John Deere 1520 Tractor

Manufacturer John Deere
Price 5,300(USD)
Model 1520
Equipment Type Utility Tractors
Factory Mannheim, Baden-Württemberg, Germany

NEBRASKA TRACTOR TEST 991 2

Description Diesel 16-speed 2WD October 14 - 22, 1968 Link: Nebraska Tractor Test 991 file PTO performance Drawbar performance Gear 5-High used for power test Gear 3-Low used for pull test
Power at rated engine speed 46.52hp / 34.7kW
Fuel use 3.1gal/hour / 11.7l/hour
Power at rated PTO speed 42.97hp / 32.0kW
Max power 38.48hp / 28.7kW
Max pull 5,082lbs / 2305kg

NEBRASKA TRACTOR TEST 1004 2

Description Gasoline 16-speed 2WD March 28 - April 2, 1969 Link: Nebraska Tractor Test 1004 file PTO performance Drawbar performance Gear 5-High used for power test Gear 3-Low used for pull test
Power at rated engine speed 47.86hp / 35.7kW
Fuel use 4.1gal/hour / 15.5l/hour
Power at rated PTO speed 43.95hp / 32.8kW
Max power 37.24hp / 27.8kW
Max pull 5,467lbs / 2479kg

JOHN DEERE 1520 POWER

Drawbar (tested) 38.48hp / 28.7kW
PTO (tested) 47.86hp / 35.7kW

ENGINES OVERVIEW

The John Deere 1520 features a 2.7L 3-cylinder engine available in both diesel and gasoline variants, providing versatility in fuel choice according to operational needs. Diesel engines typically offer better torque and fuel efficiency, making them ideal for heavy-duty applications, while the gasoline variant may improve startup response and lower maintenance costs. However, the diesel version may face challenges such as higher initial costs and potential emissions regulations, impacting its adoption in certain scenarios.

Description John Deere 2.7L 3-cyl diesel John Deere 2.7L 3-cyl gasoline

ENGINE DETAIL 1

The John Deere 1520's 3-cylinder diesel engine, with a displacement of 2.7L and a high compression ratio of 16.7:1, ensures efficient fuel combustion for robust torque delivery at a rated RPM of 2500. Its dry paper element air cleaner promotes effective air filtration, which is essential for maintaining engine performance in dusty environments. However, the relatively limited coolant capacity of 12 quarts may require careful monitoring under heavy load conditions to prevent overheating.

Description John Deere diesel 3-cylinder liquid-cooled
Displacement 164.9ci / 2.7L
Bore/Stroke 4.016x4.331inches / 102x 110mm
Air cleaner dry with paper element
Compression 16.7:1
Rated RPM 2500
Firing order 1-2-3
Starter volts 12
Coolant capacity 12qts / 11.4L

ENGINE DETAIL 2

The John Deere 1520 utilizes a 2.7L 3-cylinder gasoline engine with a compression ratio of 8.0:1, suitable for moderate power outputs while maintaining efficiency. Its dry paper element air cleaner indicates lower maintenance needs, although it may require more frequent replacement in dusty conditions. This tractor is ideal for agricultural applications with a focus on reliability and ease of use, making it a solid choice for small to mid-sized farming operations.

Description John Deere 3164G gasoline 3-cylinder liquid-cooled
Displacement 164.55ci / 2.7L
Bore/Stroke 4.02x4.33inches / 102x 110mm
Air cleaner dry with paper element
Compression 8.0:1
Rated RPM 2500
Starter volts 12

JOHN DEERE 1520 ENGINES

The John Deere 1520 features a 2.7L 3-cylinder engine available in both diesel and gasoline configurations, offering versatility for various agricultural applications. The diesel variant typically delivers better fuel efficiency and torque, making it suitable for heavy-duty tasks, while the gasoline engine offers quicker starts and lower emissions for lighter work. A potential challenge may be the higher initial cost of the diesel model versus the easier maintenance and parts availability for gasoline engines.

Description John Deere 2.7L 3-cyl diesel John Deere 2.7L 3-cyl gasoline

TRANSMISSIONS OVERVIEW

The John Deere 1520 features an advanced 8-speed collar shift, a robust 16-speed two-speed power shift, and an efficient 8-speed power shuttle, providing versatile transmission options. This allows for optimal torque management and speed control, enhancing productivity across various applications such as plowing or hauling. The challenge may lie in the learning curve associated with effectively utilizing the power shift and shuttle systems for new operators.

Description 8-speed collar shift 16-speed two-speed power shift 8-speed power shuttle

TRANSMISSION 1

The John Deere 1520 features a collar shift transmission with 8 forward and 4 reverse gears, allowing for versatility in operation across various terrains. The dry disc clutch provides reliable engagement but may require more maintenance than wet clutches, especially in muddy conditions. This gearbox configuration is advantageous for tasks requiring frequent gear changes, such as plowing or hauling, but can present a learning curve for new operators due to its manual nature.

Type collar shift
Gears 8 forward and 4 reverse
Clutch dry disc
Description Four gears (1-4) in two ranges (I/II) plus reverse (R) range

TRANSMISSION 2

The John Deere 1520 features a two-speed power shift transmission, providing a total of 16 forward and 8 reverse gears, enhancing versatility for various field operations. Its dry disc clutch allows for efficient power transfer but may require more frequent maintenance compared to wet clutches. This setup is ideal for applications needing precise speed control, such as tilling or plowing, however, operators should be aware of potential clutch wear under heavy use.

Type two-speed power shift
Gears 16 forward and 8 reverse
Clutch dry disc
Description Four gears (1-4) in two ranges (I/II) plus reverse (R) range. Left-hand power shift lever on dash

TRANSMISSION 3

The John Deere 1520's power shuttle transmission features 8 forward and 4 reverse gears, optimizing maneuverability for diverse agricultural tasks. The left-hand reverser lever allows for quick direction changes, but reverse is limited to the low range, which may affect efficiency during certain high-speed operations. This design is advantageous for low-speed tasks, such as tilling and loader work, but presents challenges in scenarios requiring rapid transitions from forward to reverse at higher speeds.

Type power shuttle
Gears 8 forward and 4 reverse
Description Four gears (1-4) in two ranges (I/II) with left-hand reverser lever. Reverse only available in low (I) range

MECHANICAL

The John Deere 1520 features a 4x2 two-wheel drive chassis, ideal for lighter duty applications but may struggle on uneven terrain. Its mechanical rear differential lock enhances traction in slippery conditions, while power-assisted steering improves maneuverability. The variety of transmission options, including 8-speed and 16-speed power shifts, allows for versatility in speed control, making it suitable for various farming tasks, though the open operator station may expose the operator to the elements during operation.

Chassis 4x2 2WD
Final drives planetary
Differential lock mechanical rear
Steering power assist
Brakes differential hydraulic wet disc
Cab Open operator station
Transmissions 8-speed collar shift 16-speed two-speed power shift 8-speed power shuttle

CAPACITY

Fuel 19.5gal / 73.8L
Hydraulic system 10gal / 37.9L

HYDRAULICS

Type closed center
Capacity 10gal / 37.9L
Pump flow 10.5gpm / 39.7lpm

TRACTOR HITCH

Rear lift 2300lbs / 1043kg

POWER TAKE-OFF (PTO)

Rear PTO live/independent
Rear RPM 540/540/1000

JOHN DEERE 1520 TIRES

The John Deere 1520 tractor features an agricultural front tire size of 7.50-16 and rear tire options of 13.6-28, 16.9-28, or 13.6-38. The narrower front tire enhances maneuverability in tight spaces, while the variety of rear tire sizes allows for tailored traction and flotation on diverse terrain. However, the tractor's limited power output (commonly around 45 HP) may restrict its capacity for heavy-duty applications, making it more suitable for light to moderate farming tasks.

Ag front 7.50-16
Ag rear 13.6-28/16.9-28/13.6-38

DIMENSIONS

Wheelbase 80.7inches / 204cm (straight) 74.3inches / 188cm (swept)
Length 124inches / 314cm
Width 69.25inches / 175cm
Height (hood) 53inches / 134cm
Height (exhaust) 79inches / 200cm
Clearance (front axle) 21.1inches / 53cm

JOHN DEERE 1520 WEIGHT

Gasoline Shipping 4490lbs / 2036kg
Diesel Shipping 4550lbs / 2063kg
Gasoline Operating 5770lbs / 2617kg
Diesel Operating 5855lbs / 2655kg
Ballasted 6970lbs / 3161kg

DIMENSIONS & TIRES

The John Deere 1520 features a wheelbase of 80.7 inches (204 cm) for straight operations, providing stability, while the swept wheelbase of 74.3 inches (188 cm) enhances maneuverability in tight spaces. With a weight range of 4490 to 5855 pounds, it offers substantial traction for various implements, although this weight may pose challenges when navigating softer terrains. The combination of 6.00-16 front tires and 14.9-28 rear tires supports a good balance between power and control, making it suitable for field work and light construction tasks.

Wheelbase 80.7inches / 204cm (straight) 74.3inches / 188cm (swept)
Weight 4490 to 5855 pounds
Front tire 6.00-16
Rear tire 14.9-28

1520 SERIAL NUMBERS

Location Serial number plate on the right side of the 1520 transmission housing
1968 76112
1969 82405
1970 102061
1971 117500
1972 134700
1973 157109

ELECTRICAL

Ground negative
Battery volts 12


Last Updated 2025-01-01
Stephen is a passionate tractor hobbyist with a deep-seated love for all things mechanized and agricultural. Growing up in a rural setting, he developed a fascination with these mighty machines that have played a crucial role in shaping the farming industry.

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