John Deere tractors have been a staple on farms and in backyards for over a century. The company's model numbers have been used to identify different models since the early 1900s.
John Deere's first tractor, the Dain All-Wheel-Drive tractor, was produced in 1934. It was a significant innovation at the time.
The first John Deere tractor model to feature a hydraulic system was the Model B, introduced in 1939. This model was a major improvement over earlier models, offering increased power and efficiency.
John Deere's model numbers have been used consistently over the years, with some models featuring a letter prefix to indicate the type of tractor, such as "A" for agricultural or "L" for lawn and garden.
You might enjoy: Ford Tractor Model Numbers
Model Numbers and Production
Model numbers are a crucial part of identifying John Deere tractor models. They're usually a combination of letters and numbers that provide information about the tractor's features and production year.
The first digit of the model number often indicates the product line, with A being row crop tractors, B being utility tractors, and C being lawn and garden tractors. This helps narrow down the possibilities when trying to identify a specific model.
Some model numbers also include a suffix letter that indicates the engine type, such as E for diesel engines or G for gasoline engines. This can be a useful detail when researching a particular tractor model.
If this caught your attention, see: Agricultural Tractors Market
60
The 60 series of Deere & Company tractors were introduced in the 1992 model year. They included the 4560, 4760, and 4960 models.
These tractors produced 160, 175, and 202 horsepower respectively. The 4560 produced 160 hp, the 4760 produced 175 hp, and the 4960 produced 202 hp.
The 60 series tractors were nearly identical to their predecessors, the 4555, 4755, and 4955. The improvements were mainly focused on lighting and safety.
The 60 series tractors featured an improved hood design, free of air intake and exhaust pipes. The air intake and exhaust pipes were moved to the right corner post of the cab.
An improved cab entry step with handrail was also added to the 60 series tractors.
Discover more: Agricultural Tractors
70
The 70 series was a significant upgrade to Deere & Company's lineup in 1993. The introduction of the 8570, 8770, and 8870 models marked a new era in power and performance.
These tractors boasted impressive horsepower ratings, with the 8570 producing 250 hp and the 8770 producing 300 hp. The 8870 was even more powerful, with a rating of 350 hp.
A fresh viewpoint: Allis Chalmers Model B Tractor
The 8970, a 400 hp powerhouse, was also part of this lineup, making it the first of its kind. This level of power was a game-changer for farmers and agricultural professionals.
Later in the summer, the 3055 and 3255 models were replaced by the 7200 and 7400, which offered 92 and 100 horsepower, respectively.
GP
The GP model is a notable part of John Deere's history, and it's interesting to see how it evolved over time. The model designation was changed from "C" to "GP" in 1928 to avoid confusion with the "D" model.
The GP model was designed for general-purpose use and had the same horsepower, engine displacement, weight, and three-speed transmission as the model C. Its first serial number was 200211.
Here are the five distinct versions of the GP model:
- The standard-front GP, or John Deere standard, built from March 1928 to February 1935
- The John Deere two-wheel tricycle-front GP, or GP-tricycle, of which twenty-three units were built between August 1928 and April 1929
- The John Deere GP wide-tread, or GPWT, built from November 1929 to November 1933
- The John Deere GP wide-tread Series P, a GPWT with narrowed rear tread width designed to suit potato rows, built between January and August 1930
- The John Deere general purpose orchard tractor, or "GPO", from April 1931 to April 1935
The GP model was updated in 1930 with a 25 hp engine, and the GPO model had specialized shielding for groves and orchards.
5E
The 5E series of John Deere tractors is a popular choice among farmers and landowners due to its reliability and versatility.
These tractors come in a range of horsepower options, from 45 to 75 hp, making them suitable for various jobs. The 5E series includes models such as the 5045E, 5055E, 5065E, and 5075E, which are available in both two-wheel drive and MFWD (mechanical front-wheel drive) versions.
The 5E Limited tractors, on the other hand, offer even more power, with ratings of 83, 93, and 101 hp for the 5083E, 5093E, and 5101E models, respectively. These tractors also come in MFWD versions.
Here's a breakdown of the 5E series models:
These tractors are designed to handle everyday jobs, making them a great choice for farmers and landowners who need reliable and versatile equipment.
2009
In 2009, Deere.com announced the new 152 hp (113 kW) 7530 Premium tractor on March 17.
The company introduced the new 8R/8RT row crop and track tractors to their dealers at a big dealer meeting in Omaha, Nebraska, during the week of August 13.
On a similar theme: New Holland Tractor New Model
Six new green-and-yellow 8R row crop tractors were introduced, ranging from 225 to 345 hp (168 to 257 kW).
These tractors were the 8225R, 8245R, 8270R, 8295R, 8320R, and the 8345R, with optional IVT or Powershift transmissions.
The 8225R was the only one available as a two-wheel-drive model.
The 8RT rubber track tractor models were also introduced, with three models: the 8295RT, 8320RT, and the 8345RT.
These tractors had a fuel capacity of 200 US gal (760 L; 170 imp gal) and could come with track width up to 160 in (4,100 mm).
The 8R/8RT tractors were powered by the company's 548 cu in (8.98 L) PowerTech Plus six-cylinder diesel engine.
Two lesser known tractors, the 5105ML orchard and poultry tractors, were also introduced in 2009.
2010
In August 2010, Deere & Company introduced new tractors at a dealer meeting in Cincinnati, Ohio.
The new models included the 8235R, 8260R, 8285R, 8310R, 8335R, and 8360R wheel tractors, ranging from 235 to 360 hp.
Readers also liked: New Holland Loader Tractor
These tractors had several improvements, including engines with ratings from 175 to 268 kW.
The PTO outputs of these tractors were 192 hp, 213 hp, 234 hp, 250 hp, 276 hp, and 296 hp.
Besides the six wheel tractors, three new 8RT track tractors were also added: the 8310RT, 8335RT, and the 8360RT.
These tractors had engines with ratings from 230 to 270 kW.
The new tractors featured the PowerTech PSX 548 cu in dual turbocharged diesel engine, which was an Interim Tier 4 (IT4) diesel engine.
This engine was a major change for John Deere, as they used exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) instead of Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) like their competitors.
The new tractors also had several other improvements, including JDLink, ActiveCommand Steering (ACS), Infinitely Variable Transmission (IVT) AutoMode, GS3 CommandCenter, and the StarFire 3000 receiver.
Diesels and Post-War Production
The introduction of diesel engines in the 1930s significantly impacted post-war production, with the first diesel-powered car, the Mercedes-Benz 260D, appearing in 1936.
Diesel engines offered improved fuel efficiency and durability, making them an attractive option for post-war production.
1970s: Generation II
The 1970s saw the introduction of Generation II, a significant milestone in the development of model numbers and production. This generation brought about a major overhaul of the production process, resulting in a more streamlined and efficient system.
The first model of the 1970s, the 1971 model, was a major departure from its predecessors. It featured a new numbering system that would become the standard for future models.
The 1971 model's numbering system was a significant improvement, making it easier to track and identify individual models. This change had a lasting impact on the industry.
The 1970s also saw the introduction of new production techniques, such as the use of computer-aided design. This allowed for more precise and efficient production, reducing errors and increasing overall quality.
The 1971 model's production numbers were significantly higher than its predecessors, with over 100,000 units produced. This marked a significant increase in production capacity.
7x20
The 7×20 series was a significant update from Deere & Company, marking the replacement of larger tractors with new models. The 7720, 7820, and 7920 were introduced, with the 7610 being discontinued.
These new tractors boasted higher horsepower ratings, with the 7720 producing 140 hp (100 kW), the 7820 producing 155 hp (116 kW), and the 7920 producing 170 hp (130 kW). The 7×20 series was a notable upgrade in terms of power and performance.
In 2004, Deere & Company expanded the 7×20 series with the introduction of smaller tractors, including the 4120, 4320, 4520, and 4720. These tractors had significantly lower horsepower ratings, ranging from 36 hp (27 kW) to 52 hp (39 kW).
Here are the horsepower ratings for the smaller tractors introduced in 2004:
The 7×20 series continued to evolve in 2005, with the introduction of new tractors and updates to existing models.
Narrow
The John Deere 5EN Narrow Series tractors are great for working in tight spaces with their narrow width and powerful engine. They're perfect for compact farms because of their versatility and efficiency.
Their narrow width allows them to fit into tight spaces, making them ideal for small farms or areas with limited space. This can be a huge advantage for farmers with smaller plots of land.
The John Deere 5EN Narrow Series tractors have options for attachments, which can be a game-changer for farmers who need to perform multiple tasks with a single machine.
9RT
The 9RT Series tractors are known for being powerful and reliable, with models like the 9RT 490, 9RT 540, 9RT 570, and 9RT 590.
These tractors have an e18 PowerShift transmission for smooth operation in the field.
The 9RT Series tractors have a 13.6L engine for added power and efficiency.
The AirCushion Suspension makes for a comfy ride for the operator, even during long work hours.
The 9RT Series tractors are designed to provide a comfortable and productive experience for farmers and operators.
5M
The 5M series tractors are a popular choice among farmers, offering a range of 75-130 horsepower.
These tractors are designed to be super efficient, making them great for all kinds of farming.
The current models available in the 5M series are the 5075M, 5095M, 5105M, 5120M, and 5130M tractors.
6M
The 6M Series tractors are designed for heavy-duty tasks, including baling, commercial mowing, snow removal, and municipal applications.
These tractors can handle a wide range of tasks, but one thing to note is that the article doesn't specify the horsepower range for the 6M Series.
The article does mention that the 6D Series utility tractors come in 105 and 115 horsepower options, but it's unclear if the 6M Series shares the same horsepower range.
One thing that's certain is that the 6M Series tractors are designed to be versatile and can take on a variety of tasks, but more information would be needed to determine their exact capabilities.
1026R
The 1026R is a versatile model that shines in tight spaces, perfect for small farms or landscaping jobs. This tractor can work long hours without feeling too beat, thanks to its comfy operator station.
The hydrostatic transmission makes it easy to operate, allowing for smooth transitions between tasks. This feature is a game-changer for anyone who needs to switch between jobs quickly.
You can work efficiently with the quick implementation changeover, which makes it easy to switch between tasks. This is especially useful for small farms or landscaping jobs where tasks can change quickly.
What Do Model Numbers Mean?
Model numbers on tractors can be confusing, but they're actually quite straightforward. The first number in a model number represents the series of the tractor, which is determined by the frame size and overall size of the tractor.
For example, the 5 series is a good starting point for personal use, while the 7, 8, and 9 series are better suited for commercial-grade production agriculture. This is because the 6 series is typically used for production agriculture and is often used for roadside mowing with large rotary cutters.
The next number in a model number represents the engine horsepower. This is a key factor to consider when choosing a tractor, as it will determine how much work you can get done in a given amount of time.
Related reading: What Is a Lot Number
S100
The S100 series is a popular line of lawn tractors from John Deere. They can be found at dealers like Home Depot and Lowe's.
You can expect to pay between $2,399 and $3,599 for a 100 Series Lawn Tractor. This price range includes a 2-year/120-hour bumper-to-bumper warranty.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the different John Deere tractor models?
John Deere offers a wide range of tractor models, including the 9RT, 6R, 7030 Small Frame, 7R, 8R, 5115 ML, 5EN Narrow, and 8RT Series. Explore each series to find the perfect tractor for your farming needs.
Can you tell the year of a tractor by the serial number?
Yes, the tractor's serial number can be used to identify the year of the tractor. Check the aluminum plate on the steering gear housing for the serial number and refer to the tractor serial number table for the corresponding year.
What does the S stand for on John Deere tractors?
The "S" in John Deere tractor numbers represents the Tractor Series or size. This is the first part of the unique numbering scheme used by John Deere.
Sources
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_John_Deere_tractors
- https://www.tractordata.com/farm-tractors/tractor-brands/johndeere/johndeere-tractors.html
- https://blog.machinefinder.com/15824/john-deere-tractor-models-visual-guide
- https://nationalland.com/blog/differences-between-john-deere-tractor-models/
- https://www.protoolreviews.com/john-deere-lawn-tractors-compared/
Featured Images: pexels.com