John Deere WA-17
Power
280 hp
Production
1968-1970
Transmission
Fuller RTO-910
Weight
28,280 lbs [12827 kg]
Drive
4WD
From the same series:
Introduction
John Deere WA-17 Four-Wheel Drive Tractor
The John Deere WA-17 is a heavy-duty four-wheel-drive tractor produced between 1968 and 1970. It was manufactured by the Wagner firm in Portland, Oregon, under a contract with John Deere to bridge the gap between the 8020 and 7020 series. With only 28 units built, this machine represents a specialized segment of high-horsepower agricultural and logging equipment.
Engine and Power
The tractor is powered by a liquid-cooled inline engine with a displacement of 855 cubic inches (14.0 liters). It generates 280 horsepower (208.8 kW) at a rated speed of 2100 RPM. The engine features a 14.9:1 compression ratio and requires a 40-quart oil capacity, with recommended oil changes every 200 hours.
Transmission and Drivetrain
The WA-17 utilizes a Fuller RTO-910 transmission, providing 10 forward and 2 reverse gears. The system employs a 355.6 mm dry disc clutch. It features an air-assist hi/lo range selection, allowing for shifting on the move via double clutching. The drivetrain is supported by planetary final drives to manage the high torque output.
Hydraulics and Steering
The tractor is equipped with an open-center hydraulic system with a total flow capacity of 45 gpm (170.3 lpm), with specific steering flow rated at 30 gpm (113.6 lpm). The system capacity is 52 gallons (196.8 L), utilizing 2 or 3 valves for implement control.
Dimensions and Chassis
Built for stability in demanding environments, the WA-17 has a 140-inch wheelbase and weighs approximately 28,280 lbs (12,827 kg). It is equipped with pneumatic brakes and power steering. The operator station is open by design, with optional cab configurations including heat and air-conditioning.
Conclusion
The John Deere WA-17 is a rare, high-capacity tractor engineered for heavy traction tasks. Its robust construction and significant power-to-weight ratio make it a distinct example of late 1960s American industrial tractor design, primarily utilized for large-scale agricultural or forestry operations.
Production Information of John Deere, WA-17
- Wagner was a tractor and logging machinery firm in Oregon. Deere contracted with Wagner to build large four-wheel-drive tractors during the period after the 8020 and before the introduction of the 7020.
- Built in Portland, Oregon, USA
- Original price was $41,750 in 1969
- Four-wheel Drive (4WD) tractor
| Distributor | John Deere |
|---|---|
| Total built | 28 |
| Manufacturer | Wagner |
Dimension and Tires Information of John Deere, WA-17
| Ground clearance | 18 inches [45 cm] |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase | 140 inches [355 cm] |
| Height (cab) | 129 inches [327 cm] |
| Height | 98 inches [248 cm] |
| Length | 257 inches [652 cm] |
| Weight | 28,280 lbs [12827 kg] |
| Width | 111 inches [281 cm] |
| Ag front | 28.5-26 |
|---|---|
| Ag rear | 23.1-30 |
| Ag rear | 28.5-26 |
| Ag front | 23.1-30 |
Engine Specifications of John Deere, WA-17
- Liquid-cooled inline
| Starter volts | 24 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 855 ci [14.0 L] |
| Oil capacity | 40 qts [37.9 L] |
| Air cleaner | Dry |
| Bore/Stroke | 5.50x6.00 inches [140 x 152 mm] |
| Oil change | 200 h |
| Coolant capacity | 50 qts [47.3 L] |
| Rated RPM | 2100 |
| Compression | 14.9:1 |
| Power | 280 hp [208.8 kW] |
Transmission Information of John Deere, WA-17
Transmission variants 1
- Five forward and one reverse with air-assist hi/lo range selection. Shifting on the move possible by double clutching.
| Transmission | Fuller RTO-910 |
|---|---|
| Gears | 10 forward and 2 reverse |
| Clutch | 355.6mm dry discs |
Mechanical Specs of John Deere, WA-17
- Four-wheel drive
- Open operator station. Cab optional. Optional heat and air-conditioning.
- Pneumatic brakes
| Final drives | Planetary |
|---|---|
| Steering | Power |
Power Information of John Deere, WA-17
| Engine | 280 hp [208.8 kW] |
|---|---|
| Drawbar (claimed) | 220 hp [164.1 kW] |
Hydraulics Specifications of John Deere, WA-17
| Type | Open center |
|---|---|
| Type(optional) | 35 gpm [132.5 lpm] |
| Pump flow | 15 gpm [56.8 lpm] |
| Capacity | 52 gal [196.8 L] |
| Steering flow | 30 gpm [113.6 lpm] |
| Total flow | 45 gpm [170.3 lpm] |
| Valves | 2 or 3 |
| Steering cap. | 160 qts [151.4 L] |
Electrical System of John Deere, WA-17
| Ground | Negative |
|---|---|
| Battery AH | 205 |
| Battery volts | 12 |
| Charging system | Alternator |
| Battery Group | 8D |
| Batteries | 2 |
Where it sits
With 280 HP, the John Deere WA-17 sits just above WA-14 (225 HP) in John Deere's range. Its power puts it in the 99th percentile of 1960s models in our database (709 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the John Deere WA-17 have?
The John Deere WA-17 delivers 280 HP.
What years was the John Deere WA-17 produced?
The John Deere WA-17 was produced in 1968-1970.
What transmission does the John Deere WA-17 use?
The John Deere WA-17 uses a Fuller RTO-910 transmission.
How much does the John Deere WA-17 weigh?
The John Deere WA-17 weighs 28,280 lbs [12827 kg].
Is the John Deere WA-17 4WD?
The John Deere WA-17 is available in 4WD.