John Deere F8 and F9 self-propelled forage harvesters major upgrades

Compared with previous models John Deere Deere F8 and F9 SP forage harvesters have more power and a higher technology level

John Deere is encouraging buyers interested in updating their self-propelled forage harvesters to take a closer look at its F8 and F9 models, which offer a significantly enhanced operating experience, loaded with cutting-edge automation and precision technology.

John Deere Australia and New Zealand Marketing Manager for Small Ag and Turf, Erin Wagstaff, was quick to point out operators will immediately sense the improved driving experience of the F8 and F9 Series forage harvesters, available to order later this year.

“The wider cabins have been designed with the operator in mind, with comfortable adjustable seats, an optional electric closing door to ensure a perfect seal and clever storage solutions in the armrests and behind the seats,” Erin Wagstaff continued.

“There are even dedicated holders for drinks, smartphones, keys and larger items.”

With operators relying so heavily on smartphones to manage their work and personal lives, Erin Wagstaff said integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto allowed for seamless connection.

“The premium infotainment system includes Bluetooth® connectivity, radio, streaming, and hands-free calling, ensuring crystal-clear sound quality, while customers will also benefit from the multiple conveniently placed charging options, including 12V and USB ports.”

For enhanced comfort and visibility, the F8 and F9 Series are fitted with ActiveSeat™, that swivels 16-deg in both directions. While the optional ActiveSeat II offers electric controls, cooling/heating, massage, and active suspension technology to absorb up to 90% of vertical movements.

Slim cab pillars and sweeping windows provide panoramic visibility from the header to the 230-deg rotating spout, while a redesigned rear axle steering system delivers an impressive six-metre turning radius for faster headland turns.

Intuitive control and dedicated screen

To enhance the operator’s experience, Erin Wagstaff points out the F8 and F9 forage harvesters were built around the operator and equipped with intuitive controls for machine and harvesting settings.

“We have reimagined the design to deliver not only a powerful machine, but also an exceptional driving experience, allowing operators to push harvesting to new limits while enjoying first-class comfort,” Erin Wagstaff explains.

Different operator profiles can be stored in the machine settings to minimise adjustments, while the new ergonomic CommandPRO™ joystick offers up to 11 customisable buttons and is easily to program with the G5/G5Plus CommandCenter™ touchscreen display, offering shortcuts and is context-sensitive to help simplify navigation.

The F8 and F9 specific screen is 35% larger and 75% faster than previous displays, with a high definition 1080p screen and a menu that enables operators to quickly adjust machine functions with a fingertip.

An optional G5Plus Extended Monitor doubles the 325mm (12.8-inch) screen, allowing users to monitor more functions simultaneously and adjust as needed. Essential data is displayed via infographics on bright, easy-to-read screens on the corner post display.

More power and HarvestMotion

The JD14X engine in F8 Series models has proven its ability in John Deere X9 combines and 9RX tractors and will now power all six F8 models of the SPFH, offering clean performance and complying with European Stage V emission standards to support sustainable operations.

While in the F9 Series the five models from F9 500 to F9 700 employ a JD18X engine with a power range from 515kW (690hp) to 603kW (809hp), able to deliver peak performance with remarkable fuel efficiency.

The JD18X engine has John Deere engine controls, a high-pressure common-rail fuel system, and serial turbochargers with cooled exhaust gas recirculation with no need for diesel exhaust fluid.

The third engine option, the Liebherr 24.2L V12, powers the F9 900 and F9 1000 models, delivering up to 750kW (1006hp) to offer maximum productivity even when working in the most extreme harvesting conditions.

All F8 and F9 models include HarvestMotion technology to maximise productivity at reduced engine speeds and deliver constant power over a wide rpm range, resulting in fluid drivability for the operator and improved fuel efficiency. 

Advanced technology stack

Erin Wagstaff also highlighted how F8 and F9 Series models include a comprehensive technology stack designed to optimise performance and reduce operator effort and stress.

“The F8 and F9 can be equipped with advanced automation and John Deere Precision Ag Technology, which is the best we have ever offered in forage harvesting,” Erin Wagstaff added.

“From Ground Speed Automation to intelligent crop tracking or ProTouch Harvest, these functions help boost efficiency and forage quality.

“John Deere Precision Ag Technology options, such as AutoPath^TM can be added as required to support more efficient operations.”

Regardless of conditions, Ground Speed Automation ensures the machine constantly harvests at maximum productivity and optimal efficiency while minimising operator effort and stress. Active Fill Control uses a stereo camera system to control the rotation and flap position of the spout automatically, tracking transport vehicles and aiming the crop for ideal fill strategy.

The ProTouch Harvest system offers single-click headland automation for maize, grass, or whole crop silage, managing header lift, spout control, AutoTrac™, Active Fill Control, and Ground Speed Automation for easy headland turns.

In addition, when switching between road and field, ProTouch technology handles up to nine essential functions, including beacon lights, 4WD, settings for engine speed management, and spout positioning.

Silage quality improved

John Deere F8 and F9 Series SP forage harvesters are designed to optimise silage quality with the DuraDrum cutterhead performing with remarkable flexibility for various harvesting requirements.

The new inoculant dosing system, IDS 2.0, works with HarvestLab™ sensor readings to optimise silage quality with a 50-litre insulated concentrate tank for highly concentrated additives and a 325-litre tank for high volume applications and water.

Customers can also choose from two more advanced kernel processor options. The first is the John Deere Ultimate 250^TM kernel processor with larger 250mm rolls, temperature monitoring and foldable design for best serviceability.

While the John Deere XStream 305 kernel processor delivers a 56% larger surface with 305mm rolls, electrical adjusting and the well-proven oil-mist greasing for best processing in all length of cuts.

Summary of upgrades at a glance

· Upgraded cab with numerous comfort benefits

· Intuitive controls for machine and harvesting settings

· CommandPRO joystick with up to 11 customisable buttons

· G5/G5Plus CommandCenter touchscreen display

· Comprehensive technology stack with Ground Speed Automation,
Active Fill Control 3.0, ProTouch Harvest and more

· All F8 models armed with the JD14X engine and HarvestMotion

· New inoculant dosing system with an insulated larger tank

· Improved kernel processors to further optimise silage quality

See the video of the John Deere chopper in action here.

John Deere F8 and F9 SP Forage Harvesters model year 2026 specs