Specs for the 2003 John Deere 648 Grapple

Engine

• John Deere's 6.8-liter six-cylinder diesel engine meets Environmental Protection Agency and California Air Resources Board emission non-road regulations. The electronically controlled fuel-injected four-valve engine gives strong low-speed torque. Power automatically adjusts as the load increases, optimizing performance and productivity. At 2,200 rpm it develops 171 SAE gross hp, or 128 kW.

Power Train and Gears

• Deere diesel engines have direct-drive powershift, and the 648 operates with seven forward and six reverse gears, which a bumper shifter controls to make operating easier. In eighth (top) gear the 648 has a maximum speed of 13.6 mph. The inboard planetary axles have wet disc brakes sealed and immersed in a cooling oil bath.They are self-equalizing and self-adjusting to decrease wear. In low gear the 648 develops a maximum draw at peak torque of 36,139 pounds.

Electrics

• Electrics come from two 12-volt batteries, and the electrical system is 12-volt with a 120-amp alternator.

Size and Capacities

• The fuel tank holds 73 gallons of diesel for the single-function grapple 648, and the dual-function model holds 83 gallons. The cooling system for both needs 36 quarts, and the engine lubrication takes 20 quarts.Tire size is 28L-26, 14 PR LS2. Overall height is 9 feet 11 inches, and the overall lengths are 23 feet 6.8 inches for the single-function grapple and 25 feet 7.6 inches for the dual-function model.

Tongs and Height

• Grapples have two hydraulic cylinders that adjust to each load, maintaining constant pressure on the tongs. The tongs' grip is enhanced with cast steel that resists wear. The height of the single-function grapple above ground level is 31 inches and the dual-function model sits 54 inches above ground.