Comparing John Deere Series 3 Tractors

Where there is work, there is a John Deere Series 3 tractor to get it done. The Series 3 tractors, which break down into the 3D, 3E, and 3R Series of tractors, can handle building, mowing, digging, tilling and more. Each machine is equipped with a powerful engine and comes with a long list of easy-to-use implements to allow you to get the most out of your land. To find the right Series 3 tractor for your needs, we compare the tractors within each family.

John Deere 3025D vs. John Deere 3035D vs. John Deere 3043D

The John Deere 3D Series compact utility tractors are powerful, dependable, and easy-to-use, designed to tackle a wide array of tasks ranging from pulling and hauling to cutting and tilling.

Similarities

The 3035D, 3043D, and 3025D share a number of similarities. The three 3D tractors all have the same Category 1 three-point hitch, lift capacity (2081.2 lbs), standard four-wheel drive, and heavy-duty drive train with a gear drive transmission 8F/8R. The gear-driven transmission offers two ranges and four speeds each for a total of eight in forward and reverse. All three tractors have the same wheelbase and wide stance for increased stability and a smoother ride.

Differences

The 3043D, with a 41.6 horsepower engine, packs the most horsepower of the three tractors. The 3035D comes equipped with a 34.2 horsepower engine, and the 3025D offers 24.4 horsepower. The 3035D and 3043D also share the same steering (4.4 gpm) and implement hydraulics (5.9 gpm), compared to the steering (3.8 gpm) and implement hydraulics (5.1 gpm) of the 3025D.

John Deere 3025E vs. John Deere 3032E vs. John Deere 3038E

The John Deere 3E Series compact utility tractors were all designed with the operator in mind, featuring an operator station optimized for comfort and convenience, on-board diagnostics to reduce downtime, and a greater turning radius for easier maneuverability. They are best suited for finish mowing, rotary cutting, heavy loader work, and rotary tilling on small farms.

Similarities

The 3025E, 3032E, and 3038E share far more similarities than differences. The steering (4 gpm) and implement hydraulics (5.3 gpm) are all the same. All three tractors have the same Category 1 three-point hitch and a lift capacity of 1,356 lbs. A hydrostatic transmission comes standard with each 3E Series tractor, as does four-wheel drive for maximum traction. All three machines also feature the same size wheelbase (62.8 inches) and the same turning radius of 9.4 feet.

Differences

You may be starting to pick up on a trend with the John Deere Series 3 compact utility tractors. Engine horsepower is often the biggest differentiator when you break the tractors down into their respective families. The 3E Series is no exception. The 3038E is the most powerful (37.2 hp), followed by the 3032E (31.2 hp), and then the 3025E (24.7 hp).

John Deere 3033R vs. John Deere 3039R vs. John Deere 3046R

The John Deere 3R Series was designed to include everything that the 3E Series tractors offer, in addition to three-range Twin Touch™ hydrostatic controls and a PowrReverser™ transmission. They are the largest of the 3 Series tractors. Operators can also choose between available cab or open station configurations and an optional AutoConnect™ mid-mount mower deck.

Similarities

The 3033R, 3039R, and 3046R are so alike, you’d be forgiven for not being able to tell them apart. The steering (6.2 gpm) and implement hydraulics (9.1 gpm), Category 1 three-point hitch type, life capacity (2,194 lbs.), and wheelbase (68 inches) are all the same.

Differences

All three 3R Series tractors are equipped with a Yanmar three-cylinder engine, but the power and torque outputs increase as the size of the tractor increases. The 3046R offers the most horsepower (45.3 hp), with the 3039R not far behind (38.7 hp) and the 3033R pulling up the rear (31.8 hp). Also, the PowrReverser™ transmission is only available on the 3033R and 3039R. This feature allows the operator to change directions using the hand lever without clutching. The 30346R comes equipped with a standard eHydro transmission.

1. compact utility tractors