The John Deere 4030, a member of the Generation II Series, is a notable row-crop tractor that was manufactured from 1973 to 1977 in Waterloo, Iowa, USA. This tractor holds a special place in agricultural history due to its reliability and versatility. It was offered with two engine options, including a powerful 6-cylinder diesel engine and a gasoline variant available only in the 1973 model year. The 4030 featured multiple transmission options, making it adaptable to various farming tasks. Its mechanical components, including planetary final drives, hydraulic wet disc brakes, and power steering, contributed to its dependable performance. The John Deere 4030’s spacious operator station provided comfort during long hours in the field, and it was equipped with optional safety features such as the Roll-Gard ROPS and Sound-Gard cab. With its impressive power take-off (PTO) capabilities and hydraulic system, the 4030 proved to be a valuable asset for farmers during its production years and continues to hold historical value as a collectible model today.
| John Deere 4030 Specs |
|---|
| Years of Production | 1973 – 1977 |
| Series | Generation II Series |
| Type | Row-Crop Tractor |
| Production |
|---|
| Manufacturer | John Deere |
| Factory | Waterloo, Iowa, USA |
| Total Built | 15,690 (total), 222 (gasoline) |
| Original Price (1977) | $17,721 |
| Power |
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| PTO (Claimed) | 80 hp (59.7 kW) |
| Drawbar (Tested) | 67.03 hp (50.0 kW) |
| PTO (Tested) | 80.33 hp (59.9 kW) |
| Engine Detail (Diesel) |
|---|
| Type | Liquid-cooled inline horizontal-shaft |
| Displacement | 329 ci (5.4 L) |
| Bore/Stroke | 4.02×4.33 inches (102 x 110 mm) |
| Air Cleaner | Dry with secondary element |
| Pre-heating | Ether injection, coolant heater |
| Compression | 16.2:1 |
| Rated RPM | 2500 |
| Idle RPM | 800-2660 |
| Operating RPM | 1500-2500 |
| Starter | Electric (12 volts) |
| Oil Capacity | 17 qts (16.1 L) |
| Coolant Capacity | 22 qts (20.8 L) |
| Engine Detail (Gasoline) |
|---|
| Type | Liquid-cooled |
| Displacement | 303 ci (5.0 L) |
| Bore/Stroke | 3.86×4.33 inches (98 x 110 mm) |
| Starter | Electric (12 volts) |
| Transmissions Overview |
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| Option | 8-speed partially synchronized |
| Option | 16-speed partial power shift |
| Option | 13-speed creeper |
| Transmission (Syncro-Range) |
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| Type | Partially synchronized |
| Gears | 8 forward and 2 reverse |
| Clutch | Hydraulic wet disc |
| Oil Capacity | 64 qts (60.6 L) |
| Transmission (Quad-Range) |
|---|
| Type | Partial power shift |
| Gears | 16 forward and 6 reverse |
| Clutch | Hydraulic wet disc |
| Oil Capacity | 64 qts (60.6 L) |
| Transmission (Syncro-Range Creeper) |
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| Type | Creeper |
| Gears | 13 forward and 4 reverse |
| Mechanical |
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| Chassis | 4×2 2WD |
| Final Drives | Planetary |
| Differential Lock | Hydro-mechanical rear |
| Steering | Power |
| Brakes | Differential hydraulic wet disc |
| Cab | Open operator station (optional four-post Roll-Gard ROPS, optional Sound-Gard cab with heat and air-conditioning available) |
| Capacity |
|---|
| Fuel | 35 gal (132.5 L) |
| Hydraulic System | 13 gal (49.2 L) |
| Hydraulics |
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| Type | Closed center |
| Capacity | 13 gal (49.2 L) |
| Valves | 1 to 3 |
| Pump Flow | 23 gpm (87.1 lpm) |
| Power Take-off (PTO) |
|---|
| Rear PTO | Independent |
| Rear RPM | 540/1000 (1.375) |
| Electrical |
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| Ground | Negative |
| Charging System | Alternator |
| Batteries | 2 (6 volts each) |
| Tires |
|---|
| Ag Front | Various sizes (e.g., 6.00-16) |
| Ag Rear | Various sizes (e.g., 15.5-38) |
| Dimensions |
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| Wheelbase | 101 inches (256 cm) |
| Length | 154.4 inches (392 cm) |
| Height (Steering Wheel) | 84.5 inches (214 cm) |
| Height (Cab) | 107.7 inches (273 cm) |
| Clearance (Front Axle) | 21.95 inches (55 cm) |
| Clearance (Rear Axle) | 27.24 inches (69 cm) |
| Clearance (Drawbar) | 14.1 inches (35 cm) |
| Front Tread | 48 to 68 inches (121 to 172 cm) |
| Rear Tread | Various sizes (e.g., 60 to 92 inches) |
| Weight |
|---|
| Shipping | 7340 lbs (3329 kg) |
| Operating | 9180 lbs (4164 kg) |
| Ballasted | 10150 lbs (4604 kg) |
| John Deere 148 Loader |
|---|
| Loader Weight | 1350 lbs (612 kg) |
| Height (to Pin) | 126 inches (320 cm) |
| Clearance (Dumped Bucket) | 102 inches (259 cm) |
| Dump Reach | 32 inches (81 cm) |
| Dump Angle | 38° |
| Clearance (Level Bucket) | 121 inches (307 cm) |
| Rollback Angle | 11° |
| Breakout Force (Lift) | 4700 lbs (2131 kg) |
| Lift to Full Height (at Pin) | 3100 lbs (1406 kg) |
| Bucket Capacity | Various sizes (e.g., 0.5 cu yd) |
| Bucket Width | Various sizes (e.g., 60 inches) |
The John Deere 4030, cherished by collectors for its historical significance, represents a remarkable chapter in the evolution of agricultural machinery. Produced from 1973 to 1977 as part of the Generation II Series, this row-crop tractor hails from the prestigious John Deere lineage and holds a special place in the hearts of enthusiasts.
What sets the John Deere 4030 apart and makes it highly collectible are several key factors. First and foremost, its dual-engine options are a standout feature. It was available with either a potent 6-cylinder diesel engine or a gasoline variant introduced in 1973. This versatility allowed buyers to choose the engine that best suited their needs, making the tractor adaptable to various farm tasks.
The 4030’s transmission options further highlight its uniqueness. With choices including an 8-speed partially synchronized transmission, a 16-speed partial power shift, and a 13-speed creeper, this tractor provided flexibility and efficiency in the field. It was engineered for versatility, enabling operators to tackle a wide range of agricultural applications with ease.
Historically, the John Deere 4030 is a symbol of progress in the agricultural sector during the 1970s. Its production in Waterloo, Iowa, USA, adds to its historical significance as it played a pivotal role in advancing farming practices. The tractor’s introduction marked a transition to more powerful and efficient machinery, ushering in an era of enhanced productivity on farms.
When compared to its contemporaries, the 4030’s John Deere heritage and reputation for reliability set it apart. Its robust construction, including planetary final drives and hydraulic wet disc brakes, ensured durability in the field. The availability of optional safety features like the Roll-Gard ROPS and the Sound-Gard cab reflected John Deere’s commitment to operator comfort and safety.
It’s important to acknowledge the limitations of this collectible tractor from a modern perspective. The technology and comfort features available on the 4030 may not match those of today’s machines. Additionally, sourcing replacement parts for vintage models can pose a challenge.
In conclusion, the John Deere 4030 stands as a collectible model with enduring historical value. Its engine options, transmission choices, and John Deere’s commitment to innovation make it special and unique among its peers. As a symbol of progress in agriculture, it remains a prized possession for collectors and enthusiasts, celebrating its role in shaping farming practices during its era. While it may not match the technology of contemporary tractors, its historical significance and timeless appeal continue to captivate those who appreciate its place in agricultural history.
