Home Global Phenomena

The 7 Secrets Of The John Deere 110 Round Fender: Why This 1960s Tractor Is Worth A Fortune In 2025

• minute read
Contents
The John Deere 110 Round Fender is not just a piece of lawn equipment; it is the undisputed foundation of the modern garden tractor industry and a highly-prized collector's item in the current market. Manufactured for a short, pivotal period in the mid-1960s, this iconic machine launched John Deere into the consumer lawn and garden space, setting a benchmark for quality and durability that enthusiasts still revere today, with values climbing steadily into 2025. This deep dive uncovers the essential history, technical specifications, and critical restoration secrets that every collector, restorer, or enthusiast needs to know about the legendary "Round Fender" models, which were produced between 1963 and 1966 (with some overlap into 1967). Its unique design, featuring the distinctively curved rear fenders and "pan seat," makes it instantly recognizable and highly differentiated from the later, more common "Square Fender" tractors.

The Definitive John Deere 110 Round Fender Collector's Profile

The John Deere 110 Round Fender stands as a monumental machine in agricultural history, representing the company's official entry into the residential lawn and garden market. Its profile is defined by a series of specific, highly-collectible traits.
  • Production Years: 1963 to 1966 (The "Round Fender" era).
  • Distinguishing Feature: The iconic, smooth, rounded rear fenders and a simple "pan seat."
  • Original Engine (1963): Kohler K161, single-cylinder, 7 horsepower (HP). This 7 HP model is the rarest and most sought-after.
  • Later Engine (1964-1966): Kohler K181, single-cylinder, 8 horsepower (HP).
  • Engine Displacement: The K161 had 277 cc (16.94 ci).
  • Transmission: Manual 4-speed transmission with the "Variator" variable speed drive, allowing for fine-tuned ground speed control.
  • Weight: Approximately 502 lbs (227 kg) without attachments.
  • Wheelbase: 44 inches (111 cm).
  • Serial Number Location: Typically found on a plate located below the steering column.
  • Serial Number Breaks (Key Years): 1963 (up to 2550), 1964 (3551–15000), 1965 (15001–40000), 1966 (40001+).
  • Engine Color Note: Original Kohler engines were painted John Deere Green; replacement engines were often Black.

The 5 Rarest Attachments That Quadruple the Value

The true value of a John Deere 110 Round Fender often lies not just in the tractor itself, but in the rare, period-correct attachments. The Round Fender models utilized a unique frame design, meaning their attachments are not interchangeable with the later Square Fender models, making original accessories exceptionally rare and valuable.

Collecting a full set of original attachments can turn a $1,000 restoration project into a $4,000+ showpiece. These are the most sought-after implements:

  1. The 30-Inch Integral Rotary Tiller: This is arguably one of the rarest pieces of equipment. Finding an original, complete 30-inch tiller with its dedicated mounting hardware is a major score for any collector.
  2. Front-End Loader: A rare and heavy-duty attachment that transforms the garden tractor into a miniature workhorse. An original loader in good condition commands a premium price due to its utility and scarcity.
  3. Two-Stage Snowblower: While blades are common, the original two-stage snowblower attachment is much harder to find, especially one that is fully functional and complete with all drive belts and chutes.
  4. The 46-Inch Mid-Mount Mower Deck: While the 38-inch deck is more common, the larger 46-inch version is a rarer find, indicating a tractor that was used for larger properties and often saw heavier use.
  5. The Original Snow Blade: Though not as rare as the tiller or loader, an original John Deere snow blade, especially one with minimal rust or damage, significantly increases the tractor's appeal and value as a complete seasonal package.

Critical Restoration Secrets: Common Pitfalls and 2025 Value Guide

Restoring a Round Fender 110 is a labor of love, but it comes with a unique set of challenges due to the age and specific design of the tractor. Collectors in 2025 are seeing strong returns, making a successful restoration a profitable endeavor.

The 3 Most Common Mechanical Restoration Challenges

The following are the most frequently reported mechanical issues that restorers must address, providing key targets for any pre-purchase inspection:

1. Engine Blowby and Failure:

The 7 HP Kohler K161 and 8 HP K181 engines are legendary but often suffer from significant "blowby" after six decades of use. This condition, where combustion gases leak past the piston rings into the crankcase, often indicates a need for a full engine overhaul, including new rings, seals, and potentially a connecting rod replacement—a common failure point.

2. Worn Steering Gear Assembly:

Many early 110 models used a "worm/balls setup" in an aluminum gear housing for the steering mechanism. Over time, this setup is prone to wearing out, leading to excessive play and difficult steering. Sourcing or fabricating replacement parts for this specific aluminum housing can be a major hurdle in a full restoration.

3. The Variable Speed (Variator) Belt Adjustment:

The 110's variable-speed transmission, controlled by the M11004 Variable Speed Quadrant, relies on precise belt tension and brake pedal adjustment. Getting the new John Deere belts to engage and disengage smoothly can be tricky, often requiring meticulous adjustment of the brake pedal to a specific height (e.g., 1/2 inch below the footrest) to ensure proper operation.

The 2025 Value Guide: What to Pay Now

The John Deere 110 Round Fender's value is highly dependent on its condition and the year of production. The 1963 model (7 HP) is generally the most valuable due to its scarcity. Current market trends for 2025 indicate strong collector interest:
  • Non-Running/Restoration Project: A complete, non-running tractor with all original parts (like a snow blade) can be listed around $750.00 USD.
  • Running, Original Condition: A running tractor in "barn find" condition, but with significant wear and tear, typically fetches between $800.00 and $1,200.00 USD.
  • Fully Restored/Show Quality: A professionally restored 110 Round Fender, especially one with rare attachments and the original green Kohler engine, can realize prices well over $3,000.00 USD, with auction prices for exceptional examples exceeding $810.00 USD even for a 1966 model.

For any restoration project, the golden rule is to get the engine running well before tackling the cosmetics—you don't want to redo things after the paint is applied. The enduring legacy of the 110 Round Fender ensures that these tractors will remain highly sought-after classics for decades to come.

The 7 Secrets of the John Deere 110 Round Fender: Why This 1960s Tractor is Worth a Fortune in 2025
deere 110 round fender
deere 110 round fender

Detail Author:

  • Name : Shany Rice II
  • Username : bednar.jason
  • Email : savanah09@wolff.com
  • Birthdate : 1992-10-23
  • Address : 590 Tavares Vista Apt. 985 Greenholtbury, IN 46525
  • Phone : +1-650-741-7119
  • Company : Becker and Sons
  • Job : Host and Hostess
  • Bio : Veritatis sint eius reprehenderit sunt consectetur quo sed quasi. Nihil adipisci consequatur odio aperiam. Nemo officiis sunt omnis quae.

Socials

tiktok:

  • url : https://tiktok.com/@felix7539
  • username : felix7539
  • bio : Totam tenetur perferendis maxime ex laborum necessitatibus.
  • followers : 6151
  • following : 669

facebook:

twitter:

  • url : https://twitter.com/felix.conroy
  • username : felix.conroy
  • bio : Aut deserunt aperiam et veritatis natus aut. Voluptas iusto velit consectetur laudantium libero. Eos beatae quisquam et optio.
  • followers : 1651
  • following : 204

instagram:

  • url : https://instagram.com/conroy2021
  • username : conroy2021
  • bio : Omnis maxime ipsam tenetur blanditiis. Suscipit quibusdam et amet officiis tenetur.
  • followers : 3402
  • following : 2007

Random Posts