Production: 1958 -
1960
Contents:
|
| Manufacturer: | John Deere |
| Type: | Utility tractor |
| Factory: | Dubuque, Iowa, USA |
| Total built: | 1,091 |
| 330U Total built: | 247 |
| 330S Total built: | 844 |
| Original price: | $2,200 (1960 ) |
|
| 330S: | Standard |
| 330U: | Utility |
|
| Belt (claimed): | 21.5 hp 16.0 kW |
| Plows: | 2 (12-inch) |
|
| Chassis: | 4x2 2WD |
| Steering: | manual |
| Brakes: | differential mechanical disc |
| Cab: | Open operator station. |
| Transmission: | 4-speed unsynchronized gear |
|
| Fuel: | 10.5 gal 39.7 L |
| Hydraulic system: | 1.1 gal 4.2 L |
| 1.4 gal 5.3 L (dual) |
|
| Type: | Touch-O-Matic |
| Capacity: | 1.1 gal 4.2 L |
| 1.4 gal 5.3 L (dual) |
| Valves: | 1 or 2 |
|
| Rear Type: | I |
| Control: | Load-and-Depth control |
|
| Rear PTO: | transmission |
| Rear RPM: | 550 |
|
| Location: | Serial number tag on the left side of the 330, just behind the clutch housing. |
| |
| 1958: | 330001 |
| 1959: | 330171 |
| 1960: | 330935 |
| Final: | 331091 |
|
| Ground: | positive |
| Charging system: | generator |
| Battery volts: | 6 |
|
| John Deere |
| gasoline |
| 2-cylinder |
| liquid-cooled |
| Displacement: | 100.5 ci 1.6 L |
| Bore/Stroke: | 4.00x4.00 inches 102 x 102 mm |
| Fuel system: | Marvel-Schebler TSX-245 carburetor |
| Compression: | 6.5:1 |
| Rated RPM: | 1650 |
| Firing order: | 1-2 |
| Starter volts: | 6 |
| Oil capacity: | 5 qts 4.7 L |
| Coolant capacity: | 14 qts 13.2 L |
|
| Transmission: | John Deere |
| Type: | unsynchronized gear |
| Gears: | 4 forward and 1 reverse |
|
| 330S Wheelbase: | 70 inches 177 cm |
| 330U Wheelbase: | 77.75 inches 197 cm |
| 330S Length: | 115.75 inches 294 cm |
| 330U Length: | 119.25 inches 302 cm |
| 330S Width: | 53.5 inches 135 cm |
| 330U Width: | 55.5 inches 140 cm |
| 330S Shiping weight: | 2,650 lbs 1202 kg |
| 330U Shiping weight: | 2,750 lbs 1247 kg |
| 330S Ground clearance: | 21 inches 53 cm |
| 330U Ground clearance: | 11 inches 27 cm |
| 330S Front tread: | 40.1 to 55 inches 101 to 139 cm |
| 330U Front tread: | 43 to 55 inches 109 to 139 cm |
| 330S Rear tread: | 38.75 to 54.25 inches 98 to 137 cm |
| 330U Rear tread: | 40.9 to 56.4 inches 103 to 143 cm |
In 1958, John Deere introduced the Model 330, replacing its predecessor, the 320, in the lineup of tractors. The 330 series consisted of only two rubber-wheel configurations: the Standard and Utility models. This tractor stood out from the rest of the John Deere lineup at the time due to its extensive list of optional equipment, making it a versatile choice for farmers with specific needs.
One distinctive feature of the John Deere 330 was its wide range of optional equipment. Unlike other John Deere tractors of the era, nearly everything on the 330 was optional, including the power take-off (PTO), drawbar, and 3-point hitch. Even hydraulics and the rockshaft were not standard equipment, leaving those without them to face a plate covering the gear opening on the front of the block where the hydraulic pump would typically be located. Beyond these essential features, farmers could choose additional options such as wheel weights and lights. Remarkably, a John Deere 330 without a 3-point hitch or drawbar was not necessarily altered or modified; it was merely a reflection of the tractor's extensive customization potential.
The John Deere 330, much like its predecessor, the 320, was constructed using existing parts from the Deere and Company inventory. While the tractor shared sheet metal components with the 430 series, its engine came from the 430 line, using the same M transmission as the 320 and model 40 final drives. This allowed the 330 to boast more horsepower than the previous 320 models, all while maintaining affordability as a low-cost tractor, following in the footsteps of its predecessor.
One significant change introduced with the 330 was its new dash design, featuring an upward slant and steering arrangement inspired by the phase 3 420 models. The controls were revamped for operator comfort, marking a significant improvement in user-friendliness. Additionally, the elimination of the top engine oil fill and breather allowed for a sleeker hood and an entirely new grill nose design. These cosmetic changes gave the John Deere 330 a distinct appearance, setting it apart from its predecessors and showcasing the ingenuity of Deere's engineering team.
Today, the John Deere 330 holds a special place in the hearts of tractor enthusiasts. While other models or configurations may have had lower production numbers, the 330 is highly sought after by collectors and restorers alike. Its unique combination of customizable options, improved aesthetics, and historical significance makes it a valuable piece of agricultural machinery history.
Although an industrial version (330I) was not officially offered, some unconventional color schemes emerged, such as yellow and red, likely as special orders or custom conversions. Records are unclear about the extent of these variations, but they add to the mystique surrounding the John Deere 330.
Production of the John Deere 330 commenced in July 1958 for the 1959 model year and continued until February 1960. A total of 1,091 units were built, with serial numbers ranging from 330001 to 331091. The 330 was exclusively equipped with a gasoline engine and a 4-speed transmission. Optional accessories, like a belt pulley for the PTO shaft, allowed further customization to meet the specific needs of individual farmers.
The John Deere 330 stands as a testament to the innovation and versatility of Deere and Company. With its extensive list of optional equipment, improved design, and unique variations, this tractor has earned its place in agricultural history as a collector's gem. Its legacy lives on through the passionate community of tractor enthusiasts who continue to appreciate and preserve this iconic piece of American farming machinery.
