Super 55 vs John Deere 420

matt 915 · Apr 8, 2015

Just curious how folks would compare the super 55 to a JD 420.

Sprint 6 · Apr 9, 2015

Not really much to compare there. JD 420 is a much smaller tractor in weight and power. Tractordata lists the 420 at 27hp where a 55 or
550 will be 32 to 45 depending on year and gas or diesel.

rrlund · Apr 9, 2015

You might as well be comparing the Super 55 to a pedal tractor. They're as different as an Electra Glide and a bicycle. I wouldn't even know where to start,I'd have to write a book. The only similarities are four wheels and the fact that Deere had the nerve to call the 420 a "tractor".

J. Schwiebert · Apr 9, 2015

Remember to me there are 2 versions of a 420,the all green models that have just a 4 speed transmission and no live PTO. The later 5 speed versions that may have the optional 2 stage clutch to give you a live PTO. The Super 55 & 550 models have 6 speeds forward and independent PTO with its own clutch. The 1957 Super 55 models are a lot nicer and have more features than the first 1954 thru 1956 models. If you are thinking diesels think 1961 and later 550 models.

Mike (WA) · Apr 9, 2015

I've had both a 420 and a 550- of course, the 550 (diesel) was much more of a tractor than the 420, but I didn't have any complaints about the 420 for loader and utility work, baling, raking, etc. It was the 5 speed/ live PTO model. Hard to get on and off of without barking your knees. The Oliver is more "nimble"- don't know how to define it, but just "got around" better (both had power steering). Super 55 is closer to 420 in power, etc.- I think you'd be happier with the Super 55, for ease of entry and the independent PTO. What are the relative prices of the 2 you are looking at?

Donald Lehman · Apr 10, 2015

As John mentioned the 420 had that stupid 2 stage clutch affair to get live PTO. If it is adjusted properly it works okay (I guess). Mine has never worked right. The 420's were noted for leaking oil around the rock shaft on the 3 pt. hitch. They are also noted for being a son-of-gun to stop that leaking. Mine does and is. My 420 is a good tractor, handy, and I've put a lot of hours on it over the years. But in reality, the 420 ain't much of a tractor. Buy the Oliver.

Nick m · Apr 10, 2015

Easy. Hit a nerve there. My uncle has had a 420 for years and my grandpa has a 430 that did all the hay (only about 15 acres, but did it all), with minimal problems ever. Can't argue about the leaky 3pt, both of those and my 430 have that issue. My neighbor has a super 55 that's been nothing but a problem child since he's had it. They're also not in the same hp class. Super 55's are rated 7 hp more, which doesn't seem like much, but is in a tractor that size.

On another note. Do you want your license plate? I'll send it to you if you want. Not hurting anything where it is, just thought I'd offer.

rrlund · Apr 10, 2015

It think about it now and then. Hang on to it. My daughter lives down by Nashville,I'll stop and get it one of these days when I'm headed down there. I keep forgetting to contact you about it until I'm already there or on my way home.

mr.precision · Apr 12, 2015

Currently have an early Super 55 and had a 420 for several years. Used both of them to operate a 5' brush-hog rotary mower. I enjoyed the 'vintage' feel and character of the 420, which was plenty capable of mowing 12 acres of natural pasture. It did consume a lot of fuel, and yes the rockshaft seals did leak.
The Super 55 is more comfortable, has more of a 'modern' feel to it, and does make more power.
Apples and oranges ...... two entirely different tractors.

Super 55 vs John Deere 420

matt 915

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Sprint 6

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rrlund

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J. Schwiebert

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Mike (WA)

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Donald Lehman

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Nick m

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rrlund

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mr.precision

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