The John Deere G GM, produced from 1942 to 1948, symbolizes a pivotal era in agricultural history. With its robust two-cylinder engine and six-speed transmission, it exemplifies wartime innovation and resilience. Its versatility in running on various fuels underscores its adaptability amidst wartime constraints. Today, revered by collectors, its rugged design and reliability reflect the ingenuity of early tractor engineering, preserving a significant chapter in the evolution of agricultural machinery.
John Deere G GM Specifications
Model
John Deere G GM
Model Years
1942-1948
Series
Two-Cylinder Letter Series
Type
Row-Crop Tractor
Production
Manufacturer
John Deere
Factory
Waterloo, Iowa, USA
Total Built
8,764 (GM)
Variants
GM (Wartime tractor)
Engine Detail
Manufacturer
John Deere
Fuel
All fuel
Type
2-cylinder, liquid-cooled
Displacement
412.5 ci (6.8 L)
Bore/Stroke
6.125×7.00 inches (156 x 178 mm)
Compression Ratio
4.2:1
Rated RPM
975
Firing Order
1-2
Starter
Hand-crank (electric starter available)
Starter Volts
12
Oil Capacity
11 qts (10.4 L)
Coolant Capacity
44 qts (41.6 L)
Transmission
Manufacturer
John Deere
Type
Gear
Gears
6 forward and 1 reverse
Clutch
Dry disc
Power
Drawbar (claimed)
20.70 hp (15.4 kW)
Belt (claimed)
31.44 hp (23.4 kW)
Plows
3 (14-inch)
Drawbar (tested)
34.49 hp (25.7 kW)
Belt (tested)
38.10 hp (28.4 kW)
Chassis
4×2 2WD
Steering
Manual
Cab
Open operator station
Capacity
Fuel
17 gal (64.3 L)
Aux. fuel
1.5 gal (5.7 L)
Hydraulic system
1.25 gal (4.7 L)
Hydraulics
Type
Open center
Capacity
1.25 gal (4.7 L)
Power Take-Off (PTO)
Rear PTO
Transmission
Rear RPM
540 (1.75)
Electrical
Ground
Positive
Charging system
Generator
Batteries
2
Battery Volts
6
Tires
Ag Front
24×5, 6.00-16
Ag Rear
51.5×7, 12×38
Dimensions
Length
137.4375 inches (349 cm)
Width
65.825 inches (167 cm)
Height
84.75 inches (215 cm)
Operating Weight
5300 lbs (2404 kg)
Ballasted Weight
7442 lbs (3375 kg)
John Deere G GM Overview
The John Deere G GM epitomizes a significant chapter in the narrative of agricultural machinery evolution, marking a crucial period during the mid-20th century when innovation intersected with the demands of wartime agriculture. Produced between 1942 and 1948, the G GM emerged as a stalwart companion to farmers navigating the complexities of agricultural production amidst the backdrop of global conflict. Its design, characterized by a robust two-cylinder engine and a six-speed gear transmission, epitomized the pinnacle of tractor technology of its time. With a claimed drawbar horsepower of 20.70, the G GM stood as a symbol of power and reliability, capable of tackling the diverse challenges of farm work with aplomb.
In the midst of wartime constraints, the G GM’s ability to operate on various fuel types underscored its adaptability and resilience, enabling farmers to overcome the logistical hurdles presented by fuel shortages. This versatility, coupled with its sturdy construction and dependable performance, positioned the G GM as an indispensable asset on the agricultural frontlines, supporting food production efforts during a period of unprecedented global turmoil.
Beyond its functional prowess, the G GM holds a revered status among collectors and enthusiasts today, cherished for its historical significance and enduring legacy in the annals of agricultural machinery. Its rugged design, characterized by manual steering and an open operator station, serves as a poignant reminder of the simplicity and durability that defined tractor technology of the era. Each component, meticulously crafted to withstand the rigors of farm life, speaks to the craftsmanship and ingenuity of its creators.
As collectors seek to preserve and celebrate the heritage of agricultural machinery, the John Deere G GM emerges as a prized possession, revered for its role in shaping the agricultural landscape of its time. Its place in the pantheon of agricultural history is secure, serving as a poignant reminder of the resilience and innovation that have defined the farming community throughout the ages. In the hands of collectors and enthusiasts, the G GM continues to inspire admiration and reverence, standing as a testament to the enduring spirit of the farming tradition.
