The John Deere 730 is a classic tractor from the late 1950s to early 1960s, celebrated for its efficiency and versatility. As part of the Two-Cylinder 30 Series, it features a powerful two-cylinder engine available in multiple fuel options, making it suitable for diverse farming tasks. The 730 stands out with its deluxe flat-top fenders, integrated headlights, and various front-end configurations, catering to different operational needs. Known for its remarkable fuel economy, it held a long-standing efficiency record. This reliable and easy-to-maintain tractor remains a favorite among farmers and collectors for its durability and timeless design.
Overview
Model
John Deere 730
Years
1958 – 1961
Series
Two-Cylinder 30 Series
Manufacturer
John Deere
Country of Manufacture
USA
Total Built
24,495 units
Original Price
$3,700 (1960)
Engine
Type
Two-cylinder, liquid-cooled
Fuel Options
Gasoline, All-Fuel, LP-Gas, Diesel
Displacement
5.9 L (360.5 cu in) – Gasoline/All-Fuel/LP-Gas
Displacement
6.2 L (376.0 cu in) – Diesel
Bore/Stroke
152 mm x 162 mm (5.98 in x 6.38 in) – Gasoline/All-Fuel/LP-Gas
Bore/Stroke
156 mm x 162 mm (6.14 in x 6.38 in) – Diesel
Fuel Capacity
24.5 gal (92.7 L) – All-Fuel
Fuel Capacity
26.5 gal (100.3 L) – Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
33 gal (124.9 L) – LP-Gas
Fuel Capacity
20 gal (75.7 L) – Diesel
Auxiliary Fuel
1 gal (3.8 L) – All-Fuel
Auxiliary Fuel
0.25 gal (0.9 L) – Diesel Pony
Transmission
Type
Unsynchronized gear
Gears
6 forward, 1 reverse
Power
Drawbar (Claimed)
53 hp (39.5 kW)
PTO (Claimed)
59 hp (44.0 kW)
Drawbar (Tested)
53.41 hp (39.8 kW)
Belt (Tested)
57.77 hp (43.1 kW)
Mechanical
Drive
4×2 2WD
Steering
Manual (Power optional)
Brakes
Differential mechanical drum
Operator Station
Open, with optional Float-Ride seat
Hydraulics
Type
Open center
Valves
1 or 2
Tractor Hitch
Rear Type
II (Optional)
Power Take-off (PTO)
Rear PTO
Independent
Rear PTO Speed
540 RPM
Dimensions
Wheelbase
93.7 inches (237 cm)
Weight
6,790 to 7,861 lbs
Tires
Front
6.00-16
Rear
13.6-38
John Deere 730 Overview
The John Deere 730, manufactured from 1958 to 1961, represents a hallmark in tractor evolution as part of the iconic Two-Cylinder 30 Series. Building upon its predecessor, the 720, the 730 introduced aesthetic refinements and enhanced operator convenience. Among its most distinct features were the deluxe flat-top fenders with integrated headlights, adding both practicality and a modernized appearance. This model offered versatility with multiple front-end configurations, including single-wheel, Roll-O-Matic dual front, conventional dual front, or adjustable wide front, catering to various farming needs and terrains. Its adaptability extended to the model variants: the General-Purpose row-crop, Standard wheatland-style, and Hi-Crop for taller crop operations.
The 730 became a legend in agricultural history for its exceptional fuel economy. The diesel variant, along with the 720, maintained a 27-year record as the most fuel-efficient diesel tractor at the Nebraska Tractor Test Laboratory. This efficiency made the 730 an economical choice for farmers, especially during an era when operational costs played a significant role in equipment decisions.
Equipped with a reliable two-cylinder engine available in gasoline, diesel, LP-gas, and all-fuel options, the 730 provided dependable power for various tasks. Its independent PTO and robust hydraulics allowed compatibility with a wide range of implements, further enhancing its versatility. The open operator station featured an optional Float-Ride seat, which improved comfort during extended fieldwork.
The John Deere 730 is celebrated for its straightforward design, ease of maintenance, and durability. While its two-cylinder engine offered distinctive power and reliability, it was known to have a more pronounced vibration compared to multi-cylinder competitors. Additionally, its mechanical steering, though reliable, could be less precise under heavy loads. These factors, however, did not overshadow its lasting reputation as a workhorse tractor that met the needs of mid-20th-century farmers. Today, it holds a cherished place in agricultural history and among vintage tractor enthusiasts.
