Understanding tractor engines and drivetrains can be very difficult and confusing even to people who have been running equipment their whole lives, so if you feel lost when you see these words as you are researching tractors, know you aren’t alone. We have created this FAQ page to help you have a better understanding of these terms and what they mean in practice.

Does John Deere Make the Engines in Compact Utility Tractors?

• The engines in John Deere Compact Utility Tractors are actually made by Yanmar. John Deere’s agreement with Yanmar dates back to the 1970s. These diesel engines are compact, efficient, and high quality. Yanmar trail blazed the small diesel engine industry, releasing the first commercial compact diesel engine in 1933.

How Much Horsepower Do They Have?

• Depending on the series and model you are looking at, you can get a compact tractor with up to 65.9 horsepower (hp).
  • The 1 series tractors range from 22.5 - 23.9 hp
  • The 2 series tractors range from 24.2 - 36.7 hp
  • The 3 series tractors range from 24.7 - 35.3 hp
  • The 4 series tractors range from 43.1 - 65.9 hp
  • Looking for a little more umph? Check out the larger utility tractors.

How difficult is it to service the engine?

• Servicing the engines on the compact utility tractors is very simple. All you have to do is remove the quarter fasteners on the engine panels and remove the panels to access the engine. This can all be done in less than a minute because none of the fasteners require tools for removal.

When does it mean whent he tractor has a Final Tier 4-complaint diesel engine?

• When an engine is Final Tier 4-compliant, it means it meets the United States Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Tier 4 emission guidelines. The Tier 4 guidelines are currently the most strict emission guidelines for off-road diesel engines. These guidelines specify how much particulate matter and nitrogen oxides can be released into the environment from the engine.

What is the drivetrain/powertrain?

• Simply put, the drivetrain is what transfers power from the engine to the wheels making the tractor move. The drivetrain isn’t one specific part, it includes the transmission, driveshaft, differential, and axles. The power from the engine is transferred into the transmission where the torque and horsepower rotate the drive shaft. The power is then transferred through the differential, into the axles and then on to the wheels. Once the torque reaches the wheels, it makes the tractor move.

Do John Deere's comapct utility tractors come with a drivetrain/powertrain warranty?

• These tractors do come with a John Deere powertrain warranty. However, the length/hours of the warranty can vary, so check with your local Heritage Tractor dealer to see how long the powertrain is covered under warranty.

For more information about John Deere compact utility tractor engines and drivetrains, contact your Heritage Tractor dealership where our experts will be happy to assist you! We want our customers to be informed and happy with their purchases.

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