John Deere introduced its first diesel tractor, the Model R, in 1949. It was an immediate success with wheatland farmers because it gave them the horsepower and fuel economy they needed to meet the increasing demands of growth. The 51 hp tractor featured a 5-speed gearbox with terrific lugging power. It had a small two-cylinder gasoline-starting engine to preheat the large two-cylinder diesel engine for easier starting in cold weather. Optional equipment included fully independent live PTO and Powr-Trol hydraulics which greatly improved handling and control of implements. The Model R was also the first John Deere tractor to offer an all-steel cab as an option. At the time when all tests were completed in Nebraska, the R proved to be the most economical tractor ever tested.
All Rights Reserved, Copyright by Edward C. Schaefer, 1995, 2008.
