John Deere 444k, 544k, 524k, 644k, 624k User Manual

444k/524k/544k/ 624k/644k LOADERS

92–173 kW (124–232 net hp)

PowerTech™ diesels deliver impressive torque reserves that top out at a whopping 57 percent in the 624K. It’s a K-Series advantage that helps maintain good boom and bucket speed in and out of the pile. For heaped loads, even in wet or hard-packed material.

K-Series Loaders ride on a wide stance that provides additional lateral stability for handling heavy loads and working on rough terrain. Overall balance is exceptional.

With John Deere WorkSight™, JDLink™ monitoring provides real-time machine utilization and health data, plus location info. Fleet Care proactively suggests maintenance to correct problems early before they cause costly downtime. Service ADVISOR™ Remote enables your dealer to read diagnostic codes, record performance data, and even update software without a trip to your jobsite. And integrated payload weighing delivers load data. It’s the most comprehensive, easy-to-use suite of technology available for increasing uptime and productivity while lowering operating costs.

Customer inspired, job driven.

Quad-Cool™. Secured keyless start/sealed-switch module. LCD monitor with advanced onboard diagnostics. Powerllel™ loader linkage. And an all-new hybrid-electric drivetrain available in the 644K. Innovative advantages like these and the many others found in our loaders don’t just happen. They’re the result of a unique collaborative effort between equipment users such as yourself and John Deere. It’s that responsiveness to your needs that results in the exceptional productivity, long-term durability, and unparalleled

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K-Series Specifications	444K	524K	544K	624K	644K
Net Peak Power	92 kW (124 hp)	105 kW (141 hp)	121 kW (163 hp)	139 kW (186 hp)	173 kW (232 hp) /
					171 kW (229 hp) Hybrid
Bucket Capacity	1.9 m3 (2.5 cu. yd.)	2.1 m3 (2.75 cu. yd.)	2.3 m3 (3.0 cu. yd.)	2.7 m3 (3.5 cu. yd.)	3.2 m3 (4.25 cu. yd.)
Z-Bar:
Tipping Load	8047 kg (17,741 lb.)	8914 kg (19,652 lb.)	9428 kg (20,784 lb.)	11 979 kg (26,409 lb.)	12 879 kg (28,393 lb.)
(40-deg. full turn)
Breakout Force	7970 kg (17,570 lb.)	9193 kg (20,267 lb.)	10 110 kg (22,289 lb.)	12 821 kg (28,266 lb.)	15 378 kg (33,903 lb.)
Operating Weight	11 203 kg (24,698 lb.)	12 449 kg (27,445 lb.)	13 000 kg (28,660 lb.)	15 483 kg (34,134 lb.)	18 333 kg (40,417 lb.)
Powerllel™:
Tipping Load	6260 kg (13,800 lb.)	N/A	7607 kg (16,771 lb.)	9348 kg (20,609 lb.)	11 051 kg (24,364 lb.)
(40-deg. full turn)
Breakout Force	6056 kg (13,352 lb.)	N/A	8604 kg (18,968 lb.)	10 759 kg (23,719 lb.)	12 029 kg (26,519 lb.)
Operating Weight	12 317 kg (27,155 lb.)	N/A	14 065 kg (31,007 lb.)	16 905 kg (37,268 lb.)	19 966 kg (44,017 lb.)
Tool Carrier:
Tipping Load	N/A	N/A	N/A	11 079 kg (24,426 lb.)	N/A
(40-deg. full turn)
Breakout Force	N/A	N/A	N/A	10 978 kg (24,202 lb.)	N/A
Operating Weight	N/A	N/A	N/A	15 856 kg (34,956 lb.)	N/A

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Hard work made easier.

What operator wouldn’t be more productive in the high-back air-ride seat of a K-Series Loader? Up-front, an enhanced multifunction monitor displays operating, diagnostic, and maintenance info on a color LCD screen with easy-on-the-eyes clarity. Generous

tinted glass and a low-proƟle console allow a commanding view of the work ahead.

The spacious and quiet cab boasts plenty of legroom and fatigue-beating ergonomics, including convenience features such as seat-mounted loader controls. And sealedswitch module with keyless start and effortless push-button operation of numerous other machine functions. For more productivity without extra effort.

Multi-language color LCD monitor provides push-button access to a wealth of machine info and control:

A.Vital and general operating information, including transmission mode, gear, engine rpms, and ground speed.

B.Enhanced onboard diagnostics with speed, pressure, and temperature readings and real-time switch status.

C.Customized machine settings such as Quick Shift, Auto-to-1st, and Ride Control. Lets you match operating

characteristics to speciƟc jobs and conditions.

D.Optional embedded payload scale weighs each bucket load, helping Ɵll trucks to the max.

1.Joystick steering (not available on 444K) is ideal for V-pattern truck loading. Offering fatigue-beating comfort, it adapts to ground speed, delivering smooth control for load-and-carry applications, as well.

2.Keyless start security system requires a numeric pass code (when enabled). Helps prevent unauthorized machine operation.

3.Optional rearview camera and radar object-detection system provides “eyes-in-the-back-of-the-head” visibility, displaying the activity out back on the LCD screen. Emits an audible alert, too, for extra awareness in tight quarters and high-

trafƟc areas.

Available premium heated air-ride armchair seat adjusts multiple ways for extra comfort and cushioning.

Spacious cab with a cooler compartment and beverage holder provides plenty of room to stow your stuff. Convenient 12-volt port powers cell phones and other electronic devices.

Brake and throttle pedals are conveniently positioned, allowing plenty of legroom and easy entrance and exit.

Adjustable automotive-style

louvers provide effective airƠow to keep the glass clear and pressurized cab comfortable.

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More power and control mean more productivity.

If you’ve got maximum productivity in mind, the K-Series Loaders should be at the top of your list. But it’s not just their big torque reserves that make them such impressive performers. Single-lever

joystick or two-lever Ɵngertip controls provide smooth, near-effort- less control. Excavator-style hydraulics sense the load and deliver

the Ơow needed for smooth combined functions and fast work

cycles. You won’t Ɵnd a smoother-shifting loader, either. The

PowerShift™ torque-converter transmission (except the 644K Hybrid) employs Smart-Shift™ technology to continuously evaluate speed and load conditions, and adjusts clutch-pack engagement to suit.

Smart-Shift ensures that gear changes are smooth as silk, regardless of whether the bucket is empty or

fully loaded. 644K Hybrid utilizes a hybrid-electric drivetrain. See pages 10/11 for details.

Engine/hydraulic match maintains good boom and bucket power into and out of the pile. For big loads, even in wet or packed materials.

Optional spin control boosts productivity by improving traction

in troublesome material or underfoot conditions. Reduces tire wear, fuel costs, and operator fatigue, too.

Responsive steering and full 80-degree articulation increase maneuverability in tight quarters, for faster cycle times and fewer three-point turns.

Hydraulic system provides only the power required, so there’s no wasted horsepower or fuel.

Boom-height kick-out and return-to- carry functions help speed production in repetitive loading applications.

On Powerllel-equipped loaders, the touchpad has two presets for added convenience when frequent attachment changeover is required.

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3		1. Choose from single-lever joystick or two-lever Ɵngertip pilot-operated hydraulic controls.
		Joystick F-N-R selector provides convenient direction and full-range gear changes. Both
		include innovative Quick-Shift feature for push-button gear changes, one gear at a time.
		2. Backlit touchpad in the expanded sealed-switch module controls keyless start and
		24 other machine functions. Enables the operator to adjust boom-height kick-out
		and return-to-carry, and activate return-to-dig from the seat.
		3. Programmable clutch cutoff increases productivity in all kinds of terrain. Simply
		select the slope of your dumpsite — level, small, or steep. Depressing the brake pedal
		disconnects the transmission while maintaining engine speed for fast boom cycles.

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Parallel lift that’s simply unparalleled.

Powerllel loaders deliver both powerful digging forces and parallel lift. Their innovative design allows load forces to work with, not against, the boom. For big breakout force,

even in difƟcult digging. Impressive torque throughout the entire dump and rollback range enables Powerllel loaders to excel at a wide variety of material-handling tasks. But don’t just look for these John Deere advantages in the numbers on a spec sheet. The best way to fully appreciate them is on your jobsite. Whatever the task, whatever the load, you’ll discover parallel lift that’s without parallel.

1.If it’s a traditional tool carrier you want, opt for a 624K with parallel-lift boom. Its linkage automatically levels the load throughout the lift cycle, and provides unrestricted visibility to the coupler.

2.Hi-Vis coupler lets you change attachments from the cab quickly and easily. Conforms to ISO 23727, allowing it to pick up a broad range of John Deere Worksite Pro™ and other attachments so you can do more with one machine.

Powerllel’s unique design separates the bell crank from the cross tube, attaching instead to the loader frame via a Y-shaped

link. This “free-Ơoating” bellcrank design allows load forces to work with, not against, the boom. For powerful breakout in tough digging.

The Hi-Vis coupler fastens the attachment close to the machine to optimize stability with heavy loads.

Unique Y-link, low-mounted boom cylinders, and Hi-Vis coupler provide clear visibility to the work tool and throughout the lift arc.

Tire and axle options let you equip your Powerllel loader for materialhandling work on a wide variety of terrain.

3.Powerllel loaders deliver outstanding breakout throughout the entire bucket and angle range. To conquer tough tasks such as loading logs.

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Looks just like a 644K, works like something else.

You’ve probably already heard or read the claims about other hybrid-electric earthmoving machines. But our 644K Hybrid goes beyond burning less fuel and reducing emissions.

Designed and reƟned with extensive customer input, it’s more like a hybrid of man and machine — delivering everyday operating advantages such as smooth propulsion, consistently quick and responsive hydraulics, fast ramp-climbing ability, and strong pushing power. Plus, it’s nearly twice as quiet as its conventional counterpart, registering

fatigue-beating in-cab and bystander noise ratings. Simply put, the highly efƟcient 644K

Hybrid will make your operator, and your operation, even more productive.

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1. Use your loader for a variety
of work? Multiple engine rpm	2. Engine runs at a constant rpm,	3. Strong pushing power and quick
operating settings enable an	providing full hydraulic Ơow	ramp-climbing ability make the
operator to customize machine	all the time, regardless of travel	644K Hybrid an excellent choice
operation and response — helping	speed. So boom and bucket	for maintaining stockpiles and
deliver maximum productivity and	functions are always powerful,	heaping hoppers in cement plants
efƟciency, regardless of the task.	responsive, and quick.	and other production facilities.

EPA IT4/EU Stage IIIB 6.8-L diesel runs at a constant 900, 1,200, 1,500, or 1,800 rpm. Constant speed reduces engine wear, noise levels, and fuel consumption. Top speed provides maximum power and productivity,

while the slower settings increase efƟciency.

At 1,800 rpm, in-cab sound levels are just 68 dBa. And because the engine runs at a constant speed, bystander noise is also less noticeable.

644K Hybrid delivers up to 25-percent

better average fuel efƟciency than its conventional IT4 counterpart with a lockup torque converter. In applications such as V-pattern truck loading, fuel savings will be even larger.

Brushless A/C generator and motor, watercooled brake resistor, and solid-state power electronics deliver long-term reliability and durability.

Purpose-built PowerShift™ transmission provides smooth moves through four forward speed ranges. Direction changes are performed by the electric motor, totally eliminating shifting in some truck-loading applications.

Coast control functions similar to dynamic braking in a hydrostatic transmission, slowing down the loader without touching a pedal and helping reduce service-brake component wear.

Hybrid-electric drive smoothly and efƟciently recaptures energy to slow the loader when the operator lets off the accelerator. This lessens the load on the engine and reduces fuel consumption.

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Discover your options.

K-Series Loaders come equipped with plenty of production-boosting features to help you handle almost anything you throw their way. But if yours isn’t just any application, we’ve got you covered with a wide variety of factoryor dealer-installed options. So you can equip your loader with exactly what you need to maximize your efforts and expand your opportunities.

1.With ride control, the lift cylinders act as shock absorbers, cushioning bumps to allow these loaders to navigate rough ground more quickly without losing their loads. Auto-actuation travel speed is adjustable from 1.5 to 24.0 kph (1.0 to 15.0 mph) in increments of 0.5 units.

2.Worksite Pro™ couplers increase versatility and make attachment switchover push-button easy. Hi-Vis coupler conforms to ISO 23727, allowing it to pick up a broad range of John Deere and other attachments.

3.Automatic differential lock engages as soon as a tire begins to slip. It’s ideal for inexperienced operators or applications requiring high traction, such as stockpiling silage, plowing snow, and handling pipe.

Embedded payload scale enables you

to Ɵll each truck to its limit for maximum productivity. It’s available on all Z-Bar and High-Lift loaders.

Powered cab pre-cleaner is a smart addition in high airborne-debris environments.

Heated mirrors prevent fog and ice from obstructing the view and affecting productivity.

Need to take productivity to another level? High-Lift option extends lift height up to 356 mm (14 in.).

General-purpose or excavating buckets are available in pin-on or coupler conƟgurations from 1.5–3.2 m3 (2.0–4.25 cu. yd). Or opt for the 1.22-, 1.52-, and 1.83-m (48 in., 60 in., and 72 in.) tines, depending on model.

Full-tire front and rear fenders and Ơaps help keep the machine free of mud and debris.

Rear-axle disconnect disengages power when not needed. Reduces fuel consumption and tire wear, and helps smooth the ride during roading or transport.

Corrosion package shields electrical components and connections to help prevent corrosive materials from shortcircuiting productivity.

JDLink lets you know where your loader is and how it’s performing. This wireless communication system delivers location, performance, and maintenance data to your computer.

Not all options are available on all loaders, so see your dealer for details.

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Nothing runs like a Deere.

It’s all about uptime. So we gave the K-Series plenty of resources to help them succeed. All six loaders come equipped with traditional John Deere durability features. Such as heavy-duty wetsleeve diesels, Quad-Cool, and solid-state electrical systems. Reinforced articulation joints with double-tapered roller bearings. Plus, booms and mainframes so tough they’re warranted for three years or 10,000 hours. When you know how they’re built, you’ll run a Deere.

1.524K–644K planetary Ɵnal drives are mounted inboard. Hydraulic wet-disc brakes on all models self-adjust.

Four steel plates support the loader tower, extending pin life and protecting the boom-cylinder hoses.

Sealed-switch module keeps out dust, moisture, and debris, and virtually never wears out. Proven marine-grade touchpad eliminates rocker switches and nearly 100 wires, and unsealed connections provide even longer life.

Standard features such as bypass-start protection, automatic park brake, convenient handholds, and slipresistant steps help keep the operator out of harm’s way.

Wet-sleeve engine liners provide uniform engine cooling for less oil breakdown and longer durability than cast-in- block designs.

500-, 2,000-, and 4,000-hour engine, transmission, and

hydraulic oil and Ɵlter service intervals mean more uptime.

Wide-mouth fuel tank allows quick and convenient ground-

level Ɵll-ups. Generous capacity lets you work longer.

Electrical-distribution center employs highly reliable circuit-board technology and solid-state switches that eliminate numerous wiring harnesses, fuses, relays, and connectors. Sealed gold-pin electrical connectors resist corrosion for superior long-term integrity.

Ever have an operator burn up a starter motor attempting

to Ɵre-up a machine that was out of fuel? Standard starter protection limits cranking time and requires cool-down periods between attempts.

2.Quad-Cool places the radiator, airconditioner condenser, intercooler, and hydraulic, transmission, and optional axle

coolers in a unique boxed conƟguration that’s isolated from engine heat. For

increased efƟciency and durability.

3.Optional programmable fan automatically reverses at predetermined intervals, ejecting debris from the radiator and cooler cores. Or choose your own cleaning cycles through the monitor.

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