John Deere H tractor

John Deere H

Power

14 hp[B] hp

Production

1939-1947

Engine

2-cylinder

Transmission

John Deere

Weight

2080 lbs [943 kg]

Drive

2WD

Introduction

John Deere Model H Row-Crop Tractor

The John Deere Model H is a row-crop tractor manufactured between 1939 and 1947 in Waterloo, Iowa. Designed as a versatile machine for agricultural operations, it represents a specific period in mid-20th-century tractor engineering with a total production run of 58,584 units.

Engine and Performance

The tractor is powered by a 1.6-liter (99.7 cubic inch) two-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine. It operates at a rated speed of 1400 RPM, producing approximately 14 horsepower. The engine utilizes an oil bath air cleaner and requires 4.3 liters of oil. Cooling is managed by a system with a 20.8-liter capacity. Originally started via a hand-crank, electric starting became available as an optional feature starting in 1941.

Transmission and PTO

The powertrain features a gear-type transmission providing three forward speeds and one reverse gear. Power is transferred through a 235mm dry disc clutch. The tractor is equipped with a transmission-driven rear Power Take-Off (PTO) that provides 540 RPM at an engine speed of 1400 RPM.

Mechanical and Dimensions

The Model H is a two-wheel-drive tractor featuring manual steering and an open operator station. It has a wheelbase of 193 cm and an overall length of 282 cm. The shipping weight is 943 kg, which can be increased to 1376 kg when ballasted. The rear tread width is adjustable between 111 cm and 203 cm, allowing for adaptation to various row-crop configurations.

Conclusion

With its 14-horsepower engine and adjustable tread width, the John Deere Model H was engineered for efficient operation in row-crop farming applications. Its simple mechanical design and legacy of reliability remain of interest to agricultural historians and vintage tractor collectors.

Production Information of John Deere, H

  • Row-Crop tractor
  • Original price was $650 in 1947
  • Built in Waterloo, Iowa, USA
ManufacturerJohn Deere
Manufacturer(optional)978 (HN)
Total built58,584 (total)
Total built(optional)133 (HWH)

Dimension and Tires Information of John Deere, H

Bar rear axle2.125 inch diameter [53 mm]
Wheelbase76 inches [193 cm]
Shipping weight2080 lbs [943 kg]
Height (hood)52 inches [132 cm]
Length111.25 inches [282 cm]
Rear tread44 to 80 inches [111 to 203 cm]
Ballasted weight3035 lbs [1376 kg]
Width79 inches [200 cm]
Ag front4.00-15
Ag rear7.50-32
Ag front6.00-12 (HN)

Engine Specifications of John Deere, H

  • Liquid-cooled
  • 2-cylinder
Sparkplug gap0.030 inches [0.762 mm]
Compression4.75 : 1
Rated RPM1400
StarterHand-crank
Firing order1-2
Displacement99.7 ci [1.6 L]
Oil capacity4.5 qts [4.3 L]
Air cleanerOil bath
Bore/Stroke3.56x5.00 inches [90 x 127 mm]
Coolant capacity22 qts [20.8 L]
Starter volts6
Starter volts(optional)Electric

Electric start became available as an option in 1941, tractor serial number 27000.

Transmission Information of John Deere, H

Transmission variants 1

32+SAE 90: SAE 140 32-
TransmissionJohn Deere
Oil capacity12 qts [11.4 L]
Clutch235mm dry discs
TypeGear
Oil type32+SAE 90 : SAE 140 32-
Gears3 forward and 1 reverse

Mechanical Specs of John Deere, H

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

Power Information of John Deere, H

Rear PTOTransmission
Rear PTO Type540 (1.375)
Engine RPM546@1400

Electrical System of John Deere, H

GroundPositive
Battery volts6

Where it sits

With 14 hp[B] HP, the John Deere H sits between L (10 HP) and 655 (16 HP) in John Deere's range. Its power puts it in the 3th percentile of 1930s models in our database (235 machines).

Frequently asked questions

How much horsepower does the John Deere H have?

The John Deere H delivers 14 hp[B] HP.

What years was the John Deere H produced?

The John Deere H was produced in 1939-1947.

What engine does the John Deere H have?

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

What transmission does the John Deere H use?

The John Deere H uses a John Deere transmission.

How much does the John Deere H weigh?

The John Deere H weighs 2080 lbs [943 kg].

Is the John Deere H 4WD?

The John Deere H is available in 2WD.

Compare the John Deere H with another model