A Review of John Deere's 9RX Tractor: Power, Precision and Performance

I’ve been working with farmers in the Midwest for more than three decades. Amongst the myriad of changes, one thing has remained the same. Farmers want equipment and technology that allows them to save time or labor. And one tractor building buzz around its capabilities to increase its operator’s productivity — John Deere's 9RX.

Described as a high-horsepower tractor that increases productivity without significant increases in operating costs like fuel or additional machine control technologies, the 710, 770, and 830 9RX tractor models can travel 100 more acres per day than previous models.

During RDO Equipment Co.’s annual field day demos with customers and John Deere equipment developers, we reviewed the 9RX features and watched them in action. 

Watch the product review video below or read more to discover 9RX's features that improve productivity.

Engine and Transmission Reduce Passes

Each 9RX tractor comes with the JD18 engine and e21™ PowerShift transmission. This engine and transmission plus 9RX four-track design allow operators to quickly accelerate or maintain an optimum traveling speed to complete more daily passes. When an operator completes fewer passes, soil compaction decreases.

Single-fluid Engine Increases Fuel Efficiency

As a single-fluid engine, the JD18 runs without Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF), increasing fuel efficiency and consumption. The JD18 engine includes a high-pressure common-rail (HPCR) fuel system, which optimizes fluid consumption so that the 9RX 830 tractor can reach 900-plus horsepower.

Hydraulic Flow Optimizes Implement Performance

9RX tractor operators can turn on its Intelligent Power Management for implements with high hydraulic needs, adding a 40-horsepower bump. The 9RX 830 tractor can achieve up to 3,123 pound-feet of torque at 1,400 RPM (revolutions per minute). The 9RX's ability to precisely control the implement's power and width allows its operator to plant crops at a consistent depth.

Intelligent Design Reduces Wear 

From the engine to its tracks, John Deere designed the 9RX to be durable. For example, the JD18 engine includes a brake that allows operators to slow down the 9RX tractor and its implement speed while traveling downhill. The four-track system increases traction in various terrains or conditions. When an operator can control speed on slopes or varying soil conditions, the precise 9RX's drivetrain components last longer between scheduled maintenance.

The tractor’s design also allows a trusted service technician or on-farm mechanic to complete daily maintenance checks from the ground level, meaning they will spend less time prepping the tractor and more time in the cab.

Warranties or field service packages are included with some 9RX models when purchased from a trusted equipment dealer like RDO. When considering the 9RX, talk to an equipment expert who can explain the extended services and capabilities offered by the likes RDO's Connect Support team, which works to provide 24/7 remote support and a variety of services.

Integrated Technology Advances Precision Ag 

All 9RX models come with a built-in JDLink™ telematics system so operators can connect to John Deere Operations Center™, a free Farm Management Software (FMS). The StarFire™ Integrated Receiver and G5 Plus Display eliminates GPS (global positioning system) setup and calibrations.  

With precise GPS data points, farmers can start automating data collection points, including field boundaries, to increase planting precision. Throughout each growing phase, the farmer and operator can review data sets to learn about a specific field’s variability. In future growing seasons, the farm team can adjust field zones and in-field actions accordingly.

After seeing it in action with farmers RDO partners with, we’ve learned that the 9RX tractor unlocks numerous possibilities to do more with less — whether that’s time or cost. If you’d like to speak with an equipment expert about reviewing John Deere’s 9RX tractor, contact your local RDO store or visit this page to browse tractor models.