Across industries, companies and machine operators alike rely on John Deere to help them get the job done right. By offering a range of equipment, Deere has played a key role on construction sites, farms, golf courses, and more – demonstrating a sense of adaptability that has kept the company going for years. But even with all of the options available to customers today, there is one segment that has continued to stand out: John Deere tractor models. These machines are known for their versatility and are great for helping take on a range of tasks.
To truly comprehend the value of these machines, we should go back to the beginning where it all started.
A Look Back at the First John Deere Tractor Models
Since entering the tractor industry in 1918 upon its acquisition of the Waterloo Gasoline Engine Company, John Deere has sustained its ability to innovate and develop new equipment that meets the needs of its customers. The first tractor developed through the company’s acquisition was the John Deere Waterloo Boy N, which was in production from 1917 – 1924. From there came the John Deere Model A tractor, which was introduced in 1934 as the company’s first true row-crop tractor with an adjustable wheel tread; this was closely followed by the development of the Model B tractor.
In 1960, the world was introduced to the New Generation of Power, which included the John Deere 1010, 2010, 3010, and 4010 tractor models. This new lineup featured four- and six-cylinder variable speed engines, new Syncro-Range transmissions with fingertip shifting, new hydraulic systems, power steering, independent PTO, and new posture seats. It also included several firsts for the industry, such as hydraulic power brakes, closed-center hydraulics for instant power, and the first wheel tractor with more than 100 PTO and drawbar horsepower. As a result of the success of the Model 4010, the 4020 was introduced and became the best-selling John Deere tractor model, with more than 177,000 purchased.
Despite a decrease in production in the 1980s due to the Farm Crisis, Deere did not let this hinder its ability to turn great ideas into reality. The 1990s brought the John Deere 8000 Series, which included the 8100, 8200, 8300, and 8400 Row Crop Tractors. With the inclusion of CommandView Cabs, Mechanical Front Wheel Drive (MFWD), CommandArm Controls, and PowerShift Transmission, this series of John Deere tractor models stood out from the crowd and helped lay the groundwork for equipment to come.
What Are The Different Series of John Deere Tractors?
Over the past century, John Deere has made immense strides to stay ahead of the curve, offering new technology that is designed to make the lives of operators as easy as possible. For those in the agricultural industry, there are various types of John Deere tractor models that can be employed to take on a range of tasks. These include: 4WD/Track Tractors, Compact Tractors, Row Crop Tractors, Specialty Tractors, and Utility Tractors. Below, we break down these different series to help you determine the best John Deere tractor for your operation.
4WD/Track Tractors
These tractors are ideal for operators that have to cover a large area and want to do it as efficiently as possible. The 9R Series Tractors, in particular, are perfect for those who want choices when it comes time to decide on the machine that is right for them. When looking to purchase one of these models, operators should ask themselves the following questions:
- Do I need a track or wheeled model?
- Do I need a 2-track or a 4-track solution?
- Do I need a wide or narrow track?
- How much horsepower do I require?
The 9 Family of Tractors features several options, including:
- 9R Series Tractors
- 9RT Series Tractors
- 9RX Series Tractors
Compact Tractors
Compact utility tractors are built for versatility and convenience, allowing operators – from homeowners to farmers – to tackle a range of tasks with ease, including lawn mowing, soil work, and material hauling. While they are smaller than typical farm tractors, these John Deere tractor models are still capable of taking on similar tasks thanks to the inclusion of features like power take-offs (PTOs), hydraulics, and three-point hitches; it is details such as these that make compact tractors the perfect outlets for a range of attachments and implements.
John Deere offers a range of compact tractors, meaning that no matter what operators are looking for, they are bound to find the option that best suits their needs. Series include:
1 Series Sub-Compact Tractors
These tractors are perfect for a range of tasks – from lawn mowing to cutting through terrain to snow removal. This versatility can be attributed to a range of features, including hydrostatic-2 range transmission, four-wheel-drive, and open station cabs.
Current models within this family of tractors include:
2 Series Compact Tractors
Tractors in the 2R series are ideal for operators that need top-notch power to take on tough jobs. Each model features standard four-wheel-drive and a hydrostatic transmission that features TwinTouch™ forward and reverse pedals.
Current models within this family of tractors include:
3 Series Compact Utility Tractors
John Deere 3 Series compact utility tractors are perfect cutting through rough terrain, tilling, grading and leveling, snow removal, and digging. This lineup includes the 3D tractors (great for wagon hauling), 3E tractors (designed for farm and landscaping tasks), and 3R tractors (perfect for more heavy-duty tasks).
Current models within this family of tractors include:
- 3025D – 24.7 engine hp
- 3035D – 34.7 engine hp
- 3043D – 42.2 engine hp
- 3025E – 24.7 engine hp
- 3032E – 31.2 engine hp
- 3038E – 37.3 engine hp
- 3033R – 32.2 engine hp
- 3039R – 38.8 engine hp
- 3046R – 45.3 engine hp
4 Series Compact Tractors
Each tractor model in this series features four-wheel-drive and a hydrostatic 3F/3R PowrReverser™ 12F/12R to enable maximum power while working through a range of tasks. Additional features include diesel engines, open stations, Category 1 three-point hitches for attachments, making them perfect for farm and equine-related operations, recreational tasks, and landscaping jobs.
Current models within this family of tractors include:
- 4044M – 43.1 engine hp
- 4052M – 51.5 engine hp
- 4052M Heavy Duty – 51.5 engine hp
- 4066M – 65.9 engine hp
- 4066M Heavy Duty – 65.9 engine hp
- 4044R – 43.1 engine hp
- 4052R – 51.5 engine hp
- 4066R – 65.9 engine hp
Row Crop Tractors
These traditional large farm tractors are great for prepping fields and assisting in the row crop planting process. Each model is designed to move easily through fields, helping to ease the process of planting. Series include:
6 Series
John Deere tractor models within this series are designed to meet any need, from baling hay to snow removal to commercial mowing and everything in between.
Current models within this family of tractors include:
- 6145R – 145 engine hp
- 6155R – 155 engine hp
- 6175R – 175 engine hp
- 6195R – 195 engine hp
- 6215R – 215 engine hp
- 6230R – 230 engine hp
- 6250R – 250 engine hp
7 Series
The redesigned 7R Series Tractors from John Deere offer the functionality needed to take on a range of row-crop, livestock, and dairy operations. They also deliver a refined cab, integrated intelligence, and high-power density, ensuring that operators can accomplish their tasks as efficiently as possible.
Model year 2021 options in this family of tractors include:
- 7R 210 – 210 engine hp
- 7R 230 – 230 engine hp
- 7R 250 – 250 engine hp
- 7R 270 – 270 engine hp
- 7R 290 – 290 engine hp
- 7R 310 – 310 engine hp
- 7R 330 – 330 engine hp
- 7R 350 – 350 engine hp
8 Series
Available in wheeled, two-track, and four-track configurations, the redesigned 8 Series Tractors provide operators with the hydraulic capacity and horsepower required to handle large planters and implements. And with the addition of the most spacious and comfortable cab that Deere has ever offered, operators are guaranteed to get the most out of their days on the field.
Current models within this family of tractors include:
- 8R 230 – Wheeled, 230 engine hp
- 8R 250 – Wheeled, 250 engine hp
- 8R 280 – Wheeled, 280 engine hp
- 8R 310 – Wheeled, 310 engine hp
- 8RT 310 – 2-Track, 310 engine hp
- 8RX 310 – 4-Track, 310 engine hp
- 8R 340 – Wheeled, 340 engine hp
- 8RT 340 – 2-Track, 340 engine hp
- 8RX 340 – 4-Track, 340 engine hp
- 8R 370 – Wheeled, 370 engine hp
- 8RT 370 – 2-Track, 370 engine hp
- 8RX 370 – 4-Track, 370 engine hp
- 8R 410 – Wheeled, 410 engine hp
- 8RT 410 – 2-Track, 410 engine hp
- 8RX 410 – 4-Track, 410 engine hp
- 8245R – Wheeled, 245 engine hp
- 8270R – Wheeled, 270 engine hp
- 8295R – Wheeled, 295 engine hp
- 8320R – Wheeled, 320 engine hp
- 8320RT – 2-Track, 320 engine hp
- 8345R – Wheeled, 345 engine hp
- 8345RT – 2-Track, 345 engine hp
- 8370R – Wheeled, 370 engine hp
- 8370RT – 2-Track, 370 engine hp
- 8400R – Wheeled, 400 engine hp
Want to learn more about the capabilities of the John Deere 7R, 8R, 8RT, and 8RX Tractors? Watch the video below!
Specialty Tractors
John Deere Specialty Tractors come in a variety of options that provide operators with the power, convenience, and reliability they need day in and day out. Whether they are working under low-hanging canopies or branches, need to ride elevated above high crops, or squeeze through narrow rows of a vineyard, these tractors will show their value in any scenario. Series include:
Low Profile – Low Clearance Specialty Tractors
Despite being low enough to maneuver under tree limbs or raised poultry feeders, these tractors still offer the power needed to drive heavy-duty implements.
Current models within this family of tractors include:
- 5075GL – 75 engine hp
- 5090EL – 90 engine hp
- 5100ML – 99 engine hp
- 5115ML – 113.9 engine hp
- 5125ML – 123.2 engine hp
High Crop – High Clearance Specialty Tractors
These tractors are designed to provide the clearance needed to avoid crop disturbance and improve row spacing accuracy.
Current models within this family of tractors include:
Narrow Series Specialty Tractors
Working in tight spaces shouldn’t mean sacrificing power, torque, or lugging ability. These 5G Series tractors ensure that operators can complete their vineyard or orchard tasks without feeling constricted.
Current models within this family of tractors include:
- 5075GL – 75 engine hp
- 5075GN – 75 engine hp
- 5075GV – 75 engine hp
- 5090GN – 90 engine hp
- 5090GV – 90 engine hp
- 5100GN – 100 engine hp
Utility Tractors
Known as chore tractors, these machines are great for hauling, baling, snow removal, and so much more. Series include:
5E Series Utility Tractors
The 5E Series from John Deere offers the specifications operators need to handle heavier-duty chores. Because of these features, professional landscape contractors and property owners who need more power will benefit immensely from these tractors.
Current models within this family of tractors include:
- 5045E – 50 engine hp
- 5055E – 59 engine hp
- 5065E – 67 engine hp
- 5075E – 73 engine hp
- 5090E – 90 engine hp
- 5100E – 100 engine hp
5M Series Utility Tractors
These machines are perfect for those that need to tackle heavy-duty jobs and want the features that are normally found on a larger tractor. With the 5M Series Utility Tractors, operators can get this, all in a convenient, mid-sized design.
Current models within this family of tractors include:
5R Series Utility Tractors
This series takes certain features and advancements from John Deere’s large row-crop tractors and brings them to the utility tractor class.
Current models within this family of tractors include:
6E Series Utility Tractors
These John Deere tractors are designed to tackle chores on the farm, ranch, or worksite where durability, fluid economy, and versatility are crucial.
Current models within this family of tractors include:
6M Series Utility Tractors
These tractors are built to take on a wide range of tasks, including baling, snow removal, commercial mowing, and municipal applications.
Current models within this family of tractors include:
- 6110M – 110 engine hp with IPM 130 hp
- 6120M – 120 engine hp with IPM 140hp
- 6130M – 130 engine hp with IPM 150 hp
- 6140M – 140 engine hp with IPM 160 hp
- 6145M – 145 engine hp
- 6155M – 155 engine hp
- 6175M – 175 engine hp
- 6195M – 195 engine hp
6R Series Utility Tractors
Thanks to features like a CommandPRO™ Joystick, variable-ratio steering, and integrated technology, John Deere 6R Series Utility Tractors provide operators with the benefit of being able to spend more time looking out, rather than looking down at the controls when the tractor is moving.
Current models within this family of tractors include:
- 6110R – 110 engine hp
- 6120R – 120 engine hp
- 6130R – 130 engine hp
- 6145R – 145 engine hp
- 6155R – 155 engine hp
- 6175R – 175 engine hp
- 6195R – 195 engine hp
- 6215R – 215 engine hp
- 6230R – 230 engine hp
- 6250R – 250 engine hp
Determining the Best John Deere Tractor Model for Your Operation
As with all John Deere equipment, the company’s range of tractor models offers the level of quality and reliability that operators need to get through their list of tasks with ease. Whether the job calls for snow removal or planting in a large field, there is a John Deere tractor that can help.
If you have any questions about any of John Deere’s tractor models, you can contact your local John Deere dealer.
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