John Deere 790 Specs
| Production | |
| Distributor | John Deere |
| Manufacturer | Yanmar |
| Compact Utility tractor | |
| Built in Japan | |
| 790 Serial Numbers | |
| 1999 | LV0790G190001 |
| 2000 | LV0790G390001 |
| 2001 | LV0790G490001 |
| 2002 | LV0790G570001 |
| 2003 | LV0790G592446 |
| 2004 | LV0790G790001 |
| 2005 | LV0790G890001 |
| 2006 | LV0790G990001 |
| 2007 | LV0790S190001 |
| Engine Detail | |
| Yanmar 3TNE84 | |
| diesel | |
| 3-cylinder | |
| liquid-cooled | |
| The 91 cubic inch engine was used through serial number 592445. | |
| Displacement | 91.3 ci 1.5 L |
| Bore/Stroke | 3.31×3.54 inches 84 x 90 mm |
| Power (gross) | 30 hp 22.4 kW |
| Air cleaner | dry |
| Compression | 18:1 |
| Rated RPM | 2600 |
| Starter volts | 12 |
| Oil capacity | 4.2 qts 4.0 L |
| Transmission | |
| Type | unsynchronized |
| Gears | 8 forward and 2 reverse |
| Oil capacity | 16 qts 15.1 L |
| Oil type | Low Viscosity HY-Gard |
| Transmission operated with gear shift lever, range shift lever, and clutch. Gear shift lever selects one of four gears or reverse. Range shift lever selects high or low range. Tractor must be stopped, and clutch used, to shift gear or range. | |
| John Deere 790 Power | |
| Engine (gross) | 30 hp 22.4 kW |
| PTO (claimed) | 26 hp 19.4 kW |
| Mechanical | |
| Two- or four-wheel drive | |
| 2WD Steering | manual |
| 4WD Steering | hydrostatic power |
| Independent dry shoe brakes | |
| ROPS | |
| Capacity | |
| Fuel | 6.3 gal 23.8 L |
| Hydraulic system | 4 gal 15.1 L |
| Front diff. | 2.32 qts 2.2 L |
| Tractor hitch | |
| Rear Type | I |
| Rear lift (at 24″/610mm) | 815 lbs 369 kg |
| Electrical | |
| Ground | negative |
| Charging system | alternator |
| Charging amps | 20 |
| Battery CCA | 500 |
| Battery volts | 12 |
| Battery Group | 45 |
| Power Take-off (PTO) | |
| Rear PTO | transmission |
| live (two-stage clutch) | |
| Rear PTO Type | 540 |
| Mid PTO Type | 2100 |
| Hydraulics | |
| Type | open center |
| Capacity | 4 gal 15.1 L |
| Pressure | 2050 psi 141.3 bar |
| Pump flow | 5.4 gpm 20.4 lpm |
| Steering flow | 4.2 gpm 15.9 lpm |
| Steering press. | 2050 psi 141.3 bar |
| John Deere 790 Tires | |
| Ag front | 6.00-12 (early) |
| 2WD Ag front | 5.00-15 |
| 4WD Ag front | 7.00-14 |
| Ag rear | 12.4-16 (early) |
| 11.2-24 | |
| Lawn/turf front | 25×8.50-14 |
| Lawn/turf rear | 13.6-16 |
| Industrial front | 25×8.50-14 |
| Industrial rear | 15.0-19.6 |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 60.4 inches 153 cm |
| Length | 87.8 inches 223 cm |
| 111 inches (with 3-point) 281 cm | |
| Height (hood) | 51.2 inches 130 cm |
| Height (ROPS) | 82 inches 208 cm |
| 2WD Weight | 1,930 lbs 875 kg |
| 4WD Weight | 2,105 lbs 954 kg |
John Deere 790 Attachments
| Attachment overview | |
| 60″ mid-mount mower deck | |
| Blade | |
| John Deere 70 loader | |
| John Deere 419 loader | |
| Backhoe |
| 60″ Mower deck | |
| Type | mid-mount John Deere |
| 3-blade with hydraulic lift | |
| Cutting width | 60 inches 152 cm |
| Weight | 325 lbs 147 kg |
| Overall width | 72.5 inches 184 cm |
| Cut height | 1 to 8.75 inch 2 to 22 cm |
| John Deere 7 Backhoe | |
| Backhoe type | John Deere 7 Backhoe |
| Weight | 787 lbs 356 kg |
| 2-Foot flat digging depth | 90 inches 228 cm |
| Reach from pivot | 114 inches 289 cm |
| Loading height | 70 inches 177 cm |
| Bucket force | 1,945 lbs 882 kg |
| Dipperstick force | 1,095 lbs 496 kg |
John Deere 790 Problems
The John Deere 790 tractor, while generally reliable, does have some common issues that users should be aware of. Here’s a rundown of the main problems reported:
Engine and Fuel System Issues
- Starting Difficulties: Many users have experienced trouble starting the engine, often due to battery voltage problems. The battery should ideally maintain at least 12.5 volts. If it drops below 9 volts when starting, it might indicate a deeper issue.
- Fuel Problems: Stalling and RPM drops, especially in higher gears, are common complaints. These issues are often linked to the fuel system, particularly in older models that may not have an electric fuel pump. Problems could be occurring beyond the fuel filter.
Transmission and Hydraulic System Problems
- Transmission Fluid Levels: Low transmission fluid can lead to significant performance issues. For example, one user reported smoke and burnt oil from the rear axle, which was traced back to the transmission fluid being 2 quarts low. After topping up the fluid, the tractor’s performance returned to normal.
- PTO Clutch Issues: Difficulty engaging the PTO (Power Take-Off) clutch, accompanied by grinding noises, has been reported. This often points to issues with the clutch mechanism itself.
Front End and Gear Issues
- Front End Problems: Some users have noted durability concerns with the front end, including issues like gear breaking and housing cracking under heavy use. This has led to discussions about the John Deere 3005, the replacement model which features a more robust front axle design.
- General Mechanical Failures: Other reported issues include malfunctions in the hydraulic system and general mechanical failures that can impact overall tractor performance.
These issues emphasize the need for regular maintenance and careful monitoring of fluid levels to keep the John Deere 790 running smoothly and reliably.
John Deere 790 Review
The John Deere 790 is a compact utility tractor that has earned a strong reputation for its reliability and versatility. Here’s an in-depth review based on user experiences:
The John Deere 790 stands out for its sturdy construction and versatility, making it a popular choice for various agricultural and landscaping tasks. It comes equipped with an 8-speed manual transmission (4 forward and 2 reverse), offering good control over speed and power. However, some users prefer hydrostatic drive systems for their ease of use, which the 790 lacks.
Performance and Reliability
- Power and Capability: Users often commend the 790 for its impressive power relative to its size. It handles a range of attachments—like front-end loaders and backhoes—effectively, making it suitable for tasks such as digging, grading, and mowing. Its low center of gravity enhances stability, particularly on uneven or hilly terrain.
- Starting and Operation: The 790 is generally reliable when starting, though some users have faced challenges in cold weather, typically related to battery or glow plug issues. Regular maintenance is essential to avoid these problems.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Versatile and Nimble: Its compact size allows it to navigate tight spaces and even fit through standard garage doors.
- Durable Construction: The tractor features a robust cast iron frame, built to endure heavy use with minimal wear and tear.
- User-Friendly: Many users find it straightforward to operate, especially those accustomed to manual transmissions.
Cons:
- Traction Issues: The tractor can struggle with traction on snow and ice, limiting its effectiveness in winter conditions.
- Lack of Hydrostatic Drive: The absence of a hydrostatic transmission is a drawback for those who prefer the simplicity and ease of hydrostatic systems.
- Potential Mechanical Issues: Although generally reliable, some users have reported hydraulic system malfunctions and transmission problems, often due to neglected maintenance.
User Ratings
The John Deere 790 has garnered an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from users, reflecting a high level of satisfaction. Owners frequently praise its reliability and effectiveness for a range of tasks, though a few have mentioned specific mechanical issues that can occur if the tractor isn’t properly maintained.
Conclusion
Overall, the John Deere 790 is a solid choice for those in need of a compact tractor for light to moderate agricultural work or landscaping. With attentive maintenance, it proves to be a dependable workhorse, though users should be mindful of its limitations in certain conditions and the absence of hydrostatic drive.