Buying Advice John Deere 3020

[bmcqueen23]

I'm looking at buying this 3020 with the loader, seems like a decent deal to me would like input from you guys that have owned or operated this tractor. I'm looking for a tractor mainly for handling hay and to pull a 6' to 8' disk, and shredding.

[wolc123]

My nieghbor bought new one in 1970. He uses it mostly for making hay, also on a 4-bottom plow and a 12 ft disc. Way more tractor than needed for a 6 or 8 foot disc. He has around 5000 hours on it now and the only thing it has needed mechanically is the starter rebuilt one time. His 3020 is diesel, not turbocharged like the 4020's were, does not have a loader, and probably puts out around 65 hp at the drawbar.

[Duffster]

My nieghbor bought new one in 1970. He uses it mostly for making hay, also on a 4-bottom plow and a 12 ft disc. Way more tractor than needed for a 6 or 8 foot disc. He has around 5000 hours on it now and the only thing it has needed mechanically is the starter rebuilt one time. His 3020 is diesel, not turbocharged like the 4020's were, does not have a loader, and probably puts out around 65 hp at the drawbar.

4020's are naturally aspirated as well. 4320 and 4520 are turboed.

[bigtiller]

I'm looking at buying this 3020 with the loader, seems like a decent deal to me would like input from you guys that have owned or operated this tractor. I'm looking for a tractor mainly for handling hay and to pull a 6' to 8' disk, and shredding.

A 3020 deisel with a power-shift for $5300 is a good buy. I am guessing it is about a 1968 or older model. I would get his extra remote and probably the loader if it is a 48 with a quick mount with a straight bucket and no welds on it.

[Chef Pa]

3020 is a good tractor. Have had a 3010 several years with little to no issues. Four bottom plow and 10-12' disc (depending on type) are good sized implements, and as Wolc said - more than needed for an 8' disc. If that's your max load a smaller tractor might work better.

The ad looks like a possible scam to me. Be careful.

[AKfish]

That's NOT a realistic price for a good condition, 3020! Scam! Walk away...

AKfish

[Cyclone Jake]

That's NOT a realistic price for a good condition, 3020! Scam! Walk away...

AKfish

While 5300 is low, a check of Tractor House shows a couple dealers selling good condition 3020s for 7000. A private seller could be asking less than a dealer. As with any Craigslist purchase, be careful and don't purchase without seeing it in person.

[Bigfoot62]

First of all, you need to realize that this is a BIG tractor. We're talking really big, by today's tractor size. I had a 4020 and it would not go through my 10' shop doors. The 3020 won't be a lot smaller. Also, if you are really working that machine, it might take up to 3 gallons per hour of fuel! If you are just handling hay and pulling a 8' disc or shredder, you could get by with a much smaller tractor.
Now, having said that, they are great tractors and were well made.

As far as this being a scam, go look at it. Run it, and drive it. Ask to hook something to it and make sure the PTO and clutches work, etc. Then, if you really like it, ask for a bill of sale. If the seller is legit, he'll sign one.

BTW, if you haven't already seen it, here's the link to the TractorData page for that one:
TractorData.com John Deere 3020 tractor information

[jenkinsph]

That's NOT a realistic price for a good condition, 3020! Scam! Walk away...

AKfish

I would be doubtful too, if I could have found a 3020 with loader similar to this for $5300 I wouldn't have a new tractor today.

[Cyclone Jake]

I would be doubtful too, if I could have found a 3020 with loader similar to this for $5300 I wouldn't have a new tractor today.

Note that he is asking an extra 2K for the loader which brings it to $7300.