How to Set Up and Use John Deere Machine Sync for Grain Cart Operations

Machine Sync by John Deere helps coordinate your grain cart and combine operations, making it easier to harvest efficiently and safely. This guide walks you through the essential steps to set up Machine Sync, enable in-field data sharing, and utilize important shortcuts and features in your John Deere equipment.

 

Getting Started: Equipment and Implement Setup

1. Access the Setup Menu

• Tap the Setup button on your display.

2. Select Your Equipment

• Choose the correct tractor and implement for your operation—in this case, select your grain cart.

3. Implement Profile

• Add a profile name for your grain cart.

• Set Controller and Air Cart to "none."

• Input measurements that are accurate for your specific grain cart.

4. Operation Type

• Set the operation to Harvesting. This setting is crucial for data sharing between machines.

5. Work Recording

• Set Work Recording to Manual.

• Set the Connection Type to Draw Bar.

 

Enabling In-Field Data Sharing and Machine Sync Shortcuts

1. In-Field Data Sharing Setup

• Make sure you have selected both the correct field and crop for every machine (combine and grain cart).

• Data sharing will activate when these match, and the system will display a "2" indicating both machines are connected and sharing.

2. Add Shortcuts for Easy Access

• From the Run page, add these two shortcuts:

  • Machine Sync Direct Access: For quick access to system controls.

  • In-Field Data Sharing: For managing data exchange between machines.

3. What You’ll See When Connected

• A map showing the combine’s path (in light blue for harvested areas).

• Live status of combine connection signal and the combine’s grain tank fill percentage—so you know when to unload.

4. Data Sync Settings

• In the data sharing shortcut:

  • Turn on both Enable Sync to Operations Center and Enable Sync from Operations Center for seamless data exchange.

Machine Sync Operation Essentials

1. Activate Machine Sync

• Each time you start the machine, turn on Machine Sync both in the combine and the grain cart via the shortcut.

• Optional: Set home point (default position), or set a nudge (adjust position) within the Run page or advanced settings.

2. Key Settings to Review

• Nudge Increments: Adjust how far the cart or combine moves with each nudge press (inline = forward/back, lateral = side to side).

• Speed Sensitivity: Set typically to "1" to reduce surging in tractor movement (default is "3").

• Follower Assignment: In a grain cart operation, the tractor is typically set as the "follower" to the combine.

• Controlled Traffic Mode: Choose if you want the grain cart to run along an A/B line (structured path), or directly behind the combine.

  • Save nudge positions for future use if required.

Real-Time Operation and Monitoring

1. Visual Aids

• When the grain cart approaches the combine, an orange box displays the combine’s position and home point.

• The system tracks and shows combine location, signal strength, and tank fill status.

2. Adjusting on the Go

• Change the home point or nudge the grain cart position as needed (front to back, or laterally if approved).

• The current system state (such as the engaged auger or combine proximity) is clearly visualized on your display.

Pro Tips for Smooth Harvesting

• Set Speed Correctly: Ensure your orange set speed is high enough to catch up with the combine, but not too high to cause sudden acceleration when disengaged.

• When you disengage from the combine (via scroll wheel), the tractor will automatically accelerate to the set speed—plan your set speed to avoid surprises.

• Turn the throttle forward completely to achieve max set speed.

• Regularly adjust nudge and speed settings to match field needs and operator preferences.

• Use shift track nudging to move the grain cart forward while filling, ensuring even distribution front-to-back.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What happens if my machines aren't connecting for data sharing?
A: Ensure both machines are set to the same field and crop, with Machine Sync and In-Field Data Sharing shortcuts active. Signal strength icons and field connection indicators will confirm connectivity.

Q: How do I avoid sudden jumps in speed when disengaging?
A: Always set your tractor’s set speed just above the combine’s operating speed, so transitions are smooth when you disengage Machine Sync.

Q: Can I save custom nudge settings for future unloading?
A: Yes! There is an option to save nudge settings, but for most combine and grain cart operations, multiple home points are not needed.