The John Deere 3050 is a versatile utility tractor designed for medium to large-scale farming operations. Manufactured between 1986 and 1993, it is known for its powerful 5.9L 6-cylinder diesel engine, delivering reliable performance for various agricultural tasks. The 3050 combines efficiency with comfort, featuring a durable chassis, power steering, and a spacious SG2 cab. While it has some known issues, such as hydraulic and transmission concerns, its overall build quality, ease of maintenance, and availability of parts make it a solid choice for farmers seeking dependable machinery.
Engine
Engine
John Deere 6359 DL008, 6-cylinder, liquid-cooled diesel
Displacement
359 ci (5.9 L)
Bore/Stroke
4.193 x 4.331 inches (107 x 110 mm)
Power
90.7 hp (67.6 kW)
Compression
17.4:1
Rated RPM
2300
Torque
250.8 lb-ft (340.1 Nm) @ 1400 RPM
Starter volts
12
Starter power
4 hp (3.0 kW)
Oil capacity
12.15 qts (11.5 L)
Coolant capacity
20.08 qts (19.0 L)
Production
Years
1986 – 1993
Series
3050 Series Utility tractor
Manufacturer
John Deere
Factory
Mannheim, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
Power
Engine
90.7 hp (67.6 kW)
PTO (claimed)
84.3 hp (62.9 kW)
Mechanical
Chassis
4×2 2WD or 4×4 MFWD 4WD
Final drives
Planetary
Differential lock
Mechanical rear
Steering
Power steering
Brakes
Hydraulic wet disc
Cab
SG2 Cab with optional air-conditioning
Transmission
Transmission
Hi-Lo, 16-speed two-speed power shift
Gears
16 forward, 8 reverse
Clutch
Hydraulic cerametallic disc
Capacity
Fuel capacity
32 gal (121.1 L), 45.7 gal (173.0 L) with optional tank
Hydraulic system
12.94 gal (49.0 L) for 2WD, 13.74 gal (52.0 L) for 4WD
Hydraulics
Type
Closed-center constant pressure
Capacity
12.94 gal (49.0 L) for 2WD, 13.74 gal (52.0 L) for 4WD
Pressure
2698 psi (186.0 bar)
Flow
11.62 gpm (44.0 lpm)
Tractor Hitch
Rear type
II/IIIN
Control
Position and draft control
2WD rear lift
8988 lbs (4076 kg)
4WD rear lift
10800 lbs (4898 kg)
Front hitch
Type II
Front lift
3594 lbs (1630 kg)
PTO
Rear PTO
Independent
Clutch
Hydraulic wet disc
Rear RPM
540/1000
Engine RPM
540 @ 2070, 1000 @ 2172
Front PTO
Independent
Front RPM
1000
Engine RPM
1000 @ 2172
Dimensions
2WD Wheelbase
100.4 inches (255 cm)
4WD Wheelbase
101.8 inches (258 cm)
Length
184.1 inches (467 cm)
Width
85.4 inches (216 cm)
Height
113.4 inches (288 cm)
2WD Ground clearance
27 inches (68 cm)
4WD Ground clearance
20 inches (50 cm)
2WD Front tread
56.9 to 82.4 inches (144 to 209 cm)
4WD Front tread
59.8 to 79.1 inches (151 to 200 cm)
Rear tread
59.1 to 78.7 inches (150 to 199 cm)
Weight
2WD
9149 lbs (4149 kg)
4WD
10714 lbs (4859 kg)
4WD Max capacity
16534 lbs (7499 kg)
Tires
Ag front (2WD)
11.00×16
Ag front (4WD)
13.6×28
Ag rear
18.4×38
Optional tires
Front 14.9×26, Rear 521/70×38
Electrical
Ground
Negative
Charging amps
55
Batteries
2
Battery volts
12
Battery AH
88
John Deere 3050 Overview
The John Deere 3050 is a utility tractor that was manufactured between 1986 and 1993, offering a blend of robust power, efficiency, and durability suitable for a variety of farming tasks. As part of John Deere’s well-regarded 3050 Series, it stands out for its versatility and design, making it ideal for both small-scale and larger agricultural operations. One of the tractor’s defining features is its John Deere 6359 DL008 engine, a 5.9L, 6-cylinder diesel powerplant that delivers 90.7 horsepower (67.6 kW). This engine’s torque of 250.8 lb-ft, combined with its high compression ratio of 17.4:1, allows the 3050 to handle demanding tasks, such as plowing and heavy hauling, with ease. Its liquid-cooled system ensures efficient performance and longevity even under extended workloads.
The 3050’s transmission system is another highlight, featuring a 16-speed Hi-Lo power shift, which provides excellent flexibility with 16 forward and 8 reverse gears. This setup, coupled with a hydraulic cerametallic clutch, ensures smooth transitions between speeds and contributes to better fuel efficiency and reduced wear. The ability to switch seamlessly between gears is particularly beneficial when operating on varying terrains or when alternating between field and road applications.
Mechanically, the John Deere 3050 offers both 2WD and 4WD configurations. Its planetary final drives and mechanical rear differential lock give it stability and traction, particularly in challenging conditions. Steering is power-assisted, and the tractor is equipped with hydraulic wet disc brakes, which provide reliable stopping power. The SG2 cab, a standard feature, offers comfort and protection from the elements, with the option to include air conditioning for enhanced operator comfort during long work hours.
In terms of capacity, the John Deere 3050’s fuel tank can hold 32 gallons (121.1 liters) as standard, but with the optional tank, this can be extended to 45.7 gallons (173 liters), making it suitable for extended operations without the need for frequent refueling. The hydraulic system features a closed-center, constant pressure setup with a maximum pressure of 2698 psi (186.0 bar) and a flow rate of 11.62 gpm (44.0 lpm), providing ample hydraulic power for various implements.
The hitch capabilities of the 3050 are impressive, with a rear lift capacity of 8988 lbs (4076 kg) in the 2WD version and 10800 lbs (4898 kg) in the 4WD model, making it suitable for handling a wide range of implements. The inclusion of both independent rear and front PTOs with selectable speeds (540/1000 rpm for rear, 1000 rpm for front) further enhances its versatility.
When it comes to dimensions, the John Deere 3050 is built for stability and comfort. With a wheelbase of 100.4 inches (255 cm) in 2WD and 101.8 inches (258 cm) in 4WD, and a total weight ranging from 9149 to 10714 lbs, it is sturdy enough to handle heavy tasks while maintaining agility in tight field conditions. Its high ground clearance, adjustable tread width, and compatibility with large agricultural tires ensure that it can traverse uneven terrain and operate effectively in various conditions.
Overall, the John Deere 3050 is recognized for its reliable performance and operator comfort. Whether in use for tilling, planting, or transporting goods, the 3050’s balance of power, transmission options, and hydraulics make it a solid choice for farmers who need a dependable and versatile machine. Its production in Mannheim, Germany, further assures its build quality, a hallmark of John Deere engineering, which has cemented its reputation in the global agricultural machinery market.
John Deere 3050 advantages and disadvantages
While this tractor boasts many advantages, like durability, ease of maintenance, and good part availability, there are also some common issues associated with it, particularly regarding its hydraulic system and transmission. Users have reported problems with the Hi-Lo shifter, especially under load, where it may fail to shift smoothly between ranges. Additionally, hydraulic lift arms have been known to function slowly, particularly when the steering is engaged, pointing to potential hydraulic pressure issues. There have also been reports of oil contamination in the rear brakes and hydraulic packs, which can lead to more significant mechanical failures if left unchecked.
Despite these concerns, the 3050 has many strengths. Its reliable engine, planetary final drives, and robust chassis design make it a favorite among farmers who need a reliable workhorse for fieldwork, plowing, or transport. The SG2 cab is appreciated for its comfort, and with optional air conditioning, it provides a more ergonomic experience for long workdays. Parts for the 3050 are generally accessible, and repairs are straightforward, making it a cost-effective option even today.
In summary, while the John Deere 3050 does present a few mechanical challenges, its overall build quality, power, and ease of operation make it a popular choice among farming professionals
