Production years
About 1962-1971 (commonly cited; verify by serial number)
John Deere baler ยท About 1962-1971 (commonly cited production span; the 24T was replaced by the John Deere 336, so confirm the exact build year from the serial number plate)
John Deere 24T Baler
The John Deere 24T is a PTO-driven small square baler that ties conventional rectangular hay bales with twine, which is what the "T" designation stands for. It was built in the 1960s and into the early 1970s as a mid-size machine for family hay operations, and it earned a lasting reputation for simple, durable mechanicals and easy field serviceability. It makes the standard small-square bale format that stacks and handles easily by hand.
Baler type
Small square baler, conventional rectangular bales
Bale size
14 x 18 in cross-section, adjustable length (roughly 12 to 50 in)
Power required
Roughly a 2-plow tractor, about 25 to 30 PTO hp commonly cited; more on heavy, damp windrows
John Deere 24T specifications
| Production years | About 1962-1971 (commonly cited; verify by serial number) |
|---|---|
| Baler type | Small square baler, conventional rectangular bales |
| Bale size | 14 x 18 in cross-section, adjustable length (roughly 12 to 50 in) |
| Tying | Twine tie, two twine knotters (the T model; no wire) |
| Pickup width | About 53 in inside, extending to roughly 62 in at the flares (per operator manual) |
| Power required | Roughly a 2-plow tractor, about 25 to 30 PTO hp commonly cited; more on heavy, damp windrows |
| Weight | Approximately 2,400 lb with PTO drive, about 2,650 lb with the optional engine |
| Drive | Tractor PTO driven (540 rpm), ground-hitch towed |
What the 24T is used for
The 24T was designed to pick up windrowed hay, such as grass hay, alfalfa, and mixed forage, and compress it into uniform small square bales sized for hand stacking on wagons and in barns. It suited small to mid-size family farms that wanted their own baling capability without moving up to a large machine, and it pairs well with utility tractors in the 25 to 50 hp range.
Today owners value the 24T as an affordable, easy-to-run baler for hobby farms, horse-hay producers, and anyone still making small squares. Parts availability through the used market and the straightforward mechanical layout make it practical to keep running, and many are still baling after decades of seasonal use.
Why the John Deere 24T stands out
The 24T is notable for its simplicity and longevity. It uses a proven twine knotter design and a rugged plunger and pickup that are relatively easy to understand, adjust, and repair in the field, which is a big reason so many survive in working condition. Its modest power requirement lets it run behind common utility tractors, and its standard small-square bale format keeps it useful wherever hand-handled bales are still wanted. Strong demand for good running examples reflects that reliability and the continued availability of many wear parts.
Buying a used John Deere 24T
When buying a used 24T, watch the twine knotters closely, since knotter wear, worn twine discs, billhook and knife condition, and incorrect twine tension are the most common sources of missed or loose ties, so ask to see it tie in the field if possible. Inspect the pickup for missing or bent teeth and worn pickup bearings, check the plunger and knotter drive for play, and look at the driveline, slip clutch, and PTO shaft for wear or slop. Also examine chains, sprockets, and needle timing and condition, and confirm the needles clear the plunger correctly. Any figure or adjustment you are unsure of should be checked against the original operator and service manual for this model.
John Deere 24T frequently asked questions
What size bales does the John Deere 24T make?
It makes conventional small square bales with a 14 x 18 in cross-section and an adjustable length (roughly 12 to 50 in), which is the standard small-square format. Confirm the exact length settings for your machine in the operator manual.
How much PTO horsepower do I need to run a 24T?
The operator manual calls for roughly a 2-plow tractor, and it is commonly run on about 25 to 30 PTO horsepower, though heavy or damp windrows and hilly ground call for more. Verify the recommendation for your specific machine in the operator manual before matching it to a tractor.
Is the 24T a good baler and what usually goes wrong?
It is widely regarded as a simple, durable small square baler that is easy to service. The most common issues are twine tie problems traced to worn or mistimed knotters and twine tension, plus normal pickup, bearing, and driveline wear, all of which are usually repairable with common used parts.
Specifications are commonly cited figures for general reference; exact figures vary by year and serial number, so confirm against TractorData.com and the machine's records. Values and prices of used balers vary by condition, use, and region. Page updated Aug 4, 2026.