canadian farmer - 11/27/2011 19:19

The DirectDrive is a dual clutch transmission (until now mostly used in luxury cars) that basically shifts like a CVT, without power cut.  The closest equivalent would be a MF DynaStep.  You still have fixed ratios, but  stepless-like shifting.  3 ranges and 8 powershift speeds.  Available on 6 cyl 6Rs from summer 2012.  http://www.wnif.co.uk/articles/804/1/John-Deere-New-DirectDrive-transmission-for-6R-Series-tractors/Page1.html

I changed job just a few weeks ago... no longer working for the broccoli farm (well still doing some contracts for them as consultant, but no longer on their payroll).   They are getting 10 new 6030 Premium next spring.  They arrived in November and will be on snow removal duties all winter.  So I guess the 6Rs will be in 3 years when they renew their fleet.  Delivery for SF 6R tractors is supposed to start in April (production is starting in December I believe).