John Deere skidders are based on a legacy of over 180 years of groundbreaking engineering and over 50 years of servicing the needs of forestry customers. They are designed to tackle the toughest jobs while maximising efficiency and operator comfort. 

John Deere LII line-up ensures that forestry operators can select a skidder tailored to their specific workloads, terrain, and operational requirements.

The Line-up

The John Deere L-II Series skidders vary in size and capacity and include the 640L-II, 648L-II, 748L-II, 848L-II and 948L-II models and the latest 768L-II six-wheel-bogie skidder. The engines comply with stringent emission standards, reflecting the company’s commitment to sustainability. (Models may not be offered in selected markets)

640L-II Cable Skidder: This model is equipped with the John Deere 6.8L tier III engine delivering 163kW (218 hp) and torque of 943 Nm. It is an exceptionally manoeuvrable and purpose-designed “standard” cable skidder.

648L-II Grapple Skidder: Featuring a 6.8L tier III engine that produces 163kW (218 hp) and 1025Nm of torque, the 648L-II comes with a standard grapple capacity of 1.2 m² and the option of a 1.48m² grapple capacity.This model balances versatility with performance, making it a popular choice for many operators. 

748L-II Grapple Skidder: Powered by a John Deere 6.8L tier III engine generating 180kW (242 hp) and 1050 Nm of torque, the 748L-II offers a standard grapple capacity of 1.48m² with the option of a 1.63 m² grapple. The robust power horse is designed to easily haul large loads.

848L-II Grapple Skidder: This model boasts a John Deere 9.0L tier III engine with an output of 210 kW (281 hp) and 1276 Nm of torque. It features a standard grapple capacity of 1.77m² and an optional 2.07m², making it suitable for demanding jobs involving high timber volumes. 

948L-II Grapple Skidder: The largest in the series, the 948L-II is equipped with the 9.0L engine delivering 224kW (300 hp) and an impressive torque of 1369Nm. It offers a substantial standard grapple capacity of 2.07m², providing unparalleled strength and stability for heavy-duty operations.

768L-II Six-wheel Bogie Skidder. The latest in the John Deere range of skidders, the 768L-II is designed for wet conditions and steep slopes. The six-wheel skidder combines tenacious tractive ability and flotation with reduced ground pressure, which enables it to carry larger loads over longer distances. It is driven by the John Deere 9.0L engine delivering 210kW (281 hp) and 1276Nm of torque and fitted with the standard 1.77m² grapple. However, customers can specify the optional 2.07m² grapple.

Advanced technologies

The L-II Series Skidders incorporate several advanced features to enhance productivity, stability and ease of operation. 

Continuously Variable Transmission 

A standout feature is the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), which blends the efficiency of a direct-drive transmission with the smooth handling of a hydrostatic drive. This innovative technology increases fuel efficiency and reduces operator fatigue by providing seamless power delivery.

JDLink telematics

JDLink, John Deere’s core telematics system, is factory-installed on all machines, can be managed from a desktop or smartphone, and is free to use. 

JDLink provides remote access to crucial machine data, including fuel consumption, idle time, maintenance schedules and location tracking. This connectivity allows operators and managers to monitor fleet performance in real-time, reducing downtime and improving operational efficiency. 

Connected Support

Another key feature is Connected Support, which ensures machines stay operational and productive. With Connected Support, John Deere dealers can proactively monitor machine health and identify potential issues before they lead to costly breakdowns. This system leverages predictive diagnostics and remote troubleshooting to minimise maintenance delays and keep operations running smoothly.

Ergonomics

The skidders have ergonomically designed cabins featuring a rotating high back seat to improve driving and visibility rearward, always enabling better vision of the skid trail and load, configurable controls, and reduced noise levels. 

These enhancements improve operator comfort, enabling longer and more productive working hours in demanding conditions.

Support and financing solutions

In addition to offering cutting-edge equipment, John Deere provides tailored financial solutions to help buyers acquire the necessary machinery. 

John Deere Finance takes a hands-on approach, learning about each customer’s unique business requirements to develop customised payment plans.

The full package

John Deere offers a complete range of products designed to assist with harvesting applications such as tracked and wheeled harvesters, forwarders, forestry swing machines, knuckleboom loaders. For land preparation, silviculture, road building and maintenance, and the sawmill, products such dozers, graders, and wheel loaders complete John Deere’s impressive lineup of machines to assist with forestry applications.

Ask your local John Deere dealer for more information about the full range of John Deere Construction and Forestry products.