The John Deere A, produced from 1947 to 1952, represents the culmination of the iconic Two-Cylinder Letter Series tractors. Hailing from the heart of American farming in Waterloo, Iowa, this “late styled” A embodies the enduring spirit of rural agriculture. With variants tailored to diverse needs, it became a versatile workhorse on farms across the nation. Its transition to a more modern design and upgraded engine options marked a significant era in tractor evolution. The John Deere A remains a symbol of heritage and progress, cherished by collectors for its historical significance in shaping the landscape of American farming.
John Deere A
Model Year
1947-1952
Series
Two-Cylinder Letter Series
Type
Row-Crop tractor
Manufacturer
John Deere
Built in
Waterloo, Iowa, USA
Total Built
300,000
Original Price (1952)
$2,400
Variants
AR
A-Regular with standard front axle
AO
Orchard
AW
Adjustable wide-front
AN
Single front wheel
AH
High-crop
Engine Details (Gasoline)
Cylinders
2-cylinder 4-valve
Cooling
Liquid-cooled horizontal
Displacement
321 cubic inches (5.3 liters)
Bore/Stroke
5.50×6.75 inches (140 x 171 mm)
Air Cleaner
Oil bath
Compression Ratio
5.6:1
Rated RPM
975
Firing Order
1-2
Starter
Electric (12 volts)
Oil Capacity
11 quarts (10.4 liters)
Coolant Capacity
38 quarts (36.0 liters)
Sparkplug Gap
0.030 inches (0.762 mm)
Point Gap
0.021 inches (0.533 mm)
Intake Valve Clearance
0.020 inches (0.508 mm)
Exhaust Valve Clearance
0.020 inches (0.508 mm)
Engine Details (All Fuel)
Cylinders
2-cylinder
Cooling
Liquid-cooled
Displacement
321 cubic inches (5.3 liters)
Bore/Stroke
5.50×6.75 inches (140 x 171 mm)
Compression Ratio
4.45:1
Rated RPM
975
Firing Order
1-2
Oil Capacity
11 quarts (10.4 liters)
Sparkplug Gap
0.030 inches (0.762 mm)
Point Gap
0.021 inches (0.533 mm)
Intake Valve Clearance
0.020 inches (0.508 mm)
Exhaust Valve Clearance
0.020 inches (0.508 mm)
Transmission
Manufacturer
John Deere
Type
Unsynchronized gear
Gears
6 forward and 1 reverse
Clutch
Mechanical dry disc
Power
Drawbar (claimed)
34 hp
Belt (claimed)
38 hp
Plows
3
Drawbar (tested)
34.14 hp
Belt (tested)
38.02 hp
Mechanical
Drive
Two-wheel drive
Steering
Manual steering
Brekes
Differential mechanical expanding shoe brakes
Station
Open operator station with steel pan seat.
Power Take-off (PTO)
Rear PTO
Transmission
Rear RPM
540
Serial Numbers
1934-1952
Serial numbers listed, with 1952 as the final iteration.
Belt Pulley
Diameter
12.8 inches
Width
7.375 inches
RPM
975
Electrical
Ground
Positive
Charging System
Generator
Batteries
2
Battery Volts
6
Tires
Ag Front
5.50-16
Ag Rear
11-38, 9-38, 10-38, 12-38
Dimensions
Length
134 inches (340 cm)
Width
83 inches (210 cm)
Width (with wide front)
86.325 inches (219 cm)
Height
60 inches (152 cm)
Height (with high-crop front)
63.875 inches (162 cm)
Weight
Shipping
4750 lbs (A), 4850 lbs (AN), 5150 lbs (AW)
Operating
5228 lbs (A)
Ballasted
6574 lbs
John Deere A Overview
The John Deere A, a revered collectible model with immense historical value, stands as an icon of American agricultural heritage. Produced from 1947 to 1952 as part of the renowned Two-Cylinder Letter Series, it represents the zenith of this illustrious lineage. Born in the heartland of farming, Waterloo, Iowa, it encapsulates the essence of an era when agriculture was the backbone of the nation. With its distinct “late styled” design and potent 5.3L engine options, this tractor was a testament to John Deere’s commitment to innovation.
The John Deere A was not just a machine; it was a partner in the toil of countless farmers, a witness to the changing landscape of American agriculture. Its variants, including the A-Regular (AR), Orchard (AO), Adjustable Wide-Front (AW), Single Front Wheel (AN), and High-Crop (AH), showcased its adaptability to diverse farming needs.
What truly makes the John Deere A a collector’s gem is its historical significance. It marked a transition in tractor design and capabilities, setting the stage for the modernization of farming practices. As farms evolved from horse-drawn equipment to mechanized operations, this tractor was at the forefront of that revolution.
Today, the John Deere A commands attention among tractor aficionados and collectors worldwide. Its “late styled” aesthetic, powerful engine, and impeccable craftsmanship make it a coveted piece of agricultural history. Owning one is akin to preserving a tangible connection to the sweat, grit, and triumphs of American farmers. As a collectible with profound historical value, the John Deere A is a tribute to the enduring legacy of American agriculture and the innovation that fueled its progress.
