The John Deere 9 Series is leading the way to the future of farming with a combination of reliable power, forward-thinking tech, and cost-saving efficiency. In this guide, we’ll explore the features and capabilities of the John Deere 9R, 9RT, and 9RX Series tractors to help agricultural producers everywhere pick the perfect machine to tackle the tough tasks of the future. 

Read on to learn more about the specs and features of each model in the 9R, 9RT, and 9RX tractor series, including the unique Scraper Special Series tractors. 

What is the John Deere 9 Series? 

The John Deere 9 Series includes the 9R, 9RT, and 9RX Series tractors, including the Scraper Special tractor models for each series. These powerful and versatile 4WD tractors were designed to help agricultural producers do more with less time. The enhanced power, increased ballasting options, and greater precision offered by the John Deere 9 Series all come together to make your John Deere 9 Series tractor capable of drawing heavier and wider implements faster, creating greater efficiency. Integrated precision ag technology on all 9 Series models further increases productivity by improving precision. 

In short, if it’s a more streamlined operation and greater capability you’re looking for, one of the John Deere 9 Series models is sure to be perfect for your operation.Below are a few of the most important features that give the John Deere 9 Series as a whole its broad appeal and reliable capability: 

• Rear 3-Point Hitch-Lift Capacity
• Category 5 Drawbar
• Enhanced Hydraulic Capacity with Hydraulic Fan Drive
• Electrohydraulic SCVs
• ActiveCommand Steering
• Emissions Control

Features of the John Deere 9R Series

In addition to the range of great John Deere 9 Series tractors features customers have come to love and expect, John Deere 9R tractors come with the option of either Group 47 or 48 tires, as well as tread spacing options of 70.2 to 160.5 inches (1.78 to 4.08 m).

Features of the John Deere 9RT Series

Not to be outdone by the 9R Series tractors, the John Deere 9RT series of tracked tractors includes all the convenience and power built standard into the John Deere 9 Series, plus a few more model-specific enhancements. 9RT Tractors come with 106-inch (2.69 m) tread spacing and either 30- or 36-inch (76.2 or 91.4 cm) track widths, whichever works better for your operation.

Features of the John Deere 9RX Series

Rounding out the 9 Series is the John Deere 9RX series of tractors, featuring not only the technology and durability of the other 9 Series tractors but also a few additional features. John Deere 9RX tractors come with available tread spacing options of 80, 88, and 120 inches (2, 2.2, and 3 m) and track width options of 18, 24, 30, and 36 inches (45.7, 60.9, 76.2, and 91.4 cm). While these options vary based on tractor horsepower, you’re sure to find the combination of capabilities that works best for your operations.

Unique Capabilities of the John Deere 9 Series  

The John Deere 9 Series is not just a series of powerful, easy-to-use tractors: it’s also one of the most versatile tractor series John Deere offers. Featuring the wheeled 9R, two-track 9RT, and four-track 9RX tractors, this series is built for efficiency and productivity on any terrain, helping agricultural producers check more off their to-do lists in less time. 

“Farmers will appreciate the added low-end torque and lugging ability of the John Deere PowerTech 13.6 L diesel engine. This engine powers models with 390 to 590 horsepower and runs with 50% less engine noise. It’s also easier to perform routine maintenance on,” said Ryan Jardon, product marketing manager for John Deere, of the capabilities of the 9 Series.

In addition, there are four main ways in which the John Deere 9R, 9RT, and 9RX stand out from all their agricultural predecessors: 

• Strengthened Frame and Components
  • The John Deere 9 Series tractors featured a strengthened and improved undercarriage, axle, and front-frame components, helping farmers reduce both repairs and downtime. This upgraded strength gives the John Deere Scraper Special 9R and 9RX tractors rear-axle load ratings of 26,500 pounds and a maximum available ballast of up to 67,000 pounds.
• Intelligent Power Management (IPM)
  • The IPM featured in the John Deere 9 Series gives operators up to 50 extra horsepower, depending on the equipment being used. This is ideal for working on or around large hills, in unstable soil conditions, or on other less-than-perfect terrains. 
• JDLink Connectivity
  • All John Deere 9R, 9RT, and 9RX tractors feature JDLink Connect, which allows producers to track analytics and productivity while in the field, even with a large fleet of machines all working at once. Using this information, farmers can even adjust machines remotely to keep their operations running at peak efficiency all day.  
• Ultimate Comfort
  • Last but certainly not least, the John Deere 9R, 9RT, and 9RX series of tractors stand out for their upgraded comfort. With the optional Ultimate Comfort and Convenience package, operators can look forward to footrests, a heated, ventilated, and swiveling massaging seat, and even a refrigerator. Visibility from the cab has also been enhanced, creating both more efficient working conditions and greater peace of mind. 
• To find out more about the cutting-edge features of the John Deere 9 Series tractors, check out this video!

Key Features and Specs of the John Deere 9R Series

The John Deere 9R series features nine distinct advantages to operators, ranging from upgraded visibility to more powerful hydraulic capabilities. These nine features work together to make the John Deere 9R series some of John Deere’s most versatile wheeled 4WD tractors: 

• Fully Integrated Suite of Precision Ag Solutions
• e18 PowerShift Transmission
• John Deere’s Most Comfortable and Spacious Cab
• Three 9 Series Cab and Visibility Packages
• JD14 (13.6L/827-cu in.) Engine
• Industry-Exclusive HydraCushion Suspension
• ActiveCommand Steering (ACS)
• Customizable 9 Series Comfort and Convenience Packages
• A Range of Available Hydraulics Options

The John Deere 9R 390

In addition to the myriad of efficiency and productivity features which come standard with the John Deere 9R series, the John Deere 9R 390 includes and engine HP of 429 Max / 390 Rated.

The John Deere 9R 440

At an engine HP of 484 Max / 440 hp Rated, the John Deere 9R 440 brings together the versatile features of the entire John Deere 9R series with increased power.

The John Deere 9R 490

Coming in at an engine HP of 539 Max / 490 Rated, the third tractor in the John Deere 9R series, the 9R 490, packs a punch big enough for almost any agricultural task.

The John Deere 9R 540

Ratcheting up the HP even more, the John Deere 9R 540’s engine HP of 594 Max  / 540 hp Rated gives operators a combination of power and technology that’s hard to beat. 

The John Deere 9R 590

If drawing large, wide implements like sprayers and planters is on your to-do list, the engine HP of the John Deere 9R 590 (649 Max  / 590 hp Rated) will help you not only finish the task correctly but complete it quickly and comfortably.

The John Deere 9R 640

As the largest and most powerful of the 9R series, the John Deere 9R gives operators an engine HP of 691 Max  / 640 hp Rated, creating a potent combination of physical brawn and technological brains.

Key Features and Specs of the John Deere 9R Scraper Special Series Tractors

The John Deere 9R Scraper Special series tractors stand in a class all their own. With nine versatile features all working together to get the job done right on every 9R Scraper Special series, these machines can do all from the most basic to the most specialized tasks: 

• HydraCushion Suspension
• e18 PowerShift Transmission
• JD14 (13.6L/827-cu in.) Engine
• Choice of Three Customizable Cab and Visibility Packages
• HydraCushion Suspension
• ActiveCommand Steering (ACS)
• John Deere Precision Ag Tech Solutions Included
• Range of Available 9 Series Comfort and Convenience Packages
• A Range of Available Hydraulic Options 

The John Deere 9R 490 Scraper Special Tractor

Building on the nine core features that make the John Deere 9R 490 Scraper Special tractor as versatile as it is specialized, the 9R 490 includes an engine HP of 539 Max / 490 hp Rated. 

The John Deere 9R 540 Scraper Special Tractor

The John Deere 9R 540 Scraper Special tractor includes a ramped-up engine HP of 594 Max / 540 hp Rated, in addition to the nine core features that give the John Deere 9R Scraper Special tractor series its unique appeal.

The John Deere 9R 590 Scraper Special Tractor

Third in the lineup of John Deere 9R Scraper Special tractors, the John Deere 9R 590 features an engine HP of 649 Max / 590 hp Rated.

The John Deere 9R 640 Scraper Special Tractor

Last but certainly not least, the John Deere 9R 640 packs the biggest wallop of the 9R Scraper Special tractor series with an engine HP of 691 Max / 640 hp Rated. 

Commonly-Asked Questions About the John Deere 9R Series

How Much Horsepower Does a John Deere 9R Have? 

The John Deere 9R series of tractors feature between 390 – 640 rated HP, depending on which 9R model operators choose.

What Does the “R” on the John Deere “9R” Stand For?

The “R” on the John Deere 9R series indicates the trim level of the tractor series. In this case, as an “R” series, this letter indicates that the John Deere 9R series is fully outfitted with the best cutting-edge features and technology John Deere offers. 

What Engine Does a John Deere 9R Have? 

The John Deere 9R series of tractors feature a JD14 (13.6L/827-cu in.) engine. 

What is a John Deere 9R Tractor? 

The John Deere 9R tractor series is a 4WD wheeled tractor series in the 9 Series family of John Deere tractors. The John Deere 9R series ranges from 390 – 640 rated HP and features a range of upgraded and state-of-the-art features, including a range of precision ag tech enhancements.

Key Features and Specs of the John Deere 9RT Series

The John Deere 9RT series tractors make their presence known as a powerful and versatile 4WD track tractor. With a potent combination of nine essential features built into every John Deere 9RT model, in addition to John Deere’s legendary durability and ease of use, these track tractors provide operators with a full suite of capabilities to get the job done right: 

• AirCushion Suspension
• Full Suite of Integrated Precision Ag Technology
• e18 PowerShift transmission
• John Deere’s Roomiest and Most Comfortable Cab 
• Three Optional Cab and Visibility Packages
• JD14 (13.6L/827-cu in.) Engine
• Optional 9 Series Visibility Packages
• Variety of Available 9 Series Comfort and Convenience Packages
• A Range of Powerful Hydraulic Options

The John Deere 9RT 470

The John Deere 9RT 470 may be the smallest of the John Deere 9RT series but it’s a giant of performance and engineering. Fusing the nine core features of the John Deere 9RT series with a formidable engine HP of 517 Max / 470 hp Rated, this track tractor is ready for anything you (or the terrain) can throw at it.

The John Deere 9RT 520

Second in line in the John Deere 9RT series, the 9RT 520 dials up the HP with an engine HP of 572 Max / 520 hp Rated but still features the full suite of the 9RT series’ capabilities and performance enhancements.

The John Deere 9RT 570

The highest-HP option in the John Deere 9RT series, the 9RT 570 gives operators a full suite of features and a massive engine HP of 627 Max/ 570 hp Rated. 

Key Features and Specs of the John Deere 9RT Scraper Special Series Tractors

The John Deere 9RT Scraper Special series tractors compromise nowhere when it comes to a rich combination of features and performance. With a set of seven industry-leading features built standard into every 9RT Scraper Special tractor, this tractor series is sure to become your new favorite machine in no time:

• AirCushion Suspension
• e18 PowerShift Transmission
• Choice of Three Customizable Cab and Visibility Packages
• JD14 (13.6L/827-cu in.) Engine
• Fully Integrated Suite of John Deere Precision Ag Tech Tools 
• Choice of 9 Series Comfort and Convenience Packages
• A Range of Hydraulic Options for Even the Toughest Tasks 

The John Deere 9RT 470 Scraper Special Tractor

Though it may be the smallest in the John Deere 9RT Scraper Special tractor series, the 9RT 470 is no lightweight. With an engine HP of 517 Max / 470 hp Rated and a full suite of 9RT features included, this tractor is ready to take on even the longest workday with ease.

The John Deere 9RT 520 Scraper Special Tractor

Next is the John Deere 9RT 520, with an engine HP of 572 Max / 520 hp Rated. The 9RT 520’s combination of cutting-edge features and classic power make it a versatile and reliable partner for operators who need a machine that works as hard as they do. 

The John Deere 9RT 570 Scraper Special Tractor

The John Deere 9RT 570’s hefty engine HP of 627 Max / 570 hp Rated make it the most powerful of the 9RT Scraper Special Series tractors. Add to that the fact that it still includes all seven of the core features of the 9RT Scraper Special tractor series lineup, and you’ve got a winning combination.

Commonly-Asked Questions About the John Deere 9RT Series

How Much Horsepower Does a John Deere 9RT Have?

The John Deere 9RT series of tractors has 470 – 570 HP rated, depending on the 9RT tractor model selected.

What Engine is in a John Deere 9RT? 

The John Deere 9RT tractor series features a JD14 (13.6L/827-cu in.) engine in all three of its models. 

How Much Torque Does a John Deere 9RT Have? 

The John Deere 9RT tractor series features 1600 to 1940 lb-ft of torque, depending on the 9RT model chosen.

What is a John Deere 9RT Tractor?

The John Deere 9RT tractor series is a powerful and versatile 4WD track tractor series built for tackling tough tasks on almost any terrain.

Key Features and Specs of the John Deere 9RX Series

The much-lauded John Deere 9RX series tractors have earned the high praise they’ve received from both operators and the agricultural industry alike. These beefy machines do more than talk the talk, they also walk the walk with a powerful blend of ten industry-leading features for customizable comfort and capability:

• 4-post Cab Suspension
• Fully Integrated Suite of Precision Ag Technology
• John Deere’s Most Spacious and Comfortable Cab Configuration
• e18 PowerShift Transmission
• Choice of Three Customizable Different Cab and Visibility Packages
• JD14 (13.6L/827-cu in.) Engine
• ActiveCommand Steering (ACS)
• Choice of Comfort and Convenience Packages
• A Range of Hydraulic Options
• Variety of Undercarriage Configurations

The John Deere 9RX 490

First up in the John Deere 9RX series is the 9RX 490, built with not only the ten core features of the overall 9RX series but also a hefty engine HP of 539 Max / 490 Rated.

The John Deere 9RX 540

The John Deere 9RX 540 turns up the dial on power with an engine HP of 594 Max / 540 hp Rated, in addition to the ten best-in-class features common on all 9RX models. 

The John Deere 9RX 590

Weighing in at a powerful engine HP of 649 Max / 590 hp Rated, the John Deere 9RX 590 has all the brawn and brains you need to tackle every agricultural task.

The John Deere 9RX 640

The largest and highest-powered 9RX tractor is the John Deere 9RX 640, packing a punch with an engine HP of 691 Max/ 640 hp Rated.

Key Features and Specs of the John Deere 9RX Scraper Special Series Tractors

The John Deere 9RX Scraper Special series tractors round out the 9RX series with a combination of nine best-in-class features, and the power and versatility operators have come to expect from John Deere. These nine features ensure that no matter what you throw at your 9RX, it will be able to handle it: 

• JD14 (13.6L/827-cu in.) Engine
• e18 PowerShift Transmission
• Choice of Three Cab and Visibility Packages
• Durable Cab Suspension
• ActiveCommand Steering (ACS)
• A Full Suite of Integrated John Deere Precision Ag Tech Solutions 
• Available 9 Series Comfort and Convenience Packages
• A Range of Hydraulic Options for Added Power and Customization 
• Variety of Customizable Undercarriage Configurations

The John Deere 9RX 490 Scraper Special Tractor

The John Deere 9RX 490 Scraper Special tractor features the nine top-of-the-line capabilities seen in all the 9RX scraper special series models, as well as an engine HP of 539 Max / 490 hp Rated.

The John Deere 9RX 540 Scraper Special Tractor

With a beefy engine HP of 594 Max / 540 hp Rated and the nine core features you’ve come to expect from the John Deere 9RX Scraper Special tractor series, the 9RX 540 can handle any task you (or nature) can dream up. 

The John Deere 9RX 590 Scraper Special Tractor

Weighing in at a hefty engine HP of 649 Max / 590 hp Rated, the John Deere 9RX 590 Scraper Special tractor deserves its reputation as the ultimate in tracked scraper special tractors for operators serious about performance. 

Commonly-Asked Questions About the John Deere 9RX Series

How Much Horsepower Does a John Deere 9RX Have? 

The John Deere 9RX series features between 490 and 640 HP, depending on which 9RX tractor model is chosen.

What Engine is in a John Deere 9RX? 

John Deere 9RX Series tractors feature a JD14 (13.6L/827-cu in.) Engine. 

How Much Torque Does a John Deere 9RX Have? 

The John Deere 9RX tractor series has between 1668 and 2179 lb-ft of torque, depending on the 9RX model chosen.

What is a John Deere 9RX Tractor?

The John Deere 9RX tractor series is a range of tractors in the John Deere 9 Series family of machines. The 9RX series of 4WD track tractors is known for a uniquely capable combination of raw power and state-of-the-art technology. 

Awards Won by the John Deere 9 Series

Good Design Award

In 2017, the John Deere 9RX series was awarded the Chicago Athenaeum Museum of Architecture and Design’s Good Design Award. This honor represents the winning company’s commitment to instilling both innovation and cutting-edge design in their products, and this award to the John Deere 9RX series is no exception. 

“The Good Design Award is the result of the extraordinary dedication and talents put forth by our team of engineers and designers of the powerful, efficient, and smart 9RX Series Tractors,” said Janet Willett, engineering manager for the John Deere 9RX Series.

Some of the criteria fulfilled to win this award included an innovative design, form, materials, construction, and the use of new technologies, all of which the John Deere 9RX Series achieved with flying colors. 

“Our team of engineers worked diligently to deliver the reliable tractor John Deere is known for, and that ultimately helps our customers farm more productively,” Willett declared.

Willet also stated that operator comfort and ride quality were two of the main elements considered when designing the John Deere 9RX Series. 

“This suspension provides the smoothest ride in the industry for a track tractor and isolates the operator from unwanted bumps and vibrations while reducing operator fatigue,” she explained.

In addition to industry-leading operator comfort features, the John Deere 9RX Series also includes a suite of fully integrated precision ag technology, encompassing features like the CommandView III cab and Generation 4 CommandCenter controls.

iF Design Award 2018

The John Deere 9RX Series also won the iF design award for the tractor’s unique combination of cutting-edge design and state-of-the-art technology. 

While there is no shortage of reasons why this award would be well-deserved by the John Deere 9RX series, the iF Design website gave the following summary: “The John Deere 9RX four-track articulated (steering) tractor allows agriculture and earthmoving contractors to maximize productivity while lowering their cost of operation by covering more per hour and moving more material per hour. The 9RX, with its large track footprint, provides excellent flotation, which helps increase yield by minimizing compaction.”

XXL Farm Machine 2022

Most recently, and perhaps most impressively, the entire John Deere 9 Series, encompassing the 9R, 9RT, and 9RX tractor series, was awarded the title of XXL Farm Machine 2022. 

A jury of experts made up of 14 farming media brands from across North America and Europe award this title biennially during the world’s leading trade fair on farm equipment, Agritechnica. Equipment is evaluated in 12 categories with titles such as “Tractor XXL” and “Logistics.” In addition, contractors, farmers, and operators from all over the world were given a chance to cast their votes for their favorite pieces of equipment for the FARM MACHINE 2022 Audience Choice Award. The award is organized by traction magazine.

Winning this international title is a firm testament to the dedication and perseverance of John Deere engineers in creating this one-of-a-kind tractor series. Jury members lauded the John Deere 9 Series’ combination of operator comfort features and best-in-class power when discussing the reasons for their decision.

 “Having worked with the machine in the field, we and other jurors would mention the low noise level in the cabin despite the high performance level,” says Peter Skilton, jury member and editor of Farm Machinery Journal (UK). 

The jury also pointed out the efficiency-increasing connectivity and automation features of this modern tractor. This uniquely blended experience of a comfortable, connected ride paired with industry-leading performance and power made it almost inevitable that the John Deere 9 Series would win a title like XXL Farm Machine. 

Final Thoughts About the John Deere 9 Series

The John Deere 9 series of tractors encompasses the 9R, 9RT, and 9RX ranges. With the power, technology and versatility to take on almost any task or terrain, this series of 4WD wheeled and track tractors works as hard as you do, no matter the conditions. 

To learn more about which John Deere 9 Series tractor is the best for you, or to find out how to get your own, just visit your local John Deere dealer. 

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