The John Deere 4520, a cornerstone of the New Generation Series, epitomizes the evolution of agricultural machinery during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Revered for its pioneering use of a factory-installed turbocharger, this row-crop tractor symbolizes a pivotal moment in farming history, showcasing John Deere’s commitment to innovation and performance. Crafted with precision in Waterloo, Iowa, its robust engine and versatile transmission options offered farmers unprecedented power and efficiency in the field. Beyond its technical prowess, the 4520 holds profound historical significance as a testament to the enduring legacy of John Deere and its enduring impact on modern agriculture.
| John Deere 4520 Specs |
|---|
| Model Years | 1969 – 1970 |
| Series | New Generation Series |
| Type | Row-Crop Tractor |
| Built in | Waterloo, Iowa, USA |
| Total Built | 7,894 |
| Built | 1,666 (Powershift) |
| Built | 6,228 (Synchro range) |
| Original Price (1972) | $11,600 |
| Engine Detail |
|---|
| Type | Turbocharged diesel, 6-cylinder, liquid-cooled inline |
| Displacement | 404 ci (6.6 L) |
| Bore/Stroke | 4.25×4.75 inches (108 x 121 mm) |
| Compression | 16.4:1 |
| Rated RPM | 2200 |
| Transmissions Overview |
|---|
| 8-speed | partially synchronized |
| 8-speed | full power shift |
| Mechanical |
|---|
| Drive | 4×2 2WD, 4×4 HFWD 4WD |
| Differential lock | Hydraulic rear |
| Steering | Power steering |
| Brakes | Differential hydraulic wet disc brakes |
| Cab | Open operator station with optional Roll-Gard ROPS and cab with heater |
| Capacity |
|---|
| Fuel | 50 gal (189.3 L) |
| Hydraulic system | 16 gal (PowerShift), 18 gal (SyncroRange) |
| Hydraulics |
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| Type | Closed center |
| Pressure | 2250 psi (155.1 bar) |
| Tractor Hitch |
|---|
| Rear Type | III/II |
| Power Take-off (PTO) |
|---|
| 4520 Serial Numbers Location | Serial number plate on the rear of the 4520. |
| 1969 | 1000 |
| 1970 | 7055 |
| Final | 8977 |
| Electrical |
|---|
| Ground | Negative |
| Charging System | Alternator |
| Charging Amps | 55 (72 with A/C) |
| Batteries | 2 |
| Battery Volts | 6 |
| Battery AH | 172 |
| John Deere 4520 Tires |
|---|
| Ag Front | 10.00-16, 9.50-20, 11.00-16, 14L-16 |
| Ag Rear | 20.8-38, 18.4-38, 12.4-42, 24.5-32 |
| Dimensions |
|---|
| Wheelbase | 106.5 inches (270 cm) |
| Length | 170.75 inches (433 cm) |
| Width | 95.9 inches (243 cm) |
| Height | 106 inches (269 cm) |
| Height (steering wheel) | 87 inches (220 cm) |
| Clearance (front axle) | 23.8 inches (60 cm) |
| Clearance (rear axle) | 31.1 inches (78 cm) |
| Clearance (drawbar) | 17.8 inches (45 cm) |
| Rear Axle | 95.8 inch length, 108 inch length, 118 inch length |
| Front Tread | 57.5 to 83.25 inches (146 to 211 cm) |
| Rear Tread | 63 to 107.5 inches (160 to 273 cm) |
| John Deere 4520 Weight |
|---|
| Shipping | 12,285 lbs (5572 kg) |
| Operating | 14,175 lbs (6429 kg) |
| Ballasted | 17,995 lbs (8162 kg) |
| 158 Loader |
|---|
| Lift | 3,800 lbs (full at pin), Breakout |
| Dump | 37°, Reach |
| Rollback | 12°, Height (at pin) |
| Weight | 1,771 lbs, Bucket width |
| Bucket capacity | 0.5 cu yd, 0.6 cu yd, 0.8 cu yd, 0.9 cu yd |
John Deere 4520 overview
The John Deere 4520 stands as a milestone in agricultural machinery, representing a crucial advancement during the era of the New Generation Series. Produced between 1969 and 1970, this row-crop tractor embodies a pivotal moment in farming history. With its origins deeply rooted in the heartland of America, the 4520 was meticulously crafted in Waterloo, Iowa, by skilled hands dedicated to quality and innovation. Its production numbers, totaling 7,894 units, reflect a widespread adoption among farmers seeking reliability and efficiency in their operations.
One of the most notable features of the 4520 was its pioneering use of a factory-installed turbocharger, marking a significant leap forward in tractor technology. This innovation promised increased power and performance, offering farmers the ability to tackle more demanding tasks with ease. However, early versions faced challenges, particularly with air cleaner and fuel injector issues, highlighting the complexities involved in pushing the boundaries of engineering in pursuit of greater efficiency.
The engine at the heart of the 4520 is a turbocharged diesel 6-cylinder, delivering robust power to meet the demands of modern agriculture. With a displacement of 404 cubic inches (6.6 liters) and a compression ratio of 16.4:1, it exemplifies the engineering prowess that has come to define John Deere’s legacy. Operating at a rated RPM of 2200, this engine provided the backbone for the tractor’s impressive performance in the field.
The transmission options offered for the 4520 further underscore its versatility and adaptability to various farming tasks. Whether equipped with the 8-speed partially synchronized transmission or the 8-speed full power shift transmission, farmers had the flexibility to choose the setup best suited to their specific needs. With features like dry disc clutches and ample oil capacities, these transmissions ensured smooth operation and reliable performance, even in the most challenging conditions.
In terms of mechanical design, the 4520 was engineered for durability and ease of use. Available in both 2WD and 4WD configurations, it featured hydraulic rear differential lock and power steering, enhancing maneuverability and control. The addition of differential hydraulic wet disc brakes further improved stopping power, ensuring safety and stability during operation. The open operator station provided a comfortable working environment, with optional Roll-Gard ROPS and cab with heater for added protection and comfort in inclement weather.
The John Deere 4520’s hydraulic system, with its closed-center design and generous capacity, enabled seamless operation of implements and attachments. Whether powering hydraulic lifts or driving PTO-driven equipment, the tractor’s hydraulic system provided ample pressure and flow to meet the demands of modern farming practices. With rear hitch options and independent rear PTO, farmers could customize their setups to optimize productivity and efficiency in the field.
Beyond its technical specifications, the John Deere 4520 holds significant historical value as a symbol of innovation and progress in agriculture. As part of the iconic New Generation Series, it represents a transformative period in tractor design, where advancements in technology revolutionized farming practices and paved the way for greater productivity and sustainability. Today, the 4520 remains a testament to the enduring legacy of John Deere and its commitment to meeting the evolving needs of farmers around the world.
