Old John Deere Tractors

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Old John Deere Tractors

John Deere has a rich history of producing iconic tractors that have shaped agriculture for decades. Below are some notable models and their contributions:

Model D (1923–1953)

The Model D was the first mass-produced John Deere tractor, with over 160,000 units made. It featured a two-cylinder engine and steel wheels initially, later upgraded to rubber tires for industrial use. This model had the longest production span of any John Deere two-cylinder tractor.

Model GP (1928–1935)

The GP stood for “General Purpose” and was designed to address various farming needs. It came in multiple versions, including standard-front, wide-tread, orchard-specific designs, and even crawler undercarriages for specialized applications.

Model A (1934–1952)

The Model A introduced versatility with eight variations such as tricycle, hi-crop, and orchard designs. It was known for its maneuverability and compatibility with various farming implements.

Model B (1934–1952)

Smaller than the Model A, the Model B featured similar versatility and was eventually lengthened to support larger equipment.

Model G (1937–1941)

A powerful three-plow tractor with a 36 hp engine, the Model G was later modernized into the GM version with electric starting and lighting options.

Model R (1949–1954)

The Model R was John Deere’s first diesel-powered tractor and featured live hydraulics and independent PTO. It was highly fuel-efficient and capable of heavy lifting.

Model M (1947–1952)

Developed during WWII, the Model M addressed the demand for smaller tractors. It introduced innovations like the Touch-O-Matic hydraulic system and standard PTO.

Utility Tractors (1936–1960)

Utility models like the 330 and 430 incorporated advanced features such as adjustable seats, slanted instrument panels, and three-point hitches for enhanced operator comfort and functionality.

These tractors represent milestones in agricultural machinery, showcasing John Deere’s commitment to innovation and adaptability over time.

Specifically :

John Deere Model D (1923–1953)

he John Deere Model D, produced from 1923 to 1953, holds a special place in the company’s history as the first tractor to carry the John Deere name. It was introduced after John Deere acquired the Waterloo Gasoline Engine Company in 1918 and decided to refine their Waterloo Boy tractor into something distinctly their own. The Model D became a cornerstone of the brand’s reputation in agriculture.

Key Features

  • Engine: The Model D was powered by a two-cylinder, horizontal, kerosene-burning engine (though it could run on gasoline with adjustments). Early versions had a 465-cubic-inch displacement, producing around 15 horsepower at the drawbar and 27 at the belt pulley. Later models saw upgrades, with displacement increasing to 501 cubic inches by the 1930s, boosting power to about 28 drawbar and 38 belt horsepower.
  • Design: It featured an exposed engine and a rugged, open-flywheel setup, giving it a utilitarian look. The tractor weighed around 4,000–4,500 pounds, depending on the configuration (steel wheels were standard, though rubber tires became an option later).
  • Transmission: A simple two-speed manual (plus reverse) kept it straightforward for farmers. Top speed was about 5 mph—plenty for plowing fields in its day.
  • Innovations: Early models had a hand-crank start (electric starters came later), and it was one of the first tractors to use a power take-off (PTO) for running implements, a feature John Deere standardized in the industry.

Evolution Over Time

The Model D wasn’t static across its 30-year run:

  • 1923: Launched with spoked flywheels and a basic design.
  • 1927: A longer frame and improved cooling system were added.
  • 1939: The “styled” version debuted, with a sleeker, enclosed look by industrial designer Henry Dreyfuss, aligning it with the aesthetics of newer John Deere models like the A and B.
  • Post-WWII: Rubber tires became more common, and minor tweaks improved reliability.

Legacy

Over 160,000 Model Ds were built, making it a commercial success. It was a workhorse for small to medium farms, capable of plowing, harrowing, and powering belt-driven equipment like threshers. Its longevity—30 years in production—is a testament to its reliability and the trust farmers placed in it.

Today

Collectors love the Model D for its historical significance and mechanical simplicity. A restored one in good condition can range from $5,000 to $15,000 or more, depending on year, rarity (e.g., early unstyled vs. later styled), and whether it’s on steel wheels or rubber tires. You’ll often see them at tractor shows or parades, chugging along with that unmistakable two-cylinder rumble.

Model GP (1928–1935)

It seems like you’re asking about the John Deere Model GP (1928–1935) again! Since I’ve already covered it in detail, I’ll assume you might want a fresh angle or additional specifics. Let me know if I’m off track, but here’s some deeper insight into the Model GP, focusing on its context, quirks, and what set it apart.

Historical Context

The Model GP hit the scene in 1928, a time when tractor design was rapidly evolving. Ford’s Fordson Model F had popularized affordable, mass-produced tractors, while International Harvester’s Farmall was revolutionizing row-crop farming with its lightweight, agile frame. John Deere, still riding the success of the Model D, saw the GP as their answer to this competition—a “General Purpose” machine that could plow, cultivate, and handle row crops. It was a bold move to diversify from the heavier, plow-focused Model D.

Unique Characteristics

  • Engine Layout: The GP’s two-cylinder engine was mounted crosswise (side-to-side), unlike the lengthwise setup of the Model D. This gave it a lower profile but made it trickier to balance, especially with the tricycle front end. That distinctive “pop-pop” sound came from the 339-cubic-inch engine, rated at 10 drawbar and 20 belt horsepower—decent, but not a powerhouse.
  • Tricycle Front: The narrow front (either dual wheels or a single wheel in the GPP variant) was meant for row-crop precision, but it could be tippy on uneven ground. Farmers sometimes preferred the wide-front “GPWT” version for stability.
  • Cooling System: It used a basic radiator with a fan driven off the engine, but overheating was a complaint in hot climates or during long hours—something John Deere improved in later models.

Production Numbers and Variants

  • Total Built: Roughly 30,000 units across all versions, with production peaking in the early 1930s before tapering off as newer models emerged.
  • GPWT (Wide Tread): Introduced in 1929, this widened the rear axle to 76 inches, making it less prone to tipping and better suited for hilly terrain.
  • GPP (Potato): A niche model from 1931, with a single front wheel and tweaks for potato fields—only a few hundred were made, so it’s a rare find today.
  • Experimental Touches: Some GPs were testbeds for rubber tires (a new trend by the mid-1930s) and PTO enhancements, showing John Deere’s forward-thinking approach.

In the Field

The GP was a mixed bag for farmers. It could handle two-row cultivators or a small plow, and its adjustable rear axle (sliding from 68 to 80 inches) was a plus for different crops. But its 4,000-pound weight and modest power meant it struggled with heavy soil compared to the Model D. Plus, that tricycle front end didn’t win over everyone—some called it “nervous” on slopes.

Collectibility Today

The GP’s rarity and its role as a transitional model make it appealing to enthusiasts. A restored standard GP might go for $3,000–$7,000, while a GPWT or GPP could climb to $10,000+ if in top shape. Steel wheels are more authentic to the era, but rubber-tired versions are prized for their practicality in modern demos.

Model A (1934–1952)

The John Deere Model A, produced from 1934 to 1952, is one of the most iconic tractors in the company’s history. It was part of the “lettered” series that modernized John Deere’s lineup, bringing versatility, power, and a refined design to farmers during a pivotal era. The Model A became a bestseller, with over 300,000 units made, and it’s still a favorite among collectors and vintage tractor enthusiasts.

Key Features

  • Engine: The Model A featured John Deere’s signature two-cylinder, horizontal engine—kerosene-powered with a gasoline option for starting. Early models had a 309-cubic-inch displacement, delivering about 18 horsepower at the drawbar and 24 at the belt pulley. By the 1940s, displacement grew to 321 cubic inches, boosting power to around 26 drawbar and 34 belt horsepower. That classic “Johnny Popper” sound was a hallmark.
  • Design: It was a row-crop tractor with a tricycle front end (dual narrow wheels or a single wheel in some variants), ideal for working between rows. The rear axle was adjustable, sliding from 64 to 84 inches (or more with extensions), making it adaptable to various crop spacings.
  • Transmission: A four-speed manual (plus reverse) gave it a top speed of about 7 mph—nimble enough for its time. Later models added a six-speed option.
  • Weight: Around 3,800–4,200 pounds, depending on configuration (steel wheels vs. rubber tires).

Evolution Over Time

The Model A saw significant updates across its 18-year run:

  • 1934: Launched as an “unstyled” model with exposed components—rugged and functional. Offered in standard (wide-front) and row-crop versions.
  • 1937: The “styled” version debuted, designed by Henry Dreyfuss, with a streamlined hood and grille for a sleeker, modern look.
  • 1939: Rubber tires became standard (a shift from steel wheels), improving comfort and traction.
  • Post-WWII: Electric starting and lights were added as options, along with hydraulic lifts (the Powr-Trol system), making it more user-friendly.

Variants

  • AN (Narrow): Tricycle front for row crops.
  • AW (Wide): Adjustable wide-front axle for stability or specialty crops.
  • AR (Regular): Standard-tread version for general use, not row-crop focused.
  • AO (Orchard): Low-profile with fenders for fruit tree farms.
  • AI (Industrial): Beefed up for construction or heavy-duty tasks.

Performance and Popularity

The Model A was a game-changer. It could handle two-bottom plows, cultivators, or belt-driven equipment like threshers, and its adjustable design made it a fit for everything from corn to cotton. Farmers loved its reliability and ease of maintenance—those two-cylinder engines were simple to fix compared to multi-cylinder competitors. It outshone the earlier Model GP in power and stability, cementing John Deere’s dominance in the row-crop market.

Legacy

With over 300,000 built, the Model A was a cornerstone of American farming through the Great Depression, WWII, and into the postwar boom. Its long production run reflects its adaptability—John Deere kept tweaking it to meet changing needs, from wartime steel shortages to the rise of mechanized agriculture.

Today

Collectors prize the Model A for its history and variety. A restored unstyled Model A might fetch $4,000–$8,000, while a styled version with extras (hydraulics, rubber tires) can hit $10,000–$15,000 or more. You’ll see them at tractor pulls or shows, often purring along with that unmistakable two-cylinder rhythm.

Model B (1934–1952)

The John Deere Model B, produced from 1935 to 1952, is often seen as the “little brother” to the Model A, but it carved out its own legacy as a compact, versatile tractor perfect for smaller farms. Introduced a year after the Model A, it shared the same innovative spirit and became a hit, with over 300,000 units built across its long production run. Its smaller size, affordability, and adaptability made it a staple in American agriculture.

Key Features

  • Engine: Like its siblings, the Model B used a two-cylinder, horizontal engine—kerosene-powered with a gasoline start option. Early models had a 149-cubic-inch displacement, producing about 11 horsepower at the drawbar and 16 at the belt pulley. By 1937, it grew to 175 cubic inches, boosting power to around 17 drawbar and 24 belt horsepower. Later “late-styled” versions hit 190 cubic inches, nearing 20 drawbar horsepower. That “Johnny Popper” chug was ever-present.
  • Design: A row-crop tractor with a tricycle front (dual narrow wheels or a single wheel in some variants), it was lighter and shorter than the Model A. The rear axle was adjustable, typically from 56 to 84 inches, suiting various row widths.
  • Transmission: Early models had a four-speed manual (plus reverse), with a top speed of about 6–7 mph. Later versions offered a six-speed option for more flexibility.
  • Weight: Around 3,000–3,400 pounds, depending on setup (steel wheels vs. rubber tires)—noticeably lighter than the Model A’s 4,000+ pounds.

Evolution Over Time

The Model B evolved significantly over its 17-year run:

  • 1935: Debuted as an “unstyled” model—raw and functional, with exposed flywheels and gears.
  • 1938: The “styled” version arrived, courtesy of designer Henry Dreyfuss, featuring a smoother hood and grille for a polished look.
  • 1939: Rubber tires became more common, replacing steel wheels as standard by the early 1940s.
  • 1947: The “late-styled” B got a larger engine (190 cubic inches), electric starting as an option, and the Powr-Trol hydraulic system for easier implement control.

Variants

  • BN (Narrow): Tricycle front for tight row-crop work.
  • BW (Wide): Adjustable wide-front axle for stability or specialty crops.
  • BR (Regular): Standard-tread version for general farming.
  • BO (Orchard): Low-profile with shielding for orchards.
  • BI (Industrial): Ruggedized for non-farm tasks.

Performance and Popularity

The Model B was built for smaller operations—think 40–100-acre farms. It could pull a one-bottom plow or a two-row cultivator, and its belt pulley powered smaller machinery like pumps or saws. Farmers appreciated its fuel efficiency and maneuverability, especially in tight fields where the Model A might feel bulky. Its simplicity—fewer parts to break—kept it running through tough times like the Depression and WWII.

Legacy

With production exceeding 300,000, the Model B rivaled the Model A in popularity. It bridged the gap between the underpowered Model GP and the heavier Model D, offering a sweet spot for small-to-medium farms. Its long run reflects John Deere’s knack for refining a good thing—tweaking the B to keep pace with rubber tires, hydraulics, and postwar demands.

Today

The Model B is a collector’s darling due to its size (easier to store than an A) and variety. A restored unstyled B might go for $3,000–$6,000, while a late-styled version with hydraulics or electric start can hit $8,000–$12,000

Model G (1937–1941)

The John Deere Model G, introduced in 1937, was the big, burly member of the lettered series—designed for farmers needing more power than the A or B could deliver. It ran until 1953, overlapping with its siblings, and was a heavy-duty workhorse aimed at larger farms and tougher tasks.

Key Features

  • Engine: The Model G featured a beefy two-cylinder, horizontal engine—kerosene-powered with a gasoline start option, as was typical. Early models had a 412-cubic-inch displacement, cranking out about 20 horsepower at the drawbar and 34 at the belt pulley. By 1941, it grew to 413 cubic inches, boosting power to around 36 drawbar and 40 belt horsepower. That deep “pop-pop” sound was louder and throatier than the A or B.
  • Design: Built as a row-crop tractor, it came with a tricycle front end (dual narrow wheels standard, single wheel optional). The rear axle was adjustable, typically from 76 to 104 inches, to handle wide-spaced crops like corn or cotton.
  • Transmission: A four-speed manual (plus reverse) gave it a top speed of about 6–7 mph. Later models added a six-speed option for finer control.
  • Weight: Around 5,000–5,300 pounds—substantially heavier than the A (4,000 lbs) or B (3,400 lbs), reflecting its brawnier build.

Evolution Over Time

The Model G had two main phases:

  • 1937–1941 (Unstyled): Launched with the raw, exposed look of earlier John Deere tractors—flywheels and gears out in the open. It was a powerhouse from the start, aimed at farmers moving up from horse-drawn plows or smaller tractors.
  • 1942–1953 (Styled): After a brief production pause (due to WWII material shortages), the “styled” G emerged with Henry Dreyfuss’s sleek design—rounded hood, enclosed grille. Rubber tires became standard, and postwar models added electric starting and the Powr-Trol hydraulic system.

Variants

  • GN (Narrow): Tricycle front for row crops.
  • GW (Wide): Wide-front axle for stability or specialty crops.
  • GM (Modernized): A rare 1941 variant with a six-cylinder engine (only about 50 made—experimental and short-lived).
  • GH (High-Crop): Raised clearance for tall crops like sugarcane.

Performance and Popularity

The Model G was a beast—capable of pulling three-bottom plows or powering big belt-driven equipment like combines. It was overkill for small farms but perfect for 100+ acre operations needing serious muscle. Farmers liked its durability, though its thirst for fuel (kerosene or gas) and heavier frame made it less nimble than the A or B. It competed with tractors like International Harvester’s Farmall M, trading blows in the power department.

Legacy

Around 64,000 Model Gs were built—fewer than the A or B, reflecting its niche as a high-power option. It wrapped up production in 1953 as John Deere shifted to numbered series tractors (e.g., 50, 60, 70) with modern features. The G was the last of the unstyled giants, bridging old-school design with postwar advancements.

Today

Collectors chase the Model G for its rarity and raw power. An unstyled G in good shape might fetch $5,000–$10,000, while a styled version with hydraulics or electric start can hit $12,000–$20,000.

Model R (1949–1954)

The John Deere Model R, produced from 1949 to 1954, marked a significant shift for the company as it introduced their first diesel-powered tractor. Coming after the two-cylinder “lettered” series (A, B, D, G, etc.), the Model R was a bridge between John Deere’s past and its modern numbered series (like the 50, 60, and 70). It was a powerful, forward-thinking machine aimed at larger farms transitioning to more efficient, heavy-duty equipment.

Key Features

  • Engine: The Model R broke from tradition with a two-cylinder, diesel engine—John Deere’s first. It displaced 416 cubic inches and delivered 43 horsepower at the drawbar and 51 at the belt pulley (tested at Nebraska in 1949). A separate 51-cubic-inch, two-cylinder gasoline “pony” engine was used to start the diesel, cranking it until the compression ignited the main fuel. This setup ditched the kerosene of earlier models for diesel’s efficiency.
  • Design: A standard-tread tractor (not row-crop focused), it had a wide front axle and a fixed rear tread of about 60 inches. At 7,400 pounds, it was a hefty beast—much heavier than the Model G (5,300 lbs) or A (4,200 lbs).
  • Transmission: A five-speed manual (plus reverse) gave it a top speed of around 11 mph—faster than the lettered series, reflecting its modern design.
  • Features: It came with John Deere’s Powr-Trol hydraulic system for implement control, live PTO (power take-off), and optional electric starting for the pony engine (though hand-cranking was standard).

Performance

The Model R was a powerhouse for its time. It could pull four-bottom plows or handle big loads like a 14-foot disc harrow, outmuscling the Model G and earlier tractors. The diesel engine offered better fuel economy—burning about 3–4 gallons per hour under load versus the 5–6 gallons of kerosene or gas for a Model G. The pony engine startup was quirky but reliable once mastered: you’d fire up the gas engine, let it warm the diesel, then switch over—a process taking a few minutes.

Production and Popularity

Around 21,000 Model Rs were built—not a huge number compared to the A or B (over 300,000 each), but respectable for a specialized, higher-cost machine. Priced at about $3,600 in 1949 (roughly $45,000 today), it targeted progressive farmers willing to invest in diesel tech. It competed with tractors like International Harvester’s WD-9 and Massey-Harris’s 44, holding its own in power and efficiency.

Legacy

The Model R was a proving ground for John Deere. Its diesel success paved the way for later models like the 80 and 830, which refined the concept (ditching the pony engine for direct electric starts). It wrapped up in 1954 as the numbered series took over, but it left a mark as a rugged, innovative tractor that showed diesel’s potential in agriculture.

Today

Collectors love the Model R for its historical significance and unique diesel-pony combo. A restored one in good condition can fetch $10,000–$20,000, with pristine examples or those with extras (like electric start) pushing $25,000+

Model M (1947–1952)

The John Deere Model M, produced from 1947 to 1952, was a compact, versatile tractor that marked a transition for John Deere into the postwar era. It was the precursor to the numbered series (like the 40, 50, and 60) and replaced the smaller two-cylinder tractors like the Model L and LA. Designed for small farms and utility work, the Model M brought modern features and a fresh design to the lineup, moving away from the “lettered” series’ traditional look.

Key Features

  • Engine: The Model M featured a two-cylinder, vertical engine—gasoline-powered (no kerosene option here). It displaced 100.5 cubic inches and produced about 18 horsepower at the drawbar and 20 at the belt pulley (per Nebraska Tractor Test data). This was a departure from the horizontal “Johnny Popper” engines of the A, B, and G, offering a smoother, quieter run.
  • Design: A standard-tread tractor with a fixed rear axle (about 48 inches) and an adjustable front axle (40–56 inches), it wasn’t a true row-crop machine like the A or B but excelled at general-purpose tasks. It weighed around 2,600 pounds—light and nimble compared to the 7,400-pound Model R or 5,300-pound Model G.
  • Transmission: A four-speed manual (plus reverse) gave it a top speed of about 10 mph—zippy for its size.
  • Features: It debuted John Deere’s “Touch-O-Matic” hydraulic system, allowing one-lever control of implements (a big upgrade from manual lifts). It also had a live PTO, electric starting as standard, and optional lights—modern touches for 1947.

Variants

  • MT (Tricycle): A row-crop version with a narrow front end (dual or single wheel), adding flexibility for small-scale crop work.
  • MI (Industrial): Beefed up with heavier axles and a yellow paint job for construction or municipal use.
  • MC (Crawler): A tracked version introduced in 1949, rare and specialized for soft or hilly terrain.

Performance

The Model M was a small-farm champ. It could handle a one-bottom plow, a two-row cultivator, or light mowing and hauling tasks. Its 18–20 horsepower was modest—less than the Model B’s later versions (24 belt hp)—but its lighter weight and hydraulics made it easier to use. Farmers praised its maneuverability and the Touch-O-Matic system, which simplified hitching and adjusting implements like planters or loaders.

Production and Popularity

Over 45,000 Model Ms were built, a solid run for a tractor aimed at smaller operations. Priced around $1,400 in 1947 (about $18,000 today), it was affordable and competed with tractors like the Farmall Cub or Ford 8N. Its timing—post-WWII, when small farms were modernizing—helped it find a eager audience.

Legacy

The Model M was a stepping stone to John Deere’s numbered series. It introduced the vertical engine and hydraulic innovations that carried over to the Model 40 (its direct successor in 1953). While it didn’t have the raw power of the Model R or the row-crop fame of the A and B, it nailed the utility niche—think orchards, vegetable farms, or light chores.

Today

Collectors value the Model M for its compact size and historical role. A restored standard M might go for $3,000–$6,000, while an MT or rare MC can hit $8,000–$12,000

Utility Tractors (1936–1960)

From 1936 to 1960, John Deere evolved from the two-cylinder “Johnny Popper” tractors (like the A, B, and D) to the modern numbered series (40, 50, 60, etc.). Utility tractors during this time were often smaller or standard-tread designs, prioritizing flexibility over the row-crop focus of tricycle-front models or the brute power of larger machines like the Model R.

Key Utility Tractors (1936–1960)

1. Model L (1937–1946)

  • Years: 1937–1946
  • Engine: Two-cylinder, vertical, gasoline, 66 cubic inches, ~10 hp (drawbar), 14 hp (belt).
  • Design: A lightweight (2,000 lbs), standard-tread tractor with an adjustable front axle. Not a row-crop machine, but a true utility player.
  • Role: Aimed at small farms or as a chore tractor—mowing, light plowing, or pulling wagons. Often paired with a mounted mower or small cultivator.
  • Notes: Its Hercules-sourced engine (later a John Deere design) was quieter than the horizontal Poppers. About 15,000 built.

2. Model LA (1941–1946)

  • Years: 1941–1946
  • Engine: Two-cylinder, vertical, gasoline, 77 cubic inches, ~13 hp (drawbar), 17 hp (belt).
  • Design: A beefier L—2,300 lbs, with a wider stance and more power. Still standard-tread, not row-crop.
  • Role: Stepped up for slightly larger tasks—think two-row planters or heavier mowing. A utility upgrade for growing farms.
  • Notes: Roughly 12,000 made. A stopgap before the Model M.

3. Model M (1947–1952)

  • Years: 1947–1952
  • Engine: Two-cylinder, vertical, gasoline, 100.5 cubic inches, ~18 hp (drawbar), 20 hp (belt).
  • Design: Standard-tread (2,600 lbs) with an adjustable front axle. The MT variant added tricycle utility.
  • Role: A postwar utility star—light plowing, cultivating, or loader work with the Touch-O-Matic hydraulics. Perfect for 20–50-acre farms.
  • Notes: Over 45,000 built. Its modern features (live PTO, electric start) set the stage for the numbered series.

4. Model 40 (1953–1955)

  • Years: 1953–1955
  • Engine: Two-cylinder, vertical, gasoline, 100.5 cubic inches, ~20 hp (drawbar), 23 hp (belt). Diesel option later.
  • Design: A direct M successor—standard (40S), tricycle (40T), or high-crop (40H) versions. About 2,800 lbs.
  • Role: Utility refined—mowing, light tillage, or front-end loader tasks. Hydraulics and 3-point hitch standard.
  • Notes: Around 17,000 made. Shifted to the “two-digit” naming convention.

5. Model 420 (1956–1958)

  • Years: 1956–1958
  • Engine: Two-cylinder, vertical, gasoline, 113 cubic inches, ~25 hp (drawbar), 28 hp (belt). Diesel available.
  • Design: Standard, tricycle, or high-crop configs—3,000 lbs. Sleeker “styled” look.
  • Role: A step-up utility tractor—two-bottom plows, loaders, or orchard work. Live power and improved hydraulics.
  • Notes: Part of the 20 series (320, 420, 520). Roughly 30,000 total 420s.

6. Model 430 (1958–1960)

  • Years: 1958–1960
  • Engine: Two-cylinder, vertical, gasoline, 113 cubic inches, ~25 hp (drawbar), 28 hp (belt). Diesel or LP gas options.
  • Design: Similar to the 420—standard, tricycle, or high-crop. Around 3,100 lbs.
  • Role: Late-utility classic—versatile for small farms, orchards, or industrial tasks with a refined 3-point hitch.
  • Notes: Over 20,000 built. Last of the two-cylinder utility line before four-cylinder designs took over.

Broader Context

  • Pre-1947 (Lettered Series): Models like the L and LA were John Deere’s early utility offerings—small, simple, and standard-tread, contrasting with row-crop giants (A, B, G) or the heavy Model D. They filled the gap for farmers not needing tricycle agility or big horsepower.
  • Post-1947 (M and Numbered Series): The M and early numbered models (40, 420, 430) embraced utility as a core focus—lighter than the diesel Model R or tillage-focused 50/60 series, with hydraulics and PTO making them jack-of-all-trades machines.

Legacy and Collectibility

These utility tractors were workhorses for small farms, orchards, and estates. Today, they’re prized for their size (easy to store) and versatility:

  • Model L/LA: $2,000–$5,000 restored.
  • Model M: $3,000–$6,000 (MT higher).
  • Model 40/420/430: $4,000–$10,000, depending on condition and variant.