for more productive operation, extending pin life overall and eliminating daily greasing. Single-side ground-level service makes daily maintenance easy.

Source: Construction & Maintenance