The John Deere 6030, produced from 1972 to 1977, is a powerful and versatile row-crop tractor from the Generation II series, known for its robust performance in large-scale farming operations. Built in Waterloo, Iowa, this model features a choice between a turbocharged or naturally aspirated 6-cylinder diesel engine, providing exceptional horsepower for demanding tasks. With its advanced hydraulics, differential lock, and multiple transmission options, the 6030 delivers reliable power and control. Its spacious operator station, with an optional cab and air-conditioning, ensures comfort during long hours in the field. The John Deere 6030 remains a valued workhorse among agricultural professionals.
| John Deere 6030 Specifications |
|---|
| Type | Row-Crop tractor |
| Total built | 4,028 (3,983 turbo, 45 natural) |
| Original price (1977) | $29,000 |
| Power |
|---|
| PTO (claimed) | 175 hp (turbo), 130.5 kW; 141 hp (natural), 105.1 kW |
| Drawbar (tested) | 148.70 hp, 110.9 kW |
| PTO (tested) | 175.99 hp, 131.2 kW |
| Engine Detail (Turbocharged) |
|---|
| Manufacturer | John Deere |
| Type | Turbocharged intercooled diesel |
| Cylinders | 6-cylinder |
| Cooling | Liquid-cooled inline |
| Displacement | 531 ci, 8.7 L |
| Bore/Stroke | 4.75 x 5.00 inches, 121 x 127 mm |
| Air cleaner | Dual paper elements with aspirator |
| Compression | 15.4:1 |
| Rated RPM | 2100 |
| Firing order | 1-5-3-6-2-4 |
| Starter volts | 12 |
| Oil capacity | 26 qts, 24.6 L |
| Coolant capacity | 40 qts, 37.9 L |
| Engine Detail (Naturally Aspirated) |
|---|
| Manufacturer | John Deere |
| Type | Diesel |
| Cylinders | 6-cylinder |
| Cooling | Liquid-cooled inline |
| Displacement | 531 ci, 8.7 L |
| Bore/Stroke | 4.75 x 5.00 inches, 121 x 127 mm |
| Compression | 16.5:1 |
| Rated RPM | 2200 |
| Firing order | 1-5-3-6-2-4 |
| Starter volts | 12 |
| Oil capacity | 20 qts, 18.9 L |
| Transmission |
|---|
| Transmission | John Deere Syncro-Range |
| Type | Partially synchronized |
| Gears | 8 forward and 2 reverse |
| Clutch | Dry disc |
| Mechanical |
|---|
| Drive | Two-wheel drive |
| Differential lock | Hydraulic-actuated |
| Steering | Power steering |
| Brakes | Differential hydraulic wet disc brakes |
| Operator station | Open (Cab optional with air-conditioning available) |
| Capacity |
|---|
| Fuel | 73 gal, 276.3 L |
| Hydraulic system | 16 gal, 60.6 L |
| Hydraulics |
|---|
| Type | Closed center |
| Capacity | 16 gal, 60.6 L |
| Valves | 2 |
| Pump flow | 22 gpm, 83.3 lpm |
| Tractor Hitch |
|---|
| Rear Type | III/II |
| Rear lift | 5910 lbs, 2680 kg |
| Power Take-off (PTO) |
|---|
| Rear PTO | Independent |
| Rear RPM | 1000 |
| Engine RPM | 1000@2051 |
| Serial Numbers |
|---|
| 1972 | 33000 |
| 1973 | 33550 |
| 1974 | 34586 |
| 1975 | 35400 |
| 1976 | 36014 |
| 1977 | 36577 |
| Final | 37041 |
| Electrical |
|---|
| Ground | Negative |
| Charging system | Alternator |
| Charging amps | 55 (78 optional) |
| Batteries | 2 |
| Battery volts | 6 |
| Tires |
|---|
| Ag front | 9.50-20 |
| Ag rear | 20.8-38 |
| Dimensions |
|---|
| Wheelbase | 104 inches, 264 cm |
| Length | 172.3 inches, 437 cm |
| Height (steering wheel) | 82.4 inches, 209 cm |
| Height (exhaust) | 98.3 inches, 249 cm |
| Operating weight | 18,180 lbs, 8246 kg |
John Deere 6030 overview
The John Deere 6030, manufactured from 1972 to 1977, stands as a testament to the robust engineering and innovative design of John Deere’s Generation II series of row-crop tractors. Built in the company’s Waterloo, Iowa factory, the 6030 was designed to meet the rigorous demands of large-scale farming operations. Its powertrain options included a formidable turbocharged intercooled diesel engine that produced a claimed 175 horsepower at the PTO, and an optional naturally aspirated diesel engine, though the latter saw limited sales due to its lower power output.
This tractor’s mechanical prowess is underscored by its sturdy two-wheel drive configuration, hydraulic-actuated differential lock, and power steering, which together ensure excellent maneuverability and traction in varied field conditions. The 6030’s Syncro-Range transmission offers eight forward and two reverse gears, providing operators with a range of speeds suitable for different agricultural tasks. The inclusion of differential hydraulic wet disc brakes further enhances its reliability and safety, particularly during heavy-duty operations.
A key feature of the 6030 is its advanced hydraulic system, which boasts a closed center design with a pump flow rate of 22 gallons per minute. This system is complemented by a substantial fuel capacity of 73 gallons, allowing for extended periods of operation without the need for frequent refueling. The tractor’s hitch system, compatible with Type III/II implements, provides a significant rear lift capacity of 5,910 pounds, making it versatile enough to handle a wide array of attachments and equipment.
Comfort and usability are also central to the 6030’s design. The open operator station can be equipped with an optional cab featuring air-conditioning, ensuring a comfortable working environment regardless of weather conditions. The operator’s platform is designed for easy access and intuitive control placement, allowing for efficient operation over long hours in the field.
Dimensionally, the 6030 is a substantial machine, with a wheelbase of 104 inches and an overall length of 172.3 inches. Its impressive operating weight of 18,180 pounds speaks to its solid construction and capability to handle tough farming tasks. The tractor’s tire options, including 9.50-20 for the front and 20.8-38 for the rear, are selected to provide optimal traction and stability.
In summary, the John Deere 6030 combines formidable power, advanced hydraulics, and operator comfort into a single, reliable package. It remains a respected and sought-after model among agricultural professionals, valued for its durability, versatility, and capacity to meet the challenges of modern farming. Whether plowing, planting, or harvesting, the 6030 stands out as a quintessential workhorse in the realm of row-crop tractors.
