- February 4, 2019
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John Deere Vs Case IH Tractors
Looking to compare 100-199 hp John Deere vs Case tractors? You’re in the right place.
There’s a tractor for almost every application out there. It seems OEMs (original equipment manufacturers) are always pumping out new models and singing their praises. But how do they compare to other manufacturers’ models? Let’s take a look at a couple of smaller mid-range tractors by John Deere and Case IH to see how it all works out.
In this article:
- Walkaround videos
- Model & brand overviews
- Tractor applications
- ‘In the Seat’ hits & misses
- ‘Under the Bonnet’ hits & misses
- Specs comparison breakdown
- The verdict
For comparison’s sake, we have selected 2 of the largest manufacturers in the industry and are comparing one of their 100 – 199 HP tractors. This includes the John Deere 6430 (standard) and the Case IH Maxxum 115 (standard). Both are row-crop tractors, with similar PTO hp.
These comparisons are based on specs, anecdotal feedback and online reviews (in short, we’ve done all the research for you). We’ve kept this comparison as fair and even as possible, so you can get all the info you need without bias.
Related: We compare John Deere, Case IH and New Holland mid-range tractors.
Whether you’re a green or red fan, you may find this comparison useful. Let’s get started with a few walkaround videos for a closer look at these tractors.
The Walkaround: John Deere Vs Case IH Tractors
John Deere Tractor 6430
Disclaimer: This video may showcase an overseas model. Configurations may differ from the Australian model.
Case IH Maxxum 115
Disclaimer: This video may showcase an overseas model. Configurations may differ from the Australian model.
Quick Overview
John Deere Tractor 6430
The John Deere 6430 is part of quite a large family of tractors. Ranging from the 6130 (85 hp) all the way up to the 6930 (155 hp), this series includes 8 models in total. This helps buyers have a greater selection and choose the tractor that best suits their needs.
The 6430 itself comes in both a standard and ‘premium’ model, which includes a few more bells and whistles. An upgrade to premium will give you a bigger hydraulic pump and some more creature comforts in the cab. If you’re going to use the tractor full time, it might be worth looking at the premium model. Otherwise, the simpler standard will get the job done just fine.
“Till, disc or seed your field, or bring in your last load of grain. The 6030 Series tractors help you broaden the horizons of your arable operation and keep you one step ahead.”
—John Deere
Case IH Maxxum 115
If you thought the John Deere series family was big, they’ve got nothing on Case IH in terms of selection. With just 5 models in total, the Maxxum series still manages to offer 14 different model selections: the standard Maxxum models (great entry-level tractors), the Maxxum multicontroller (for that extra oomph), and then the Maxxum CVX (with CVX transmission).
For this comparison, we are looking at the standard Maxxum. This model is built for entry-level farming chores, while the other options offer a bit more comfort and efficiency for more heavy-duty workloads. Similar to the premium Deere, if you’re looking to purchase a tractor that you’ll be in for 10+ hours a day (or hiring to contractors on long hours), upgrading may be a good option.
“[The standard Maxxum 115s] benefit from a 16F/16R 40 km/h 4-speed-powershift, a comfortable cab, up to 4 mechanical remote valves and the same implement handling capabilities as other Maxxum models.”
—Case IH
Tractor Applications
| John Deere 6430 | Case IH Maxxum 115 |
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These are some of the most popular applications
In The Seat
| John Deere 6430 | Case IH Maxxum 115 |
Hits |
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| The John Deere 6430 offers a decent amount of space in the cab. The suspension seat and dual armrests ensure good ergonomics and a decent level of comfort.
Visibility is good. The back window opens right up, although the JD is beaten here by the Case IH Maxxum 115. The Case has unobstructed single window pieces on each side of the cab, where the John Deere has a few cab pillar obstructions. The John Deere also does not come standard with a roof hatch, where the Case does. Most of the controls are easy to reach and use, and there isn’t too much noise in the cab while driving. PTO is also located around the back right-hand side, giving you an opportunity to check your implements before engaging. Once on, the dash will show the PTO RPM. You can also change direction easily with an electric left-hand reverser. |
The Case IH Maxxum 115 offers a roomy and spacious cab experience.
Immediately you notice how much more visibility it has over the John Deere. To top off the almost 360-degree view, above your head you’ll notice a roof window that opens up to provide more ventilation. The suspension seat provides a smoother ride and the dual armrests mean a more comfortable and ergonomic experience. The overall layout of the cab is good, everything is where you’d expect it to be. Those who have driven Steiger, Puma and Magnum tractors by Case will have no problem driving this one. Everything is very familiar and it’s obvious the design has been carried over from these other tractor series. The PTO controls are mounted towards the back right-hand side, giving you a good opportunity to check your implement and if there are any obstructions behind you prior to engaging it. While it is the standard, it still provides good levels of comfort and space. |
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Under The Bonnet
| John Deere 6430 | Case IH Maxxum 115 |
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Specs Breakdown
| John Deere 6430 | Case IH Maxxum 115 | |
| Engine | John Deere 4045HL281 PowerTech E, 4-cylinder turbocharged diesel | FPT 6.7L 6-cyl diesel |
| 3-Point Hitch | Category 2 opt. II/IIIN | Category 2 |
| Lift Capacity | 2,018 kg | 3,100 kg |
| Gross HP | 120 | 115 |
| PTO HP | 90 | 95 |
| Transmission (standard) | Syncro Plus 12F/4R | 24F/24R High to Low |
| Fuel Capacity | 165 L | 249.8 L |
| Operating Weight | 4,076.5 kg | 5,670 kg (without ballast) |
| Wheelbase Width | 2,400 mm | 2,642 mm |
The Verdict
All in all, both tractors are solid machines that will provide a lot of boost to any farming chore.
If you’re after a good all-rounder that’s a little lighter on the scales, the John Deere may be for you. It’s smaller wheelbase and 4-cylinder engine means it can get you through tighter areas a little easier. Great for chores, it’ll do what you ask of it.
On the other hand, the Case IH Maxxum 115 is a little more powerful thanks to its 6-cylinder engine. It can also go a little further thanks to its larger fuel tank, and has a greater lift capacity.
Do you agree with this article? Let us know in the comments below, or find more tractors for sale here.
Sources: Machines4U, TractorData, TractorBy Net.com, Ritchiespecs, YouTube, Deere.com.au/John Deere 6030 Series Tractor product brochures, Case IH Maxxum Series Product Brochures
