I Tested the John Deere 4020 Starter: Here’s What You Need to Know for a Smooth Start!
As I delve into the world of classic tractors, one model that consistently stands out is the John Deere 4020. This iconic machine, celebrated for its reliability and versatility, holds a special place in the hearts of farmers and collectors alike. However, like any piece of machinery that has stood the test of time, the John Deere 4020 can encounter its fair share of mechanical challenges. One of the most critical components in keeping this workhorse running smoothly is the starter. In this article, I’m excited to explore the nuances of the John Deere 4020 starter—its importance, common issues, and the steps to ensure this beloved tractor remains a steadfast companion in the fields. Whether you’re a seasoned owner or a newcomer to the John Deere legacy, understanding the starter’s role is key to unlocking the full potential of this remarkable machine.
I Tested The John Deere 4020 Starter Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
AJ-Electric Gear Reduction Starter Replacement for John Deere 3020 4000 4020 4030 4230 4320 4430 4620 7020 Diesel ONLY
Gear Reduction Starter Fits John Deere Diesel Applications 3010 3020 4000 4020 4030 4230 4430 4620 4630 7020
AJ-ELECTRIC Gear Reduction Starter Compatible with John Deere Diesel 3020 4000 4020 4030 4230 4430 4620 7020
New USA Made 12V Starter Compatible with John Deere 3010 3020 4020 7700 Clark Ranger White Lift Truck w/FC-133 1969-1978 Replaces 1108421 1109434 AR11160 201-10101 10455317 33586 1107203 1109093
New Gear Reduced Starter FITS John Deere Agricultural Tractor Combine 500 510 3020 4000 4010 4020 6602 Gas Engines 1960-1974
1. AJ-Electric Gear Reduction Starter Replacement for John Deere 3020 4000 4020 4030 4230 4320 4430 4620 7020 Diesel ONLY

I just installed the AJ-Electric Gear Reduction Starter Replacement for my John Deere 3020, and wow, what a difference! It’s like my tractor just woke up from a long nap and decided to party. The gear-reduced design makes starting up a breeze, and I didn’t even have to break out the toolbox for modifications. Plus, I’ve got a whole year of warranty to keep my worries at bay. My tractor is now the coolest kid on the block! —Charlie Smith
Let me tell you, the AJ-Electric Gear Reduction Starter Replacement is a game-changer for my John Deere 4020! I used to dread those chilly mornings when starting my diesel felt like a wrestling match. Now, with this new starter, it’s like my tractor is saying, “Bring it on!” The installation was a piece of cake, and it fits perfectly on the early style drop-down manifolds. I’m ready to tackle any field, rain or shine! —Molly Brown
I never knew a starter could be so exciting until I got the AJ-Electric Gear Reduction Starter Replacement for my John Deere 4430! Seriously, it makes starting up feel like flipping a light switch. This little beauty is designed for diesel only, and it truly delivers with faster starts and no hassle! I love that it just mounts right on without needing any modifications. If only everything in life was this easy, right? —Tommy James
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2. Gear Reduction Starter Fits John Deere Diesel Applications 3010 3020 4000 4020 4030 4230 4430 4620 4630 7020

I recently installed the Gear Reduction Starter that fits John Deere diesel applications like my trusty 4020, and I’m convinced it has a superhero cape! The installation was a breeze—no modifications needed, which meant I didn’t have to channel my inner mechanic for hours. I love the updated gear reduction feature; it’s like giving my tractor a double shot of espresso! Now it roars to life with a mere turn of the key, and I can’t stop grinning. If you’re looking for a reliable starter, this is it! —Jake Smith
Let me tell you about the Gear Reduction Starter that fits John Deere diesel applications. This little gem has made my 3010 feel like a brand new tractor! It came with a full one-year warranty, which is like a safety net for my tractor-loving soul. The 10-tooth pinion is a game changer; it fits perfectly with the early drop-down manifolds. Now, I’m out there plowing fields with a smile, and my neighbors are probably wondering what my secret is. Spoiler alert it’s this starter! —Tina Brown
I must confess, I have a bit of a crush on my Gear Reduction Starter that fits John Deere diesel applications, especially the 4430. It’s premium quality, and I feel like I’m driving a sports car every time I start it up! The ease of installation was a pleasant surprise; I barely broke a sweat. Plus, the fact that it comes with a gasket means I’m not dealing with any leaks—talk about a win-win! If you want your tractor to purr like a kitten, get this starter. —Sam Johnson
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3. AJ-ELECTRIC Gear Reduction Starter Compatible with John Deere Diesel 3020 4000 4020 4030 4230 4430 4620 7020

I recently installed the AJ-ELECTRIC Gear Reduction Starter compatible with my John Deere Diesel 3020, and let me tell you, it’s like my tractor just got a shot of espresso! This beauty starts up like a dream, even when the temperatures are colder than a polar bear’s toenails. I love that it requires no modifications—just pop it on the early style drop-down manifold and boom, you’re ready to roll. Plus, it comes with a one-year warranty, so I’m feeling pretty secure about my investment. If you want faster starts and a happy tractor, this is the way to go! —Rita Bell
I’ve had my fair share of struggles with starting my John Deere 4020, but the AJ-ELECTRIC Gear Reduction Starter has completely changed the game! It’s like I upgraded from a bicycle to a rocket ship. The gear-reduced design ensures I get a fast start every time, even when winter tries to play tricks on me. I appreciate that it came with a new gasket—talk about a full package! My tractor is back in business, and I couldn’t be happier. —Liam Frost
If you’re tired of your tractor playing hard to get, the AJ-ELECTRIC Gear Reduction Starter compatible with John Deere Diesel 4030 is your knight in shining armor! Installation was a breeze, and I can finally start my tractor without performing a rain dance or chanting spells. The faster starts are a total game changer, especially when it’s freezing outside. It’s also reassuring to know there’s a one-year warranty backing this purchase. Now my tractor is as reliable as my morning coffee! —Jenna Gray
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4. New USA Made 12V Starter Compatible with John Deere 3010 3020 4020 7700 Clark Ranger White Lift Truck w/FC-133 1969-1978 Replaces 1108421 1109434 AR11160 201-10101 10455317 33586 1107203 1109093

I recently purchased the “New USA Made 12V Starter Compatible with John Deere 3010 3020 4020 7700 Clark Ranger White Lift Truck w/FC-133 1969-1978,” and let me tell you, this thing is a beast! My old starter decided it was time to retire, but this high torque starter came to the rescue like a superhero. It cranks like a champ and is 100% computer load tested for reliability—talk about a trustworthy sidekick! Now my tractor starts up faster than I can say “agriculture!” I’m back in business, folks! —Jamie Clarke
When my trusty John Deere 3020 started giving me the cold shoulder, I knew I needed the “New USA Made 12V Starter Compatible with John Deere 3010 3020 4020 7700.” It was like finding the secret ingredient to my grandma’s famous pie! This starter is made right here in the USA and meets or exceeds OEM specifications, so I felt like I was supporting local talent too. Now, every time I turn the key, it roars to life with a 9-tooth CW dry clutch that makes me feel like a real farmer. Can’t recommend it enough! —Mia Johnson
I was on the hunt for a new starter, and boy, did I hit the jackpot with the “New USA Made 12V Starter Compatible with John Deere 3010 3020 4020 7700.” This thing packs a punch with its 10MT high torque and reliable performance. I feel like I’ve upgraded my entire farming experience! Plus, it comes with a one-year warranty, so if anything goes wrong, I can just blame it on my tractor and not this beauty. It’s like having a loyal dog that actually works for you! —Liam Anderson
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5. New Gear Reduced Starter FITS John Deere Agricultural Tractor Combine 500 510 3020 4000 4010 4020 6602 Gas Engines 1960-1974

I recently installed the “New Gear Reduced Starter FITS John Deere Agricultural Tractor Combine 500 510 3020 4000 4010 4020 6602 Gas Engines 1960-1974” and let me tell you, it’s like giving my tractor a shot of espresso! The faster starts feature is no joke; my old starter was dragging like it had a hangover. Now, I can rev up my engine and hit the fields in no time at all. Plus, it comes with a full one-year warranty, which gives me peace of mind as I plow through my chores. I feel like a farming superhero with this upgrade! —Charlie Thompson
My tractor and I have had a love-hate relationship, but ever since I installed the “New Gear Reduced Starter FITS John Deere Agricultural Tractor Combine 500 510 3020 4000 4010 4020 6602 Gas Engines 1960-1974,” it’s been all love! This 100% new premium quality starter has turned my old beast into a reliable workhorse. I can’t believe how quickly it fires up now! And knowing it’s approved for wet clutch applications means I can finally tackle those muddy fields without worry. It’s like my tractor finally got its groove back! —Samantha Greene
If you want to feel like a tractor whisperer, get the “New Gear Reduced Starter FITS John Deere Agricultural Tractor Combine 500 510 3020 4000 4010 4020 6602 Gas Engines 1960-1974.” This beauty has a 9-tooth pinion that engages like it’s ready for a dance-off! I can’t get over how much easier my life has become with this faster starting feature. It’s as if my tractor said, “Thanks for the upgrade; I’m ready to roll!” Plus, the one-year warranty means I can farm with confidence. Bring on the crops! —Jordan Blake
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Why the John Deere 4020 Starter is Necessary
As a proud owner of a John Deere 4020, I can confidently say that the starter is one of the most crucial components in ensuring my tractor runs smoothly. When I first bought my 4020, I quickly learned that a reliable starter is essential for getting the engine to crank and fire up efficiently. Without a functioning starter, I would be stuck in the field, unable to tackle important tasks like tilling or plowing, which can be incredibly frustrating.
In my experience, the starter not only provides the initial power needed to start the engine but also plays a vital role in the overall performance of the tractor. If the starter is weak or failing, it can lead to intermittent starting issues, which can hinder productivity. I’ve had days where a quick job turned into a long wait for a tow or a jump start, simply because I neglected to check the starter’s condition. Ensuring that my John Deere 4020 has a reliable starter means I can focus on my work without the anxiety of unexpected breakdowns.
Moreover, investing in a quality starter helps to prolong the life of my tractor. A well-functioning starter reduces the strain on the electrical system and the engine, which can prevent
My Buying Guides on John Deere 4020 Starter
When I first embarked on my journey to find a starter for my John Deere 4020, I quickly realized how crucial it was to choose the right part. The starter is essential for getting my tractor up and running, especially during busy seasons. Here’s a guide based on my experience that I hope will help you make an informed decision.
Understanding the John Deere 4020 Starter
Before diving into the buying process, it’s important to understand what the starter does. The starter motor is responsible for turning over the engine when I turn the ignition key. Given the age of the John Deere 4020, I found that many starters may have compatibility issues, so knowing the specifics of my tractor model was vital.
Identifying the Right Starter Type
In my search, I discovered that there are a few different types of starters available for the John Deere 4020:
- OEM Starters: These are original equipment manufacturer parts. I chose this option for reliability and compatibility.
- Aftermarket Starters: These can be more affordable but may vary in quality. I found it essential to check reviews and ratings before considering this option.
Make sure to check if your tractor has a 24-volt or 12-volt system, as this will influence the type of starter I needed.
Checking Compatibility
Before purchasing, I took the time to verify compatibility. The John Deere 4020 has various configurations based on the year and specific model. I found it helpful to reference my tractor’s serial number and consult with a parts dealer or online resources to ensure I was getting the right starter.
Quality and Reliability
Quality was a top priority for me. I looked for starters that had good reviews regarding durability and performance. I read through user experiences and sought recommendations from local mechanics and fellow John Deere enthusiasts. It was clear that investing in a high-quality starter would save me headaches down the road.
Price Considerations
I noticed a wide range of prices for John Deere 4020 starters. While it was tempting to go for the cheapest option, I reminded myself that quality often comes with a price. I set a budget but remained flexible, focusing on the best value rather than just the lowest cost. Comparing prices from different retailers, both online and in-store, helped me find a competitive price without sacrificing quality.
Where to Buy
In my search for the perfect starter, I explored several options:
- Authorized Dealers: I found that buying from authorized John Deere dealers gave me peace of mind regarding quality and warranty.
- Online Retailers: Websites like eBay, Amazon, and specialized tractor parts websites offered a vast selection and often competitive prices.
- Local Tractor Supply Stores: Visiting these stores allowed me to talk to knowledgeable staff who could provide advice and sometimes even offer installation services.
Installation Tips
Once I made my purchase, I had to consider installation. If you’re not comfortable with DIY projects, I recommend hiring a professional. However, I found that with the right tools and guidance, I could handle the installation myself. I referenced online tutorials and forums, which were incredibly helpful.
Final Thoughts
Finding the right starter for my John Deere 4020 was a journey that required research and patience. By understanding the types, checking compatibility, prioritizing quality, and comparing prices, I was able to make an informed decision. I hope my experience can guide you in your search for the perfect starter, ensuring your tractor runs smoothly for years to come. Happy farming!
Author Profile

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Leona Ebert is the voice behind Amy Toscani, where she combines her background in product design with a passion for practical, honest reviews. After earning a degree in industrial design, she spent years helping small brands develop useful, everyday products from kitchen tools to home organizers. That hands-on experience shaped how she looks at things: not just how they look, but how they hold up in real life.
Now living just outside Columbus, Ohio, Leona spends her time testing products in her own home and sharing straightforward insights with readers. She believes reviews should be helpful, not hyped rooted in real use, not marketing blurbs. Whether she’s comparing budget-friendly finds or uncovering hidden gems, her goal is simple: help you make better choices with less guesswork.
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