2018 John Deere 4066R Review

The 2017 John Deere 4 Series includes four tractors: the 49-horsepower 449M, 66-horsepower 466M, 49-horsepower 449R, 49-horsepower 466M, 49-horsepower 449R, 49-horsepower 469M, 66-horsepower 466R, 49-horsepower 449R and 66-horsepower 466-horsepower 466R The tractors with the “R” suffix, as with all John Deere series, are deluxe models. Those with the “M” and “E” suffixes get a few more goodies. The 4 series are the same, but the main difference is that the M tractors can be used as open-station models and the R tractors can be fitted with or without a cabin. Also Read: Tractor Price in Pakistan

Yanmar four-cylinder diesel provide power for the 4 series machines. They can run 2.0L for 4049 tractors or 2.1L for the 4066 models. The engines are turbocharged and use common rail injection (CRS), an ECU, diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC), and a diesel particulate filtr (DPF) to reduce operator noise levels and maximize fuel efficiency.

They also comply with EPA Final Tier 4 emissions standards (FT4). There are no diesel exhaust fluid (DEF), additions required. The rated power for the 4066R is 2600 rpm. It has 65 gross power and 54 power take off (PTO). The torque output is 131.3 lb/ft.

There are two transmissions available for M tractors: a 12F/12R PowrReverser which allows for clutchless directional changes, and a three range hydrostatic (HST), unit. Only R tractors have eHydro transms. All the extras are included in eHydro transmissions. SpeedMatch is used to set a maximum travel speed. It is ideal for sprayer and tilling applications.

LoadMatch reduces drive speed to compensate for heavy loads. MotionMatch adjusts the HST response using seven settings. eThrottle increases or decreases engine speeds to the HST pedal position. Electronic Cruise is automotive-like, with SET/-, RES/+ and buttons.

Hydraulics are via an open-center dual gear pump arrangement. This pumps 5.7 gpm into the power steering circuit, and 10.2 to implement demand (14.9 total). The system can support up to three remotes at the rear, and position control is standard. This allows an implement to be accurately returned to its predetermined height. Normal PTO speed (540 RPM) is 2400 engine rpm. 

The field-installed 540e PTO (actuated via a lever behind your seat) drops 70%, so that 540 PTO runs at about 1758 engine rpm. With 540e, fuel savings can reach up to 30%. Hy-Gard fluids reduce the hydro oil service interval to 1200 hours. Also Read: Honda 125 Price in Pakistan

Cat I’s three-point hitch (3PH), is rated to lift 2,520 pounds at an industry standard of 24 inches behind the link arms. John Deere makes apples-to-apples comparisons by also listing the lift capacity at link end (3,130 lbs). Telescopic lower link ends can be arranged. HitchAssist is available on R tractors. This allows the operator to move the tractor forward or backwards, while still standing behind it. 

Two switches are located on the right fender. One allows HitchAssist to be enabled and the other controls the direction. The tractor’s alarm will sound when it is moving. The Auxiliary Hook controls are located on the left fender and raise or lower the 3PH lower links arms from behind the tractor. This makes attaching an implement much easier. Real downforce is an option for the best 3PH control. It’s like post-hole digging made much simpler.

The Premium ComfortGard Cab has a nearly flat platform made of rubber. There is a small transmission bump in the middle. Split brakes can be found to the left, and twin side-byside HST pedals on the right. You would think that there would be many jumbo jet controls with all the electronics, but there aren’t. 

The left fender console has a large storage tray as well as a cup holder. The joystick, 3PH control, remote levers, if equipped, an electro-hydraulic on/off switch and 12V outlet are located to the right. The dash features a tilt wheel and throttle lever, key switch as well as an electronic dash display that includes a large tachometer and the eHydro pod. Another nice feature is the ratchet-style park stop.

Standard seats have a scissor suspension system. It adjusts for weights between 115 and 275 lbs. The seat can also swivel up or down to 15 degrees. The seat has a wide travel range, both fore and aft. The seat swivel is gone with the air suspension, but you still get big-tractor comfort. The weight range is from 330 to 330 lbs. Cab has a dBA rating 78. Cab has an integrated electronic junction box that offers both switched and un-switched options, making it easy to add electronic devices. Also Read: Changan Oshan X7 Price in Pakistan

John Deere’s D180 loader is compatible with the 4066R. The D180 is mechanically self-leveling and has a lifting capacity of 2,213 lbs at 110 inches. It can also be used in non-self-leveling mode. One of the options is a 4-in-1 bucket. John Deere offers a matching model 485A and 4066R for prospective buyers who require a backhoe. The 485A can dig up to 3,700 pounds and has an 8-foot-6″ depth.

The 4066R is 4,675 lbs in weight and has a 73 inch wheelbase. For extra stability in tough conditions, wheel spacers can be purchased. The turn radius is 9.19 feet with brakes on and 9.84 feet without. The Grovetown, Ga. made 4066R has 13.8 gallons onboard fuel. It comes with 10-16.5 R4 front tires and 17.5Lx24 back tires. (Includes rear wiper) MSRP of $48,682.

What do the M models have to give up in comparison to the R models, other than the Premium ComfortGard Cab? It’s not a lengthy list, but HitchAssist and fender controls are no longer available. The D180 loader has been replaced by the D170, which is smaller (1,760 lbs and a maximum height of 112.1″) You can also get the deluxe swivel chair with armrests, standard lights, drawbar, and cruise. The fuel tank is now slightly smaller at 13 gallons.

The 4600R is a great choice for a potential buyer of a 66-horsepower cab tractor. It offers first-rate ergonomics and support from a manufacturer with over 175 years experience. The base MSRP for the 4066M is $35,142.