The John Deere 4050 is a classic 50 Series row-crop tractor built from 1983 to 1988. It is known for its strong diesel power, closed-center hydraulics, Sound-Gard cab, and proven field performance.
General Specifications
Product Name
John Deere 4050
Type
Row-crop tractor
Brand
John Deere
Series
50 Series
Production Years
1983 to 1988
Primary Engine
John Deere 466 diesel
Later / Other Engine
John Deere 359 turbocharged diesel on some later and European-market models
Fuel Type
Diesel
Cylinders
6
Displacement
466 cu in / 7.6 L, or 359 cu in / 5.9 L depending on model
Engine Horsepower
130 HP / 96.9 kW
PTO Horsepower
100.95 to 105.69 HP tested, depending on transmission and engine version
Rated RPM
2200 rpm
Transmission
16-speed Quad-Range or 15-speed Power Shift
Drive
2WD or MFWD
Hydraulic System
Closed-center
Hydraulic Flow
26.5 gpm / 100.3 L/min
Rear Hitch
Category 2
Rear PTO
Independent
PTO Speeds
540 / 1000 rpm
Wheelbase
106.7 in / 271 cm 2WD; 105.3 in / 267 cm MFWD
Weight
11,098 to 12,720 lb / 5,034 to 5,770 kg
Fuel Tank
46 gal / 174.1 L
Cooling System
21 qt / 19.9 L
Engine Oil Capacity
18 qt / 17.0 L
Higher Than Average 4050 Specs
130 HPEngine Power
101–106 HPTested PTO Power
26.5 gpmHydraulics
12,720 lbUpper Weight
18 qtOil Capacity
4050 Compared To Average Tractor
Horsepower
130 HP
Average
80 HP
Weight
12,720 lb
Average
7,500 lb
Hydraulics
26.5 gpm
Average
16 gpm
Best For
Heavy tillage
Plowing and ripping
Hay production
Pulling large implements
Long field-work hours
Not Best For
Small acreage
Tight maneuvering jobs
Light residential work
Beginner tractor owners
Engine
The John Deere 4050 commonly used the 466 cu in / 7.6L 6-cylinder diesel engine. Some later and European-market tractors used the 359 cu in / 5.9L turbocharged diesel.
Hydraulics
The closed-center hydraulic system and 26.5 gpm pump flow make the 4050 strong for field work, hydraulic implements, and loader use.
Transmission
The Quad-Range transmission is simple and reliable. The Power Shift transmission is smoother and better for jobs needing easier speed changes.
Weight and Stability
The John Deere 4050 weighs 11,098 to 12,720 lb depending on configuration. That gives it solid traction and stability without being oversized.
Oil Capacity
The John Deere 4050 takes 18 quarts / 17.0 litres of engine oil.
Summary
The John Deere 4050 is a proven 50 Series row-crop tractor with 130 HP, tested PTO output around 101 to 106 HP, closed-center hydraulics, a 46 gallon fuel tank, and 18 quarts of engine oil capacity. It is a strong old-school tractor for real field work.
