The successor to the 6010 range of tractors, the John Deere 6020 or ‘20’ series proved to be hugely popular, selling in large numbers with models still commanding high resale value to this day.

Building upon the success of John Deere’s full frame and modular design, the Mannheim-built tractors offered an excellent balance of electronics, comfort and power and more importantly, excellent reliability.

Released in 2002, much acclaim of the 6020 range goes to the outstanding 6920, the six-cylinder range topper in the mid weight series.

However, John Deere did not forget the popularity of four-cylinder ‘pocket-rocket’ tractors such as the 2650 and 2850 of the late ‘80s, and the popularity of the smaller 10 series tractors, in particular the versatile 6410. The four cylinder line up of the 6020 series included the 6120, 6220, 6320, 6420, and later the 6420S. These tractors had evolved from the previous 6010 range with increased levels of power, refinement, and comfort.

In appearance, the 6420S looks largely similar to its 20 series  siblings, however the wheelbase of the tractor is obviously shorter being 240cm.

This of course is due to the 4.5l John Deere PowerTech engine, turbocharged to produce a spritely 120hp for a small frame tractor.

Later models were fitted with a common rail injection version of the same engine, making them even more responsive. Tipping the scales at 4.7tons, the 6420S has a hydraulic output of 96l/mi, while the rear linkage is capable of lifting an impressive 5.9 tons off the ground.

The PowerQuad transmission provides 24F/24R gears through a six-speed gearbox with four powershifts, with 50kph road speed an option.

The tractor also benefitted from the introduction of AutoQuad which automatically changed the powershift ratios when changing gears, and AutoQuad Plus with soft shift fuction and programmable powershift changes.

Externally, the bonnet was completely redesigned to give the tractor a more curved look, along with the roof skin of the cab, mudguards and lights. Inside the cab, the dash and side console received minor tweaks and are familiar to John Deere operators.

Adding to the refinement of the tractor is John Deere’s Triple Link Suspension (TLS). Hydraulic accumulators are used to provide front axle suspension, with 100mm of travel, providing excellent ride comfort.

Lightweight, powerful and nimble, the 6420 was capable of heavy work, and was often fitted with a front loader making it an ideal yard tractor.

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