The John Deere 60, manufactured between 1952 and 1956 in Waterloo, Iowa, USA, epitomizes the golden age of farming machinery. With over 57,000 units produced, it’s hailed as a quintessential row-crop tractor, embodying reliability and versatility. Available in various configurations, including standard and high-clearance models, it catered to diverse agricultural needs. Its robust engine lineup, coupled with a responsive transmission system, ensured optimal performance across different tasks. With its sturdy construction, comfortable operator station, and impressive capacity, the John Deere 60 remains a timeless icon, cherished for its enduring legacy in the annals of agricultural history.
| John Deere 60 |
|---|
| Type | Row-Crop tractor |
| Built in | Waterloo, Iowa, USA |
| Total built | 57,166 |
| Original price | $2,500 in 1956 |
| Variants | 60 row-crop, 60S standard-tread, 60 Hi-Crop high-clearance |
| Power |
|---|
| Drawbar (claimed) | 36.94 hp (27.5 kW) |
| Belt (claimed) | 41.57 hp (31.0 kW) |
| Plows | 3 (14-inch) |
| Drawbar (tested) | 37.68 hp (28.1 kW) |
| Belt (tested) | 41.18 hp (30.7 kW) |
| 2-cylinder, liquid-cooled |
|---|
| Displacement | 321 ci (5.3 L) |
| Bore/Stroke | 5.50×6.75 inches (140 x 171 mm) |
| Air cleaner | oil bath |
| Compression ratio | 6:1 (gasoline), 4.7:1 (all-fuel), 7.3:1 (LP gas) |
| Rated RPM | 975 |
| Starter volts | 12 |
| Oil capacity | 8 qts (7.6 L) |
| Coolant capacity | 33 qts (31.2 L) |
| Transmission |
|---|
| Type | unsynchronized gear |
| Gears | 6 forward and 1 reverse |
| Clutch | dry disc |
| Mechanical |
|---|
| Drive | Two-wheel drive |
| Steering | manual (power optional) |
| Differential | mechanical expanding shoe brakes |
| Station | Open operator station with foam padded seat |
| Capacity |
|---|
| Fuel | 20.5 gal (77.6 L), 28 gal (LP gas) |
| Aux. fuel | 1 gal (3.8 L) |
| Hydraulic system | 1.5 gal (5.7 L) |
| Hydraulics type | Powr-Trol |
| Pump flow | 8.9 gpm (33.7 lpm) |
| Tractor hitch type | John Deere 800 |
| Tires |
|---|
| Ag front | 6.00-16, 7.50-16, 9.00-10 |
| Ag rear | 11-38, 12-38, 9-42, 11-42 |
| Dimensions |
|---|
| Wheelbase | 90 inches (228 cm) |
| Length | 139 inches (353 cm) |
| Width | 86.625 inches (220 cm) |
| Height (hood) | 65.6 inches (166 cm) |
| Height (exhaust) | 84.1 inches (213 cm) |
| Rear axle diameter | 3.125 inches (79 mm) |
| Rear tread | 56 to 88 inches (142 to 223 cm) |
| Weight |
|---|
| Shipping | 5300 lbs (2404 kg) |
| Operating | 5800 lbs (2630 kg) |
| Ballasted | 7400 lbs (3356 kg) |
John Deere 60 overview
The John Deere 60, a quintessential member of the renowned John Deere lineup, stands as a testament to the brand’s commitment to quality and innovation. Produced from 1952 to 1956 in Waterloo, Iowa, USA, this row-crop tractor emerged as a stalwart companion for farmers across the nation. With over 57,000 units built, its popularity soared, thanks to its reliability and versatility in various agricultural tasks. The 60 boasted several variants tailored to specific needs, including the standard row-crop model, the standard-tread 60S, and the high-clearance 60 Hi-Crop, catering to diverse farming requirements.
Under the hood, the John Deere 60 featured a robust engine lineup, including gasoline, all-fuel, and LP gas options, each delivering impressive power and efficiency. With a displacement of 321 cubic inches (5.3 liters), coupled with a reliable cooling system and oil bath air cleaner, these engines ensured consistent performance even under demanding conditions. The transmission system, with its six forward and one reverse gear configuration, offered seamless operation and enhanced maneuverability, essential for navigating varied terrains on the farm.
In terms of mechanical prowess, the John Deere 60 excelled with its two-wheel-drive configuration, providing the agility needed for precise fieldwork. The manual steering system, though optional power steering became available in later models, offered responsive control, while the differential mechanical expanding shoe brakes ensured reliable stopping power when necessary. The tractor’s open operator station, complemented by a foam-padded seat, prioritized operator comfort during long hours in the field.
Furthermore, the John Deere 60 boasted impressive capacity across various aspects of its design. With generous fuel and hydraulic system capacities, coupled with a reliable Powr-Trol hydraulics setup, it could tackle a wide range of implements and attachments with ease. Its sturdy build, highlighted by a durable frame and reliable tires, enabled it to handle heavy workloads while maintaining stability and traction.
Overall, the John Deere 60 remains a revered classic in the realm of agricultural machinery, celebrated for its durability, performance, and lasting impact on farming practices. Its legacy endures as a symbol of John Deere’s commitment to excellence and its dedication to supporting the hardworking individuals who till the land.
