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How to Use Custom Mode on E23 Transmission: A Guide for John Deere Tractor Operators

Take Control of Your Tractor’s Performance with Custom Mode

The E23 transmission on John Deere tractors offers advanced features for optimizing your equipment’s performance in the field. While Full Auto mode is the preferred setting for most applications, there are situations where Custom Mode provides the extra flexibility you need. This article explains when and how to use Custom Mode, based on practical examples from Koenig Equipment specialists.

When Should You Use Custom Mode?

Custom Mode is ideal for situations where Full Auto doesn’t deliver the specific engine and PTO behaviors your job demands, such as:

  • Running electric drive planters that require steady PTO output.

  • Heavy tillage with large implements, where quicker engine response is necessary.

  • Any application needing fine-tuned RPM, load anticipation, and droop settings for better control.

Example 1: Planting with Electric Drive Planter (SeedStar 4)

Full Auto mode typically prioritizes fuel efficiency by controlling engine RPM and load response. However, when using electric drive planters (like SeedStar 4), you need the PTO engaged to generate power for the planter. In Full Auto, engaging the PTO disables Efficiency Manager and pushes the tractor to full throttle—this isn’t ideal for planting.

Solution: Use Custom Mode

  • Enter the transmission settings and select “Custom.”

  • Adjust minimum RPM settings for “Economy On” and “Economy Off.”

  • Turn OFF load anticipation for the PTO (prevents unnecessary RPM increases).

  • Set your desired field RPM (example: 1,450 or 1,500RPM)—much lower than full throttle, but enough to power the planter.

Result: The tractor runs at your selected RPM, maintaining efficiency without unnecessary engine speed during planting.

Example 2: Heavy Tillage with a Large Disc Ripper

In Full Auto mode, when load suddenly drops (like turning at the end of a row), the engine RPM can drop too low (typically to 1,200RPM). When the implement re-engages, the tractor may not recover RPM quickly enough, causing sluggish performance.

Solution: Customize Engine Behavior

  • Switch to “Custom Mode.”

  • Turn Economy mode OFF and set your minimum RPM higher (example: 1,400RPM).

  • Adjust “droop” settings: Lowering the droop value causes the engine to maintain higher RPMs when it senses load, improving response time (example: reduce engine droop from 20% down to 14%).

Result: The tractor maintains more RPM through turns and rapidly recovers under heavy loads, improving your productivity in tough tillage conditions.

Key Features Adjustable in Custom Mode

  • Economy On/Off Minimum RPM: Customize lowest RPM allowed in different scenarios.

  • Load Anticipation: Turn on/off for PTO and SCVs to avoid unnecessary RPM surges.

  • Engine Droop Setting: Lower percentage results in faster recovery to loads.

Step-by-Step: Switching to Custom Mode

  1. From the main transmission setting menu, select “Custom.”

  2. Adjust “Economy On” and “Economy Off” minimum RPM values.

  3. (Optional) Open Custom Settings to fine-tune:

    • Load anticipation (enable/disable for PTO or SCVs).

    • Engine droop percentage.

  4. Save your settings and operate the tractor as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does using Custom Mode void warranty or require special service?
No—Custom Mode is part of your tractor’s standard features. No extra service is needed.

Q: Can I adjust these settings on the fly?
Yes. Changes can be made from the in-cab display. Settings can be fine-tuned as field conditions change.

Q: Who can help me optimize my transmission settings?
Contact Koenig Equipment and ask for an Optimization Specialist for hands-on help with E23 transmission settings.