Overview

The John Deere 940 is a sturdy utility tractor built in Mannheim, Germany, known for its reliability and efficiency in medium-duty farming tasks.

It offers a balance of power and maneuverability, making it a popular choice for diverse agricultural uses.​

 John Deere 940 Specifications

  • Engine: John Deere 2.9L 3-cylinder liquid-cooled diesel

  • Power: 42.9 hp (32.0 kW) engine output; 38.9 hp (29.0 kW) PTO power

  • Displacement: 179 cubic inches (2.9 liters)

  • Compression Ratio: 16.8:1

  • Rated RPM: 2400

  • Transmission: 8-speed collar shift or 16-speed two-speed power shift

  • Drive Type: Two-wheel drive (4×2)

  • Hydraulic System: Closed center, 10.8 gallons (40.9 liters) capacity, 2756 psi pressure, 6.1 gpm pump flow

  • Rear Lift Capacity: 4878 lbs (2212 kg)

  • PTO: Rear live and independent PTO, 540 RPM; optional front PTO at 1000 RPM

  • Wheelbase: 74.4 inches (188 cm)

  • Weight: 5004 lbs (2269 kg)

  • Tires: Front 6.50-16, Rear 12.4-32

  • Fuel Capacity: 20.6 gallons (78 liters)

  • Electrical: Dual 12V batteries, 33 amp alternator

  • Safety: Four-post Roll Over Protective Structure (ROPS)​

Engine Details

The 2.9L 3-cylinder diesel engine is liquid-cooled, designed to deliver reliable horsepower and fuel efficiency.

Its 16.8:1 compression ratio supports strong torque for fieldwork, operating up to 2400 RPM.

The John Deere 940 engine’s 7.4-quart oil capacity and 11.1-quart coolant capacity are standard for durability under load.​

Performance and Usage

The John Deere 940 excels in mid-range agricultural tasks such as tillage, planting, mowing, and light hauling.

Its 4878 lb rear lift capacity and robust PTO system can handle a variety of implements, making it versatile for small to medium farms.

The power steering and wet disc brakes enhance maneuverability and safety in different terrains.​

John Deere 940 Price

Prices for a used John Deere 940 typically range from $8,000 to $14,000 depending on condition, hours, and location.

New units are no longer produced; restoration and parts availability are common considerations for buyers.​

John Deere 940 Key Features

  • Choice of 8-speed manual or 16-speed power shift transmission

  • Strong 2.9L engine with good fuel economy for its class

  • Closed center hydraulic system with high pump flow

  • Live PTO with optional front PTO for versatile implement use

  • Durable planetary final drives and power steering for easy handling

  • Four-post ROPS for enhanced operator safety​

jd 940 Parts

Commonly available parts cover engine components, hydraulic pumps, transmissions, PTO clutches, filters, tires, and electrical systems.

Suppliers include John Deere dealers and third-party vendors specializing in vintage and utility tractor parts.​

Common Problems

  • Wear and tear on transmission collared gears or power shift units

  • Hydraulic leaks due to worn seals or hoses

  • Electrical charging issues from alternator or battery aging

  • Clutch slipping or wear in dry or wet clutch variants

  • Occasional overheating if coolant system is not properly maintained​

Maintenance Schedule

  • Daily: Check fluid levels (engine oil, coolant, hydraulic fluid), tire pressure, and general condition

  • Every 100 hours: Change engine oil and filter, check air cleaner, inspect hydraulic system

  • Every 250 hours: Grease all fittings, check transmission and final drive oil levels

  • Annually: Flush coolant system, inspect brakes and PTO system, replace worn parts as necessary

  • Follow John Deere operator manuals for detailed preventive maintenance​

Troubleshooting Guide for John Deere 940 Tractor Common Problems

  1. Transmission Issues (Collared Gears or Power Shift Units)

  • Symptoms: Difficult or rough shifting, gear slipping.

  • Troubleshooting: Check transmission fluid level and quality; top up or replace fluid if dirty. Inspect clutch linkage and adjust if needed. Worn collars or synchronizers may require professional service or part replacement.

  1. Hydraulic Leaks

  • Symptoms: Visible fluid leaks, loss of hydraulic pressure, slow implement response.

  • Troubleshooting: Inspect hoses, seals, and fittings for cracks or wear. Tighten loose connections and replace damaged hoses or seals. Regular hydraulic fluid checks and changes help avoid leaks.

  1. Electrical Charging Problems

  • Symptoms: Battery not charging, dim lights, slow starter.

  • Troubleshooting: Test alternator output and battery voltage. Replace faulty alternator or worn battery. Check wiring connections and clean terminals.

  1. Clutch Slipping or Wear

  • Symptoms: Reduced power transmission, high engine RPM without tractor acceleration.

  • Troubleshooting: Adjust clutch linkage. If slipping persists, clutch plate or pressure plate may need replacement.

  1. Engine Overheating

  • Symptoms: High temperature gauge, coolant loss, overheating smell.

  • Troubleshooting: Check coolant level and inspect radiator for blockages or leaks. Replace worn hoses and thermostat. Ensure radiator fan operates correctly.

  1. Brake Performance Problems

  • Symptoms: Soft brake pedal, pulling to one side when braking.

  • Troubleshooting: Check brake fluid level and look for leaks. Inspect brake pads and discs for wear. Replace or adjust components as needed.

  1. Steering or Suspension Issues

  • Symptoms: Loose steering, knocking noises over bumps.

  • Troubleshooting: Inspect front suspension bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends for wear. Replace worn components to restore proper handling.

General Tips:

  • Follow recommended maintenance schedule to prevent many common issues.

  • Conduct regular inspections to catch early signs of wear or failure.

  • Use genuine or high-quality replacement parts to ensure reliability.

  • Consult John Deere service manuals or professional mechanics for complex repairs.

This troubleshooting guide helps quickly identify and address typical John Deere 940 problems, improving tractor performance and longevity with proactive maintenance and timely repairs.

Conclusion

The John Deere 940 remains a dependable workhorse for farmers looking for a medium-power utility tractor with versatile capabilities.

Its robust engine, solid hydraulics, and multiple transmission options make it suitable for a broad range of farm applications.

While older models may require attentive maintenance and occasional repairs, ample parts availability ensures longevity for many years of service.

This tractor bridges classic design with practical power, making it a valuable asset for efficient farming operations.

Proper maintenance and care will maximize its performance and lifespan on the field.