Origin and Features: The John Deere model 140 is recognized as classic designed, rugged and dependable lawn and garden tractor. Introduced in 1968, this tractor was not only marketed to homeowners; Deere also targeted truck farmers, commercial users, nurserymen and large estate owners. This machine had features comparable to larger tractors and could handle a multitude of implements.
Originally marketed with a 12-horsepower Kohler engine, the 140 was upgraded to a 14-horsepower Kohler in 1969. This engine would be used throughout the production life of the 140 which was made until 1974. It could be ordered with either single or triple hydraulics and came standard with a hydrostatic transmission. This transmission allowed for many different speed settings. Speaking simply, the John Deere 140 was a machine with flexibility and lot of power.
Some of the features for the 140 were as follows:
o It could be fitted with a moldboard plow, disk, planter, cultivator and many other attachments to handle all types of gardening chores.
o It could work as a regular tractor to carry out the farming activities such as running a PTO unit to operate a grain auger or elevator.
o It could haul small loads such as firewood, feed and mulch with a pull-type dumpcart.
o Front, mid and rear mounted attachments such as a snowblade, sweeper, mid-mount blade and rear-mounted tiller could be easily installed with Deere’s quick-tach design.
o The 140 included an electromagnetic PTO clutch for mounted attachments in front, center and rear.
o Each unit came standard with an adjustable high-back, cushioned seat that could accommodate any size operator.
o An optional rear PTO could be installed to operate a tiller.
o A Triple safe starting feature, carried over from the model 110 model was incorporated into the design of the 140.
To start the tractor, the PTO had to be disengaged. Second, the transmission had to be in the neutral setting. Third, the brake pedal had to be depressed. This safety feature, which formed the principle marketing strategy for all of Deere’s lawn and garden tractors, was emphasized in sales literature by depicting children playing around on the tractor.
To this day, the John Deere 140 is considered to be among one of the best garden tractors ever made by many enthusiasts and collectors. For more information on the John Deere 140, subscribe to the Lawn and Garden Collector Magazine. In each issue of LAGC we have a feature articles highlighing a model 60, 70, 110, 112, 120, or 140 antique John Deere Garden Tractor. Thank you ~ LAGC Magazine
I have a 1969 John Deere 140 H3 I recently purchased and I am having trouble finding or getting any information on, the rear PTO and what it even looks like, or where could I even start looking for one. Any information in the right direction would be appreciated, Thanks
Oscar E Burnell