John Deere 56
Power
6 hp
Production
1970-1974
Engine
Gasoline, 1-cylinder
Transmission
Belt-driven gear
Weight
269 lbs [122 kg]
Drive
2WD
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Introduction
John Deere 56 Riding Lawn Mower
The John Deere 56 is a compact riding lawn mower produced by John Deere between 1970 and 1974. Designed for residential property maintenance, this model belongs to a series of light-duty machines focused on maneuverability and ease of operation.
Engine and Performance
The tractor is powered by a Tecumseh V60 gasoline engine. This 1-cylinder, air-cooled, vertical-shaft unit provides a gross power output of 6 hp (4.5 kW) with a displacement of 221 cc (13.53 ci). The engine utilizes a manual recoil starter as standard, with an optional 12-volt electric starter available for improved convenience.
Transmission and Drive
The machine features a belt-driven gear transmission. Over its production cycle, two configurations were offered: an initial two-speed transmission (2 forward, 1 reverse) and a later three-speed version (3 forward, 1 reverse). Power is delivered to the rear wheels via a two-wheel-drive system utilizing chain final drives.
Mowing and Mechanical Specifications
The John Deere 56 is equipped with a 28-inch mower deck. It features manual steering and operates using an open operator station. The power take-off (PTO) is independent and mid-mounted, controlled by a mechanical clutch. The total weight of the unit is 122 kg (269 lbs), supported by turf-specific tires suitable for lawn maintenance.
Conclusion
The John Deere 56 is a straightforward, mechanical riding mower designed for small-to-medium lawn care. Its simple construction and manual controls make it a representative example of early 1970s lawn equipment, suitable for collectors or owners requiring a basic, robust mowing solution.
Production Information of John Deere, 56
- Riding lawn mower
- Original price was $435 in 1971
| Manufacturer | John Deere |
|---|
Dimension and Tires Information of John Deere, 56
| Weight | 269 lbs [122 kg] |
|---|
| Lawn/turf front | 11x4.00-5 |
|---|---|
| Lawn/turf rear | 4.80x4.00-8 |
Engine Specifications of John Deere, 56
- Tecumseh V60
- Air-cooled vertical-shaft
- Gasoline
- 1-cylinder
| Power (gross) | 6 hp [4.5 kW] |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 221 cc [13.53 ci] |
| Starter | Manual recoil |
| Bore/Stroke | 2.625x2.50 inches [67 x 64 mm] |
| Starter volts | 12 |
| Starter volts(optional) | Electric |
Transmission Information of John Deere, 56
Transmission variants 1
- Original, two-speed transmission used from 1970 through 1972, type code T2041.
| Type | Belt-driven gear |
|---|---|
| Gears | 2 forward and 1 reverse |
Transmission variants 2
- Three-speed transmission introduced in 1973, type code T2042.
| Type | Belt-driven gear |
|---|---|
| Gears | 3 forward and 1 reverse |
- 2-speed gear
- 3-speed gear
Mechanical Specs of John Deere, 56
- Two-wheel drive
- Open operator station
- Manual steering
| Final drives | Chain |
|---|
Power Information of John Deere, 56
| Mid PTO | Independent |
|---|---|
| Clutch | Mechanical |
Electrical System of John Deere, 56
| Ground | Negative |
|---|---|
| Battery volts | 12 |
Where it sits
With 6 HP, the John Deere 56 sits between 55 (5 HP) and 57 (7 HP) in John Deere's range. Its power puts it in the 13th percentile of 1970s models in our database (1008 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the John Deere 56 have?
The John Deere 56 delivers 6 HP.
What years was the John Deere 56 produced?
The John Deere 56 was produced in 1970-1974.
What engine does the John Deere 56 have?
The John Deere 56 is powered by a Gasoline, 1-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the John Deere 56 use?
The John Deere 56 uses a Belt-driven gear transmission.
How much does the John Deere 56 weigh?
The John Deere 56 weighs 269 lbs [122 kg].
Is the John Deere 56 4WD?
The John Deere 56 is available in 2WD.