The John Deere G, an iconic symbol of agricultural innovation, epitomizes the essence of early 20th-century farm machinery. With its distinctive two-cylinder engine and rugged design, the G tractor revolutionized farming practices, offering versatility and power to farmers across the globe. As a pioneering row-crop tractor, it paved the way for modern agricultural equipment, embodying the spirit of resilience and determination ingrained in the farming community. Today, the John Deere G stands as a cherished relic, revered by collectors and enthusiasts alike for its historical significance and enduring legacy in the annals of agricultural history.
| John Deere G Specifications |
|---|
| Model Years | 1937-1941 |
| Series | Two-Cylinder Letter Series |
| Type | Row-Crop Tractor |
| Total Built | 10,684 (Unstyled) |
| Power |
|---|
| Drawbar (claimed) | 20.70 hp (15.4 kW) |
| Belt (claimed) | 31.44 hp (23.4 kW) |
| Plows | 3 (14-inch) |
| Drawbar (tested) | 27.63 hp (20.6 kW) |
| Belt (tested) | 35.91 hp (26.8 kW) |
| Engine Details |
|---|
| 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 Type | Hand crank |
| Oil Capacity | 11 qts (10.4 L) |
| Coolant Capacity | 44 qts (41.6 L) |
| Transmission |
|---|
| Manufacturer | John Deere |
| Type | Gear |
| Gears | 4 forward and 1 reverse |
| Clutch | Dry disc |
| Mechanical |
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| Drive | Two-wheel drive |
| Steering | Manual |
| Operator Station | Open |
| Power Take-Off (PTO) |
|---|
| Rear PTO | Transmission |
| Rear RPM | 540 (1.75) |
| Serial Numbers |
|---|
| 1938 | 1000 (G Unstyled) |
| 1939 | 7734 (G Unstyled) |
| 1940 | 9321 (G Unstyled) |
| 1941 | 10489 (G Unstyled) |
| 1942 | 11561 (G Unstyled), 13000 (GM) |
| 1943 | 13418 (GM) |
| 1944 | None |
| 1945 | 13748 (GM) |
| 1946 | 15780 (GM) |
| 1947 | 18553 (GM), Final |
| 1947 | 23000 (G Early Styled) |
| 1948 | 25235 (G Early Styled), 26000 (G Late Styled) |
| 1949 | 32457 (G Late Styled) |
| 1950 | 39161 (G Late Styled) |
| 1951 | 46809 (G Late Styled) |
| 1952 | 53479 (G Late Styled) |
| 1953 | 63138 (G Late Styled) |
| Tires |
|---|
| Ag Front | 24×5, 6.00-16 |
| Ag Rear | 51.5×7, 12×38 (13.6) |
| Dimensions |
|---|
| Length | 135 inches (342 cm) |
| Width | 61.5 inches (156 cm) |
| Height | 84 inches (213 cm) |
| Operating Weight | 5000 lbs (2268 kg) |
John Deere G Overview
As a historical model, the John Deere G holds a significant place in the evolution of agricultural technology, making it a prized piece for collectors and enthusiasts today. Here’s an expert overview of the John Deere G tractor, considering its historical context and technological significance:
Historical Significance:
The John Deere G, produced from 1937 to 1953, emerged during a critical period in agricultural mechanization. It represented a transition from earlier, less efficient models to more powerful, versatile machines. As one of the first row-crop tractors with two cylinders, it set a standard for power and performance in its era.
Technological Features:
Two-Cylinder Design: The G featured a robust two-cylinder engine, a hallmark of John Deere’s early tractor designs. While it may seem simplistic by modern standards, this design was cutting-edge at the time, providing sufficient power for various farming tasks.
All-Fuel Capability: The ability to run on different fuel types, including gasoline and kerosene, made the John Deere G versatile and well-suited to different farm conditions and fuel availability.
Manual Operation: With a hand-crank starter and manual steering, operating the John Deere G required physical effort from the operator. These manual features reflect the technology available during its production years and provide insight into the challenges faced by farmers of that era.
Open Operator Station: The tractor lacked an enclosed cab, exposing the operator to the elements. This design choice was typical for tractors of the time but underscores the advancements in operator comfort and safety seen in modern agricultural machinery.
Collector’s Appeal:
Today, the John Deere G holds considerable appeal among collectors and enthusiasts of vintage tractors. Its iconic design, historical significance, and limited production numbers make it a sought-after piece for restoration projects and showcases.
Overview Specifications:
Power Output: Ranging from approximately 20 to 35 horsepower, the John Deere G offered sufficient power for plowing, planting, and other farm tasks.
Transmission: Equipped with a basic gear transmission, typically featuring four forward gears and one reverse gear.
Size and Weight: With dimensions of 135 inches in length, 61.5 inches in width, and standing at 84 inches tall, the John Deere G was a substantial machine weighing around 5000 pounds.
Tires: Fitted with large agricultural tires, providing traction and stability on various terrain types.
Final Thoughts:
In summary, the John Deere G stands as a testament to the ingenuity and innovation of its time. Its rugged design, coupled with its historical significance and collector’s appeal, makes it a cherished piece of agricultural heritage, serving as a reminder of the evolution of tractor technology and its profound impact on farming practices.
