Production years
2010-current
John Deere planter ยท 2010-current
John Deere DB60 Planter
The John Deere DB60 is a 60-foot drawn, front-fold row-crop planter for high-acreage corn and soybean operations. It is most commonly seen as a 24-row, 30-inch machine and is valued for its large-capacity, precision-capable Deere-Bauer platform.
Planter type
Drawn, three-section front-fold row-crop planter
Row configurations
24R30, 36R20, 24R20, plus split-row 15-inch versions
Metering system
Vacuum, with MaxEmerge 5/5e or ExactEmerge row-unit options by year
John Deere DB60 specifications
| Production years | 2010-current |
|---|---|
| Planter type | Drawn, three-section front-fold row-crop planter |
| Row configurations | 24R30, 36R20, 24R20, plus split-row 15-inch versions |
| Metering system | Vacuum, with MaxEmerge 5/5e or ExactEmerge row-unit options by year |
| Seed types | Corn, soybeans, edible beans, sorghum, sunflowers, and other crops with correct disks |
| Frame | 60-ft three-section front-fold frame, 15 degrees of wing flex up/down |
| Seed capacity | Row hoppers or CCS bulk fill, commonly 100 or 130 bu depending on configuration |
| Weight | About 30,840 lb empty for a current 24R30; confirm by configuration and equipment |
What the DB60 is used for
The DB60 was designed for large row-crop farms that need 60-foot planting capacity in corn, soybeans, and similar precision-planted crops. Its most familiar layout is 24 rows on 30-inch centers, although narrow-row and split-row versions serve soybean-focused operations.
Today it remains a capable high-acreage planter, especially when equipped with row shutoffs, hydraulic or pneumatic downforce, and modern monitoring. It requires substantial tractor power and hydraulic capacity, so it is best matched to a properly equipped large-frame tractor.
Why the John Deere DB60 stands out
The DB60 is notable for combining a narrow front-fold transport package with a broad working width, flexible frame, and Deere's widely supported MaxEmerge and ExactEmerge row-unit systems. Its strong dealer and aftermarket support makes it practical to update older units with modern seed monitoring, electric drives, downforce control, and row-cleaner equipment.
Buying a used John Deere DB60
Identify the exact row-unit generation, hopper or CCS arrangement, and meter type before comparing machines. Check the center-frame pivots, fold cylinders, wheel modules, hydraulic hoses, CCS fan and distribution components, row-unit parallel arms, gauge-wheel arms, opener-disc bearings, closing wheels, seed-tube sensors, vacuum seals, and electrical harnesses. On ExactEmerge machines, verify belt condition, brush wear, and controller operation; on all versions, confirm configuration-specific weight and tractor hydraulic requirements with the operator manual or dealer.
John Deere DB60 frequently asked questions
What is the most common DB60 configuration?
The common configuration is 24 rows on 30-inch spacing, giving a 60-foot working width.
Does a DB60 use vacuum metering?
Yes. DB60 planters use vacuum meters, with MaxEmerge or ExactEmerge row units depending on model year and specification.
Is a DB60 suitable for a smaller tractor?
Usually no. Deere lists high horsepower and hydraulic requirements; confirm the exact planter's requirements before purchase.
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 planters vary by condition, use, and region. Page updated Aug 4, 2026.