John Deere 212
Power
12 hp
Production
1975-1987
Transmission
Peerless 2300
Weight
690 lbs [312 kg]
Drive
2WD
From the same series:
Introduction
John Deere 212 Garden Tractor
The John Deere 212 is a garden tractor produced in Horicon, Wisconsin, between 1975 and 1987. Part of the 200 series, this model was designed for residential garden maintenance and small-scale landscaping tasks.
Engine and Performance
The tractor is powered by an air-cooled, horizontal-shaft engine with a displacement of 476 cc (29.1 ci). It delivers a gross power output of 12 hp (8.9 kW). The engine features a dry-type air cleaner and requires an oil change every 25 hours of operation.
Transmission and Drivetrain
The drivetrain utilizes a belt-driven variator transmission combined with a four-speed gear system, providing four forward speeds and one reverse gear. This setup allows for variable speed control within each gear range. The tractor is configured as a two-wheel-drive unit.
Hydraulics and Power Take-Off
The 212 model is equipped with an independent mid-mounted PTO (Power Take-Off) to drive attachments such as mower decks. Engagement is managed via a manual clutch system, providing the operator with direct control over implement power.
Dimensions and Chassis
Measuring 67.5 inches in length and 41.5 inches in width, the tractor has a wheelbase of 46 inches. It weighs approximately 690 lbs (312 kg). The chassis features an open operator station with manual steering and band-type brakes for mechanical stopping power. It is typically fitted with lawn/turf tires, measuring 16x6.50-8 at the front and 23x10.50-12 at the rear.
Conclusion
The John Deere 212 serves as a versatile platform for garden management, capable of supporting 38 or 46-inch mower decks and optional sleeve-hitch implements. Its design focuses on mechanical simplicity and operator accessibility, making it a common choice for collectors and property owners requiring a durable, classic garden machine.
Production Information of John Deere, 212
- Original price was $3,239 in 1983
- Garden tractor
- Built in Horicon, Wisconsin, USA
| Manufacturer | John Deere |
|---|
Dimension and Tires Information of John Deere, 212
| Wheelbase | 46 inches [116 cm] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 690 lbs [312 kg] |
| Height | 42 inches [106 cm] |
| Length | 67.5 inches [171 cm] |
| Width | 41.5 inches [105 cm] |
| Lawn/turf front | 16x6.50-8 |
|---|---|
| Lawn/turf rear | 23x10.50-12 |
Engine Specifications of John Deere, 212
- Air-cooled horizontal-shaft
- Image courtesy of Jim H.
| Power (gross) | 12 hp [8.9 kW] |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 476 cc [29.1 ci] |
| Air cleaner | Dry |
| Bore/Stroke | 3.375x3.25 inches [86 x 83 mm] |
| Oil change | 25 h |
| Starter volts | 12 |
| Idle RPM | 1700-3500 |
Transmission Information of John Deere, 212
Transmission variants 1
- Four-speed gear transmission with mechanical variable drive.
| Transmission | Peerless 2300 |
|---|---|
| Oil type | AM30200SAE90 |
| Oil capacity | 1.75 qts [1.7 L] |
| Type | Belt-driven variator |
| Type(optional) | AM30200 |
| Gears | 4 forward and 1 reverse |
Transmission variants 2
Mechanical Specs of John Deere, 212
- Two-wheel drive
- Open operator station.
- Manual steering
- Band brakes
Power Information of John Deere, 212
| Mid PTO | Independent |
|---|---|
| Clutch | Manual |
Three-Point Hitch of John Deere, 212
| Type(optional) | Sleeve hitch |
|---|
Electrical System of John Deere, 212
| Ground | Negative |
|---|---|
| Battery volts | 12 |
| Charging system | Alternator |
| Charging amps | 15 |
Where it sits
With 12 HP, the John Deere 212 sits between 210 (10 HP) and 214 (14 HP) in John Deere's range. Its power puts it in the 76th percentile of 1970s models in our database (1008 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the John Deere 212 have?
The John Deere 212 delivers 12 HP.
What years was the John Deere 212 produced?
The John Deere 212 was produced in 1975-1987.
What transmission does the John Deere 212 use?
The John Deere 212 uses a Peerless 2300 transmission.
How much does the John Deere 212 weigh?
The John Deere 212 weighs 690 lbs [312 kg].
Is the John Deere 212 4WD?
The John Deere 212 is available in 2WD.