John Deere 1530 4.80 star(s) (4)

1974 JD 1530
Model Year: 1974

This is a great tractor. It is the perfect size for most general needs. The only repair it has required was a transmission pump replacement. The new ones (3) supplied by John Deere were all defective due to poor casting and would not fit on the shaft. I bought a used one from Wengers of Meyerstown, Pennsylvania and it fit and operated perfectly. This is my favorite tractor and it being German built is a plus!

Pros: Great size and performance
Cons: None

John Deere 1530 Utility Tractor
Model Year: 1974

When purchased, this tractor was newly repainted. It had every feature I wished for and has been a joy to use. I did find water was leaking into the engine oil so needed to replace the sleeves and pistons. Did that my self without difficulty. It was running great until this year. I've noticed the engine oil level rising again and suspect it's the fuel injectors or injector pump. Have changed the oil frequently this year but haven't sent it to the shop yet. It's pricey for parts, but I have no difficulty getting them. I did expect more power than the tractor delivers, but that was probably a flaw in my expectation.

Pros: Easy steering, always starts, good shift ranges, great brakes.
Cons: Swept back front axle. It doesn't change the steering radius much, but makes for a bouncier ride.

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New to Me 1530
Model Year: 1976

For the last 20 years I have been bush hogging our 30 acres with a JD 630 and I love the old popper, but it's so high I kept hitting my head on limbs and the old gal is getting a few leaks so I decided to replace her. If anyone is interested we should talk. I researched and wanted a diesel, low tractor height, enough power to operate our JD 709 hog (at least 45hp) and figured the 1530 might work. I looked online and found a few, but most were too far away. I settled on one in nearby KY and bought it. It wasn't exactly "rough" but I'll be spending the winter updating and doing PM on many details. But since I had to get our fields cut I brought it home, changed the oils, filters, greased it and hooked it to the mower and began. It steers great, rides good, has the power needed and did all the area I cut on about 12 gallons. I was surprised it was made in Germany, but all the fasteners are English so it's easy to wrench and find a few bolts for. I've already been buying a few new parts and they are easy to get from the local JD dealer and on eBay. I'm happy!

Pros: Low fuel consumption, power for what I need, easy to work on.
Cons: A little light for 1,400# of bush hog, so need some weights.

John Deere 1530 - Dunno
Model Year: 1974

Not many posts on the John Deere 1530, but I have one that functions great. German built, reliable, and all around great tractor. Can't seem to find many on the internet. Need more posts!

Pros: 46 hp PTO.
Cons: Diesel is hard to start in winter.