John Deere 57 lawn tractor

John Deere 57

Power

7 hp

Production

1971-1974

Engine

Gasoline, 1-cylinder

Transmission

Belt-driven gear

Weight

326 lbs [147 kg]

Drive

2WD

From the same series:

56

Introduction

John Deere 57 Riding Lawn Mower

The John Deere 57 is a compact riding lawn mower produced between 1971 and 1974. Designed for residential turf maintenance, this model represents the manufacturer's entry into the garden tractor segment during the early 1970s.

Engine and Powertrain

The machine is powered by a Tecumseh V70 gasoline engine. This single-cylinder, air-cooled unit features a vertical shaft and a displacement of 245 cc (15 ci), delivering a gross power output of 7 hp (5.2 kW). The engine is primarily started via a manual recoil system, with an optional 12V electric starter available.

Transmission and Drivetrain

The drivetrain utilizes a belt-driven gear transmission. Depending on the specific configuration, the tractor was available with either a two-speed (1971–1972) or a three-speed (introduced in 1973) forward gear system, both providing one reverse gear. Power is transmitted to the rear wheels, which are equipped with 16x6.50-8 lawn and turf tires, while the front utilizes 11x4.00-5 tires. Final drives are achieved through a chain system.

Operational Equipment

Equipped with a 34-inch mower deck, the John Deere 57 is configured for efficient grass cutting. It includes an independent mid-mounted Power Take-Off (PTO) operated by a mechanical clutch. The operator station is of the open type, featuring manual steering for direct control of the two-wheel drive chassis.

Conclusion

With a base weight of 326 lbs (147 kg), the John Deere 57 is a lightweight, maneuverable machine tailored for residential lawn care. It remains a notable example of 1970s garden equipment, reflecting the design standards and mechanical simplicity of the era.

Production Information of John Deere, 57

  • Riding lawn mower
  • Original price was $490 in 1971
ManufacturerJohn Deere

Dimension and Tires Information of John Deere, 57

Weight326 lbs [147 kg]
Lawn/turf front11x4.00-5
Lawn/turf rear16x6.50-8

Engine Specifications of John Deere, 57

  • Tecumseh V70
  • Air-cooled vertical-shaft
  • Gasoline
  • 1-cylinder
Power (gross)7 hp [5.2 kW]
Displacement245 cc [15 ci]
StarterManual recoil
Bore/Stroke2.75x2.531 inches [70 x 64 mm]
Starter volts12
Starter volts(optional)Electric

Transmission Information of John Deere, 57

Transmission variants 1

  • Two-speed transmission used from 1971 through 1972, type code T2051.
TypeBelt-driven gear
Gears2 forward and 1 reverse

Transmission variants 2

  • Three-speed transmission introduced in 1973, type code T2052.
TypeBelt-driven gear
Gears3 forward and 1 reverse
  • 2-speed gear
  • 3-speed gear

Mechanical Specs of John Deere, 57

  • Two-wheel drive
  • Open operator station
  • Manual steering
Final drivesChain

Power Information of John Deere, 57

Mid PTOIndependent
ClutchMechanical

Electrical System of John Deere, 57

GroundNegative
Battery volts12

Where it sits

With 7 HP, the John Deere 57 sits between 56 (6 HP) and 68 (8 HP) in John Deere's range. Its power puts it in the 22th percentile of 1970s models in our database (1008 machines).

Frequently asked questions

How much horsepower does the John Deere 57 have?

The John Deere 57 delivers 7 HP.

What years was the John Deere 57 produced?

The John Deere 57 was produced in 1971-1974.

What engine does the John Deere 57 have?

The John Deere 57 is powered by a Gasoline, 1-cylinder engine.

What transmission does the John Deere 57 use?

The John Deere 57 uses a Belt-driven gear transmission.

How much does the John Deere 57 weigh?

The John Deere 57 weighs 326 lbs [147 kg].

Is the John Deere 57 4WD?

The John Deere 57 is available in 2WD.

Compare the John Deere 57 with another model