John Deere 968H Combine Parts

968H parts and accessories

The John Deere 968H combine, produced from the late 1990s into the early 2000s, was a popular choice for grain farmers seeking a reliable and efficient machine. Powered by a robust John Deere engine, typically around 275 horsepower, this combine offered header widths ranging from 20 to 30 feet. Its conventional separator system provided excellent grain quality, making it a workhorse in fields across the Midwest and beyond.

The John Deere 968H combine served as a transitional model between the older conventional combines and the newer rotary designs. It was produced from the late 1990s to the early 2000s. Typically, this model features a John Deere 8.1L 6-cylinder diesel engine, delivering around 275 horsepower. The 968H employs a conventional threshing system with a 66-inch wide cylinder and straw walkers for separation, known for its gentle handling of grain and excellent straw quality. Grain tank capacity is approximately 220 bushels, and the unloading auger speed is around 2.5 bushels per second, or 150 bushels per minute. Available header widths ranged from 20 to 30 feet, accommodating various field sizes and harvesting needs. Chopper and spreader options allowed farmers to manage residue effectively. The cab offered improved operator comfort compared to older models, with features like air conditioning and better visibility. The John Deere 968H was well-suited for harvesting wheat, soybeans, corn, and other small grains, making it a versatile machine for diverse farming operations.

Specifications

Engine	John Deere 8.1L 275 HP Diesel
Separator Type	Conventional - 66-inch Cylinder width
Grain Tank	220 bushels
Unloading Rate	150 bu/min
Header Widths	20-30 ft
Fuel Capacity	150 gallons
Weight	Approximately 25,000 lbs
Years Produced	Late 1990s - Early 2000s

Maintenance Tips

Concave Adjustment: Regularly check and adjust concave clearance based on the crop being harvested. Proper adjustment ensures optimal threshing and reduces grain damage.
Belt and Chain Tension: Inspect all belts and chains for wear and proper tension. Loose belts and chains can lead to slippage, reduced efficiency, and premature failure.
Sieve and Chaffer Cleaning: Clean the sieves and chaffers frequently to prevent buildup of debris. Clogged sieves reduce cleaning efficiency and can result in grain loss.
Bearing Greasing: Follow the recommended greasing schedule for all bearings on the combine. Proper lubrication extends bearing life and prevents costly repairs.

History & Background

The John Deere 968H combine was introduced in the late 1990s as an update to previous John Deere conventional combines. While not a revolutionary design, it offered incremental improvements in engine power, operator comfort, and harvesting efficiency, solidifying its place as a reliable and popular machine in the agricultural landscape.