John Deere celebrates 75 years of iconic two-cylinder diesel engine

This year the Newark Vintage Tractor and Heritage Show will celebrate 75 years of the John Deere two-cylinder diesel engine, marking a milestone in agricultural history.   

Visitors at Newark Showground on 9-10 November will have the chance to see a range of engines from the series on display and learn why the farming machinery remains a symbol of innovation and reliability. 

Introduced in 1949 with the Model R, John Deere’s first diesel tractor, the engine stood out from the predominantly petrol-powered models of its time. Known for its simple yet robust design, exceptional pulling power, durability, and fuel efficiency, it has since become an iconic piece of engineering cherished by tractor enthusiasts and collectors worldwide. 

Mark James, product sales specialist at John Deere, says: "The John Deere two-cylinder diesel engine wasn’t just about horsepower; it was about delivering enormous torque, pulling power, and reliability. 

"At the time, tractors with this kind of torque were unheard of. The two-cylinder engines would literally pull down to their last breath, continuing to work even under extreme loads." 

Not only did the Model R tractor pave the way for the next generation of powerful diesel engines, but it also introduced innovative features like the live power take-off (PTO), which allowed it to run independently of the transmission and made tasks like baling hay much easier. 

John Deere’s two-cylinder diesel engine tractors, like the Model 70, 720, and 730, also set records for fuel efficiency. According to historical data, the Model 70, introduced in the mid-1950s, set a record for fuel efficiency that wasn’t surpassed until 1984, highlighting the advanced engineering behind the machines. 

"These tractors could do prodigious amounts of work on a small amount of fuel, which made them invaluable in agricultural settings," says Mr James. 

At the heart of the Model R and its successors was a long-stroke diesel engine, built for heavy-duty use. Unlike modern tractors with four, six, or even eight cylinders, the two-cylinder engine allowed for fewer moving parts, making it notably simple, and more rugged and reliable. 

The Model R featured two crankshaft bearings compared to the five or more typically found in other engines, reducing the number of moving parts and enhancing durability. Additionally, John Deere's two-cylinder design minimised component wear, contributing to the longevity and ease of maintenance that farmers valued. "The Model R had a quarter tonne of moving engine parts, making it incredibly strong and long-lasting compared to its competition,” says Mr James. 

Visitors will see restored tractors, including an original Model R and its successors, the 70, 720, 730, 80, 820, and 830, all of which continued John Deere’s tradition of fuel-efficient power. The tractors, many originally imported from North America, have been meticulously restored and maintained by private collectors. 

A John Deere 830, used by Mr James for vintage working events and producing an estimated 100 horsepower from just two cylinders, will also be on display. Imported from Canada around 20 years ago, the tractor has received rebuilds to both the main and starter engines, though it’s has not been cosmetically restored. 

It’s used regularly to work a 5-furrow John Deere hydraulic-lift plough at local events. “It’s a very impressive machine”, says Mr James. “We also have a 1964 John Deere 4020 with a six-cylinder engine and powershift transmission and it too handles a five-furrow plough, but the two-cylinder 830 clearly outperforms it - and does so using a lot less fuel.  

“It’s big, heavy and crude by modern standards, but actually quite efficient and with its power steering, you can steer it with just one finger.”  

The event will also include a special exhibit of John Deere’s latest heavy-duty draft tractor, the 8R series, showcasing the evolution of John Deere’s engineering from the early days of the two-cylinder diesel to the present. 

“The two-cylinder engine represents more than just a piece of machinery,” Mr James reflects. “It is a symbol of agricultural progress. Vintage tractors are all about nostalgia and people love to see and own the tractors they grew up driving. These John Deere models hold a special place in farming history.” 

• Tickets to the Newark Vintage Tractor and Heritage Show are available at: 

www.newarkvintagetractorshow.ticketsrv.co.uk/tickets/. Discounted tickets are £15 for adults (17+ years) until 1 November, increasing to £19 thereafter. Children (16 and under) enter for free.