John Deere 8440 tractor

John Deere 8440

Power

215 hp

Production

1979-1982

Engine

Turbocharged diesel, 6-cylinder

Transmission

John Deere Quad-Range

Weight

26,590 lbs*With 20.8-38 duals. [12061 kg]

Drive

4WD

From the same series:

8640

Introduction

John Deere 8440: 4WD Agricultural Tractor

The John Deere 8440 is a four-wheel drive tractor produced between 1979 and 1982 at the company's facility in Waterloo, Iowa, USA. Designed for heavy-duty agricultural operations, it served as a high-horsepower workhorse during its production cycle.

Engine and Performance

The tractor is powered by a 7.6-liter (466 cubic inch) John Deere turbocharged diesel engine. This six-cylinder unit delivers 215 horsepower at a rated engine speed of 2100 RPM. It features a compression ratio of 15.5:1 and a liquid-cooling system to ensure thermal stability during prolonged heavy-load operation.

Transmission and Drivetrain

The 8440 is equipped with the John Deere Quad-Range transmission, which provides 16 forward and 6 reverse gears. This system utilizes a partial power shift mechanism, allowing for gear changes within ranges without clutching. However, the machine must be stationary to switch between the four primary ranges (A-D). The drivetrain includes four-wheel drive and hydraulic differential locks on both front and rear axles for improved traction.

Hydraulics and Hitch

The hydraulic system is a closed-center design, featuring a pump flow capacity of 33 gallons per minute (124.9 lpm). It is configured with two valves as standard, providing the necessary hydraulic pressure for heavy implements. The tractor includes a Category III rear three-point hitch with a lift capacity of 8,545 lbs (3,876 kg), and an independent 1000 RPM rear power take-off (PTO).

Dimensions and Construction

Built with an articulated frame for enhanced steering, the tractor has a wheelbase of 125 inches and an operating weight of 26,590 lbs when equipped with dual rear tires. The chassis is supported by hydraulic wet disc brakes and a rack-and-pinion axle system, allowing for adjustable front and rear tread widths between 63 and 130 inches to suit various row-crop spacings.

Conclusion

The John Deere 8440 is a robust, high-performance tractor designed for large-scale field work. Its combination of a high-torque turbocharged engine, 4WD capability, and significant hydraulic capacity makes it suitable for heavy tillage and demanding draft applications.

Production Information of John Deere, 8440

  • Original price was $64,000 in 1982
  • Four-wheel Drive (4WD) tractor
  • Built in Waterloo, Iowa, USA
ManufacturerJohn Deere

Dimension and Tires Information of John Deere, 8440

Rack-and-pinion rear axle3.937 by 95.8 inches [99 by 2433 mm]
Wheelbase125 inches [317 cm]
Front axleRack-and-pinion: 3.937 by 95.8 inches [99 by 2433 mm]
Ground clearance19.4 inches [49 cm]
Length223.5 inches [567 cm]
Rack-and-pinion rear axle3.937 by 118.4 inches [99 by 3007 mm]
Front axleRack-and-pinion: 3.937 by 118.4 inches [99 by 3007 mm]
Operating weight26,590 lbs [12061 kg]
Rear tread63 to 130 inches [160 to 330 cm]
Front tread63 to 130 inches [160 to 330 cm]

With 20.8-38 duals.

Ag front18.4-34
Ag rear18.4-34

Engine Specifications of John Deere, 8440

  • John Deere
  • Liquid-cooled
  • Turbocharged diesel
  • 6-cylinder
Coolant capacity40 qts [37.9 L]
Compression15.5:1
Rated RPM2100
Operating RPM1500-2100
Idle RPM800-2300
Displacement466 ci [7.6 L]
Power215 hp [160.3 kW]
Bore/Stroke4.5625x4.75 inches [116 x 121 mm]
Oil capacity22 qts [20.8 L]
Starter volts12
Firing order1-5-3-6-2-4

Transmission Information of John Deere, 8440

Transmission variants 1

  • Four gears (1-4) in four ranges (A-D). Tractor must be stopped to select range. Power shift between gears 1-2 and 3-4 within range.
TransmissionJohn Deere Quad-Range
Oil capacity160 qts [151.4 L]
ClutchHydraulic wet disc
TypePartial power shift
Gears16 forward and 6 reverse

Mechanical Specs of John Deere, 8440

  • Four-wheel drive
  • Cab standard.
  • Hydraulic wet disc brakes
  • Articulated power steering
Differential lockHydraulic front and rear

Power Information of John Deere, 8440

Rear PTOIndependent
Rear PTO Type1000

Hydraulics Specifications of John Deere, 8440

TypeClosed center
Pump flow33 gpm [124.9 lpm]
Capacity40 gal [151.4 L]
Valves2

Three-Point Hitch of John Deere, 8440

Rear TypeIII
Rear lift8545 lbs [3876 kg]

Electrical System of John Deere, 8440

GroundNegative
Battery CCA850
Batteries2
Charging systemAlternator
Battery volts6
Charging amps90

Where it sits

With 215 HP, the John Deere 8440 sits just below 8450 (225 HP) in John Deere's range. Its power puts it in the 91th percentile of 1970s models in our database (1259 machines).

Frequently asked questions

How much horsepower does the John Deere 8440 have?

The John Deere 8440 delivers 215 HP.

What years was the John Deere 8440 produced?

The John Deere 8440 was produced in 1979-1982.

What engine does the John Deere 8440 have?

The John Deere 8440 is powered by a Turbocharged diesel, 6-cylinder engine.

What transmission does the John Deere 8440 use?

The John Deere 8440 uses a John Deere Quad-Range transmission.

How much does the John Deere 8440 weigh?

The John Deere 8440 weighs 26,590 lbs*With 20.8-38 duals. [12061 kg].

Is the John Deere 8440 4WD?

The John Deere 8440 is available in 4WD.

Compare the John Deere 8440 with another model