Introduction
John Deere 900HC high-clearance tractor
The John Deere 900HC is a specialized high-clearance tractor manufactured by Yanmar in Japan, produced between 1986 and 1988. Designed for specific agricultural applications requiring increased ground clearance, this 25 hp model represents a compact, utility-focused engineering solution from the late 1980s.
Engine and Performance
The tractor is powered by the John Deere 3T80J, a 3-cylinder liquid-cooled diesel engine with a displacement of 1.3 liters. It generates a net power output of 24 hp (17.9 kW) at a rated speed of 2600 RPM. The engine features a 21:1 compression ratio and is supported by a dry-type air cleaner to maintain performance in dusty field conditions.
Transmission and Drivetrain
The 900HC utilizes a mechanical gear transmission offering 8 forward and 2 reverse speeds. Power is transferred via a dry dual-disc clutch. The machine operates as a two-wheel-drive unit and includes a mechanical rear differential lock, which assists in maintaining traction in uneven terrain. The final drives are of the bull gear type.
Hydraulics and Hitch
The hydraulic system is an open-center design operating at a pressure of 2030 psi (140.0 bar), delivering a pump flow of 3.1 gpm (11.7 lpm). It is equipped with a Category I rear three-point hitch capable of lifting 1800 lbs (816 kg) at 24 inches behind the lift points. The rear power take-off (PTO) is a live, two-stage clutch system operating at 540 RPM.
Dimensions and Chassis
As a high-clearance tractor, the 900HC provides significant ground clearance (23 inches at the front axle and 26 inches at the rear). With a wheelbase of 73 inches and a total length of 126.2 inches, the tractor maintains a compact footprint. The front and rear treads are adjustable to accommodate various row crop spacings.
Conclusion
The John Deere 900HC is a durable, utility-oriented tractor tailored for niche agricultural tasks requiring extra clearance. Its straightforward mechanical design, combined with reliable Yanmar engineering, makes it a functional choice for smaller operations or specialized cultivation work.
Production Information of John Deere, 900HC
- Original price was $13,000 in 1990
- Built in Japan
- High-Clearance tractor
| Distributor | John Deere |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Yanmar |
Dimension and Tires Information of John Deere, 900HC
| Front tread | 42 to 51 inches [106 to 129 cm] |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase | 73 inches [185 cm] |
| Clearance (front axle) | 23 inches [58 cm] |
| Shipping weight | 2865 lbs [1299 kg] |
| Length | 126.2 inches [320 cm] |
| Rear tread | 42 to 58 inches [106 to 147 cm] |
| Clearance (rear axle) | 26 inches [66 cm] |
| Width | 55.1 inches [139 cm] |
| Ag front | 5.00-15 |
|---|---|
| Ag rear | 11.2-28 |
Engine Specifications of John Deere, 900HC
- John Deere 3T80J
- Liquid-cooled inline
- 3-cylinder
- Diesel
| Coolant capacity | 5.8 qts [5.5 L] |
|---|---|
| Oil capacity | 4.7 qts [4.4 L] |
| Power (gross) | 25 hp [18.6 kW] |
| Rated RPM | 2600 |
| Compression | 21:1 |
| Displacement | 78.2 ci [1.3 L] |
| Power (net) | 24 hp [17.9 kW] |
| Air cleaner | Dry |
| Bore/Stroke | 3.15x3.25 inches [80 x 83 mm] |
| Starter volts | 12 |
| Firing order | 1-3-2 |
| Idle RPM | 1900-2600 |
Transmission Information of John Deere, 900HC
Transmission variants 1
- Four gears, plus reverse, in two ranges. Tractor must be stopped, and clutch used, to shift gear or range.
| Type | Gear |
|---|---|
| Oil capacity | 29.5 qts [27.9 L] |
| Gears | 8 forward and 2 reverse |
| Clutch | Dry disc |
Mechanical Specs of John Deere, 900HC
- Two-wheel drive
- Dry internal expanding shoe brakes
- Manual steering
- Two-post fixed ROPS. Optional canopy.
| Final drives | Bull gear |
|---|---|
| Differential lock | Mechanical rear |
Power Information of John Deere, 900HC
| Rear PTO | Live |
|---|---|
| Engine RPM | 540@2260 |
| Clutch | Dry dual disc |
| Rear PTO Type | 540 (1.375) |
Two-stage clutch
Hydraulics Specifications of John Deere, 900HC
| Type | Open center |
|---|---|
| Pressure | 2030 psi [140.0 bar] |
| Pump flow | 3.1 gpm [11.7 lpm] |
Three-Point Hitch of John Deere, 900HC
| Rear Type | I |
|---|---|
| Rear lift (at 24"/610mm) | 1800 lbs [816 kg] |
Electrical System of John Deere, 900HC
| Ground | Negative |
|---|---|
| Battery volts | 12 |
| Battery CCA | 475 |
| Charging system | Alternator |
| Battery Group | 30H |
| Charging amps | 25 |
Where it sits
With 25 HP, the John Deere 900HC sits between 3025E (24 HP) and 2520 (26 HP) in John Deere's range. Its power puts it in the 18th percentile of 1980s models in our database (2052 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the John Deere 900HC have?
The John Deere 900HC delivers 25 HP.
What years was the John Deere 900HC produced?
The John Deere 900HC was produced in 1986-1988.
What engine does the John Deere 900HC have?
The John Deere 900HC is powered by a Diesel, 3-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the John Deere 900HC use?
The John Deere 900HC uses a Gear transmission.
How much does the John Deere 900HC weigh?
The John Deere 900HC weighs 2865 lbs [1299 kg].
Is the John Deere 900HC 4WD?
The John Deere 900HC is available in 2WD.