Introduction
John Deere 720: Row-Crop Tractor (1956-1958)
The John Deere 720 is a row-crop tractor produced in Waterloo, Iowa, between 1956 and 1958. It represents a significant model in the evolution of the brand's two-cylinder tractor line, offering specialized configurations for row-crop, standard, and high-crop agricultural applications.
Engine and Powertrain
The tractor is powered by a 376 cubic inch (6.2 L) two-cylinder, four-valve diesel engine. The unit features liquid cooling and operates at a rated speed of 1125 RPM with a 16:1 compression ratio. Diesel variants utilized a unique pony motor—a four-cylinder gasoline engine—to facilitate starting. The transmission is an unsynchronized gear type providing 6 forward and 1 reverse speeds, connected to a dry clutch.
Hydraulics and PTO
The hydraulic system utilizes an open-center design equipped with a single valve to operate implements. A live rear PTO is standard, providing 540 RPM at a 1.375-inch shaft diameter, allowing for independent operation of power-driven implements regardless of tractor ground speed.
Mechanical and Dimensions
Built on a 237 cm wheelbase, the tractor features two-wheel drive with manual steering, though power steering was available as an option. Braking is managed by differential mechanical expanding shoe brakes. The unit weighs 3079 kg and is configured with an open operator station.
Conclusion
The John Deere 720 is a sturdy, mechanical-focused tractor intended for row-crop operations. Its combination of a high-displacement diesel engine and live PTO makes it suitable for traditional field work, serving as a reliable utility machine for mid-century agricultural requirements.
Videos
Production Information of John Deere, 720
- Row-Crop tractor
- Built in Waterloo, Iowa, USA
- The John Deere model 720 was available in row-crop, standard, or high-crop versions.
- Original price was $3,700 in 1958
| Manufacturer | John Deere |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer(optional) | 13,930 (diesel) |
| Total built | 22,925 (total row-crop) |
| Total built(optional) | 408 (all-fuel) |
| Total built(optional) | 4,917 (gasoline) |
Dimension and Tires Information of John Deere, 720
| Wheelbase | 93.7 inches [237 cm] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 6790 lbs [3079 kg] |
| Height | 88.25 inches [224 cm] |
| Length | 135.25 inches [343 cm] |
| Width | 86.625 inches [220 cm] |
| Ag front | 6.00-16 |
|---|---|
| Ag rear | 12-38 |
Engine Specifications of John Deere, 720
- John Deere
- Liquid-cooled
- Diesel
- 2-cylinder 4-valve
| Rated RPM | 1125 |
|---|---|
| Firing order | 1-2 |
| Firing order(optional) | Electric |
| Starter | Pony motor |
| Displacement | 376 ci [6.2 L] |
| Compression | 16:1 |
| Bore/Stroke | 6.125x6.375 inches [156 x 162 mm] |
| Oil capacity | 11 qts (diesel) [10.4 L] |
| Oil capacity(optional) | 24 (diesel electric) |
| Starter volts | 6 (diesel pony) |
Electric start became available as an option on the 720 Diesel in 1958.
Four-cylinder 6V electric-start gasoline pony power used to warm and start the diesel engine.
Transmission Information of John Deere, 720
Transmission variants 1
| 0oF [-17oC]↑ | : SAE 90 |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | John Deere |
| Oil capacity | 30 qts [28.4 L] |
| Clutch | Dry |
| Type | Unsynchronized gear |
| 0oF [-17oC]↓ | : SAE 80 |
| Oil type | 0oF [-17oC]↑ : SAE 90 0oF [-17oC]↓ : SAE 80 |
| Gears | 6 forward and 1 reverse |
Transmission variants 2
| 6 | Pony motor throttle |
|---|---|
| 4 | Diesel throttle |
| 3 | Decompression |
| 1 | Gear shift |
| 5 | Clutch |
| 2 | Pony motor clutch |
Mechanical Specs of John Deere, 720
- Two-wheel drive
- Open operator station.
- Differential mechanical expanding shoe brakes
| Steering | Manual |
|---|---|
| Steering(optional) | Power |
Power Information of John Deere, 720
| Rear PTO | Live |
|---|---|
| Rear PTO Type | 540 (1.375) |
Hydraulics Specifications of John Deere, 720
| Type | Open center |
|---|---|
| Valves | 1 |
Three-Point Hitch of John Deere, 720
| Rear Type | II |
|---|
Electrical System of John Deere, 720
| Battery volts | 6 |
|---|---|
| Ground | Positive |
| Ground(optional) | 2 (gas/LP) |
| Batteries | 1 (diesel pony) |
| Batteries(optional) | Floating |
| Batteries(optional) | 4 (diesel electric) |
| Charging system | Generator |
Positive ground for the 6V and 12V systems.
The 24V electric-start diesel is not chassis grounded, with both sides of the battery system connected to the starter. The lights and gauges are split on two 12V systems.
Where it sits
With 65 hp[P] HP, the John Deere 720 sits just above 620 (53 HP) in John Deere's range. Its power puts it in the 90th percentile of 1950s models in our database (592 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the John Deere 720 have?
The John Deere 720 delivers 65 hp[P] HP.
What years was the John Deere 720 produced?
The John Deere 720 was produced in 1956-1958.
What engine does the John Deere 720 have?
The John Deere 720 is powered by a Diesel, 2-cylinder 4-valve engine.
What transmission does the John Deere 720 use?
The John Deere 720 uses a Unsynchronized gear transmission.
How much does the John Deere 720 weigh?
The John Deere 720 weighs 6790 lbs [3079 kg].
Is the John Deere 720 4WD?
The John Deere 720 is available in 2WD.