Models M, MT, MC, MI
 1947 saw the first tractor produced at a new factory in Dubuque, Iowa. It was the "M", a general-purpose utility tractor. The "M" had one major innovation: Touch-O-Matic, which utilized tractor hydraulics to take the heavy work out of attaching and controlling integral equipment.The "M" was rated at 14.39 drawbar hp and 18.21 belt hp.The first variation on the "MT" was the "MT, or "M"-Tricycle, available with single front wheel, dual front wheels, "knee action" Roll-O-Matic, or adjustable front axle.
The "MT" also feature 2-lever implement control—Dual Touch-O-Matic—for independent adjustment of tools working on either side of the tractor. Pulling the right lever raised the right cultivator rigs, pulling the left lever raised the left rigs, pulling both simultaneously raised both right and left sides. Additionally, right and left arms could be pinned together and used a single lever to activate the power of both circuits to raise equipment. The levers could be used to control the rear-mounted as well as the front-mounted equipment. The "MT" was rated at 14.08 drawbar hp and 18.33 belt hp. The first totally John Deere crawler was the "MC", which was manufactured at the Dubuque factory. The "MC" had 12-inch tracks, standard;10-or-14-inch, optional. Tread widths: 36 to 42 inches. Those Northwester orchardists liked the "MC" for its hillside stability. Crawler traction and flotation also meant it could Besides its use in the Far West, the "MC" became popular for general farming in areas where crawlers were preferred. The "MC" was rated at13.70 drawbar hp and 18.89 belt hp. Copyright© 2003 Deere & Company Archives |
