John Deere B

The John Deere B is a historical 2WD row-crop tractor from John Deere's Two-Cylinder Letter Series, produced between 1938 and 1946 based on independent test results. This tractor is characterized by its 4x2 2WD chassis, manual steering, and an open operator station. It is powered by a 175.0 cubic inch John Deere all-fuel engine equipped with liquid-cooling and a naturally aspirated induction system. The engine's bore and stroke measure 4.50 inches and 5.50 inches respectively. According to independent test results from the Nebraska Tractor Test Laboratory (Test 232, January 1935), the engine produces a maximum power of 14.84 HP at a rated speed of 975 rpm, with a maximum torque of 452 lb-ft at 850 rpm. The power is transmitted through an unsynchronized gearbox with a dry disc clutch, featuring 4 forward gears and 1 reverse gear. At maximum power, the tractor has a fuel consumption of 2.02 Gal/hr with a fuel efficiency of 0.543 lb/hp.hr. At rated speed in 3rd gear, it delivers 12.44 HP with a drawbar pull of 1575 lbs and a speed of 3.50 mph, consuming 2.02 Gal/hr with a fuel efficiency of 11.87 Hp.hr/gal. The tractor operates with differential mechanical expanding shoe brakes and has a PTO speed of 540 rpm. It does not feature a cab, supporting only an open operator environment, which was typical for tractors of its era. The John Deere B is designed to accept a variety of tire sizes and was intended for a range of agricultural tasks typical of the time period it was produced in.