The John Deere 4430 is one of the most respected row-crop tractors of the 1970s, earning its reputation on farms that demanded power, comfort, and reliability. Built in Waterloo, Iowa, it combined a turbocharged 404-ci diesel with the iconic Sound-Gard cab, setting a new standard for operator comfort.
With strong PTO horsepower and a proven closed-center hydraulic system, the 4430 excelled in hay work, loader work, and mid-to-heavy tillage. Decades later, these tractor specifications still make it a dependable workhorse on mixed-crop and livestock operations.
General Overview
The John Deere 4430 is a Generation II row-crop tractor built for serious loader work, hay work, and tillage. With strong PTO horsepower and a proven closed-center hydraulic system, these tractor specifications still make the 4430 a practical choice for mixed-farm chores and heavier field implements.
Engine, Power & Performance
This 404ci turbocharged diesel is known for steady, lugging power in the mid-range—exactly what you want pulling tillage tools or running a baler at PTO speed. In Nebraska testing, the 4430 delivered strong PTO horsepower with practical fuel use for a tractor in this class.
Transmission, PTO & Hydraulics
The 4430’s closed-center hydraulics and solid SCV support make it a confident loader tractor, and the independent PTO with 540/1000 speeds is a great match for balers and hay tools. Quad-Range is a favorite for field work because it gives you more “right gear” choices without constantly changing ranges.
Dimensions, Weight & Tires
In real-world terms, the 4430 feels like a “true big tractor” compared to compacts and utilities—stable, heavy enough to bite, and comfortable for long days. With the Sound-Gard cab and proper ballast, it’s a confident machine for tillage and steady pulling in the field.
Electrical System & Attachments
The 4430 is a versatile platform for everything from hay tools to heavy loader work. With the right SCVs and a good loader mount, it’s an easy tractor to keep in rotation for daily farm chores and seasonal field work.
- John Deere 148 loader (3,100 lb lift @ pin)
- John Deere 158 loader (3,800 lb lift @ pin)
- Round balers & hay conditioners (540/1000 PTO)
- Disks, chisels, field cultivators, plows
- Grain augers, wagons, and handling equipment
- Snow blades, rear blades, and heavy-duty scraping
Price, Value & Resale
The 4430 is one of those tractors that holds value because it still earns its keep: enough PTO horsepower for modern hay tools, a strong cab option, and parts support that keeps them working. Clean Sound-Gard cab examples and well-maintained Quad-Range tractors tend to command the strongest resale.
Maintenance, Fluids & Service
Serviceability is straightforward for a tractor of this size—regular oil and filter changes, clean fuel, and keeping the cooling system healthy go a long way. On used tractors, plan on baseline service (all fluids/filters) first, then keep a consistent hours-based schedule.
- Engine oil & filter: keep intervals consistent for turbo longevity
- Fuel system: clean filters and water control are key
- Hydraulic/trans oil: keep it clean to protect SCVs and hitch response
- Cooling system: maintain correct mix and clean airflow through the radiator
Common Issues & Parts Compatibility
- Hydraulic seepage at SCVs, hoses, or couplers on higher-hour tractors
- Cab comfort items: A/C performance, seals, and fan/controls aging over time
- Electrical gremlins from corrosion, worn connections, or tired batteries
- Transmission shifting feel depends heavily on adjustment and operator habits
- Shares platform lineage with nearby Generation II models (4230/4630/4440 family)
- Loader compatibility commonly includes John Deere 148 and 158 mounts
When shopping, focus on hydraulic responsiveness (SCVs and hitch), clean shifting under load, and signs of consistent maintenance. A tight steering feel, steady oil pressure, and a healthy cooling system usually separate “field-ready” tractors from expensive projects.
Tractor Tests & Real-World Use
If you’re running a baler, conditioner, or heavy mower, the 4430’s PTO horsepower and stable cab make long days easier. For tillage, it’s a great fit for moderate-size plows, disks, chisels, and field cultivators—especially on mixed-crop operations and mid-size acreage where one dependable row-crop tractor can handle hay work, loader work, and seasonal tillage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the PTO horsepower of a John Deere 4430?
The John Deere 4430 delivers about 126 PTO horsepower based on Nebraska Tractor Test results, placing it firmly in the 120–130 horsepower class.
What engine is used in the John Deere 4430?
It uses a John Deere 404-cubic-inch, 6-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine, known for strong torque, durability, and good fuel efficiency under load.
What transmission options were available on the 4430?
The 4430 was offered with Syncro-Range, Quad-Range, and PowerShift transmissions, allowing buyers to choose between simplicity, flexibility, or full power shifting.
Is the John Deere 4430 good for hay and baler work?
Yes, the 4430 is very popular for hay work, handling round balers, conditioners, and mowers easily thanks to its strong PTO horsepower and stable hydraulic system.
How much does a John Deere 4430 weigh?
Operating weight is around 11,000–11,500 pounds, depending on configuration, making it heavy enough for tillage while still versatile for loader work.
What should you check before buying a used John Deere 4430?
Key items to inspect include hydraulic response (SCVs and 3-point), transmission shifting quality, engine blow-by, cooling system health, and cab electronics, especially on higher-hour tractors.
