John Deere tractor · 1969-1970

John Deere 4520 Tractor

The John Deere 4520 is a high-horsepower New Generation row-crop tractor built from 1969 to 1970, with a turbocharged six-cylinder diesel and about 123 PTO horsepower. It is notable as Deere's first row-crop tractor with a factory-installed turbocharger and remains highly collectible.

Production years

1969-1970

Engine

John Deere, turbocharged 6-cylinder diesel, 404 cu in

Power

123.39 PTO hp tested

Weight

Approx. 12,285 lb shipping

John Deere 4520 specifications

Production years	1969-1970
Engine	John Deere, turbocharged 6-cylinder diesel, 404 cu in
Power	123.39 PTO hp tested
Transmission	8-speed Syncro-Range or 8-speed Power Shift
Weight	Approx. 12,285 lb shipping
Fuel type	Diesel
Hydraulics	Closed-center, 2,250 psi
PTO	Independent 1000 rpm

What the 4520 is used for

The 4520 was designed for large row-crop farms needing more capacity for tillage, planting, and heavy PTO work. It offered strong turbocharged performance in a familiar New Generation chassis.

Today it appears at collector shows, vintage field days, and occasional farm work. Its limited production makes preservation and correct restoration especially important to many owners.

Why the John Deere 4520 stands out

The 4520 is historically important as John Deere's first factory-turbocharged row-crop tractor. Its short production run, distinctive sound, and broad Deere parts and enthusiast support make it a major New Generation collector model.

Buying a used John Deere 4520

Early 4520s were known for air-cleaner and fuel-injector problems, so inspect intake components, injector history, starting, oil pressure, and turbo condition closely. Drive-test every transmission range, verify PTO and hydraulics under load, and inspect brakes, steering, differential lock, and electrical systems. Confirm options and serial information through TractorData.com or John Deere serial-number records.

John Deere 4520 frequently asked questions

How much horsepower does a John Deere 4520 have?

Nebraska testing recorded 123.39 PTO horsepower.

Why is the John Deere 4520 notable?

It was John Deere's first row-crop tractor with a factory-installed turbocharger.

What years was the John Deere 4520 made?

John Deere produced it from 1969 through 1970.

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 tractors vary by condition and region. Page updated Aug 4, 2026.

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