Creating a New A-B Line on Your John Deere Gen 4 Display

The John Deere Gen 4 Display makes establishing and following precise guidance lines easier than ever. Use this article to quickly learn how to create a new A-B line, customize track settings, and shift lines to optimize your field operations.

What is an A-B Line?

An A-B line is a straight line set between two user-defined points ("A" and "B") on your field. It allows your vehicle to follow consistent paths, improving accuracy and reducing overlap when planting, spraying, or performing other fieldwork.

How to Create a New A-B Line

Follow these simple steps to set up your guidance line on the Gen 4 Display:

1. Access Guidance Setup

   • On the Gen 4 Display, select the Guidance menu or tap the Set Track button.

2. Choose New Track

   • If there are existing tracks, you can use them or select New Track to create a new line.

3. Select Track Type

   • Choose from several options:

     • Straight Track

     • Curve Track

     • Circle Track

     • Boundary Track

   • For most situations, use Straight Track.

4. Choose Track Creation Method

   • Options include:

     • A+B (traditional method)

     • A+Heading

     • Auto B

     • Latitude/Longitude

   • Select A+B for standard guidance.

5. Name Your Track

   • The display will auto-assign a name (e.g., "Track 1") if no tracks exist.

   • To customize, tap the pencil icon and enter a descriptive name (like "East" for east-side rows).

6. Assign to a Field

   • If your field is setup in the display, the new line is automatically assigned.

7. Set Point A

   • When prompted, select Set A on the right side of your display.

8. Drive Forward 10 Feet

   • You must travel at least 10 feet before setting point B.

9. Set Point B

   • Once you've driven enough, select Set B.

10. Confirm and Save the Track

    • Review your guidance line. If correct, select Done.

11. Activate AutoTrac

    • To begin automatic steering, use the Resume switch.

Example: Creating an A+B Heading Guidance Line

If you want to run your implements at a specific angle (e.g., 7° for tillage):

1. Choose A+B Heading as your method.

2. Name the track (e.g., "East 2").

3. Assign it to the current field.

4. Set Point A.

5. Input your desired angle.

6. Confirm and save.

Using Shift Track Controls

Fine-tune your guidance line placement using these controls:

• Shift Track Buttons: Located on the right side. Each press shifts the line by your set increment.

• Adjust Shift Increment: Tap the increment setting and enter a new value in inches.

• Center Track: Instantly centers the guidance line to where the tractor is sitting.

• Track Number/Position: Display will show which shifted track (e.g., "1W" for one line west) you are using.

Common Questions

• Can I rename tracks? Yes! Use the pencil icon when creating your track.

• Do I need to set up my field first? The line will auto-assign if your field is setup.

• How do I reset a guidance line? Use the Center Track function to return your line to its original position.

• Will these steps work for all Gen 4 Displays? The process is consistent across John Deere Gen 4 models.