John Deere 8870 tractor

John Deere 8870

Power

350 hp

Production

1993-1996

Engine

Turbocharged aftercooled diesel, 6-cylinder

Transmission

Syncro

Weight

35,130 lbs [15934 kg]

Drive

4WD

From the same series:

8770
8970

Introduction

John Deere 8870: Heavy-Duty Four-Wheel Drive Tractor

The John Deere 8870 is a high-horsepower four-wheel drive tractor manufactured between 1993 and 1996 in Waterloo, Iowa. Designed for large-scale agricultural operations, this machine belongs to a series of robust tractors engineered for heavy traction and demanding field work.

Engine and Performance

The tractor is powered by a 10.1-liter, six-cylinder turbocharged and aftercooled diesel engine. Delivering a gross power output of 350 hp at a rated speed of 2100 RPM, the engine is liquid-cooled and features a compression ratio of 15.75:1. It is designed to sustain high output levels required for intensive tillage and heavy-duty implement operation.

Transmission and Drivetrain

The 8870 offers multiple transmission configurations to suit varying operational needs, including a 12-speed partially synchronized unit, a 24-speed two-speed power shift, and a 12-speed full power shift. All variants utilize a hydraulic wet disc clutch. The drivetrain features four-wheel drive, inboard planetary final drives, and hydrostatic power steering for improved maneuverability.

Hydraulics and Hitch

Equipped with a closed-center, pressure-compensated hydraulic system, the tractor provides a pump flow of 44.8 gpm (169.6 lpm) at 2530 psi. The system supports 3 to 5 rear valves, facilitating the use of complex implements. The rear hitch, featuring draft sensing, offers a lift capacity of 14,980 lbs, ensuring compatibility with heavy-duty agricultural machinery.

Dimensions and Operator Environment

With an operating weight of 35,130 lbs and a wheelbase of 134 inches, the 8870 is built for stability and traction. The operator is housed in the standard Sound-Gard cab, which was designed to reduce noise and vibration during extended work periods. The tractor can be fitted with various tire configurations, including 20.8R-42 or 18.4R-46 options, to optimize ground pressure and grip.

Conclusion

The John Deere 8870 is a specialized machine tailored for large-acreage farming and high-load traction tasks. Its combination of a powerful 350 hp engine, versatile transmission options, and substantial hydraulic capacity makes it a reliable asset for professional agricultural operators focused on high-output productivity.

Production Information of John Deere, 8870

  • Four-wheel Drive (4WD) tractor
  • Built in Waterloo, Iowa, USA
ManufacturerJohn Deere
Original price$126,538 (1996)

Dimension and Tires Information of John Deere, 8870

Rear axle3.937 by 120 inches [99 by 3048 mm]
Wheelbase134 inches [340 cm]
Front axle3.937 by 120 inches [99 by 3048 mm]
Operating weight35,130 lbs [15934 kg]
Length268.9 inches [683 cm]
Rear axle4.331 by 128 inches [110 by 3251 mm]
Front axle4.331 by 128 inches [110 by 3251 mm]
Shipping weight31,438 lbs [14260 kg]
Ag front24.5R-32
Ag front(optional)18.4R-46
Ag front(optional)20.8R-42
Ag front(optional)20.8R-38
Ag front(optional)18.4R-46
Ag front(optional)18.4R-38
Ag front(optional)18.4R-38
Ag front(optional)30.5-32
Ag front(optional)710/70R38
Ag front(optional)30.5-32
Ag front(optional)20.8R-42
Ag rear24.5R-32
Ag rear(optional)18.4R-42
Ag rear(optional)18.4R-42
Ag rear(optional)710/70R38
Ag rear(optional)20.8R-38

Engine Specifications of John Deere, 8870

  • John Deere
  • Liquid-cooled
  • Turbocharged aftercooled diesel
  • 6-cylinder
Starter volts12
Displacement619 ci [10.1 L]
Air cleanerDual paper elements with aspirator
Bore/Stroke5.12x5.00 inches [130 x 127 mm]
Coolant capacity58 qts [54.9 L]
Oil capacity33.8 qts [32.0 L]
Rated RPM2100
Compression15.75:1
Power (gross)350 hp [261.0 kW]

Transmission Information of John Deere, 8870

Transmission variants 1

  • Three synchronized gears (1-3) in four ranges (A-D).
TransmissionSyncro
ClutchPermaClutch hydraulic wet disc
TypePartially synchronized
Gears12 forward and 3 reverse

Transmission variants 2

  • Six gears (1-6) in four ranges (A-D). Power shift between gear pairs 1/2, 3/4, and 5/6. Synchronized shifting between other gears and ranges.
TransmissionPowrSync
ClutchHydraulic wet disc
TypeTwo-speed power shift
Gears24 forward and 6 reverse

Transmission variants 3

TransmissionPower Shift
ClutchHydraulic wet disc
TypeFull power shift
Gears12 forward and 2 reverse
  • 12-speed partially synchronized
  • 24-speed two-speed power shift
  • 12-speed full power shift

Mechanical Specs of John Deere, 8870

  • Four-wheel drive
  • Sound-Gard cab standard.
  • Hydraulic wet discs brakes
Final drivesInboard planetary
SteeringHydrostatic power

Power Information of John Deere, 8870

Rear PTOIndependent (optional)
ClutchHydraulic wet disc
Rear PTO Type1000 (1.75)

Hydraulics Specifications of John Deere, 8870

TypeClosed center pressure compensated
Pump flow44.8 gpm [169.6 lpm]
Rear valves3 to 5
Capacity38 gal [143.8 L]
SCV flow33.3 gpm [126.0 lpm]
Pressure2530 psi [174.4 bar]

Three-Point Hitch of John Deere, 8870

Rear Type3 (optional)
ControlDraft sensing
Rear lift14,980 lbs [6794 kg]

Electrical System of John Deere, 8870

GroundNegative
Battery volts12
Batteries2
Battery CCA925

Where it sits

With 350 HP, the John Deere 8870 sits between 8770 (300 HP) and 9300 (360 HP) in John Deere's range. Its power puts it in the 99th percentile of 1990s models in our database (2097 machines).

Frequently asked questions

How much horsepower does the John Deere 8870 have?

The John Deere 8870 delivers 350 HP.

What years was the John Deere 8870 produced?

The John Deere 8870 was produced in 1993-1996.

What engine does the John Deere 8870 have?

The John Deere 8870 is powered by a Turbocharged aftercooled diesel, 6-cylinder engine.

What transmission does the John Deere 8870 use?

The John Deere 8870 uses a Syncro transmission.

How much does the John Deere 8870 weigh?

The John Deere 8870 weighs 35,130 lbs [15934 kg].

Is the John Deere 8870 4WD?

The John Deere 8870 is available in 4WD.

Compare the John Deere 8870 with another model