The John Deere 70, a classic row-crop tractor from the 1950s, holds an iconic status in agricultural history. With its distinct variants catering to various farming needs, the 70 series embodies versatility and reliability. Renowned for its array of engine options, including gasoline, LP gas, and diesel variants, this tractor exemplifies John Deere’s commitment to providing tailored solutions for farmers. Beyond its mechanical prowess, the John Deere 70 symbolizes a bygone era of farming innovation and resilience. Today, it remains a sought-after collectible, cherished for its historical significance and timeless design, preserving the legacy of mid-century agriculture.
John Deere 70 Specifications
Type
Row-Crop Tractor
Production Years
1953 – 1956
Built in
Waterloo, Iowa, USA
Total Built
35,868
(Row-Crop)
6,254
(LP-gas)
2,509
(All-Fuel)
11,105
(Diesel)
Original Price (1955)
$2800
Variants
70
(Row-Crop)
70S
(Standard Tread)
70HC
(High-Crop)
Engine Options
John Deere 6.2L
2-cyl Gasoline
John Deere 6.8L
2-cyl All-Fuel
John Deere 6.2L
2-cyl LP Gas
John Deere 6.2L
2-cyl Diesel (with a 18.85 cubic inch 4-cylinder starting engine)
Engine Details Gasoline:
Type
2-cylinder 4-valve
Cooling
Liquid-cooled
Displacement
379.5 ci (6.2 L)
Bore/Stroke
5.875×7.00 inches (149 x 178 mm)
Compression
6.15:1
Rated RPM
975
All-Fuel Engine
Cooling
Liquid-cooled
Displacement
412.5 ci (6.8 L)
Bore/Stroke
6.125×7.00 inches (156 x 178 mm)
Compression
4.6:1
Rated RPM
975
LP Gas Engine
Cooling
Liquid-cooled
Displacement
379.5 ci (6.2 L)
Bore/Stroke
5.875×7.00 inches (149 x 178 mm)
Compression
7.3:1
Rated RPM
975
Diesel Engine
Cooling
Liquid-cooled
Displacement
375.6 ci (6.2 L)
Bore/Stroke
6.125×6.375 inches (156 x 162 mm)
Compression
16:1
Rated RPM
1125
Starter
Gasoline pony engine
Transmission
Manufacturer
John Deere
Type
Unsynchronized Gear
Gears
6 Forward, 1 Reverse
Clutch
Dry Disc
Note
Two ranges with three gears plus reverse; reverse available in both direct (high) and underdrive (low)
Power
Drawbar (Tested)
45.60 hp (34.0 kW)
Belt (Tested)
50.86 hp (37.9 kW)
Mechanical
Drive
Two-wheel Drive
Steering
Manual (Power Optional)
Brakes
Mechanical Expanding Shoe
Cab
Open Operator Station
Power Take-Off (PTO)
Rear PTO Type
Transmission (Independent Optional)
Rear PTO
540 RPM
Belt Pulley
Diameter
12.875 inches
Width
7.375 inches
RPM
1125
Electrical
Ground
Positive
Battery Volts
6
Tires
Front
6.00-16 (Ag)
Rear
12-38 or 13-38 (Ag)
Dimensions
Wheelbase
91 inches
Length
136.25 inches (137 inches for Diesel)
Width
86.625 inches
Height
65.5625 inches (88 inches for Diesel)
Note
Various rear axle, front tread, and rear tread configurations listed
Weight
Gas Operating
6538 lbs
Diesel Operating
7079 lbs
Ballasted
9000 lbs
John Deere 70 Overview
The John Deere 70, produced from 1953 to 1956, stands as a hallmark in the rich tapestry of agricultural history. Hailing from the esteemed John Deere lineage and manufactured in Waterloo, Iowa, USA, this iconic row-crop tractor holds a revered position among collectors and enthusiasts alike. With its distinctive variants including the 70S (Standard Tread) and the 70HC (High-Crop), the 70 series offered versatility to farmers navigating diverse terrain and crop needs.
What truly sets the John Deere 70 apart is its array of engine options, catering to different fuel preferences and operational requirements. From the robust 6.2L 2-cylinder gasoline engine to the efficient 6.2L 2-cylinder LP gas variant, and the rugged 6.8L 2-cylinder diesel option, each engine configuration is a testament to John Deere’s commitment to providing solutions tailored to the needs of farmers of the era.
Beyond its mechanical prowess, the John Deere 70 carries with it a rich historical value, embodying the spirit of innovation and resilience that characterized mid-20th-century farming. With over 35,000 units produced, including variants tailored to specific agricultural needs, the 70 series left an indelible mark on farming communities across the United States and beyond.
Today, the John Deere 70 continues to capture the imagination of collectors and restorers, with its distinctive design and historical significance making it a prized addition to any collection. Whether meticulously restored to its original glory or preserved as a testament to its enduring legacy, the John Deere 70 serves as a symbol of the agricultural heritage that has shaped the modern farming landscape.
