| Manufacturer | John Deere |
| Price | - |
| Model | 4255 |
| Equipment Type | Row-Crop Tractors |
| Factory | Waterloo, Iowa, USA |
OCED TRACTOR TEST 1618 2
| Description | Diesel Powershift 4WD April 1 - May 1, 1989 Link: OCED Tractor Test 1618 file PTO performance Drawbar performance Gear 7 used for power test Gear 3 used for pull test |
| Max power | 104.28hp / 77.8kW |
| Fuel use | 7.3gal/hour / 27.6l/hour |
| Power at rated engine speed | 123.36hp / 92.0kW |
| Max pull | 15,833lbs / 7181kg |
OCED TRACTOR TEST 1627 2
| Description | Diesel Quad-Range 2WD September 1 - 30, 1989 Link: OCED Tractor Test 1627 file PTO performance Drawbar performance |
| Max power | 112.26hp / 83.7kW |
| Fuel use | 7.5gal/hour / 28.4l/hour |
| Power at rated engine speed | 123.69hp / 92.2kW |
| Max pull | 14,635lbs / 6638kg |
JOHN DEERE 4255 POWER
| Engine (net) | 142.2hp / 106.0kW |
| PTO (claimed) | 120hp / 89.5kW |
| Drawbar (tested) | 112.26hp / 83.7kW |
| PTO (tested) | 127.91hp / 95.4kW |
ENGINE DETAIL
The John Deere 4255 tractor features a robust turbocharged 7.6L diesel engine with a high compression ratio of 16:1, enhancing power delivery and engine efficiency. Its direct injection fuel system and dual paper element air cleaner facilitate superior air-fuel mixture, promoting optimal combustion and lower emissions. Ideal for heavy-duty applications, this tractor operates effectively between 1500-2200 RPM, balancing torque and power while ensuring easy maintenance due to accessible coolant and valve clearance specifications.
| Description | John Deere turbocharged diesel 6-cylinder liquid-cooled inline |
| Displacement | 466ci / 7.6L |
| Bore/Stroke | 4.5625x4.75inches / 116x 121mm |
| Fuel system | direct injection |
| Air cleaner | dual paper elements |
| Compression | 16:1 |
| Rated RPM | 2200 |
| Idle RPM | 800-2400 |
| Operating RPM | 1500-2200 |
| Firing order | 1-5-3-6-2-4 |
| Starter volts | 12 |
| Coolant capacity | 27qts / 25.6L |
| Intake valve clearance | 0.020inches / 0.508mm |
| Exhaust valve clearance | 0.020inches / 0.508mm |
ENGINE OIL
The John Deere 4255 has an oil capacity of 19 quarts (18.0 liters), which is essential for maintaining optimal engine performance and longevity. Ensure regular oil changes to prevent sludge buildup and enhance lubrication, as inadequate oil levels can lead to overheating and increased wear. For operators in heavy-duty applications, consider a higher viscosity oil for better thermal stability and protection under extreme conditions.
| Oil capacity | 19qts / 18.0L |
JOHN DEERE 4255 ENGINE
The John Deere 4255 is powered by a robust 7.6L 6-cylinder diesel engine, providing significant torque for demanding applications. Its hydraulic system, typically rated around 15-20 GPM, offers efficient power transfer for implements, making it suitable for both agricultural and heavy-duty tasks. However, consider maintenance costs and fuel efficiency, as larger engines can lead to higher operational expenses, especially in prolonged usage scenarios.
| Description | John Deere 7.6L 6-cyl diesel |
TRANSMISSIONS OVERVIEW
The John Deere 4255 features a 16-speed partial power shift transmission or an optional 15-speed full power shift, enhancing operational efficiency and versatility in various agricultural tasks. The partial power shift allows for smoother gear transitions without engaging the clutch, providing better power management under load, while full power shift optimizes convenience at the cost of slightly increased complexity in maintenance. Operators should consider the intended use and terrain; the full power shift may be preferable for heavy-duty applications requiring frequent speed changes, while the partial option offers a balance between performance and simplicity.
| Description | 16-speed partial power shift 15-speed full power shift |
TRANSMISSION 1
The John Deere 4255 features a Quad Range transmission, offering 16 forward and 6 reverse gears, which allows for enhanced versatility in various field conditions. The hydraulic wet disc clutch provides smooth engagement and extends clutch life, making it suitable for heavy-duty applications. However, operators should be aware of the increased oil capacity requirements for 4WD (68.8 qts) compared to 2WD (64 qts), which can influence maintenance schedules and costs.
| Transmission | John Deere Quad Range |
| Type | partial power shift |
| Gears | 16 forward and 6 reverse |
| Clutch | hydraulic wet disc |
| 2WD Oil capacity | 64qts / 60.6L |
| 4WD Oil capacity | 68.8qts / 65.1L |
| Description | Four gears (1-4) in four ranges (A-D) with high-low power shift |
SPEEDS 1
| Description | With 18.4-38 rear tires |
TRANSMISSION 2
The John Deere 4255 features a full power shift transmission with 15 forward and 4 reverse gears, allowing for seamless gear changes without needing to clutch, enhancing operational efficiency in varied field conditions. The hydraulic wet disc clutch provides strong engagement and durability, beneficial for intensive applications, though regular maintenance is essential to avoid overheating. Additionally, the oil capacity distinctions between 2WD and 4WD configurations indicate a slight increase in lubrication needs for 4WD, highlighting the importance of adequate fluid levels for optimal performance and longevity.
| Transmission | John Deere Power Shift |
| Type | full power shift |
| Gears | 15 forward and 4 reverse |
| Clutch | hydraulic wet disc |
| 2WD Oil capacity | 53.9qts / 51.0L |
| 4WD Oil capacity | 63.4qts / 60.0L |
MECHANICAL
The John Deere 4255 features a versatile 4x2 or 4x4 MFWD chassis, offering adaptability on various terrains, with inboard planetary final drives that enhance durability and reduce wear. The hydraulic wet disc brakes provide efficient stopping power, advantageous for safety and maintenance. Its 16-speed partial or 15-speed full power shift transmissions offer smooth gear transitions, optimizing performance across different operational scenarios, particularly in heavy-duty agricultural tasks.
| Chassis | 4x2 2WD/4x4 MFWD 4WD |
| Final drives | inboard planetary |
| Steering | power |
| Brakes | differential hydraulic wet discs |
| Cab | Cab standard |
| Transmissions | 16-speed partial power shift 15-speed full power shift |
CAPACITY
| Fuel | 65gal / 246.0L |
| Hydraulic system | 13.5gal / 51.1L (Powershift 2WD) 15.9gal / 60.2L (Powershift 4WD) 16gal / 60.6L (Quad-Range 2WD) 17.2gal / 65.1L (Quad-Range 4WD) |
HYDRAULICS
| Type | closed center |
| Capacity | 13.5gal / 51.1L (Powershift 2WD) 15.9gal / 60.2L (Powershift 4WD) 16gal / 60.6L (Quad-Range 2WD) 17.2gal / 65.1L (Quad-Range 4WD) |
| Pressure | 2530psi / 174.4bar |
| Valves | 2 or 3 |
| Pump flow | 26.5gpm / 100.3lpm |
| SCV flow | 20.6gpm / 78.0lpm |
TRACTOR HITCH
| Rear Type | II |
| Rear lift | 6175lbs / 2800kg *Advertised as 6550 pounds, the tractor was only able to lift 6175 during testing./8077lbs / 3663kg *With optional assist cylinder. Advertised as 8470 pounds, but actual tested lift was 8077 pounds |
POWER TAKE-OFF (PTO)
| Rear PTO | independent |
| Clutch | hydraulic |
| Rear RPM | 540/1000 (1.375) |
JOHN DEERE 4255 TIRES
The John Deere 4255 tractor's 2WD configuration with standard agricultural tires (10.00-16 front, 18.4-38 rear) offers a solid option for lighter fieldwork and less complex terrain, but it may struggle with traction on steep or muddy surfaces. In contrast, the 4WD setup (14.9-26 front, 18.4-38 rear) enhances traction and stability, making it more suitable for challenging conditions, including hilly or compacted fields. Pros of 4WD include improved pulling power and reduced wheel slip; however, increased maintenance and operational costs may arise compared to a 2WD setup.
| 2WD Standard tires (ag) | Front: 10.00-16. Rear: 18.4-38 |
| 4WD Standard tires (ag) | Front: 14.9-26. Rear: 18.4-38 |
DIMENSIONS
| 2WD Wheelbase | 106.7inches / 271cm |
| 4WD Wheelbase | 105.3inches / 267cm |
| Length | 158.6inches / 402cm |
| Width | 96inches / 243cm *Minimum width with standard axle |
| Height (steering wheel) | 92.8inches / 235cm |
| Height (cab) | 116.5inches / 295cm |
| Rear axle | Rack-and-pinion: 3.375 by 113inches / 85by 2870mm |
JOHN DEERE 4255 WEIGHT
| Operating | 12,225lbs / 5545kg (2WD Quad-Range) 14,050lbs / 6373kg (4WD Powershift) |
| Ballasted | 15,570lbs / 7062kg |
DIMENSIONS & TIRES
The John Deere 4255, with a weight range of 12,225 to 14,050 pounds, provides stability and robust performance for heavy-duty agricultural tasks. The 2WD configuration, supported by rear tires sized 18.4-38, is optimal for traction on soft soil, though it may face challenges in uneven terrains compared to its 4WD counterpart, which has a shorter wheelbase. In scenarios requiring enhanced maneuverability and grip, especially during wet conditions, upgrading to 4WD could significantly improve operational efficiency and reduce soil compaction.
| 2WD Wheelbase | 106.7inches / 271cm |
| 4WD Wheelbase | 105.3inches / 267cm |
| Weight | 12225 to 14050 pounds |
| Front tire | 10.00-16 |
| 2WD Rear tire | 18.4-38 |
JOHN DEERE 265 LOADER
| Loader weight | 2619lbs / 1187kg |
| Height (to pin) | 157inches / 398cm |
| Clearance, dumped bucket | 123inches / 312cm |
| Dump reach | 25.6inches / 65cm |
| Clearance, level bucket | 150inches / 381cm |
| Rollback angle | 43° |
| Breakout force (lift) | 5730lbs / 2599kg |
| Lift to full height (at pin) | 3920lbs / 1778kg |
| Bucket width | 61inches / 154cm 73inches / 185cm 85inches / 215cm 97inches / 246cm |
JOHN DEERE 280 LOADER
| Description | For use on tractors with four-wheel drive |
| Loader weight | 2795lbs / 1267kg |
| Height (to pin) | 178inches / 452cm |
| Clearance, dumped bucket | 152inches / 386cm |
| Dump reach | 26inches / 66cm |
| Clearance, level bucket | 173inches / 439cm |
| Rollback angle | 41° |
| Breakout force (lift) | 6220lbs / 2821kg |
| Lift to full height (at pin) | 4580lbs / 2077kg |
| Bucket width | 85inches / 215cm 97inches / 246cm |
JOHN DEERE 840 LOADER
| Clearance, dumped bucket | 149inches / 378cm |
| Dump angle | 60° |
| Rollback angle | 40° |
| Bucket width | 96.5inches / 245cm |
4255 SERIAL NUMBERS
| Location | Serial number plate on the rear of the 4255, above the PTO shaft |
| 1989 | 1001 |
| 1990 | 3001 |
| 1991 | 5501 |
| 1992 | 10001 |
ELECTRICAL
| Ground | negative |
| Charging system | alternator |
| Charging amps | 120 |
| Batteries | 2 |
| Battery CCA | 925 |
| Battery volts | 12 |