Antique John Deere Tractor - JD 720 Diesel

Parts for Old Tractors
Click Here or call 800-853-2651

TRACTOR PARTS	TRACTOR MANUALS

Antique John Deere Tractor: JD 720 Diesel
[John Deere 720 Parts] [Return to the Shed]

Another member of the John Deere "20 Series", the John Deere 720 was a very popular size.
JD 720 Diesel Tractor

Do you have any comments or questions about this tractor? Ever use one? Know anyone who owned one? If so, please join in on the discussion below. Use the form for entering your comments.

Comments on this Tractor

Frank Szeles wrote on Monday, January 20, 2014 (PST):

I am working on 720 pony starter,can the starter end be removed worked on with out removing entire unit

Ron Dwater wrote on Saturday, October 26, 2013 (PDT):

Need torque spec for 730 head bolts

Heather wrote on Saturday, February 18, 2012 (PST):

We have a 720 Electric Start Diesel Wide Front End, can anyone tell us where the serial # is and when were these manufactured

Jim P wrote on Saturday, July 02, 2011 (PDT):

In my County there is a farmer selling his JD 720 LPG JD 730 LPG. Which propane tractor is better Can you still get all the necessary parts for a old propane tractor Thanks

GENE S wrote on Sunday, May 16, 2010 (PDT):

Yes I drove an old shug shug. Good tractor, but the diesel smoke in your face all day gave you a headache

eric wrote on Wednesday, May 05, 2010 (PDT):

they may have held the hp to fuel record butttttt they are still very crued to run

John Mollitor wrote on Thursday, April 15, 2010 (PDT):

I have a JD 720 deisel with a pony motor. I loved the pulling power of the tractor. It s been setting for a couple of years now in need of tender loving care. I don t work on tractors, and it s expensive to restore. I can t get the switch to the pony motor to work.. or it would start. I think the clutch needs to be adjusted right too.

Tim Getzlaff wrote on Sunday, April 11, 2010 (PDT):

Bob Collins or anyone else that has a 730 Wide Front electric start in excellent condition I am interested in purchasing it. Also would like a very good Model A and possibly a 50. I live near Beaumont, TX to distance is to be considered as well. Regards Tim Getzlaff 780.750.1010 Residence Canada 780.790.4403 Office Canada 780.351.0370 Cell Canada

Jim Paxton wrote on Tuesday, January 19, 2010 (PST):

Istarted farming in Missouri in 1970 with a 720 it was a outstanding tractor we farmed 200 acere with this tractor with very little problems. The 720 diesel still holds the Neberaska fuel useage study pulling a 4 bottom 16 plow it would only use about 3 gal a hour.

tom wrote on Tuesday, December 29, 2009 (PST):

we know of one that is a real nice peace but do you know some that is good on the power stering on this

michael alden wrote on Tuesday, August 11, 2009 (PDT):

Dave DeVlaeminck.My son in law has a good looking and running 720 for sale.It is diesel.Pony motor works like new.Wide front,frenders, 3 point hitch. wheel weights and more.Heck of a nice tractor. Interested call 1-641 390 1637.this # will connect you to his wife. I think toms # is 1-641 390 0743. This tractor is ready to work.

Dave DeVlaeminck wrote on Sunday, July 26, 2009 (PDT):

I would like too buy a 720D w/pony motorwide or narrow front end

George McPherson wrote on Saturday, June 13, 2009 (PDT):

We own a 720 Diesel with pony motor start. It runs and drives well. We will be pulling it in a 8500# no turbo class tonight in Baraboo, Wi. We have owned this tractor almost since new. Many years it was our #2 tractor. Then after some time we left it on the mounted corn picker. Used it to open fields for a pull type. Then retired it to the rear of the shed. We have not ever had it in the shop. Mabe we will o/h it in the future. I repainted it a few years ago so it looks good. My son has it cleaned up and running good. Wish us well tonight. I know we will be up against everything with more power. But we will have fun..

cory wrote on Thursday, April 02, 2009 (PDT):

i am interested in one of these tractors doesnt matter wat condition its in email me

M.Schuette wrote on Sunday, February 22, 2009 (PST):

I own a 730 diesel,bought used in 1978 for 3,300.00. It powers a Vermmeer 504I round baler ,since 1994.Great fuel economy!My son-in-law has a 730 gas for winter farm chores.

Bud wrote on Friday, February 20, 2009 (PST):

I have a 720 diesel with a pony engine start and I m looking for a JD trailer type 3 16 s mould board plow. Does anyone have one or know where I can get one Please e-mail me at cagraves at ktis.net. Thank you.

R. McCormick wrote on Sunday, February 01, 2009 (PST):

My Dad had a 730 diesel with the pony engine start, although he always called it the pup engine. Perhaps that term was just a Southern Ontario ruralism. In my opinion, that tractor was the absolute pinnacle of John Deere s output; nothing after comes close. There is no sound more nostalgic than the one produced by pushing its throttle ahead under heavy load. Add the smell of burned diesel fuel and dirt and I m a kid again.

Toby1 wrote on Wednesday, January 14, 2009 (PST):

I am have a tractor like this one here in North Dakota its the fourth one i own. I am only 16 and save all my money from work to buy,restore,maintain my old tractors and implments. Such as my 1880 Little Giant Cane Cutter and International Harvester corn chopper/blower from 1901. This is a great tractor. But i was wondering if any one has a origional condition three point hitch parts for my tractor.Please feel free to e-mail me at beth at flcwilliston.org

daniel m hooverson wrote on Sunday, June 08, 2008 (PDT):

I have a 720 gas. Wide front with 3pt. Anybody know if the gas tractors came with the air cleaner stack like the diesel above Where could I get one E-mail at slickeroo at mwt.net

Welby Foster wrote on Tuesday, May 06, 2008 (PDT):

I owned a 720 electric start diesel - sold it-and sorry I did. Fortunately I was able to buy it back. The serial number is exactly 200 fro the last 720 manufactured.

Ronnie Arwood wrote on Wednesday, February 27, 2008 (PST):

I have been looking for a 730 wide front electric start in good mecanical condition. If you have a good one please let me know thanks, Ronnie

Mark Hoefelmeyer wrote on Sunday, November 04, 2007 (PST):

I recently bought a 720 diesel. It will not go into all gears. Does anyone have any thoughts. Also the cast piece with the gears marked on it is broke, where can I find one. Thanks, Mark

Tim Hadachek wrote on Tuesday, August 14, 2007 (PDT):

I m looking to sell a completely restored 720 LP. The tractor is in great condition and I m asking 6000 for it. Please email me if you are interested and would like more details.

marion g hughs wrote on Wednesday, July 25, 2007 (PDT):

i overhaled my first 720 diesel 2weeks ago enjoyed it 2500 hundred dollars and am looking for another. hove a 70 diesel for sale complete over haul . want another 720

cwjohndeere wrote on Monday, August 14, 2006 (PDT):

Hey ben giroud I have an orig. manual for the 720 and in the trouble shooting section it says if there is fuel getting into the oil that there are 3 probable causes; 1;Leak at injection pump bracket to cylinder block gasket 2;Leak from loose or cracked fuel line from pumps to nozzles 3;Leak from transfer pump I hope this helps

cwjohndeere wrote on Monday, August 14, 2006 (PDT):

I have found a 720 diesel and I am talking the owner into selling it. It has almost new tires sheet metal is completely straight no dents in the grill. One of the guys from my tractor club just sold sold his all orig condition not restored and he got $9000 for it. thats about 3 times more than it cost new I guess the guy that bought it had more money then brains.

Pete Kroll wrote on Saturday, August 12, 2006 (PDT):

Hello, I'm looking for a 730 diesel wide front or standard tractor. Would like to find one in or a state bordering Nebraska. If anyone has anything, please let me know condition and price. Thanks

Stewart Kimmel wrote on Wednesday, August 09, 2006 (PDT):

I am looking to purchase a JD 730 diesel direct start in good condition. Please send price and picture.

Ben Giroud wrote on Monday, May 22, 2006 (PDT):

I have a black dash 720 diesel in show condition with electric start & origional wide front but I recently noticed I am getting fuel in the crankcase whether running or not. Has anyone had this problem with a 720d?? It runs great, has great oil pressure and plenty of power as I have pulled it twice along with my other brands of tractors and done very well. I recently got a diagram of the possible leaking locations and found this was common problem on the older JD 80 diesels. Any comments or possible easy solutions to this problem would be appreciated as I am reluctant to tear into this problem without help.

dwight benson wrote on Tuesday, May 16, 2006 (PDT):

I am looking for a John Deere 70 diesel with a wheatland front end ,if you know of one , email me with details and pics Thanks dwight dwightbenson at wightman.ca

Donavon Lester wrote on Friday, February 24, 2006 (PST):

Need 720d fly wheel... I have a usable pony starting motor for 730d

Jim McFarland wrote on Sunday, August 07, 2005 (PDT):

I have a model JD 730LP that is a good candidate for restoration. I would be willing to trade it for a model L in good condition

Ben Butler wrote on Thursday, May 05, 2005 (PDT):

I have located a 720 diesel that is in need of an overhaul. The owner says it is using oil and has a small amount of coolant in the crankcase. Don't know much about these two cylinders, do the headgaskets go bad, or is it a cracked head?

TONY DRIVER wrote on Sunday, April 24, 2005 (PDT):

LOOKING,FOR FLYWHEEL FOR 720 DIESEL TRACTOR [JOHNDEER]

Matt Gracy wrote on Sunday, February 13, 2005 (PST):

We have a 1961 730 diesel and need a wide front end and fenders. Dad had its since new and I would like to fix it up some

Jon m luther wrote on Saturday, January 29, 2005 (PST):

I worked for a farmer that had 720d poney start loved that tractor fun to run had all the power you needed just sounded good like a powerhouse after runing b johndeeres done a lot of custom work with it

Dave Arneson wrote on Friday, November 19, 2004 (PST):

Can anyone tell Me how much a 720 diesel row crop weighs? Thx

Chris Woodard wrote on Monday, November 15, 2004 (PST):

I have a 1958 720 John Deere Diesel and I am trying to find out how much it's worth. If anyone knows of a place or web site that could tell me I would appreciate you letting me know by sending an email to my E-mail address. It is michigandragon720 at yahoo.com. Thank you.

Matt Sauer wrote on Monday, October 11, 2004 (PDT):

does anybody have parts for sale and where

Derek wrote on Sunday, September 12, 2004 (PDT):

dear writer on june 08th 03, my dad owns a 730 diesel and its not orrdinary it has a cab and duals and more horse power to bein he put 830 rings and injectors in it and he has pulled it againts 820 jds and hasnt lost to one!! it is also one of the last 10 730s made because we checked the serial number and no i wouldnt be afaid to pull it againts yur rusty reds and my advise is to get off of the jd page if yur a farmall fan!!

Loren Flemming wrote on Tuesday, August 03, 2004 (PDT):

We had a 1960 730 gas. Dad sold it in 1985. Found the guy who now owns it. Wanted to buy it back, but he's not about to sell it. He is in the pulling circuit in So. MN. And he's winning.

dave shaffer wrote on Saturday, July 31, 2004 (PDT):

my son and I are looking for jd 730 DIESEL . ANYONE HAVE ANYTHING WE CAN CONSIDER ?

harlen rigsby wrote on Wednesday, July 07, 2004 (PDT):

I have a 720 with pony motor all running with owner's book call (501) 728-4401

miles wrote on Wednesday, May 26, 2004 (PDT):

The '58 model 720 my grandfather bought new was sn#7228339. It was a diesel, electric start. Any information about where this tractor is would be greatly appreciated. Also currently have a '58 model 720 diesel electric start to trade for my grandfather's tractor.

kevin wrote on Sunday, May 23, 2004 (PDT):

I have john deere 720diesel am looking for the putt putt motor,anyone know where i could find one.This tractor is also for sale.

Dale Keesecker wrote on Friday, May 21, 2004 (PDT):

I am in the process of restoring a John Deere 720 diesel for farm use. Does anyone have any parts for this machine? It is a 1956. If you do, I could email you a list of what I am looking for. Prefer new or good used parts. Please email dale at keesecker.com. Thanks.

arlen wahl wrote on Sunday, May 16, 2004 (PDT):

A relative of mine has a JD 730 gas, with the serial numbers 7300008. In other words seems to be the 8th one made. Anyone know of a lower serial Numbered 730 gas?

Denny Jackson wrote on Saturday, May 08, 2004 (PDT):

My dad has an unusual John Deere 70 Wheatland that he must sell due to retirement and health issues. It is a wonderfully comfortable tractor to drive. Does anyone know what a tractor like this is worth?

Blane wrote on Wednesday, December 24, 2003 (PST):

I have a very early 720 diesel that I use for anything that I can and I just bought another 720 diesel that is really late model and it has the fast transmission unlike the other tractor. There is some pictures in the october issue of Green magazine under "720 keeps busy". Right now I am buying cows and hope to buy or rent a farm in the near future.

tom reid wrote on Tuesday, December 02, 2003 (PST):

I have a 70d very good tractor had to do engine job the flywheel came loose from crank the unit is fully restored and the pup works excellent

Jeremy wrote on Thursday, October 02, 2003 (PDT):

I bought a tractor this spring and it is not repainted but looks identical to this one, I have it all repaired and pony and diesel are now running good, my dad just bought a Case 600 deisel and we chained them together and neither could get enough traction, but the 720 really impressed me.

Amanda wrote on Tuesday, June 24, 2003 (PDT):

Is that tractor for sale?? My brother is looking for one for our farm!! Anyone else have one or any interesting ones please feel free to email me at farmgirl15317 at aol.com

Chase Winter wrote on Thursday, June 12, 2003 (PDT):

I bought a 720 diesel on sale with pony motor. It has been setting for 10 years or more. But when you go to start it, starts right up. But the pony does not run. So we pull it. We just got done putting all new oil in it. We are going to restore it this summer. But we are going to work it hard first. But I can't wait to restore though. THANKS

ih all the way wrote on Sunday, June 08, 2003 (PDT):

my 806 and 856 will bet the balls off any john deere. when it comes to hores power. any buty that has a green jd beter sell it. started farming with red bought a 4640 and it blow up. so if it ain't red don't hook it to the sled. go red go red

Bill McLAUGHLIN wrote on Thursday, February 20, 2003 (PST):

Seeing your 730 brought tears to my eyes,when I growing up all we had on the farm was John Deeres, but after I served in the army I came home and my cousin Jack and I went into farming together we were working over 500 acre with two 730 diesels. one like yours and one stanard. never did the two tractors fail us we worked together for 7 years and when jacks health started to fail we got out of farming, we sold both tractors for more than we paid for them, Jacks dead now and I miss him dearly, every time I get around 730's I cry like a baby thinking about the time in my life I was working not only with my cousin but my best friend

justin kubesh wrote on Sunday, January 12, 2003 (PST):

My grandpa recently bought a 1958 720. It is a diesal, it has electric start, it also has fenders,wide front and a 3point. I absulutely love this tractor, I drive it all the time and when you dig in heavy soil it is always a joy to hear it's power.

Gus Smith wrote on Sunday, November 03, 2002 (PST):

I recently bought a 720 Diesel pony start, I love pony engines, does anyone know where to find pistons, rings & liners etc for the pony engine? Thanks

matthew kirbie wrote on Friday, July 12, 2002 (PDT):

looking for a 720D standard w/pony

NeilJ wrote on Monday, July 01, 2002 (PDT):

I have owned 2 720's in the past 10 years and both are a joy to operate. There is nothing like the lugging power of this JD on a 3 or 4 bottom plow in heavy soil.

RV Kerns wrote on Saturday, June 22, 2002 (PDT):

I own a 70D with wide front, 800A 3 pt and long axles with dished wheels. This baby sings. Friend told me of when he was a younger man that he had a 720D and his brother had a 560D ih. Both pulled the same # of bottoms in the gumbo in the Mo river bottoms. The 560 would try to run up and over him but when he hit a tough spot, the ole 720 just kept going but the 560 hit the ta and still lugged down, sometimes having to stop and shift. Fuel consumption is the most economical of any tractor built in hp versus work done versus fuel used. It took a yanmar (jap) engined subcompact tractor in 1984 to beat it. Nothing can touch a deere. Competetion is nice but ya gotta give up sometime. Deere is the only manufacturer to still be wholey it's own. When they make machines like the 70/720/730D that still out perform a lot of newer makes, well keep trying. Yes, they are not as handy or fast as some of the new stuff but for the price, nostolgia, resale and value they deliver, the only tractor that could eclipse it is the 4020.

Shane wrote on Monday, May 06, 2002 (PDT):

I have a 1957 720D great tractor but very noisy, is there any trick to quieting them down or is that the way they are?

l garza wrote on Friday, April 26, 2002 (PDT):

i owm a730 diesel and would want to sell it

Peggy Fischels wrote on Wednesday, April 17, 2002 (PDT):

I have a 730 Diesel that is for sale.

David mohr wrote on Tuesday, March 12, 2002 (PST):

is it for sale

Hilltopper wrote on Saturday, March 02, 2002 (PST):

I have a 720d I have fixed up to use on my small cattle farm. I have been offered the use of a JD 510 round baler. This is a 5x6 baler. Has anyone tried to pull one with a 720d? I was wondering how large a bale it would roll before running out of power? I understand this baler requires 80 Hp minimum.

Pat wrote on Thursday, February 28, 2002 (PST):

We don't have a 720 but we do own a 520 and my Dad and I just finished restoring a 730 and it is in really good shape, this has been my favorite tractor and I can't wait to rake hay this summer w/it.

david bardley wrote on Wednesday, January 16, 2002 (PST):

I have a 720 its cool but i have this problem I lost it

F. Duncan wrote on Thursday, November 15, 2001 (PST):

I have a model 70 JD , diesel with pony starter engine . Wide front end , 3 point hitch . Runs good and sheet metal is all in place . Dad bought it 15-20 years ago from a friend . I wonder what kind of value it may have , best I can tell by the serial # it is a 1953 model . I work it 2-3 times a year and get along fine with it . I am considering selling it , or restoring it . Thanks FD

Jim Vandendries wrote on Wednesday, November 07, 2001 (PST):

I have a John Deere 720 propane and John Deere 60 gas. The 720 needs some attention as I am dealing with now. I would like to possibly buy another one in time. I really enjoy it,as I do farm a little bit and use this tractor for most of my plowing and disking. It needs some powersteering work and I just had the starter rebuilt and put a taper lock flywheel on it.

geral springer wrote on Sunday, October 07, 2001 (PDT):

looking for wide front end for 630 good condition 501 785 4779 where can i get main bearing at good price might sell tractor

Jason wrote on Sunday, September 09, 2001 (PDT):

Everytime I go to a Gas show and hear a two cylinder diesel pull the sled i get sooo exited! They make the baddest sound I have ever heard. It ranks up there with my coon dog treed and a steam engine on a pony brake. I cut teeth on a 420 and a 530 gas on our beef farm so I have always loved the two banger jd's but someday i vowe to have a jd two cylinder deisel. nice pics and great site!

mary theodosis wrote on Wednesday, August 29, 2001 (PDT):

Where can I get prices/$value of these old tractors.

chris wrote on Wednesday, June 20, 2001 (PDT):

my e mail is puuri at hotmail.com thanks

joe wrote on Wednesday, June 20, 2001 (PDT):

i have a copy of that chris but what is your email

chris wrote on Tuesday, June 12, 2001 (PDT):

my uncle has a 720 and the power steering went can anyone send me a copy of a repair manual or tell me how to fix it any help would be greatly appreciated i love 720's i always drive my uncle's i pull a 16ft cultivator 12" deep

Ray Howling wrote on Sunday, June 10, 2001 (PDT):

WANTED; 6 row front mount cultivator 30 inch row for John Deere 730 narrow front.

STAN S. wrote on Wednesday, May 30, 2001 (PDT):

I HAVE TWO JD, FOR SALE. I HAVE NO PLACE IN THE CITY TO PUT THEM, NOW THEY ARE OUT AT MY FRIENDS FARM. HE HAS BEEN ASKING WHEN AM I GOING TO GET THEM MOVED, I HAVE NO PLACE TO PUT THEM, SO THERE FORE I NEED TO SELL,, 1956 720 WITH PONY START WIDE TRACK 3POINT HITCH HYD, PTO, FREE FLOTE SEAT, 1957 820 PONY START WIDE TRACK STANDARD PLOW FREE FLOTE SEAT, THEY NEED MINOR WORK, ASKING $3,500.00 FOR BOTH OBO. IF INTRESTED EMAIL BACK ILL SEND PIX. '' MUST MOVE SOON ''

Ron Fox wrote on Tuesday, May 08, 2001 (PDT):

Would like to know how the foot clutch brake conversion for my old 50 works

Dennis G wrote on Thursday, April 26, 2001 (PDT):

I have a 1957 720 wide front diesel w/pony motor. Does anyone know what type of fenders that would orginally come with this tractor. Clam shell or elephant ears? Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks Dennis G

stan s wrote on Friday, April 20, 2001 (PDT):

I have a 1956 720 with 3point hitch hyd, pto wide track & 820 stdrd. mod, A for sale, 720 & 820 run, A froze up, Good shape, If intrested send email ill send pix.

Gerald REICKS wrote on Wednesday, April 04, 2001 (PDT):

I'am looking for 720 electric start-serial#7228721. If and when I do, I'll have same tractor serial #7226670 to sell.

Larry Underdal wrote on Friday, March 16, 2001 (PST):

I own a 70W best in the world for fun work and play.I get a kick out of someone not understanding our little 2bangers .I tellem its like a Harley, if I have to explain you wouldnt understand. Have fun,be safe.

Theo Brauch wrote on Friday, March 16, 2001 (PST):

I have just gotten a 720 diesel that was on my uncles farm every thing works and it has rockshaft for 3 piont hitch so if any one knows were there might be some arms caqn you let me know hoping to get this old beast back to show room condition in the next little bit.This was the first tractor O I ever sat on at the age of 3 and with any luck it will be the last on.

Dennis Graves wrote on Sunday, December 03, 2000 (PST):

Nice tractor! I have just bought a J.D.720 diesel w/pony motor.I had to overhaul it because previous owner let rain water get in the exhaust pipe.To; Charles Carlisle in N. Carolina I would be interested in the foot clutch set-up.

Arlis Mann wrote on Friday, November 17, 2000 (PST):

I grew up on a 720 gas that my father bought new. We kept it for 20yrs and traded for a 3020D. Great tractor also but would like to bring the 720 back home. #7221623 any help would be appreciated.

Ray Connors wrote on Sunday, November 12, 2000 (PST):

I grew up on Larson Farm in New Milford CT and all we had were John Deere tractors. We had a 720 D electric start row crop that just wouldn't quit. Peter traded it in at Riva equipment in Cannan for a 2020 that I still use. I would love to find that 720 and bring her home again. The only thing on it that stands out is the front housing was missing a piece of the casting by the impliment mounting bolts. I would imagine the tractor went to western mass, eastern NY, or NW Connecticut.

Curt Curl wrote on Wednesday, November 08, 2000 (PST):

I farmed with a 720 diesel for 10 years on 200 acres.Pulled 4-14s and 12 foot equipment,she always done what she was asked and more.I also had a 52 AJohn Deere,I used to have people stop and stare at the two old tractors, surprised that they could still get the job done!I wish that I had never sold them.I miss the magical sounds of the putt putt that they made while running.It brings back alot of memories seeing pictures of the old tractors from around the country.It is very true, nothing runs like an old Deere!

Ches Booth wrote on Friday, October 27, 2000 (PDT):

I currently, own a 1957 John Deere 720 standard diesel tractor. The tractor is used for ploughing and cultivating, annually. I have restored the tractor through my own Machine and customn fabrication business, Dunfiddich Machine Works Inc.

mike hamby wrote on Friday, October 27, 2000 (PDT):

I have growed up around tractors all my life big tractors and small tactors and now at 30 i am a heavy eqepment operator i run late model eqepment but i still love old tractors the jd 720 is my favorte of all tractors my good old dad bought one from a old man whitch who had bought the 720 new and every time the old mam got done useing it he wash it my dad bought the 720 to use he gave 1500 for it it was one of the slickest tractors i ever seen and ran great the pony was kind of hard to start but i guess you had to be smarter than the pony i trid to talk him in to putting a new paint job and makeing look like it came off the show room floor but he made 2500 proft on it and sold it i couid have kicked his ass but it was his i hope to own one soon just like the one pictured above great looking tractor

mike hamby wrote on Friday, October 27, 2000 (PDT):

John Logsdon wrote on Sunday, October 15, 2000 (PDT):

Seeing all the comments on the 720's pulling power reminded me of one that I farmed with during the sixties. We had a new '61 JD 4010 pulling a spinner moldboard with 3 sixteen bottoms in a field following harvest. We were plowing in fourth gear at a depth of about 7 to 8 inches. I wanted to see how the 720 would do and went over and fell into the furrow behind the 4010. This surprized the hired hand but he didn't stop. At the end of the half mile through, the 720 was about 6 lengths behind. Granted I had to keep the 720 real hard at work. The gear on the 720 was just a tiny bit slower and this caused some of the distance. I think the 4010 diesel was and is one of the finest tractors I ever drove; I know the 720 was not in its power class, but It was about as I had figured it to be. Ever wonder which one would outpull the other at the drawbar? I wondered also and my brother and I hooked the 720 to the 4010 with a big chain. I pulled the 720 in 2nd, idled down, he was going to pull me backward with the 4010 in 3rd. I was a little anxious before the start since I didn't have any wheel weights on the 720', the 4010 had two to each wheel. I pulled him all over the place. We tried three different times; same result. When daddy came in and saw the tracks where the 4010 had be dragged, he wanted to know "What was going on out there?" He of course was afraid of a tractor rearing up, but we rode them every day and were too good to have let that happen. I'm retiring the last of this year and am moving back to the contry, got the place bought already, and the first thing I will do is have a nice shop built where I can work on tractors. The second thing is to buy a 720/730 diesel. The 4010, super 88, M-5, M Farmall, UTU (I like punishment), and 1800 Oliver will come asap. I must be crazy, those AC D17s are even looking good to me as well. Well, maybe a Ford, v8 powered would top off the collection. Enjoyed just thinking about the old times. John

John Logsdon wrote on Sunday, October 15, 2000 (PDT):

GTX wrote on Thursday, October 12, 2000 (PDT):

i am looking for one 500.00-100.00 dollars

don hewitt wrote on Sunday, October 08, 2000 (PDT):

if you rent the movie "analize this" there is a 720 in the first min. of this movie. it was rented from a collector from long island ny, i was the actor playing the farmer.i own a 1950 8n.i would like to buy a 2020 diesel......

Cale wrote on Friday, October 06, 2000 (PDT):

Hey guys, I know this is a 720 forum, but does anyone know where a good 710 information source is? I need some parts and have been drawing a blank everywhere I go. Thanks for any help you can give, Cale

SteveMagierka,Jr. wrote on Wednesday, October 04, 2000 (PDT):

Need crankshaft for 720

KenB wrote on Thursday, August 17, 2000 (PDT):

Graham,I have not used a taper lock myself,but have heard only positive remarks about them.There's a fellow named todd that advertises them on his website.But I can't seem to find it now.I wrote his Phone number down though just in case I ever needed it.His number is 615-790-3742 he is in tennessee.I would think the shipping bill would cost as much as the taper lock kit or flywheel though.Hope this helps you.

Graham matthews wrote on Thursday, August 10, 2000 (PDT):

I have a JD730 diesel built in 1961 as an export to Australia ,the tractor has done approx 4000 hrs . The flywheel has come loose and damaged the internal spline ,I have been told taper locks can be fitted can any one help

Wayne wrote on Saturday, July 29, 2000 (PDT):

I'm looking for a replica of the 720 Pony with a narrow front end for my father(We had one years ago). I'd appreciate any help. Thanks.

Howard Sanders wrote on Saturday, July 22, 2000 (PDT):

I have a 720 Propane with pony motor and low original hours. I might be willing to part with it for the right price. It needs paint and tires, but other than that it is pretty good. Howsand at aol.com

Doug wrote on Thursday, July 20, 2000 (PDT):

If anyone is looking for a 720 Wheatland Diesel I have one for sale. It has nice sheet metal, and the tractor runs good. I used it to cut 12 acres of hay. I would like $3950 for it.

Tony Harris wrote on Saturday, July 08, 2000 (PDT):

I purchased a 1959 730 diesel in 1996. It must have been mistreated for many years before I got it. After many hours and tearing it down completely and rebuilding it from the ground up it now runs like an ox. I understand why many folks are proud of their tractors. In a parade last memorial day weekend an older fellow smiled and gave me the thumbs up with a tear in his eye. That made all the hours of working on it and money spent all worth it. I love the sound they make under a load, that bark gets louder. I first heard a two cylinder diesel at two cylinder expo in 1995. I knew then I wanted one, and next year at age 26 is when I purchased my tractor. After 2 1/2 years of work it was complete, only I strongly recamend not restoring a tractor this size in a two car garage.

Bob Collins wrote on Wednesday, April 19, 2000 (PDT):

I have two 730Ds electic start and two 720D one direct start and the other one pony start and a 620. I will be selling a couple of the tractors and I don't know which except one of the 730 will not be sold as it is perfect. One of the 720s the pony start looks like a new tractor as it only has 990 actual hours on it and for the past twenty year was owned by a collector that only showed it. I don't want to sell but my wife thinks 5 tractors is a little much for nine acers. They are the best they made and for the money you can not beat them for working.

Ken Martin wrote on Monday, April 17, 2000 (PDT):

I cut teeth on a 70 gasoline at 12 years old on our western North Dakota sugar beet farm, but when I worked for my uncle one summer he had just got a new/used 720 in its finest paint. I ran this tractor most of the summer plowing a field of alfalfa in gumbo. We had a two bottom spinner plow and ran in fourth gear if I remember right. The land owner insisted that we run his IH 560 gasoline with the 720 -- no contest and what a long locomotive it was. The only way the 560 could keep up was to use the torque amplifier jusdiciously. I also had the distinct honor of starting the 720 diesel backwards twice that I can remember. First time was a real shocker when the oil came flying back in your face from the air cleaner; of course my uncle swinging his arms crosswise took a little figuring out. Loved starting it with the pony motor and there is nothing like hearing the 720 idling in the farm yard while eating a great noon meal. And lugging power - wow! You could lug it down to two pops a second.

Gary & Shirley wrote on Monday, April 03, 2000 (PDT):

We have this exact tractor, and we love it. Anybody need a model GP standard 1929. We have one. We need a 375 J.D. skid steer loader.

William Losey wrote on Friday, March 31, 2000 (PST):

My father and I own a JD 620 witch runs great for not being a diesel but it steers extremely hard because of the manuel steering. We were wanted to know if it was possible to covert it to power steering? If possible how difficult would it be and what would need to complete it? Or if any one knows how to free up the steering so it will turn easier. We have tried every thing we can think. If any one has any ideas please write back. Ps- we would much rather have the power steering.

Harvey DeBoe wrote on Thursday, March 16, 2000 (PST):

I've got a 730 diesel. It isn't restored, but we use it to rake and tedd hay. We also use it to pull trailers with hay on them. It has a problem with the hydraulics, but otherwise it runs well. I can not find the decals for it. if you can help me, please contact me.

N L LLOYD wrote on Sunday, March 05, 2000 (PST):

I HAD A 730 JD REBUILT I AM LOOKING FOR FOR SOME COLOR PICTURES SO I CAN PAINT IT THE SAME AS ORIGINAL. I ALSO HAVE THE DECALS FOR IT. IF SOME ONE COULD HELP I WOULD LIKE TO HERE FROM YOU .

john wren wrote on Sunday, February 27, 2000 (PST):

looking for a 720D wide front or 620/630 wide front john deere

John W. wrote on Sunday, February 27, 2000 (PST):

Here in south central Wisc. it has been a rather mild winter so far. We have only had 4 snowfalls of any significance but to go out in the still of winter, be it night or day, with our JD 630 and plow the driveways in our rural area is a much better alternative than watching tv. The gentle popping sound in the clear cold air is like ....a symphony.

Jason wrote on Friday, February 04, 2000 (PST):

I am searching for a 720 row crop diesel with a gas pony starting engine. Must have good sheetmetal and be in running condition.

Tom Mattingly wrote on Thursday, February 03, 2000 (PST):

Have a 720 with pony. need a ring gear and a few other little things 1957. tractor is in great shape. Going to get it running this spring early . planning on using it to pull JD 24T BALER.Only had it started one day before I had to put it away for winter.

Tom Mattingly wrote on Thursday, February 03, 2000 (PST):

adam wrote on Friday, January 28, 2000 (PST):

can i buy that tractor from you

brian byrd wrote on Sunday, January 23, 2000 (PST):

billy sellers wrote that the 720 had lower gears than the 730 does the service manual or i&t book give gear ratios? we had a 70 and they were a lot diferent that 720 we had thx

john hoover wrote on Sunday, January 02, 2000 (PST):

The 720 diesel has got to be one of the best row crop tractors of all time! If you don't think so give one a try. I have had the privilage of growing up on a farm in the 70's and 80's with a late '58 720D row crop. This tractor is a wide front, pony start work horse. My 720's flywheel came loose in about '93 and my dad left it parked for several years. In '97 my dad told me that if I could get the tractor running I could have it. The 720 was soon hauled across the state to my small farm where I now live. I installed a taper-lock flywheel and rewired the tractor to get it to run. But, as they say that is only part of the story I could talk about this tractor for hours. I dont know why the pony engines always seem to get a bad rap, my pony engine works good and it is still on six volts. I guess there aren't many people out there who love to here a two cylinder Deere started with the little pony ; but I sure do. Most people of my generation have never heard a 720D pulling a one-way sunk to the spools or turning a mixer-mill but boy, have they missed out. All the green blooded boys from where I come from will tell you that a two cylinder diesel says dawnk-dawnk-dawnk not pop-pop-pop like the gassers do. Thanks for the great picture and website.

David Holxwarth wrote on Sunday, December 19, 1999 (PST):

I have been around the two clyinders all my life. The first thing I would try is turning the pressure up a half turn. The next thing I would do is change the oil and filter some times the filters get pluged. If your main bearings are bad you should feel signifant end play and up and down play when the clutch is fully engaged. If all that checks out you probably need to rework the head mainly valve guides. and when you have the head off you will be able to tell if it needs rings.

DOUG wrote on Wednesday, December 01, 1999 (PST):

oil pump is the bottom of the oil pan. Is engine oil going down? If so, crank shaft seal could be leaking oil into transmission. Also could have bad main bearings, that is why it loses pressure when it is warm.

RICK BUCKHOLTZ wrote on Sunday, November 28, 1999 (PST):

RECENTLY GOT A 730 DIESEL THAT NEEDS TO BE REBUILT. ANYONE KNOW ANY TRICKS? WHERE IS THE OIL PUMP? IM NOT 100% SURE IT NEEDS TO BE REBUILT. IT LOSES OIL PRESSURE WHEN HOT. TOLD THE CUSTOMER I WOULD DO IT BUT HATE TO TEAR IT DOWN IF NOT REQUIRED. ANY COMMENTS WOULD BE APPRECIATED!

ANTHONY D. wrote on Thursday, November 25, 1999 (PST):

THERE IS NOTHING BETTER THAN TAKING AN OLD PUT-PUT FOR A RIDE. IT IS SO AMAZING THAT THOSE OLD TRACTORS HAD SUCH PULLING POWER. ANYONE THAT HAS EXPERIENCED THE SOUND OF A TWO LUNGER PULLING ALL IT CAN PULL KNOWS THE ENJOYMENT.

OHMummau wrote on Friday, November 05, 1999 (PST):

I have a 720 Propane, narrow front. Runs great but will sell

mike wrote on Friday, October 29, 1999 (PDT):

I worked summers on a farm when I was in school in Ohio we ran a few hundred acres with a 730 narrow front end this was our plowing and fitting tractor it was a beast it would out plow the guy next door's 90 h.p Deutz 4 wheel drive also had a 630 gas wide front and a MT .I am buying a 420 to use around the yard and restore to bring back some fond memories ---pop-pop-pop

John Walters wrote on Thursday, October 28, 1999 (PDT):

I have a '38 G that i use for antique pulling and a 630 Row Crop that i use for plowing events with our 2 cyl club and find the amenities like power steering, hydraulics, electric starting, to be very nice features. At the end of the day you still can feel like socializing.

DAVID SMITH & SISSY wrote on Saturday, October 23, 1999 (PDT):

WE HAVE THE 2ND JD 720 DIESEL EAST OF THE MISSISSIPPI, THAT MY UNCLE BOUGHT NEW IN 57'. I THINK IT IS ONE OF THE BEST TRACTORS THAT JD EVER BUILT.

Billy W.Sellers wrote on Sunday, July 25, 1999 (PDT):

I owned and operated both the 720 & 730 diesels. Both were great working and pulling tractors and the fuel econmy was great. The 720 had the lower geared transmission which made it better for heavy work. It also had the pony starting engine that made it much better for winter starts.

Don Wilson wrote on Tuesday, June 22, 1999 (PDT):

Summers between college I worked for a farmer who had a 730 diesel. It drove well and I grew to enjoy operating it. On hot days when clusters of gnats would swarm over the hood I discovered that depressing the valve de-compression pedal, causing thick black smoke to roll out the exhaust would quickly disperse the little rascals!

ralph braun wrote on Monday, June 07, 1999 (PDT):

my dad had a 70 diesle we used it for everything on the farm. he put a long strait pipe on the exh, so you could stand up while driving it and not get smoked out. then he bought a 730 diesle with electric start. i thought i was in heven! no more trying to start the tractor with the "pony" motor. my brothers and i bought him a collectors 730 model for his birthay this year.some day i hope to find a 70 or 730 to restore.

Arnold Ziebarth wrote on Thursday, June 03, 1999 (PDT):

I have two of them, both narrow fronts, pony starts, run and pull good.

David Shroyer wrote on Thursday, May 27, 1999 (PDT):

First JD I drove was a 720, except it had a narrow front. And I liked it.

SHOP FOR PARTS	SHOP FOR MANUALS

Same-Day Shipping! Most of our stocked parts ship the same day you order (M-F). Expedited shipping available, just call! Most prices for parts and manuals are below our competitors. Compare our super low shipping rates! We've kept the same low rate for six years. We are a Company you can trust and have generous return policies! Shop Online Today or call our friendly sales staff toll free (800) 853-2651. [ More Info ]

Home | Forums

Copyright © 1997-2024 Yesterday's Tractor Co.
All Rights Reserved. Reproduction of any part of this website, including design and content, without written permission is strictly prohibited. Trade Marks and Trade Names contained and used in this Website are those of others, and are used in this Website in a descriptive sense to refer to the products of others.

TRADEMARK DISCLAIMER: Tradenames and Trademarks referred to within these website pages are the property of their respective trademark holders. None of these trademark holders are affiliated with TractorShed.com, our products, or our website nor are we sponsored by them. John Deere and its logos are the registered trademarks of the John Deere Corporation. Agco, Agco Allis, White, Massey Ferguson and their logos are the registered trademarks of AGCO Corporation. Case, Case-IH, Farmall, International Harvester, New Holland and their logos are registered trademarks of CNH Global N.V.

Antique John Deere Tractor: JD 720 Diesel

Comments on this Tractor

Use This Form to Add Your Own Comments or Questions