Reliability of the JD2030 as a loader tractor

[Steve Eberly]

Any weak mechanical areas on this machine? What about power and traction as a loader tractor?

 

[Farmwithjunk]

Any weak mechanical areas on this machine? What about power and traction as a loader tractor?

I've got a '78 2440 w/JD148 loader. The 2030 became the 2440 in '77. Same tractor....at least until production of the Dubuque built 40 series utilities was moved to Mannheim Germany in 1980.

Power....The 219cu in 4-cylinder isn't the torquiest (is that even a word?) engine to come down the pike. It's not exactly the most economic engine ever built. It's been known to be prone to wet sleeve pitting, and it's the LOUDEST engine I've ever been around. It's rated @ 61hp (pto) and is no more than that. I've also got a '79 2640 (70hp) that will eat the 2440's lunch. A HUGE gap in useable power for a mere 10hp.....

Hydraulics are adequate, but more "old school" as far as flow rate. Runs a loader well, but not blazing fast.

Brakes can be a problem if anyone has ever put the wrong oil in the rear end. They shed linings which in turn plugs up all the screens and filters.

Both the 2030 and early 2440's were a bit heavy for a 60hp tractor of it's day. With loader rear tires, you'll have all the traction you need, as well as plenty of rear ballast for a loader. I routinely pick up 1400lb round bales with mine. No need for additional rear ballast (ie, no implement hanging on the hitch)

2030 and 2440 had 2 front end styles. 1, a swept back "utility tractor" type, which is barely strong enough, and 2, a much heavier straight "row crop" axle, which is a far better choice for a loader tractor.

I bought my 2440 new in late 1978. It was my big tractor most of the years I farmed. It made a decent tillage tractor for a small farm, but as I mentioned, it had a thirst for diesel fuel when pushed hard. It's had the run of the mill issues with belts, hoses, batteries, battery cables, and needed a replacement fuel tank a few years ago. Other than that, the 2030/2440 was a good tractor in its day. Sure, NEWER tractors have seen a few improvements, but at a cost.