John Deere C tractor

John Deere C

Power

20 hp[B] hp

Production

1927-1928

Engine

2-cylinder

Transmission

Gear

Drive

2WD

From the same series:

Introduction

John Deere Model C: Historical Overview

The John Deere Model C is an early row-crop tractor produced between 1927 and 1928 in Waterloo, Iowa. Serving as the predecessor to the subsequent GP series, this machine represents a foundational period in John Deere's agricultural tractor development, with only 92 units manufactured.

Engine and Performance

The tractor is powered by a 2-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine with a displacement of 311.6 cubic inches (5.1 liters). Designed to operate on kerosene, the engine reaches its rated output at 950 RPM. It features a manual starting system and generates a claimed 10 hp (7.5 kW) at the drawbar and 20 hp (14.9 kW) at the belt.

Transmission and Drive

The drivetrain utilizes a gear-type transmission providing 3 forward speeds and 1 reverse speed. Power is delivered to the ground via a two-wheel drive system, which was standard for the row-crop configuration of that era.

Mechanical Configuration

The Model C features a manual steering system and an open operator station. Its design focuses on simplicity and accessibility, characteristic of agricultural machinery from the late 1920s.

Conclusion

The John Deere Model C is a rare historical artifact, significant for its role in the evolution of the GP series. Due to its limited production run, it is primarily regarded today as a collectible for those interested in the early history of American row-crop tractors.

Production Information of John Deere, C

  • The Model C was the early version of what became the John Deere model GP. Tractors 200001 to 200110 were built from August 1927 to January 1928 and then recalled. Fifty-three of the pre-production models were rebuilt with new serial numbers. In June of 1928 a decision was made to re-name the tractor as the GP.
  • Row-Crop tractor
  • Built in Waterloo, Iowa, USA
ManufacturerJohn Deere
Total built92

Engine Specifications of John Deere, C

  • John Deere
  • Liquid-cooled
  • Kerosene
  • 2-cylinder
Rated RPM950
Displacement311.6 ci [5.1 L]
Starter typeManual
Bore/Stroke5.75x6.00 inches [146 x 152 mm]

Transmission Information of John Deere, C

Transmission variants 1

TypeGear
Gears3 forward and 1 reverse

Mechanical Specs of John Deere, C

  • Two-wheel drive
  • Manual steering
  • Open operator station.

Power Information of John Deere, C

Drawbar (claimed)10 hp [7.5 kW]
Belt (claimed)20 hp [14.9 kW]

Where it sits

Its power puts it in the 12th percentile of 1920s models in our database (181 machines).

Frequently asked questions

How much horsepower does the John Deere C have?

The John Deere C delivers 20 hp[B] HP.

What years was the John Deere C produced?

The John Deere C was produced in 1927-1928.

What engine does the John Deere C have?

The John Deere C is powered by a 2-cylinder engine.

What transmission does the John Deere C use?

The John Deere C uses a Gear transmission.

Is the John Deere C 4WD?

The John Deere C is available in 2WD.

Compare the John Deere C with another model