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John Deere’s Model A was a watershed because it was designed not just to replace an outdated tractor, but to launch a broader line for farms with different crops and needs. Its adjustable rear tread, Power Lift hydraulics and row-crop layout helped make that ambition tangible.
Why Deere needed a new tractor
By the early 1930s, Deere’s General Purpose tractor had fallen behind competitors such as International Harvester’s Farmall Regular. According to Dave Mowitz’s May 1, 2019 Successful Farming account, company president Charles Wiman wanted a tractor line suited to different farms and crops. Engineer Theo Brown and his team developed a successor intended to compete with the Farmall while giving Deere a foundation for future models.
From prototype to production Model A
The project appeared first as the GX prototype in 1932. The production tractor, designated GP-A (General Purpose Wide Tread), entered production on March 19, 1934. Mowitz describes it as a 23½ belt-horsepower tractor, a figure attributed to his 2019 account.
What made the Model A distinctive
- Power Lift hydraulics: Deere replaced a mechanical lifting system with hydraulics.
- Centerline hitch and PTO: Their placement helped reduce side draft during hillside tillage.
- Differential brakes: The brakes were geared directly to the large drive gears.
- One-piece transmission case: The arrangement provided high clearance beneath the axles.
- Rubber tires: They were among the features Mowitz highlights in the production tractor.
- Adjustable rear tread: Splined axles made it easier to change the spacing between the rear wheels for different field conditions.
Adjustable tread: what Deere did—and did not—pioneer
The Model A should not be described as the first tractor with adjustable rear tread. Mowitz specifically credits that earlier distinction to the J.I. Case Model CC. Deere’s contribution, as he describes it, was an easier adjustment system using splined axles.
#1 Best Overall
- 1/16 John Deere Early Styled A Prestige Collection Tractor Toy - LP82797.
- Model A.
- The Prestige Collection of tractors have a high level of detail from the front weights to the authentic style rear drawbar.
- This tractors features die-case body, narrow front axle, authentic graphics and replica rear hitch. The air intake and exhaust are painted green replicating how the tractor looked when it left the factory.
- Age grade: 14+ Measures approx.: 8" x 5" x 4".
The A began with 10 axle splines; Mowitz says the count increased to 15 in 1942. The system allowed rear tread settings from 56 to 80 inches. Farmers could narrow the tractor for 40- or 42-inch rows, then widen it for fall plowing.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Nine configurations and an 18-year run
Mowitz reports that Deere sold nine Model A configurations, including narrow- and wide-front versions, orchard and high-crop models, and a version with a liquid-propane engine. Production ended in 1952, after an 18-year run. His article reports that more than 320,000 Model A tractors had been sold by then; that figure is attributed to Mowitz rather than presented here as an independently verified total.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- WORKING PARTS: Each vehicle features detailed John Deere styling and real rolling wheels for realistic farm play.
- VARIETY: Five-pack includes a wagon, combine harvester, modern tractor, gator, and vintage tractor. Great for solo or group play!
- SOFT SUPER GRIP TIRES: Treaded tires spin smoothly, helping kids drive, tow, and harvest with ease during imaginative farm adventures.
- IMAGINATIVE PLAY: Perfectly sized for little hands, these 5-inch vehicles encourage pretend play and help build fine motor skills.
- FARM FUN: Ideal for farm-themed party décor, cake toppers, or as accessories in sensory bins and small-world play.
Rank #4
- Designed for Play
- Featuring die-cast hood, grille, body and heavy duty rear fenders.
- The soft feel front and rear tires are mounted on plastic wheels
- The rear hitch allows most 1:16 implements to be attached.
Rank #3
- Quality toy replica of a John Deere tractor and disk tiller
- Encourages imaginative play
- Authentic design and details
- Front and rear dual tires
- Oscillating die-cast front axle
Rank #2
- 3 Pack of John Deere Tractors includes 9620R, 4020, and 4960. Each of the tractors is L 3.4 inches x W 1.6 inches x H 2 inches
- Free rolling wheels and articulated parts
- Display box packaging is perfect for replica collectors
- Officially Licensed John Deere Product
- Farm toy fun for ages 3 and up
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