Production years
Approx. 1971-1980 (confirm by serial number)
John Deere baler ยท Approximately 1971-1980 (confirm exact serial-year with a dealer or the operator manual)
John Deere 336 Baler
The John Deere 336 is a PTO-driven small square baler that makes conventional rectangular ("square") hay bales with a 14 by 18 inch cross-section. Built during the 1970s as part of Deere's long-running small square baler family, it earned a reputation as a simple, dependable, and widely serviceable machine. It remains a staple on small and mid-size hay operations and is one of the most commonly found used Deere balers today.
Baler type
Small square (rectangular) baler, PTO driven
Bale size (cross-section)
14 x 18 in; bale length adjustable
Power required
Commonly cited around 45 PTO hp minimum; confirm for your terrain and crop
John Deere 336 specifications
| Production years | Approx. 1971-1980 (confirm by serial number) |
|---|---|
| Baler type | Small square (rectangular) baler, PTO driven |
| Bale size (cross-section) | 14 x 18 in; bale length adjustable |
| Pickup width | About 60 in (commonly cited; verify on the unit) |
| Power required | Commonly cited around 45 PTO hp minimum; confirm for your terrain and crop |
| Weight (approximate) | Roughly 2,700-2,900 lb; confirm with operator manual |
| Tying | Twine tie with knotters (wire-tie version also available) |
| Plunger action | Reciprocating plunger; typical Deere small-baler stroke rate, confirm in manual |
What the 336 is used for
The 336 was designed to pick up windrowed dry hay such as grass, alfalfa, and mixed forage and compress it into uniform 14 by 18 inch bales that are easy to handle, stack, and transport by hand or with an elevator. It suited small and mid-size family operations that needed a manageable, tractor-powered baler rather than a large commercial machine, and it pairs well with utility tractors in the mid horsepower range.
Owners today still value the 336 for light to moderate hay-making, hobby farms, horse-hay production, and straw baling. Its straightforward mechanical design, availability of parts, and easy field serviceability make it a practical choice for those who want a reliable used baler they can maintain themselves.
Why the John Deere 336 stands out
The 336 is notable for its blend of simplicity, durability, and strong parts support. Because Deere produced this family of small square balers in large numbers over many years, replacement parts, knotter components, and service knowledge are widely available, which keeps used units running affordably. Many operators cite consistent bale formation and dependable knotter performance when the machine is properly maintained, and well-kept examples tend to hold their value and resale interest on the used market.
Buying a used John Deere 336
When inspecting a used 336, focus on the wear points that matter most on small square balers. Check the pickup for missing, bent, or worn teeth and confirm the pickup turns freely. Examine the knotters and needles closely, since knotter wear, worn twine discs, bent needles, and incorrect twine tension are the most common causes of missed or loose ties; ask to see it tie a few bales if possible. Inspect the plunger and its bearings for slop, listen for knocks in the driveline and PTO shaft, and check the main drive components, chains, sprockets, and flywheel clutch for wear. Verify the shear bolt setup, look over belts and bearings for play or noise, and confirm the bale tension and length-control mechanisms work. Always confirm model-specific settings and specifications against the operator manual or a Deere dealer before buying.
John Deere 336 frequently asked questions
What size bales does the John Deere 336 make?
It makes conventional small square (rectangular) bales with a 14 by 18 inch cross-section, and the bale length is adjustable. Actual weight per bale depends on crop, moisture, and tension settings.
How much tractor horsepower do I need to run a 336?
A commonly cited figure is around 45 PTO horsepower as a practical minimum, though needs vary with crop density, windrow size, and terrain. Confirm the recommended power for your conditions in the operator manual or with a dealer.
Is the John Deere 336 a good baler, and are parts still available?
Yes, it has a long-standing reputation as a simple, reliable small square baler, and because it was produced in large numbers, parts and service knowledge are widely available. The most common issues are knotter or twine-tie problems and normal wear on pickup teeth, needles, belts, and bearings, most of which are manageable with routine maintenance and correct adjustment.
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.