John Deere GP
Power
20 hp[B] hp
Production
1928-1935
Engine
2-cylinder
Transmission
Unsynchronized gear
Weight
3,600 lbs [1632 kg]
Drive
2WD
From the same series:
Introduction
John Deere GP: Row-Crop Tractor (1928-1935)
The John Deere GP is a row-crop tractor produced by John Deere in Waterloo, Iowa, between 1928 and 1935. Originally designated as the Model C, it was rebranded as the 'General Purpose' (GP) to align with market competition. This machine was engineered specifically for row-crop operations, featuring a fixed front axle capable of straddling three rows simultaneously.
Engine and Performance
The tractor is powered by a 2-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine designed to run on kerosene, with a displacement of 339.3 cubic inches (5.6 L). It features a bore and stroke of 6.00 x 6.00 inches and operates at a rated speed of 950 RPM. A notable technical revision occurred in 1931; engines from serial number 224100 onwards featured a lower compression ratio and a slightly larger bore. This modification improved fuel economy and eliminated pre-ignition issues associated with low-quality fuels, effectively removing the need for a water-injection system.
Transmission and Drivetrain
The drivetrain utilizes a two-wheel-drive configuration paired with an unsynchronized gear transmission. The gearbox provides three forward speeds and one reverse gear, reflecting the mechanical standards of the era. Steering is managed via a manual system, and the operator station is of the open-platform type.
Variants and Applications
To accommodate diverse agricultural needs, several specialized versions of the GP were developed. The GPWT (Wide Tread) model featured a 76-inch rear axle and a tricycle front end. The GP-P was a specific adaptation for potato cultivation with a 68-inch rear axle, while the GPO was designed for orchard work with a lowered profile and protective fenders. Additionally, a small number of GPO units were converted into crawlers by Lindeman.
Conclusion
With a total production of 30,535 units, the John Deere GP represents a significant period in agricultural mechanization. Its design, focused on modularity and general-purpose utility, established a foundation for row-crop tractor development in the early 20th century.
Production Information of John Deere, GP
- Original price was $1,200 in 1935
- Row-Crop tractor
- The GP was originally designated the Model C, the name was changed due to a similarity to the existing D, plus the "General Purpose" name was a marketing ploy to keep in line with International's new "Farmall". The GP was designed as a row crop tractor, with the fixed front axle straddling three rows. Several versions of the GP were made. The "wide tread" GPWT has a 76-inch rear axle and a tricycle front. The GP-P was a modified GPWT with a 68-inch rear axle, for use in potato fields. The GPO was lowered and had fenders for orchard work. Twenty-four GPO tractors were converted into crawlers by Lindeman.
- Built in Waterloo, Iowa, USA
| Manufacturer | John Deere |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer(optional) | 5,103 (GPWT) |
| Total built | 30,535 (GP) |
| Total built(optional) | 717 (GPO) |
Dimension and Tires Information of John Deere, GP
| Length | 112 inches [284 cm] |
|---|---|
| Height | 55.5 inches [140 cm] |
| Weight | 3,600 lbs [1632 kg] |
| Ag front | 24x6 steel |
|---|---|
| Ag rear | 10.00x32 |
| Ag rear | 42.75x10 steel |
| Ag front | 6.00x16 |
Engine Specifications of John Deere, GP
- John Deere
- The new engine was introuded in 1931 on GP serial number 224100. It had lower compression but with a quarter-inch larger bore, producing slightly more power with better fuel economy. The lower compression eliminated the pre-ignition problem when using low-quality fuel, so the water-injection system was eliminated.
- Liquid-cooled
- Kerosene
- 2-cylinder
| Bore/Stroke | 6.00x6.00 inches [152 x 152 mm] |
|---|---|
| Rated RPM | 950 |
| Displacement | 339.3 ci [5.6 L] |
| Coolant capacity | 36 qts [34.1 L] |
Transmission Information of John Deere, GP
Transmission variants 1
| Type | Unsynchronized gear |
|---|---|
| Gears | 3 forward and 1 reverse |
Mechanical Specs of John Deere, GP
- Two-wheel drive
- Manual steering
- Open operator station.
Power Information of John Deere, GP
- Https://www.tractordata.com/farm-tractors/000/0/2/24-john-deere-gp-tests.html
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 GP have?
The John Deere GP delivers 20 hp[B] HP.
What years was the John Deere GP produced?
The John Deere GP was produced in 1928-1935.
What engine does the John Deere GP have?
The John Deere GP is powered by a 2-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the John Deere GP use?
The John Deere GP uses a Unsynchronized gear transmission.
How much does the John Deere GP weigh?
The John Deere GP weighs 3,600 lbs [1632 kg].
Is the John Deere GP 4WD?
The John Deere GP is available in 2WD.