John Deere 720 Tractor

Manufacturer John Deere
Price 3,700(USD)
Model 720
Equipment Type Row-Crop Tractors
Factory Waterloo, Iowa, USA

ENGINES OVERVIEW

The John Deere 720 tractor features multiple engine options, including a 5.9L 2-cylinder gasoline, all-fuel, and LP gas variants, as well as a 6.2L 2-cylinder diesel. The versatility in fuel options allows for operational flexibility depending on fuel availability and cost considerations, making it suitable for various agricultural scenarios. However, while the gasoline and LP gas models are easier to start and maintain, the diesel variant offers increased torque and fuel efficiency, especially for heavy-duty applications.

Description John Deere 5.9L 2-cyl gasoline John Deere 5.9L 2-cyl all-fuel John Deere 5.9L 2-cyl LP gas John Deere 6.2L 2-cyl diesel

ENGINE DETAIL 1

The John Deere 720 features a 2-cylinder, 4-valve gasoline engine with a robust displacement of 5.9L, making it capable of handling moderate agricultural tasks efficiently. Its lower compression ratio of 6.14:1 may lead to reduced power output, but the reliable electric starter and oil bath air cleaner enhance operational convenience and engine longevity. Ideal for small to medium-scale farming operations, this tractor offers a balance of simplicity and durability, although it may struggle with high-demand tasks due to its lower rated RPM of 1125.

Description John Deere gasoline 2-cylinder 4-valve liquid-cooled
Displacemen 360.5ci / 5.9L
Bore/Strok 6.00x6.375inches / 152x 162 mm
Air cleane oil bath
Compressio 6.14:1
Rated RP 1125
Firing orde 1-2
Starter typ electric
Coolant capacit 29qts / 27.4L

ENGINE DETAIL 2

The John Deere 720, a liquid-cooled, all-fuel tractor, features a robust 360.5 ci (5.9L) 2-cylinder engine with a 4-valve configuration, providing reliable power and efficiency for various agricultural tasks. With a low compression ratio of 4.91:1, it can efficiently operate on multiple fuel types, but the rated RPM of 1125 may limit maximum operational speed compared to modern tractors. The oil-bath air cleaner enhances filtration under dusty conditions, reducing maintenance needs, though the electric starter system may require attention in colder environments.

Description John Deere all-fuel 2-cylinder 4-valve liquid-cooled
Displacemen 360.5ci / 5.9L
Bore/Strok 6.00x6.375inches / 152x 162 mm
Air cleane oil bath
Compressio 4.91:1
Rated RP 1125
Firing orde 1-2
Starter typ electric

ENGINE DETAIL 3

The John Deere 720 features a 5.9L LP gas 2-cylinder engine, optimized for low RPM operation at a rated speed of 1125 RPM, promoting fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. With a robust bore and stroke of 6.00x6.375 inches, this tractor may offer sufficient torque for agricultural applications, although the lower compression ratio of 7.94:1 may limit overall performance compared to higher compression engines. The electric starter system operating at 12 volts enhances reliability in starting, making it suitable for varied agricultural environments.

Description John Deere LP gas 2-cylinder 4-valve liquid-cooled
Displacemen 360.5ci / 5.9L
Bore/Strok 6.00x6.375inches / 152x 162 mm
Air cleane oil bath
Compressio 7.94:1
Rated RP 1125
Firing orde 1-2
Starte electric
Starter volt 12

ENGINE DETAIL 4

The John Deere 720 tractor features a powerful 6.2L diesel engine, boasting a high compression ratio of 16:1 for enhanced thermal efficiency, making it suitable for demanding agricultural tasks. Its unique dual starting options—both a 6V pony motor and a 24V electric starter—allow for reliable cold starts in various climates, although the pony motor may require more maintenance. While the 720 excels in torque delivery due to its 2-cylinder configuration, operators should be aware of the potential for vibration and noise at lower RPMs, particularly when working at its rated RPM of 1125.

Description John Deere diesel 2-cylinder 4-valve liquid-cooled
Displacemen 376ci / 6.2L
Bore/Strok 6.125x6.375inches / 156x 162 mm
Compressio 16:1
Rated RP 1125
Firing orde 1-2
Starte pony motor *Four-cylinder 6V electric-start gasoline pony power used to warm and start the diesel engine./electric *Electric start became available as an option on the 720 Diesel in 1958.
Starter volt 6 (diesel pony)/24 (diesel electric)

JOHN DEERE 720 ENGINES

The John Deere 720 features versatile fuel options, including gasoline, all-fuel, LP gas, and diesel engines, making it adaptable for various farming operations. Its auxiliary fuel capacities vary significantly based on the fuel type, which can impact operational range; for example, the all-fuel version has a smaller auxiliary tank (1 gal) compared to LP gas (33 gal). While the 720’s multi-fuel capability allows for flexibility, the challenge lies in managing fuel types and potential performance differences across them, requiring careful planning depending on the task and location.

Description John Deere 5.9L 2-cyl gasoline John Deere 5.9L 2-cyl all-fuel John Deere 5.9L 2-cyl LP gas John Deere 6.2L 2-cyl diesel
Fuel tan 24.5 gal (all-fuel)/92.7 L/26.5 gal (gasoline)/100.3 L/33 gal (LP gas)/124.9 L/20 gal (diesel)/75.7 L
Aux. fue 1 gal (all-fuel)/3.8 L/0.25 gal (diesel)/0.9 L

TRANSMISSION

The John Deere 720 tractor features a dry clutch and an unsynchronized gear system, which may offer simplicity and reduced weight but can lead to challenges in gear shifting, especially under load. With 6 forward and 1 reverse gear ratios, it provides decent versatility for various applications, though limited gear options may affect performance in diverse terrain. The recommended SAE 80 oil at low temperatures (0°F/-17°C) ensures optimal lubrication, crucial for engine reliability in colder climates.

Manufacture John Deere
Typ unsynchronized gear
Gear 6 forward and 1 reverse
Clutc dry
Oil capacit 30qts / 28.4L
0oF [-17oC] : SAE 80

SPEEDS

Description With 13.6-38 rear tires

JOHN DEERE 720 TRANSMISSION

The John Deere 720 features a 6-speed unsynchronized gear transmission, allowing for straightforward shifting but may present challenges when changing gears under load. This design provides reliability and ease of maintenance, though it requires operator skill for smooth operation. It's ideal for farmers seeking a durable, low-tech solution for various field tasks, but less suitable for applications demanding rapid shifting or specialized gear ratios.

Description 6-speed unsynchronized gear

MECHANICAL

The John Deere 720 features a two-wheel drive system which enhances traction on flat terrains but may struggle in muddy or uneven conditions. Its mechanical expanding shoe brakes provide reliable stopping power, though they require regular maintenance for optimal performance. The open operator station offers ease of access and visibility, but may expose the operator to weather elements, making a powered steering option advantageous for extended use.

Description Two-wheel drive Differential mechanical expanding shoe brakes Open operator station
Steerin manual/power OptOptional

HYDRAULICS

Typ open center
Valve 1

TRACTOR HITCH

Rear Typ II

POWER TAKE-OFF (PTO)

Rear PT live
Rear RP 540 (1.375)

JOHN DEERE 720 TIRES

The John Deere 720 features a front tire size of 6.00-16 and rear tire size of 12-38, providing optimal traction and stability for various agricultural tasks. The larger rear tires can enhance pulling power and improve field performance, particularly in heavy tillage operations. However, the relatively narrow front tires may affect steering in muddy conditions, necessitating careful handling in such scenarios.

Ag fron 6.00-16
Ag rea 12-38

DIMENSIONS & TIRES

The John Deere 720's wheelbase of 93.7 inches offers stability during agricultural operations, though its relatively heavy weight of 6,790 lbs can affect mobility in challenging terrain. The front tire size (6.00-16) supports maneuverability, while the larger rear tires (12-38) enhance traction and power transfer to the ground—ideal for plowing or heavy tillage. However, the tractor's weight may pose a challenge on soft or loose soil conditions, potentially causing soil compaction.

Wheelbas 93.7inches / 237cm
Weigh 6790lbs / 3079kg
Front tir 6.00-16
Rear tir 12-38

720 SERIAL NUMBERS

195 7217368

720 SERIAL LOCATION

Description Right side of tractor in front of and below pulley

ELECTRICAL

Groun positive *Positive ground for the 6V and 12V systems./floating *The 24V electric-start diesel is not chassis grounded, with both sides of the battery system connected to the starter. The lights and gauges are split on two 12V systems.
Charging syste generator
Batterie 1 (diesel pony)/2 (gas/LP)/4 (diesel electric)
Battery volt 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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