Large agricultural tractors such as the John Deere 4430 were produced by JD during the seventies for four years, beginning in 1973 and ending in 1977. It is a member of the 4030 series of tractors, including the John Deere 4230, a smaller model, and the John Deere 4630, a larger model.
The John Deere 4430 is an excellent tractor for people with a lot of space to work with. If you have a farm or land that you need to tend to and maintain, this tractor will be a great asset to your business. And because it’s from John Deere, you know you’re getting quality equipment that will last for more years.
The table below is a summary of John Deere 4430’s specifications:
| Model | 6404 T |
| Engine Weight | 1082 lbs. or 491 kg |
| Type | Row-crop tractor |
| Horsepower | 125.9 HP |
| Fuel | Diesel |
| Number of Cylinders | 6 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 46 gal or 174 liters |
| Engine Oil Capacity | 4.3 gallons or 16.1 liters |
| Coolant Capacity | 7.5 gallons or 28.4 liters |
| Transmission System and Type | John Deere Power Shift; Full Power Shift |
| Steering System | Power steering |
| Braking System | Hydraulic wet disc |
| Wheel Drive | 4×2 2WD |
| Type | Horizontal shaft & liquid-cooled |
| Speed | 2200 RPM |
| Maximum Torque | 1300 – 1500 RPM |
| Combustion | Direct injection |
| Starter Type | 12V Electric |
| Battery Voltage and CCA | 6 V; 800 CCA |
| Compression Ratio | 15.5:1 |
| Air Cleaner | Dry type |
| Cooling System | Pressurized w/ centrifugal pump |
| Rotation Direction | Counter-clockwise |
Read on to find out more about the John Deere 4430 tractor and what it has to offer.
John Deere 4430 Review and Specs
Large farms that require a strong tractor with the pulling ability of the JD 4430 are far more likely to have this powerful tractor than smaller farms. This is because smaller farms do not typically require a tractor of this type.
Rarely found in two-wheel and four-wheel drive configurations, the JD 4430 tractor features a three-point hitch, a power take-off (PTO) capacity of 125 horsepower (93 kW), and an estimated power output of 142 horsepower (106 kW).
You can choose between the John Deere 4430 and the 4430 Hi-Crop. Either model is equipped to handle whatever challenge you present and will get you to your destination in one piece:
| Model | John Deere 4430 |
| Series | Generation 2 |
| Years Manufactured | 1973 to 1977 |
| Type | Row-crop tractor |
| Row-crop | 4430 |
| High Clearance | 4430 Hi-Crop |
Engine Specs
| Model | 6404 T |
| Engine Weight | 1082 lbs. or 491 kg |
| ESN | 215000-335845 block marked (R43310, R45980, R47020, R47110) |
| Number of Cylinders | 6 |
| Type | Horizontal shaft & liquid-cooled |
| Speed | 2200 RPM |
| Maximum Torque | 1300 – 1500 RPM |
| Minimum Bare Speed | 800 RPM |
| Maximum Bare Speed | 2400 RPM |
| Combustion | Direct injection |
| Injection Pump Timing | TDC |
| Injection Pump Type | Multiple plunger in-line |
| Cooling System | Pressurized w/ centrifugal pump |
| Rotation Direction | Counter-clockwise |
| Compression Ratio | 15.5:1 |
| Air Cleaner | Dry type |
| Starter | 12V Electric |
| Firing Order | 1-5-3-6-2-4 |
More JD 4430 Engine Specifications
| Metric | US | |
| Horsepower | 93.9 kW | 125.9 HP |
| Bore and Stroke | 10.8 × 12.1 cm | 4.25 × 4.75 inches |
| Displacement | 6620 cc | 404 cu inches |
| Head Torque | 155.9 Nm | 115 ft-lb |
| Main Torque | 203.4 Nm | 150 ft-lb |
| Rod Torque | 74.6 Nm | 55 ft-lb |
| Coolant Capacity | 28.4 liters | 7.5 gallons |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 174.0 liters | 46.0 gallons |
| Engine Oil Capacity | 16.1 liters | 4.3 gallons |
Power Take-Off (PTO)
| PTO Control | Manual |
| PTO Power | 540 – 1000 RPM |
| PTO Type | Independent Type |
| PTO Direction | Clockwise |
Transmission
| Type | Full, partial power shift; Partially synchronized |
| Gears | 16 forward & 6 reverse; 8 forward & 2 reverse; 8 forward & 4 reverse |
| Clutch | Hydraulic wet discs; Perma-Clutch hydraulic wet disc |
| Oil Capacity | 40 qt (37.9 L); 44 qt (41.6 L) |
| Transmission | John Deere Power Shift; John Deere Quad-Range; John Deere Syncro-Range |
John Deere 4430 Weight
| US | Metric | |
| Weight with CAB | 10750 lbs. | 4876 kg |
| Weight with ROPS | 9750 lbs. | 4422 kg |
| Maximum (Ballasted) Weight | 15050 lbs. | 6827 kg |
| Operating Weight | 11340 lbs. | 5143 kg |
John Deere 4430 HP
| Drawbar (Claimed) | 108.46 hp; 80.9 kW |
| Drawbar (Tested) | 104.99 hp; 78.3 kW |
| PTO (Claimed) | 125.88 hp; 93.9 kW |
| PTO (Tested) | 125.88 hp; 93.9 kW |
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John Deere 4430 Price
The John Deere 4430 prices shown in the table below are as of December 2021, so these prices may vary according to time and location:
| John Deere Tractor Model | Hours | Price |
| 1977 John Deere 4430 | 5800 | $31,500 |
| 1976 John Deere 4430 | 4500 | $28,300 |
| 1975 John Deere 4430 | 6000 | $25,000 |
| 1974 John Deere 4430 | 1000 | $20,000 |
| 1973 John Deere 4430 | 4000 | $17,500 |
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Are Old Tractors Like the JD 4430 Worth It?
If you’re a farmer looking for a bargain, why not go with a tractor from the 1970s like the John Deere 4430? You may have heard that tractors from this era are declining in popularity, but that’s not true.
They’re just being used by more cost-conscious farmers who want a well-built machine that won’t break the bank.
Old Tractors Are Simple Yet Fully Functional
These tractors are fully functional, easy to repair, and don’t run on complex software like newer models. Their simplicity makes them ideal for farms where time is necessary, and money is tight.
If that sounds like you, then the ’70s tractor like the John Deere 4430 is a great choice. It’s also a good choice, especially if you’re looking for a classic vehicle to restore or collect.
Sought After by Collectors and Restorers
In general, the older models are more sought after than, the newer ones. Tractors from the ’70s to ’80s are popular with collectors and restorers because they were built to last and many people still use them today.
These tractors were also manufactured in large numbers, so you’ll find plenty of them at auction or sold by dealerships specializing in old tractors.
Again, what years did they make the 4430 John Deere? John Deere produced John Deere 4430 tractors from 1971 to 1977. This tractor is great for farmers who maintain a large piece of land.
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Tips When Buying a Used John Deere 4430
Buying a used John Deere 4430 is a great way to save money on a new tractor, but it can be intimidating if you’ve never done it. If you don’t know what to look for, it can be easy to take advantage of. Let me share some tips to help you get the most out of your used tractor purchase:
1. Buy from a Reputable and Trustworthy Seller
Before anything else, make sure that the seller is reputable and trustworthy. You may need to research the seller before you meet them in person, but it will be worth it if they can provide you with references and proof of previous sales.
2. Check the Engine
If you’re not familiar with engines, get someone who is to help out with this part of the inspection. A good mechanic or someone who knows engines well can tell if there’s anything wrong with the engine or if it has been recently replaced.
The 4430 has a diesel engine and should be in good shape, with no damage to the pistons and no leaks or oil stains on the cab floor. If you see any signs of this damage or wear and tear, it’s best to move on to another tractor.
3. Check the Hydraulic System
Next, check out the hydraulic system and ensure no leaks or loose hoses. And if you find one, there could be trouble ahead.
Also, note how much effort it takes to raise or lower various parts of the tractor. If something feels like it takes too much effort (or not enough), that might signal that something isn’t right with the tractor.
4. Look for Cracks and Dents
Ensure there aren’t any cracks or dents on your tractor’s parts, so they don’t break off while operating it during use (such as when turning corners). This can lead to accidents; therefore, it’s essential not just for safety purposes but also for liability reasons!
5. Take It for a Test Drive
It’s your chance to see how well this tractor performs its job. And whether or not it fits with what you’re looking for in terms of power and comfort. So go for a spin around the field! This will give you a good idea of whether or not the tractor runs smoothly and makes sense to drive.
John Deere 4430 Problems
The JD 4430 is a popular tractor found on many farms. This is a great model for anyone who wants to get started in farming, and it comes with excellent features that make it easy to use. However, it is not without its problems.
Let’s take a look at some of the common problems with the John Deere 4430 tractor:
1. Hard Starting Issue
John Deere’s 4430s are cold-blooded for starting. At 40 degrees, they’re already slow, and they have to crank for a while to start.
Also, leave the throttle way back until it starts and slowly push it ahead to pick up speed. That’s how you can make it work. Additionally, it works great just to plug in the block heater for a time.
2. Hydraulic Problems
Some have experienced hydraulic issues with the 4430 without hydraulic pressure to the rear, including losing power steering. It just slows down to a stop. When this happens, you may need a new hydraulic fluid, a hydraulic filter, and a clean screen in front of the axle.
3. Expensive Repairs
Owning a John Deere 4430 can be an exciting experience. But it can also be quite expensive. If you cannot maintain your equipment correctly or if something goes wrong, you could spend thousands of dollars on fixing it.
4. Difficult to Maintain
Some farmers have found that these tractors can be hard to maintain. They must be careful with the hydraulic hoses, oil, pump, valves, and cylinders.
The main reason is that all these components are exposed to the elements or dirt when they’re out in a field working on crops or hay bales.
If these components become contaminated by dirt or dust, they won’t work correctly, leading to an accident. It’s best to watch out for any signs of an issue with this tractor before it becomes dangerous, like leaks from hoses or other parts leaking fluid onto clothing.
This way, you know where things might go wrong before they do. It would save you time not having repairs done during harvest season when everyone is focused on getting their work done quickly. Also, it won’t affect profits negatively (or worse yet) lose money!
John Deere 4430 Customer Feedback
The John Deere 4430 is one of its class’ most popular and versatile tractors. But what do consumers think of the 4430? Let’s look at some John Deere 4430 consumer reviews and see what users say about this tractor.
Positive Reviews
An Impressive Tractor That Can Last for Many Years
“Overall, the JD 4430 is quite an impressive tractor. If this tractor is well maintained, it will still operate on farms up to the present time.”
Better Than the JD 4030
“The 4430s are a big step better than the 4030s. Also, the 4230 had the 404 and were also slow starters. They are a better buy than the 20 series, as they aren’t a collector yet. And, of course, there are some rare gas ones and some low profiles. The cabs are still very quiet and comfy.”
Great Tractor If Priced Right
“My JD 4430 has never been great cold weather starting the tractor, but it’s not as bad as some. In most cases, if it gets below 15 degrees, you know it will need plugging in.
I have 8300 hrs on the clock, and it has been a great tractor. It can be a bit hard on fuel, but that has been my only complaint. So if I find a 4430 that’s priced right, I would not hesitate to buy it.”
Not Bad If It Has a Good Fuel System, Battery, and Cables
“Sometimes the check valve gets a piece of trash stuck when the weather is cold. So I recommend pumping the hand primer a few times if you’re experiencing hard starting.
Also, the 404 is a harder-starting engine than the newer 466 and many other engines, but they aren’t that bad with a sound fuel system, batteries, and cables.”
Negative Reviews
Spent More Money Fixing It
“My first tractor was a 4430. I paid 18k for it, then kept it for eight years and split it every other year, four times at $5 to $7k per incident. I spent more money “fixing” the tractor than I paid for it.
Finally, after eight years, I traded it off, and it needed splitting again. Clutch, differential, transmission, final drives — you name it, I fixed it!”
Not Worth Repairing in the Long Run
“Over time, the hydraulics become weak, lose its brakes, steering, and everything! To be honest, it needs to go to the salvage yard. It’s not worth the money I’ll spend to fix it.”
Frequently Asked Questions – John Deere 4430 Tractor
What Years Did They Make a John Deere 4430?
Generation II Deere models like the 4430, which debuted in 1972, were dependable workhorses for farmers in their fields during the ’70s and ’80s, after which they were generally preserved by the original owner or purchased for light-duty field activities like baling or running an auger.
How Many Hp Is a John Deere 4430?
The JD 4430 tractor has a rating of 125 hp.
How Many John Deere 4430 Were Made?
John Deere sold over 12,500 units of the 4430, making it a success in the market.
What Is the Difference Between a John Deere 4430 and 4440?
The 4440 is a heavier and somewhat larger variant of the 4430. It has a 466 rather than a 404 engine, and its seat is hydraulic rather than mechanical.
What Should You Look for When Buying a John Deere 4430?
You don’t want to spend much time changing gears when doing farm work. You must move forward and reverse at the same speeds to do an adequate job with a loader, planter, or plow.
When working on steep hillsides and moving forward and in reverse, or if you have a long implement set behind the tractor with the same speeds for both front and back, JD’s Syncro Range Transmission (SRT) is for you.
To prevent hard starting, ensure the aneroid cable/linkage is working. Additionally, replace the check valves in the lift pumps yearly because they’re cheap. Some of the 4430s didn’t have the third check valve on the fuel filter housing, so that can be added.
Conclusion – John Deere 4430 Review
The John Deere 4430 is an agricultural tractor that offers a lot of power and speed for its size. It’s not the most powerful tractor on the market today, but it was one of the most capable and efficient from the time it was released.
Even though it was only produced for four years, the John Deere 4430 was an excellent tractor for farmers who needed to get a lot done quickly.
Overall, the John Deere 4430 is an excellent tractor with impressive capabilities. It has a powerful engine, good fuel economy, and plenty of power to handle any task on your farm. But it can be expensive to maintain, especially if you have multiple tractors in your fleet.
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