Production years
2008-present
John Deere grain drill ยท 2008-present
John Deere 1520 Grain Drill
The John Deere 1520 is a 15-foot, three-point-mounted box grain drill designed for small to mid-size acreage. It is a modern conventional-tillage drill known for simple fluted-feed metering, double-disc openers, and practical 15-foot field coverage.
Working width
15 ft
Row spacing
6, 7.5, or 10 in.
Number of openers/rows
30 at 6 in.; 24 at 7.5 in.; 18 at 10 in.
John Deere 1520 specifications
| Production years | 2008-present |
|---|---|
| Drill type | Three-point box grain drill |
| Working width | 15 ft |
| Row spacing | 6, 7.5, or 10 in. |
| Number of openers/rows | 30 at 6 in.; 24 at 7.5 in.; 18 at 10 in. |
| Opener type | 13.5-in. offset double-disc openers |
| Seed and fertilizer boxes | 42-bu plain grain box; grass-seed attachment available |
| Weight (approximate) | 3,210 lb |
What the 1520 is used for
The 1520 is intended for wheat, oats, barley, forage seed, small grains, and cover crops in conventional or minimum-till seedbeds. Its three-point mounting makes it a good fit for operators who want a compact drill without a pull-type cart.
Today, owners value its simple setup, manageable size, and dependable seed placement. It is especially practical where fields are smaller or where transport and storage space favor a rigid 15-foot drill.
Why the John Deere 1520 stands out
The 1520 stands out as a straightforward 15-foot drill with 6-, 7.5-, and 10-inch spacing choices, fluted-feed cups, and double-disc openers with press wheels. Deere parts availability and the simple mechanical design are major advantages for long-term ownership.
Buying a used John Deere 1520
Check that all three-point hitch mounting points and frame members are straight, then inspect disc openers, bearings, seed boots, tubes, press wheels, and depth-adjustment hardware. Examine fluted-feed cups, feed-shaft adjustment screws, chains, sprockets, drive tires, and the grain-box floor for corrosion or leakage. Verify whether hydraulic down pressure, a grass seeder, or monitor equipment is installed and functioning.
John Deere 1520 frequently asked questions
How many rows does a John Deere 1520 have?
It has 30 rows at 6-inch spacing, 24 rows at 7.5-inch spacing, or 18 rows at 10-inch spacing.
Is the 1520 suitable for no-till?
It is primarily a conventional-tillage or minimum-till drill. Confirm the exact opener and coulter configuration before planning no-till use.
How much seed does the 15-foot 1520 grain box hold?
The standard 15-foot plain grain box is commonly listed at 42 bushels.
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 grain drills vary by condition, use, and region. Page updated Aug 4, 2026.