John Deere 4230 Tractor: Complete Specs, Price, and More
John Deere 4230 is a great farm tool of the Generation II that is known for being incredibly strong, having a wide range of uses, and excellent performance which makes it a kind of legend among farm equipment. This one was produced in the period from 1973 to 1977 in Waterloo, Iowa. So, it not only had the features similar to those of its famous predecessor 4020 model, but it had another set of updates and options that were also used in various farming tasks.
John Deere 4230 had a very powerful 6.6L 6-cylinder engine, which promised to supply the user with several transmission options such as Quad-Range, Power Shift, and Syncro-Range. Thus, its additional features together with good maintenance create a high probability of usage for a very long time. In this article, you will be reading about the complete specs, current MRPs, and additional incredible options. And these are all what farmers and fans need to understand farming history and appreciate this wonderful tractor.
Overview
An essential condition to be met in the course of our analysis is to get to know the historical context of the John Deere 4230. Being a part of the last series is a special designation as its prototype was one of the first in the history of the row-crop tricycle with the front axle. Such practice came from the times of narrow front wheels until the switch to the wider front axles that are used in modern tractors. The tractor was made available in several forms that included your lower profile (LP), high-clearance, and even the standard one that would suit different types of agricultural needs.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Production Years | 1973 – 1977 |
| Manufacturer | John Deere |
| Factory | Waterloo, Iowa, USA |
| Engine | – Type: John Deere 6-cylinder diesel – Displacement: 6.6 L (404 cu in) – Horsepower: 111 hp (80.5 kW) @ 2200 rpm |
| Fuel System | Diesel |
| Fuel Capacity | 37 gallons (140 liters) |
| Transmission | – Quad-Range: 16F/6R – Power Shift: 8F/4R – Syncro-Range: 8F/2R |
| Max Speed | Up to 20.5 mph (33 km/h) with Quad-Range |
| Dimensions | – Wheelbase: 104 inches (2640 mm) – Length: 145 inches (3683 mm) – Width: 88 inches (2235 mm) – varies – Height: 106 inches (2692 mm) with cab |
| Weight | Approximately 8,100 lbs (3674 kg) – base model |
| Tires | – Standard: Front: 11.0×16, Rear: 18.4×26 – Optional: Varies |
| Hydraulic System | – Type: Closed center – Pump Flow: 23 gal/min (87 l/min) – Pressure: 2500 psi (170 bar) |
| Hitch | – Category: 2 – Lift Capacity: 6,990 lbs (3180 kg) at 24 inches behind |
| PTO (Power Take-Off) | – 540 rpm – 1000 rpm options |
| Electrical System | 12 volts |
| Cab | Available with or without cab |
| Drawbar | Wide-swinging drawbar |
| Loader Compatibility | John Deere 148, 158 loaders, etc. |
| Current Price (Used) | $19,350 – $26,500 (varies by condition and location) |
| Notable Features | – Multiple transmission options – Versatility in tire and axle options – Robust hydraulic capabilities – Historical significance as one of the last tricycle front-end models |
Engine Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | John Deere 6-cylinder diesel |
| Displacement | 6.6 L (404 cu in) |
| Cylinders | 6 |
| Bore x Stroke | 108 mm x 121 mm (4.25 in x 4.76 in) |
| Horsepower | 111 hp (80.5 kW) @ 2200 rpm |
| Fuel Capacity | 37 gallons (140 liters) |
| Cooling System | Liquid-cooled |
A John Deere 4230 equipped with a powerful diesel engine provided much better torque and efficiency for heavy-duty tasks compared to the previous machines.
Transmission Options
| Transmission Type | Forward Gears | Reverse Gears | Max Speed (Forward) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quad-Range | 16 | 6 | 20.5 mph (33 km/h) |
| Power Shift | 8 | 4 | 19.2 mph (30.9 km/h) |
| Syncro-Range | 8 | 2 | 19.2 mph (30.9 km/h) |
A range of transmission options enabled farmers to pick according to the type of their endeavors, be it precision fieldwork or hauling of heavy loads at higher speeds.
Dimensions and Weight
| Dimension | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase | 104 inches (2640 mm) |
| Length | 145 inches (3683 mm) |
| Width | 88 inches (2235 mm) – varies with tires |
| Height | 106 inches (2692 mm) – with cab |
| Weight | 8,100 lbs (3674 kg) – base model |
Familiarity with the geometry of the equipment aids in laying out the farm properly and in checking whether it fits with existing farm equipment.
Hydraulics and Hitch
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Hydraulic System | Closed center system |
| Pump Flow | 23 gal/min (87 l/min) |
| Hydraulic Pressure | 2500 psi (170 bar) |
| Hitch Category | 2 |
| Lift Capacity | 6,990 lbs (3180 kg) at 24 inches behind |
The system of oil under pressure known as hydraulics in the 4230 was engineered to be quite strong, thus promoting various implements and at the same time preserving the tractor’s ability to do heavy lifting and very accurate operations.
Tires and Wheels
| Configuration | Front Tires | Rear Tires |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | 11.0×16 | 18.4×26 |
| Optional | 9.5Lx15, 7.50×20 | 23.1×26, 20.8×34 |
Among the other options, the varied tire options were the most flexible, allowing a farmer to change based on the type of soil he had or the work he was doing, thus giving clear traction and steady load.
Current Market Price
| Condition | Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|
| Used | $19,350 – $26,500 |
The price of a John Deere 4230 can differ depending on the condition, location, and attachments. Currently, the market has been displaying a high demand for the machines that are well maintained thereby, they still hold good value, and are still reliable.
Additional Features
- Front End Loader: For instance, John Deere 148 and 158 loaders can take up to 3,800 pounds which show that decrease the weight of the load.
- Cab Options: Tractors with and without a cab are available, the cabin’s presence or absence is an issue of the driver’s convenience while it significantly affects the operator’s conditions at the same time.
- PTO (Power Take-Off): It is worth noting that the unit offers 540 as well as 1000 rpm choices that you can use on different implements.
- Drawbar: Activities that require towing can be accomplished in a versatile way for instance, you can use a drawbar.
Historical Significance
The John Deere 4230 is a significant machine in the history of farming more so not only for its technological advancement but also for a special kind of its variant, the tricycle front-end option which was marking the end of the era. It was a means of bridging the old and new methodologies of farming, giving the leeway that was no longer available with the new ones.
Maintenance and Parts Availability
- Parts: Since the 4230 is a popular and long-lasting model, finding the parts in the market is simple making it easy to maintain.
- Service Manuals: Many service manuals and parts catalogs are available, making it possible to fix the vehicle yourself and get it serviced by a mechanic.
Why Choose a John Deere 4230?
Buying a John Deere 4230 today, not just for the tractor, it is investing in a modern agricultural tool, which is not only of proven reliability and versatility but also a piece of agricultural heritage. Whether it’s the hobby of collectors or the demands of small to medium-sized farmers or for the needs of the operation of a dependable workhorse for specific tasks, the 4230 is particularly noticeable for its below features:
- Durability: The long-lasting, many still in operation after a number of decades.
- Versatility: There are multiple transmission and tire options as well as different configurations.
- Performance: A powerful engine and hydraulics for various agricultural tasks.
Conclusion
The John Deere 4230 remains a testament to John Deere’s commitment to quality and innovation in farm equipment. With its comprehensive specifications, enduring market presence, and historical significance, it continues to be a sought-after model for those looking into classic tractors with modern applicability. Whether for practical use or as a collector’s item, the 4230 offers value, functionality, and a touch of nostalgia that is hard to match in today’s fast-paced agricultural equipment market.
FAQs
What is the horsepower of a John Deere 4230 tractor?
- The John Deere 4230 has an engine power output of around 111 horsepower at the PTO.
What years was the John Deere 4230 produced?
- The John Deere 4230 was manufactured from 1973 to 1977.
How much does a John Deere 4230 tractor weigh?
- The base weight of a John Deere 4230 tractor is approximately 8,100 pounds (3,674 kg).
What types of transmission are available on the John Deere 4230?
- The John Deere 4230 offered three transmission options: Quad-Range (16F/6R), Power Shift (8F/4R), and Syncro-Range (8F/2R).
Can the John Deere 4230 be equipped with a loader?
- Yes, the John Deere 4230 can be fitted with loaders like the John Deere 148 or 158, offering lift capacities up to 3,800 lbs.
What is the fuel capacity of the John Deere 4230?
- The fuel tank capacity of the John Deere 4230 is about 37 gallons (140 liters).
Is the John Deere 4230 good for cold weather starting?
- Although many people say that the 4230 struggles in very cold weather conditions without aids such as a block heater, with the block heater it will work properly when the temperature is lower than 20 degrees Fahrenheit.
What’s the maximum speed of the John Deere 4230?
- Depending on the transmission, the maximum speed can reach up to 20.5 mph (33 km/h) with the Quad-Range option.
Does the John Deere 4230 have a cab option?
- Yes, the John Deere 4230 was available with or without a cab, offering different levels of comfort and weather protection.
What are common issues with the John Deere 4230?
- Common problems include both adjusting the clutch and cold-start malfunction in winter, and also need the maintenance of the transmission, and some time, hydraulic system leaks, especially in older units.
How much does a used John Deere 4230 cost?
- The price for a used John Deere 4230 can range from approximately $19,350 to $26,500, depending on condition, location, and attachments.
What kind of engine does the John Deere 4230 have?
- It features a 6.6L (404 cubic inch) six-cylinder diesel engine.
What are the tire options for a John Deere 4230?
- Standard tires are 11.0×16 front and 18.4×26 rear, but various sizes like 9.5Lx15, 7.50×20 for front, and 23.1×26, 20.8×34 for rear were available as options.
Is there a 3-point hitch on the John Deere 4230?
- Yes, it comes with a Category 2 three-point hitch with a lift capacity of about 6,990 lbs at 24 inches behind the hitch.