John Deere 4230 Tractor

Manufacturer John Deere
Price 30(USD)
Model 4230
Equipment Type Row-Crop Tractors
Factory Waterloo, Iowa, USA

NEBRASKA TRACTOR TEST 1112 2

Description Diesel Quad-Range 2WD October 13 - 24, 1972 Link: Nebraska Tractor Test 1112 file PTO performance Drawbar performance
Power at rated engine speed 100.32hp / 74.8kW
Fuel use 7.0gal/hour / 26.5l/hour
Max power 83.95hp / 62.6kW
Max pull 11,150lbs / 5057kg

JOHN DEERE 4230 POWER

PTO (claimed) 100hp / 74.6kW
Drawbar (tested) 83.95hp / 62.6kW
PTO (tested) 100.32hp / 74.8kW

ENGINES OVERVIEW

The John Deere 4230 is equipped with a robust 6.6L 6-cylinder diesel engine, providing high torque and fuel efficiency, ideal for heavy-duty applications. Alternatively, the 5.9L 6-cylinder gasoline engine offers lower operational costs but may lack the power required for intensive tasks. The choice of engine impacts performance in scenarios such as plowing versus transport; diesel excels in demanding conditions, while gasoline may be more suitable for lighter farm duties.

Description John Deere 6.6L 6-cyl diesel John Deere 5.9L 6-cyl gasoline

ENGINE DETAIL 1

The John Deere 4230 features a robust 6-cylinder diesel engine with a high displacement of 6.6L, providing substantial torque and horsepower for heavy-duty agricultural tasks. Its dry air cleaner with a secondary element enhances filtration efficiency, while the ether injection coolant heater aids cold starts in low-temperature environments. However, with a compression ratio of 16.2:1, users should be mindful of the need for high-quality diesel fuel to prevent potential engine knocking and maximize performance.

Description John Deere diesel 6-cylinder liquid-cooled inline horizontal-shaft
Displacement 404ci / 6.6L
Bore/Stroke 4.25x4.75inches / 108x 121mm
Air cleaner dry with secondary element
Pre-heating ether injection coolant heater
Compression 16.2:1
Rated RPM 2200
Idle RPM 800-2400
Operating RPM 1500-2200
Firing order 1-5-3-6-2-4
Starter electric
Starter volts 12
Oil capacity 17qts / 16.1L
Coolant capacity 24qts / 22.7L

ENGINE DETAIL 2

The John Deere 4230 tractor features a gasoline 6-cylinder engine with a displacement of 5.9L, offering a balance of power at 2200 RPM. Its square bore and stroke design (4.25 inches) promote uniform cylinder performance, which can enhance efficiency in various agricultural applications. However, the limited availability of the gasoline engine in only the 1973 model year may pose challenges in sourcing replacement parts compared to more common diesel variants.

Description John Deere gasoline 6-cylinder liquid-cooled/The gasoline engine was only available during the 1973 model year for the Deere 4230
Displacement 362ci / 5.9L
Bore/Stroke 4.25x4.25inches / 108x 108mm
Rated RPM 2200
Firing order 1-5-3-6-2-4
Starter electric
Starter volts 12

JOHN DEERE 4230 ENGINES

The John Deere 4230 tractor is equipped with a robust 6.6L 6-cylinder diesel engine, providing enhanced torque and fuel efficiency suitable for heavy-duty applications. An alternative 5.9L 6-cylinder gasoline engine can serve lighter tasks but may offer reduced towing capacity and efficiency under load. In scenarios requiring versatility, the diesel option excels in longevity and operational economy, while the gasoline variant might appeal for shorter, less intensive uses.

Description John Deere 6.6L 6-cyl diesel John Deere 5.9L 6-cyl gasoline

TRANSMISSIONS OVERVIEW

The John Deere 4230 features an advanced transmission system with options for 8-speed partially synchronized, 16-speed partial power shift, 8-speed full power shift, and 13-speed creeper, providing versatility in various agricultural tasks. The power shift options enhance operator efficiency by allowing seamless gear changes without disengaging the PTO, which is advantageous for heavy-duty applications. However, the complexity of the transmission may require more extensive maintenance and operator training to maximize performance, especially in scenarios involving frequent gear changes.

Description 8-speed partially synchronized 16-speed partial power shift 8-speed full power shift 13-speed creeper

TRANSMISSION 1

The John Deere 4230 features a partially synchronized Syncro-Range transmission, providing 8 forward and 2 reverse gears, optimizing operational flexibility for various field tasks. The hydraulic wet disc clutch ensures smooth engagement and reduces wear during gear transitions, although the requirement to stop for shifts between stations may interrupt workflow in some scenarios. With a substantial oil capacity of 64 quarts (60.6L), it supports extended use without frequent maintenance, but may necessitate higher maintenance costs for fluid management and heat dissipation.

Transmission John Deere Syncro-Range
Type partially synchronized
Gears 8 forward and 2 reverse
Clutch hydraulic wet disc
Oil capacity 64qts / 60.6L
Description Four shift stations with two gears each, plus reverse gear in the first two shift stations. Tractor must be stopped, and clutch used, to shift between stations. Once in a shift station the tractor may be shifted on the move, using the clutch, between the gears in that station

SPEEDS 1

Description With 18.4-38 rear tires

TRANSMISSION 2

The John Deere 4230 features a partial power shift transmission with 16 forward and 6 reverse gears, allowing for efficient power management across varying field conditions. The hydraulic wet disc clutch enhances reliability and reduces wear during operation, though the requirement to stop the tractor to shift ranges can limit productivity in dynamic environments. Ideal for heavy-duty applications, this tractor's oil capacity of 64 quarts ensures adequate lubrication and heat dissipation, especially in prolonged use scenarios.

Transmission John Deere Quad-Range
Type partial power shift
Gears 16 forward and 6 reverse
Clutch hydraulic wet disc
Oil capacity 64qts / 60.6L
Description Four gears (1-4) in four ranges (A-D). Power shift between gears 1-2 and 3-4 in each range with a synchronized shift (using clutch) between 2-3. Tractor must be stopped to shift range

SPEEDS 2

Description With 18.4-38 rear tires

TRANSMISSION 3

The John Deere 4230 features a full power shift transmission with 8 forward and 4 reverse gears, allowing seamless gear changes under load, enhancing operational efficiency. Its hydraulic wet disc clutch provides smoother engagement, reducing wear and prolonging lifespan, though maintenance may require regular oil checks due to the 62-quart fluid capacity. This setup is ideal for heavy-duty applications in agriculture, benefiting tasks that demand versatility and reliability in varied terrains.

Transmission John Deere Power Shift
Type full power shift
Gears 8 forward and 4 reverse
Clutch hydraulic wet discs
Oil capacity 62qts / 58.7L

TRANSMISSION 4

The John Deere 4230's Syncro-Range Creeper transmission offers a total of 13 forward and 4 reverse gears, enhancing versatility for tasks requiring slow, precise movement, such as planting or tilling. The optional creeper range allows for additional speeds within the first five gears, making it ideal for applications needing fine speed control. However, the interlock feature that prevents shifting into higher gears while in creeper mode may limit operational flexibility during certain tasks.

Transmission Syncro-Range Creeper
Type creeper
Gears 13 forward and 4 reverse
Description Optional creeper range adds additional speeds to the first five gears of the Syncro-Range transmission. An interlock prevents shifting into gears 6 through 8 while the creeper is engaged

MECHANICAL

The John Deere 4230 offers versatility with optional 2WD or 4WD configurations, making it suitable for various agricultural applications. Its planetary final drives and hydro-mechanical differential lock enhance traction and maneuverability but may face challenges in extremely slippery conditions. The available transmission options, including an 8-speed full power shift, allow for precise control and adaptability to diverse field tasks, although the complexity may require additional training for operators.

Chassis 4x2 2WD/4x4 HFWD 4WD
Final drives planetary
Differential lock hydro-mechanical rear
Steering power
Brakes differential hydraulic wet disc
Cab Open operator station. Four-post Roll-Gard ROPS optional. Sound-Gard cab with air-conditioning optional
Transmissions 8-speed partially synchronized 16-speed partial power shift 8-speed full power shift 13-speed creeper

CAPACITY

Fuel 37gal / 140.0L
Hydraulic system 16gal / 60.6L

HYDRAULICS

Type closed center
Capacity 16gal / 60.6L
Valves 1 to 3

TRACTOR HITCH

Rear Type II

POWER TAKE-OFF (PTO)

Rear PTO independent
Rear RPM 540/1000 (1.375)

JOHN DEERE 4230 TIRES

The John Deere 4230, equipped with a versatile tire size range from Ag front 7.5L-15 to various options for Ag rear, provides optimal traction and stability for diverse agricultural tasks. The flexibility in rear tire sizes allows customization based on specific field conditions, such as soil type and load requirements, enhancing performance in both row crop and forage applications. However, selecting larger tires, like 20.8-34 or 18.4-38, may increase overall weight and power requirements, potentially impacting fuel efficiency and maneuverability in tight spaces.

Ag front 7.5L-15
Ag rear 23.1-26 / 23.1-30 / 20.8-34 / 16.9-34 / 15.5-38 / 16.9-38 / 18.4-38

DIMENSIONS

Wheelbase 104inches / 264cm
2WD Length 165.6inches / 420cm
4WD Length 169.3inches / 430cm
Width 89.625inches / 227cm / 54.375inches / 138cm (Cab)
Rear axle Rack-and-pinion: 3.39 by 113inches / 86by 2870mm
Front tread 58 to 96inches / 147to 243cm
Rear tread 61 to 118inches / 154to 299cm

JOHN DEERE 4230 WEIGHT

Shipping 8,100lbs / 3674kg (Syncro) 8,500lbs / 3855kg
Operating 10,800lbs / 4898kg
Ballasted 14,150lbs / 6418kg

JOHN DEERE 4230 HEIGHT

Steering wheel 86.7inches / 220cm
Cab 109.875inches / 279cm
Exhaust 151.75inches / 385cm

DIMENSIONS & TIRES

The John Deere 4230 features a 104-inch wheelbase, providing improved stability and maneuverability, particularly in tight agricultural settings. Weighing between 8,100 to 10,800 pounds, it offers a robust frame suitable for heavy-duty tasks but may pose challenges in transport and fuel efficiency. With front tires of 9.5L-15 and rear tires of 18.4-34, this tractor excels in traction and load-bearing capabilities, making it ideal for soil tillage and pulling implements in diverse terrains.

Wheelbase 104inches / 264cm
Weight 8100 to 10800 pounds
Front tire 9.5L-15
Rear tire 18.4-34

JOHN DEERE 148 LOADER

Loader weight 1350lbs / 612kg
Height (to pin) 126inches / 320cm
Clearance, dumped bucket 102inches / 259cm
Dump reach 32inches / 81cm
Dump angle 38°
Clearance, level bucket 121inches / 307cm
Rollback angle 11°
Breakout force (lift) 4700lbs / 2131kg
Lift to full height (at pin) 3100lbs / 1406kg
Bucket capacity 0.5cu yd / 0.4 cu m / 0.6cu yd / 0.5cu m/ 0.8cu yd / 0.6cu m / 0.9cu yd / 0.7cu m
Bucket width 60inches / 152cm 72inches / 182cm 84inches / 213cm 96inches / 243cm

JOHN DEERE 158 LOADER

Loader weight 1771lbs / 803kg
Height (to pin) 156inches / 396cm
Clearance, dumped bucket 132inches / 335cm
Dump reach 32inches / 81cm
Dump angle 37°
Clearance, level bucket 151inches / 383cm
Rollback angle 12°
Breakout force (lift) 5000lbs / 2268kg
Lift to full height (at pin) 3800lbs / 1723kg
Bucket capacity 0.5cu yd / 0.4 cu m / 0.6cu yd / 0.5cu m / 0.8cu yd / 0.6cu m / 0.9cu yd / 0.7cu m
Bucket width 60inches / 152cm 72inches / 182cm 84inches / 213cm 96inches / 243cm

4230 SERIAL NUMBERS

Location Serial number plate on the rear of the John Deere 4230, above the PTO shaft
1973 1000
1974 13000
1975 22074
1976 28957
1977 35588
Final 42331

ELECTRICAL

Ground negative
Charging system alternator
Batteries 2
Battery volts 6


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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