Row CropPerformance profile
John Deere 8520
The John Deere 8520 is a powerful row crop tractor built from 2002 to 2005. It has a strong 6-cylinder diesel engine that makes 292.88 hp, which is very high compared to other tractors. The engine is turbocharged and liquid-cooled, helping it work hard in tough conditions. This tractor has a 4WD drive system and a full power shift transmission with 16 forward gears and 3 reverse gears, making it easy to find the right speed for any job. The 8520 is big and heavy, weighing 23,975 lb. It has a three-point hitch at the back that can lift up to 17,897 lb, which is more than most other tractors can handle. The tractor has a closed center hydraulic system and a 1000 rpm PTO for running equipment. It comes with a comfortable cab for the driver and uses hydraulic wet disc brakes for safe stopping. The John Deere 8520 is a great choice for farmers who need a strong, reliable tractor for big fields and heavy work.
ManufacturerJohn DeerePower292.88 hpEngine6-cylTransFull power shift
Quick specs
- Category
- Row Crop
- Engine Power Output
- 293hp
- Operating Weight
- 23,975 lb
- Transmission
- Full power shift
At a glance
How the 8520 compares
vs. Row Crop medianDistribution
Engine Power (hp)
Across all Row Crop tractors
292.88 hp · 92nd
This model
12
Median 138 hp
283
This modelRow Crop tractorsMediann = 1,206
The 8520 ranks at the 92nd percentile for engine power among recorded row crop tractors.
Overview
About the John Deere 8520
The John Deere 8520 is a powerful row crop tractor built from 2002 to 2005. It has a strong 6-cylinder diesel engine that makes 292.88 hp, which is very high compared to other tractors. The engine is turbocharged and liquid-cooled, helping it work hard in tough conditions. This tractor has a 4WD drive system and a full power shift transmission with 16 forward gears and 3 reverse gears, making it easy to find the right speed for any job. The 8520 is big and heavy, weighing 23,975 lb. It has a three-point hitch at the back that can lift up to 17,897 lb, which is more than most other tractors can handle. The tractor has a closed center hydraulic system and a 1000 rpm PTO for running equipment. It comes with a comfortable cab for the driver and uses hydraulic wet disc brakes for safe stopping. The John Deere 8520 is a great choice for farmers who need a strong, reliable tractor for big fields and heavy work.
Full specifications
Every recorded spec
General
| Manufacturer | John Deere |
|---|---|
| Model | 8520 |
| Category | Row Crop tractor |
| Type | 4x4 MFWD 4WD |
| Years built | 2002–2005 |
| Operating weight | 23,975lb |
Engine
| Make | John Deere |
|---|---|
| Model | John Deere |
| Power | 292.88hp |
| Cylinders | 6 |
| Displacement | 496ci |
| Bore | 4.56in |
| Stroke | 5.06in |
Transmission
| Type | Full power shift |
|---|---|
| Forward gears | 16 |
| Reverse gears | 3 |
Chassis & drive
| Chassis | 4x4 MFWD 4WD |
|---|---|
| Drive | 4WD |
| Steering | Hydrostatic power |
| Brakes | Hydraulic wet disc |
| Cab | Cab |
Hydraulics
| Type | Closed center pressure-flow compensated (PFC) |
|---|
Power take-off
| Rear PTO | Independent |
|---|---|
| PTO speed | 1,000rpm |
Dimensions
| Length | 211.9in |
|---|---|
| Height | 122.2in |
| Operating weight | 23,975lb |
Capacities
| Cooling system | 8.98gal |
|---|
Head to head
8520 vs. Row Crop median
How the John Deere 8520 compares to other Row Crop tractors
| Spec | This model | Row Crop median | Difference | Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Power | 293 hp | 138 hp | +112% | 92nd |
| Engine Displacement | 496 ci | 391 ci | +27% | 85th |
| Cylinders | 6 | 6 | at median | 50th |
| Forward Gears | 16 | 16 | at median | 50th |
| Operating Weight | 23,975 lb | 12,307 lb | +95% | 93rd |
| Length | 212 in | 180 in | +18% | 85th |
| Height | 122 in | 114 in | +8% | 79th |
| 3-Point Hitch Capacity | 17,897 lb | 11,023 lb | +62% | 79th |
Medians and percentiles are computed from the row crop tractors in our database with a recorded value for each spec (sample sizes 279–1,417 models).
Compare to tractors with similar specs
Commonly compared John Deere tractors
| Tractor | Engine Power | Operating Weight | Years | Compare |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| John Deere 8430 | 289.26 hp | 33,680 lb | — | Compare → |
| John Deere 9200 | 296.92 hp | 35,120 lb | 1996–2001 | Compare → |
| John Deere 8285R | 285 hp | 25,330 lb | 2011–2013 | Compare → |
| John Deere 7R 290 | 283.6 hp | 25,440 lb | — | Compare → |
| John Deere 7R 350 | 304.59 hp | 26,130 lb | — | Compare → |
Commonly compared tractors with similar horsepower from other brands
| Tractor | Engine Power | Operating Weight | Years | Compare |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AGCO DT240A | 290 hp | 19,951 lb | 2005–2008 | Compare → |
| AGCO DT250B | 290 hp | 25,960 lb | 2009–2010 | Compare → |
| Baldwin DM300 | 290 hp | — | — | Compare → |
| Allis Chalmers 8550 | 300 hp | 27,040 lb | 1978–1981 | Compare → |
| Belarus 7100 | 300 hp | 29,735 lb | — | Compare → |
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Gallery
John Deere 8520 photos
FAQ
Common questions
When was the John Deere 8520 in production?
John Deere 8520 production started in 2002 and ended in 2005.
How much horsepower does the John Deere 8520 have?
The John Deere 8520 produces 292.88 hp from its 6-cylinder engine. Engine displacement is 496 ci.
How much does the John Deere 8520 weigh?
The John Deere 8520 weighs about 23,975 lb in operating condition.
What transmission is in the John Deere 8520?
Transmission on the John Deere 8520 is Full power shift, with 16 forward speeds.
What type of hydraulic system does the John Deere 8520 use?
Hydraulics on the John Deere 8520 are Closed center pressure-flow compensated (PFC).
What hitch category is the John Deere 8520?
The John Deere 8520 uses a Category Category 3 hitch with a lift capacity of 17,897 lb.
What maintenance does the John Deere 8520 require?
Like any tractor, the John Deere 8520 needs periodic engine oil and filter changes, hydraulic fluid checks, and regular greasing and inspection. The owner's manual lists the manufacturer's recommended service intervals.