John Deere 720 Tractor
The John Deere 720 is a powerful late two-cylinder tractor, rated at 53 hp drawbar and 59 hp PTO. It is a strong choice for collectors and period farm work, provided the buyer identifies the exact gasoline, all-fuel, LP-gas, or diesel version and verifies details with TractorData.com.
John Deere 720 specifications
| Production years | 1956-1958 |
|---|---|
| Built in | Waterloo, Iowa, USA |
| Engine | 2-cylinder: 5.9 L gasoline, all-fuel, or LP gas; 6.2 L diesel |
| Power | 53 hp claimed drawbar; 59 hp claimed PTO |
| Transmission | 6-speed unsynchronized gear |
| Drive | 2WD |
| Fuel type | Gasoline, all-fuel, LP gas, or diesel |
| Weight | About 6,790 lb |
What the 720 is used for
The 720 is suited to serious period drawbar work, plowing, hay equipment, belt work, and tractor-show use. Its 53-hp drawbar rating places it well above the smaller letter-series tractors.
A live 540-rpm PTO and Category II hitch broaden its usefulness with compatible implements. Most examples are open-station 2WD machines, and power steering was optional rather than universal.
Why the John Deere 720 stands out
The 720 represents the mature two-cylinder Deere era, with a 6-speed gearbox, live PTO, and four available fuel types. It was sold in row-crop, standard-tread, and high-crop forms, and 22,925 row-crop tractors were built.
Buying a used John Deere 720
Determine the exact fuel system first, especially on diesel models, because starting equipment and electrical arrangements differ from gasoline and LP versions. Inspect the pony-start or electric-start diesel system as applicable, clutch and transmission operation, hydraulic functions, PTO, brakes, cooling system, and evidence of correct maintenance; verify whether optional power steering is present and functional.
John Deere 720 frequently asked questions
How much power does a John Deere 720 have?
The 720 is rated at 53 hp claimed drawbar power and 59 hp claimed PTO power.
What fuel types were offered for the John Deere 720?
John Deere offered gasoline, all-fuel, LP-gas, and diesel versions.
Does the John Deere 720 have live PTO?
Yes. It has a live 540-rpm rear PTO.
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.