Introduction
John Deere 856 Utility Tractor
The John Deere 856 is a compact utility tractor produced between 1986 and 1998 in Horicon, Wisconsin, USA. Designed for versatility in landscaping and property maintenance, this model is part of the 756 series, offering a balance of power and maneuverability.
Engine and Performance
The tractor is powered by a 3-cylinder Yanmar diesel engine with a displacement of 994 cc (60.7 ci). It features liquid cooling and indirect fuel injection, delivering a gross power output of 24 hp (17.9 kW). The engine operates at a rated speed of 3200 RPM, providing consistent power for various implements.
Transmission and Drivetrain
The 856 is equipped with a shaft-driven hydrostatic transmission that offers infinite forward and reverse speeds across two ranges. The drivetrain includes planetary final drives and is available in either two-wheel or four-wheel drive configurations, supported by power steering and wet disc brakes for enhanced control.
Hydraulics and PTO
The open-center hydraulic system provides a pump flow of 5.6 gpm (21.2 lpm) at a pressure of 2050 psi (141.3 bar). For implement operation, the tractor features an independent rear PTO (540 RPM) and an independent mid PTO (2100 RPM), both engaged via a hydraulic disc clutch.
Dimensions and Hitch
With a wheelbase of 86.7 inches (220 cm) and an operating weight of 1800 lbs (816 kg), the tractor offers a stable platform for ground-engaging tasks. The rear Category I three-point hitch provides a lift capacity of 1686 lbs (764 kg) at the ends, or 841 lbs (381 kg) at 24 inches behind the lift points.
Conclusion
The John Deere 856 is a reliable workhorse suited for agricultural, landscaping, and general property maintenance tasks. Its combination of hydrostatic transmission, power steering, and dual PTO capabilities makes it a versatile choice for operators requiring a compact yet capable machine.
Production Information of John Deere, 856
- Lawn tractor
- Built in Horicon, Wisconsin, USA
| Manufacturer | John Deere |
|---|
Dimension and Tires Information of John Deere, 856
| Front tread | 36.9 inches [93 cm] |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase | 86.7 inches [220 cm] |
| Weight | 1800 lbs [816 kg] |
| Height (ROPS) | 75.6 inches [192 cm] |
| Length | 110.3 inches [280 cm] |
| Rear tread | 34 to 40.1 inches [86 to 101 cm] |
| 2WD Clearance (front axle) | 12.7 inches [32 cm] |
| Height (hood) | 52.3 inches [132 cm] |
| Lawn/turf front | 23x8.50-12 |
|---|---|
| Lawn/turf rear | 33x12.50-15 |
Engine Specifications of John Deere, 856
- Yanmar
- Liquid-cooled
- 3-cylinder
- Diesel
| Air cleaner | Dry |
|---|---|
| Starter | Electric |
| Displacement | 994 cc [60.7 ci] |
| Power (gross) | 24 hp [17.9 kW] |
| Fuel system | Indirect injection |
| Operating RPM | 1450-3425 |
| Rated RPM | 3200 |
| Coolant capacity | 4 qts [3.8 L] |
| Oil capacity | 3.3 qts [3.1 L] |
| Starter volts | 12 |
Transmission Information of John Deere, 856
Transmission variants 1
| Type | Shaft-driven hydrostatic |
|---|---|
| Gears | Infinite forward and reverse (2-range) |
| Oil capacity | 18 qts [17.0 L] |
Mechanical Specs of John Deere, 856
- Two- or four-wheel drive
- Two-post ROPS.
- Wet disc brakes
- Power steering
| Final drives | Planetary |
|---|
Power Information of John Deere, 856
| Rear PTO | Independent |
|---|---|
| Mid PTO Type | 2100 |
| Mid PTO | Independent |
| Clutch | Hydraulic disc |
| Rear PTO Type | 540 (1.375) |
Hydraulics Specifications of John Deere, 856
| Type | Open center |
|---|---|
| Pump flow | 5.6 gpm [21.2 lpm] |
| Capacity | 4.5 gal [17.0 L] |
| Pressure | 2050 psi [141.3 bar] |
Three-Point Hitch of John Deere, 856
| Rear Type | I |
|---|---|
| Rear lift (at ends) | 1686 lbs [764 kg] |
| Rear lift (at 24"/610mm) | 841 lbs [381 kg] |
Electrical System of John Deere, 856
| Ground | Negative |
|---|---|
| Battery volts | 12 |
| Battery CCA | 491 |
| Charging system | Alternator |
| Charging amps | 35 |
Where it sits
With 24 HP, the John Deere 856 sits just above 756 (20 HP) in John Deere's range. Its power puts it in the 99th percentile of 1980s models in our database (977 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the John Deere 856 have?
The John Deere 856 delivers 24 HP.
What years was the John Deere 856 produced?
The John Deere 856 was produced in 1986-1998.
What engine does the John Deere 856 have?
The John Deere 856 is powered by a Diesel, 3-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the John Deere 856 use?
The John Deere 856 uses a Shaft-driven hydrostatic transmission.
How much does the John Deere 856 weigh?
The John Deere 856 weighs 1800 lbs [816 kg].
Is the John Deere 856 4WD?
The John Deere 856 is available in 2WD/4WD.