Introduction
John Deere R Agricultural Tractor
Produced between 1949 and 1954 in Waterloo, Iowa, the John Deere R holds historical significance as the manufacturer's first diesel-powered tractor. This standard-tread machine introduced technological advancements such as a live rear power take-off (PTO) to the brand's lineup, marking a shift toward more efficient agricultural operations.
Engine and Performance
The tractor is powered by a 415.5 cubic inch (6.8 L) two-cylinder liquid-cooled diesel engine. It features a compression ratio of 16:1 and operates at a rated speed of 1000 RPM. The engine employs a two-cylinder pony motor for starting and utilizes an oil bath air cleaner to ensure longevity in dusty field conditions. With an output of 43 horsepower, the engine provides sufficient torque for heavy-duty traction tasks.
Transmission and PTO
The drivetrain consists of a gear-type transmission providing five forward speeds and one reverse speed. It utilizes a dry disc clutch, and the design requires the operator to bring the tractor to a full stop before shifting gears. A notable feature of the Model R is the inclusion of a live rear PTO, which operates independently of the transmission clutch, allowing for continuous power delivery to implements even when the tractor is stopped.
Mechanical and Physical Specifications
The John Deere R is a two-wheel-drive machine featuring manual steering and mechanical drum brakes. It is built on an 85.5-inch wheelbase with an operating weight of 7,603 lbs. The operator station is of an open design, common for the era, providing clear visibility of the surroundings. The tractor's electrical system operates on 6 volts with a positive ground configuration.
Conclusion
The John Deere R serves as a bridge between early tractor design and modern diesel performance. With over 21,000 units produced, it is well-regarded by collectors for its role as the first diesel-powered model from the manufacturer and its integration of the live PTO, making it a functional piece of agricultural heritage.
Production Information of John Deere, R
- Original price was $3,650 in 1954
- Standard-tread tractor
- The model R was John Deere's first diesel tractor. The R was the first John Deere tractor with a live PTO, which used a separate clutch.
- Built in Waterloo, Iowa, USA
| Manufacturer | John Deere |
|---|---|
| Total built | 21,293 |
Dimension and Tires Information of John Deere, R
| Wheelbase | 85.5 inches [217 cm] |
|---|---|
| Shipping weight | 7400 lbs [3356 kg] |
| Height | 78.125 inches [198 cm] |
| Length | 147 inches [373 cm] |
| Operating weight | 7603 lbs [3448 kg] |
| Width | 79.5 inches [201 cm] |
| Ag front | 7.50-18 |
|---|---|
| Ag rear | 54x12 steel |
| Ag front | 30x6 steel |
| Ag rear | 14-34 |
| Ag rear(optional) | 15-34 |
Engine Specifications of John Deere, R
- Liquid-cooled
- 2-cylinder
| Starter type | 2-cylinder pony motor |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 415.5 ci [6.8 L] |
| Oil capacity | 13 qts [12.3 L] |
| Compression | 16:1 |
| Bore/Stroke | 5.75x8.00 inches [146 x 203 mm] |
| Coolant capacity | 54.5 qts [51.6 L] |
| Firing order | 1-2 |
| Rated RPM | 1000 |
| Air cleaner | Oil bath |
Transmission Information of John Deere, R
Transmission variants 1
- The tractor must be stopped and clutch used to shift gears.
| Type | Gear |
|---|---|
| Oil type | SAE 90 |
| Oil capacity | 9.5 qts [9.0 L] |
| Gears | 5 forward and 1 reverse |
| Gears(optional) | SAE 90 |
| Clutch | Dry disc |
Mechanical Specs of John Deere, R
- Two-wheel drive
- Open operator station.
- Manual steering
- Mechanical drum brakes
Power Information of John Deere, R
| Rear PTO | Live |
|---|---|
| Rear PTO Type | 540 |
Electrical System of John Deere, R
| Ground | Positive |
|---|---|
| Battery volts | 6 |
Where it sits
With 43 hp[B] HP, the John Deere R sits just below 80 (57 HP) in John Deere's range. Its power puts it in the 70th percentile of 1940s models in our database (263 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the John Deere R have?
The John Deere R delivers 43 hp[B] HP.
What years was the John Deere R produced?
The John Deere R was produced in 1949-1954.
What engine does the John Deere R have?
The John Deere R is powered by a 2-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the John Deere R use?
The John Deere R uses a Gear transmission.
How much does the John Deere R weigh?
The John Deere R weighs 7603 lbs [3448 kg].
Is the John Deere R 4WD?
The John Deere R is available in 2WD.