Regular service and maintenance are essential to the performance, productivity, and longevity of the tractor.
Tractors are equipped with extensive onboard self-diagnostic capabilities and are fully compatible with the John Deere-exclusive ServiceADVISOR™ system.
Four quarter turn fasteners allow operators to easily remove the engine side panels without tools to access to the engine compartment.
Quarter turn fasteners
Right tractor side panel removed
Easy access to regular service points minimizes service time
Daily service checks, such as checking the engine oil or water separator, can be done without opening the hood or removing the tractor side panels
Tractors are equipped with an electronic air filter restriction indicator that alerts the operator when the air filter needs to be cleaned or changed
Air filter restriction sensor
Daily service requirements are minimal and simple to accomplish. Most service interval requirements can be performed with a basic understanding of procedures and common tools.
All external engine, fuel and transmission filters are easily accessible
Increased service intervals lessen overall cost of ownership
Hydraulic oil service interval increased to 1200 hours when using Hy-Gard™ products
Hydraulic oil filter will need to be changed every 400 hours
Fuel tank is located on the rear of the tractor to allow for easy access when fueling
Fuel Tank
Gas-lift hood support eliminates the need for a mechanical prop rod
Gas-lift hood shocks
All items in the daily service schedule can be performed without the use of tools:
Engine oil, hydraulic oil, coolant level, and the water separator can be conveniently accessed
The engine can be easily accessed by simply raising the hood for more periodic maintenance checks
NOTE: Always refer to the operator’s manual for complete maintenance and service recommendations.
The 2032R and 2038R Tractors are equipped with a two-range hydrostatic transmission (HST) incorporated in a die-cast aluminum transmission case. Fluid under pressure transmits engine power to the drive wheels via a closed-loop pump and motor arrangement. Infinite ground speeds allow the operator to match the speed of the tractor to the job.
No clutching for fast and easy direction changes
Twin Touch™ foot pedals for quick and easy forward/reverse operation
Transmission oil cooler cools transmission oil for longer transmission life
Safety features of the HST transmission include:
The tractor will only start with the range lever in neutral
If the range lever is in gear when the key is turned to the start position, the instrument panel instructs the operator to shift to neutral
The engine will shut off if the operator leaves the seat and the power take-off (PTO) is engaged
Twin Touch foot controls
Twin Touch foot controls
Key John Deere advantages – John Deere’s Twin Touch foot controls offer several key advantages over competitive HST models tractors.
Some competitive hydrostatic tractors use a treadle pedal (toe-heel) design foot control for operation of the HST
Requires the operator to use both toe and heel to change direction, resulting in increased operator fatigue
The Twin Touch configuration also makes it easier to inch the tractor forward or rearward (i.e., when attaching to implements)
Integrated hydrostatic pump and motor
Sauer-Danfoss® manufacturer provides the integrated pump and motor; this assures that the components are matched to each other, providing maximum efficiency
Provides strength and durability needed for operating such attachments as loaders and backhoes
One reservoir (with one check-point and fill point) for the transmission, differential, and hydraulic system speeds up daily maintenance
Mechanically actuated by Twin Touch foot pedals allow the operator to select both directions of travel and speed with the touch of a toe
Cruise control
An electronic cruise control is standard equipment on the 2032R and 2038R Tractors. Cruise control is electronically engaged and disengaged using a toggle switch located on the right-hand console.
Maintains desired forward speed without having to touch the forward pedal
To disengage the cruise control, either apply pressure to the brake pedal or disengage the cruise control switch
Sauer-Danfoss is a trademark of Sauer-Danfoss Incorporated.
The engine uses the latest technologies to optimize fuel economy, improve control and accuracy, and reduce environmental impact.
The common rail system (CRS) optimizes fuel economy and reduces operating costs. High-pressure injection atomizes fuel into finer particles which burn more completely. It results in improved fuel economy and a lower cost of operation.
The electronic control unit (ECU) provides optimum fuel control and accuracy. ECU monitors and controls the engine. It continuously monitors engine conditions and adjusts the fuel delivery accordingly to ensure optimum performance and emissions.
The engine comes with an aftertreatment system. The system operates automatically. The exhaust filter consists of a diesel particulate filter (DPF) which captures particulate matter (PM) contained in the exhaust gas. Using a natural cleaning process, most of the PM trapped in the exhaust filter is eliminated by the heat of the exhaust stream generated by normal use. In situations of low temperature, engine speed or load factor, an active cleaning cycle is initiated. In this cleaning cycle, the exhaust gas temperature is raised by injecting additional fuel during the exhaust stroke of normal vehicle operation to the diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC).
After many hours of use, the exhaust filter may require an ash removal service.
DOC/DPF
Depending on the load that the tractor is under, as well as ambient temperature, humidity, and engine speed, the DPF may build up with particulate matter, thus requiring cleaning. Filter cleaning is determined by one of three conditions:
A prescribed time-based estimation of needed filter cleaning
DOC/DPF pressure sensors
A particulate matter buildup estimation based on load conditions
Once one of the three conditions have been met, filter cleaning will occur. There are three different types of filter cleaning processes:
Passive filter cleaning
Active filter cleaning
Parked filter cleaning
Passive filter cleaning
Passive filter cleaning occurs naturally when the engine is generating enough heat to oxidize particulate matter. This automatic process occurs continuously during normal operating conditions. No tractor icons or symbols appear on the display during passive filter cleaning.
NOTE: Passive filter cleaning requires no operator involvement, and there is no interruption to tractor operation.
Active filter cleaning
If conditions (temperature, load, or speed) for passive filter cleaning cannot be achieved, then particulate matter is removed using active filter cleaner.
To achieve the required conditions, exhaust temperature management (ETM) manages the initiation and duration of active filter cleaning. ETM can adjust numerous engine parameters and/or inject a small quantity of fuel into the exhaust stream for a short duration. The fuel turns to vapor and chemically reacts with the catalysts in the DOC to create heat to oxidize particulate matter.
It is important to note that at no time is fuel in the DOC/DPF ignited, and there is no interruption to tractor operation.
Like passive filter cleaning, active filter cleaning requires no operator involvement, and there is no interruption to tractor operation.
Parked filter cleaning
In some instances where passive and active filter cleaning have not fully cleaned the particulate matter from the system, a parked filter cleaning may need to take place. Most likely, the only time a parked filter cleaning will need to occur is when automatic filter cleaning has been disabled for an extended period of time and multiple warnings to engage filter cleaning were ignored or if the tractor has been used during light load conditions. Additionally, when the automatic filter cleaning process has been deliberately interrupted multiple times, or if active filter cleaning has failed numerous times due to a failed component, a parked filter cleaning may be requested. In these rare instances the operator will have to park the tractor and start the filter cleaning process.
The parked filter cleaning process needs to be activated based on usage and operation of the tractor. The process will take approximately 30 minutes. See operator’s manual for more details.
The emissions system on this engine constantly monitors the soot level of the tractor, making sure the tractor is always in peak performance condition. This ensures high performance at all times.
NOTE: Number of hours since last regeneration and soot level percentage viewable on LCD display.
For more information regarding Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations and the technology behind John Deere Integrated Emissions Control systems, click here.
Yanmar TNV Series engine offers these features:
Economical cast-in-block cylinder design for good cooling and long life
Direct fuel injection
Improves starting
Injects fuel directly on top of pistons for more efficient combustion
Develops more horsepower per gallon of fuel than indirect injection engines
Aluminum alloy pistons are lightweight to reduce connecting rod bearing loads and provide good heat transfer characteristics
Design permits tighter tolerances and neutralizes expansion of the piston, which reduces blow-by and noise from piston slap
Top rings are higher on the piston and a thinner head gasket is used to greatly reduce the volume of unburned waste gases and increase combustion efficiency
Timing gears and injector drive gears have a helical profile to reduce engine noise
Auto-bleed fuel system
There is no need to prime the system if the tractor runs out of fuel
The system self-primes the injection pump, lines and injectors, providing fast fuel recovery for easier starting
High-capacity lubrication system provides filtered oil, under pressure, to all engine bearings for long life
Fuel filter with replaceable element
Water separator with additional replaceable filter element
See-through coolant recovery tank permits operator to check coolant level without removing radiator cap
Dry-type air cleaner with safety element
Dual element design for added engine protection
Air cleaner service indicator is standard equipment on all models and alerts the operator on the instrument panels
Easy access to engine check and fill points on the right-hand side of the tractor by removing the side panels
One of the greatest operator concerns involves difficulty in attaching tractor implements. John Deere has addressed this issue with the iMatch Quick-Hitch.
The iMatch Quick-Hitch provides easy hookup and a guaranteed fit for all Category 1 implements that are designed to meet the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers (ASABE) Category 1 Standard S278.6 for quick-attach hitches.
All implements require a set of bushings in order for the attachment to fit and work properly with the iMatch Quick-Hitch. One set of bushings comes with the iMatch Quick-Hitch.
NOTE: The bushing set can be seen in the picture above. These bushings allow the hooks on the iMatch and the pins on the implement to fit together properly. All other implements (box blades, tillers, rear blades, etc.) will require a set of bushings to enlarge the pin to fit with the iMatch hooks. Bushings of different lengths can be found in the parts system or through a bushing supplier (see dimensions below).
The operator station has been designed to allow for greater operator comfort and increased visibility. The ergonomic layout and convenient color coded controls allow for easy identification and operation. The design of the operator station allows operators to sit “in” as opposed to “on” which provides comfort and increased stability.
Below are other key features of the 2032R and 2038R Tractor operator’s station:
Sloping hood design provides improved visibility
Plenty of room for comfortable operation
Cup holder, multiple storage compartments and a 12V outlet ensures an organized operator station
Rubberized floor mat design to reduce vibration and noise
Step-through operator platform makes getting on and off the tractor easy
Fender-mounted handrails, large and easy to grab, assist the operator when getting on and off the tractor
Controls have been raised and integrated into the fender for operator comfort and ease of use
Large, easy to read decals provide clear instructions for experienced and even non experienced operators
Front horizontal exhaust for increased operator visibility
If the operator leaves the tractor seat when the transmission, mid PTO, or rear PTO is engaged, the engine will shut down
For applications where out-of-seat PTO operation is required, the following criteria must be met: transmission in neutral, park brake engaged, and PTO selector set to rear only. See operator's manual for specific instructions.
Specially designed panels route hot air flow from the engine compartment under the tractor instead of directly onto the operator
Left-side step
Left-side entrance step
The left-side step allows for easy access on and off the tractor
Foot platform has a non-skid surface
Premium seat
Premium high-back seat
The thick, soft padding on this seat provides a smooth and comfortable ride. A high, scalloped back makes it easier for the operator to turn to view rear implements.
Seat adjusts fore/aft for operator convenience
Seat flips forward for protection from the elements
High seat back and armrests are in base equipment and allow for a more comfortable operation
Retractable seat belt feature prevents the seat belt from becoming tangled in the seat suspension and controls
Key features of the operator’s station include:
Tilt steering wheel design in base equipment on the 2032R and 2038R Tractors
Allows the operator to adjust the steering wheel to the most comfortable position
Provides additional clearance for the operator to enter and exit the tractor
Provides easy return to the fully raised position
Provides plenty of room for comfortable operation
Tilt steering lever
Easy-fold ROPS allows tractor to be used or stored in low clearance environments
The 2032R and 2038R tractors features the CommandCut™ mower deck lift system, which allows quick and accurate adjustments of the mower deck with the turn of a dial and the bump of a lever. Control callouts make operation simple and repeatable. The height of cut setting dial and raise/lower lever are conveniently located on the right-hand console and easily accessible by the operator. Some of the key benefits of this system are:
Installing CommandCut™ only requires a simple calibration after installation. It is a true “plug-and-play” system as no controller programming is required.
Inhibits PTO operation when mower deck is in the install position to prevent PTO driveling and mower deck blade damage
Eliminates the need for hydraulic power and components, thus dedicating all hydraulic capacity to other implements or tract functions
Fewer hydraulic components means fewer hydraulic leaks, especially when working on sensitive turf
Precise height of cut with no drift or leakdown
System can be calibrated to different tire sizes to maintain precision
Minimum effort required to set height of cut and to raise/lower the mower deck which reduces operator fatigue
Easy to read graphical interface on the instrument panel allows operator to glance at the desired height of cut while staying focused on mowing
Built in transport lock can be activated from the seat by turning the height of cut dial to position 6 and raising the deck to the highest position
This beginner-friendly little tractor is a beast! Have had mine for 2 years and have had zero issues. I mow and maintain about 5 acres. Mostly used for mowing, moving mulch, and tilling our 2 acres worth of gardens.
Front end loader is super useful for moving dirt and mulch. The cut quality is amazing on the 60" deck. The quick disconnect deck is easy to remove if you need to work in rough areas. Runs my 6ft rear PTO tiller with ease. This tractor is big and powerful enough to do most any job, yet small enough to get into the small areas.
I have had no issues whatsoever with my tractor but I'm happy to know the warranty is there should I need it. It has never failed me. As with all equipment, preventative maintenance is key. This is a serious tool. Treat it right and it will treat you right. Our local dealer is amazing and very supportive.
Replaced my orange compact tractor with a green one and I'm so glad I did! I highly recommend the 2038R if you need a tough little multi-use tractor. In my opinion this is one of their best tractors. More powerful than the smaller tractors and very versatile; This tractor is flexible, powerful, and compact.
Ready to go? Go Green! You won't regret it!
charles76
From: Florida
Usage Frequency: Weekly
Level of Experience: Intermediate
Yes, I would reccomend this product
5
5
5
Oct 29, 2020
command cut feature is a headache
2/5
my command cut feature on 2038r has been the source for several warranty issues. it drifts from 3 to 2.5 or 2 while mowing. after several thousand dollars in replacement parts, still back at dealers again for same issue. i suspect others may be experiencing same, but little info available due to newness of system. i would certainly purchase this machine with manual deck-lifting lever run from 3 point like all my others that were Bullitt proof. first JD i did not care for.
From: new castle pa
Usage Frequency: Weekly
Level of Experience: Expert
0
0
0
Sep 21, 2020
Great compact machine
5/5
The 2038R is a great mid sized compact tractor. The seat and posture is comfortable and allows the operator convenient access to all of the controls. The engine has ample power and is easily able to utilize 6' attachments. The base tractor is a good value but when the 220R loader and a mower deck is added the cost increases significantly. The size of the machine allows it to be capable but still maneuverable enough for smaller acreage owners with 4-10 acres.
woodridgeacresowner
From: IA
Usage Frequency: Weekly
Level of Experience: Intermediate
Yes, I would reccomend this product
4
5
5
Apr 01, 2020
First time tractor owner
4/5
First tractor ever! So far still learning about the tractor! My only issue so far is the key is the wrong place. I’m a big guy from top to bottom and left to right...
extremely fuel efficient... going to use my bush hog this weekend...
Docc
From: AsheVille, nc
Usage Frequency: Weekly
Level of Experience: Beginner
Yes, I would reccomend this product
4
3
3
Jan 17, 2020
nice tractor
4/5
Nice tractor, plenty of power for what I need.
Only two issues so far one; loader holes for the bucket are a bit to wide and require effect to install and remove attachments.
The second issue is my fault, but had to LOL when I saw 8 lbs shot put ball video being dropped on hood. What they should've used was a rock, that's a bit more realistic scenerio and will crack that plastic $480.00 hood every time.
jd2038r
From: bend, or
Usage Frequency: Daily
Level of Experience: Expert
Yes, I would reccomend this product
5
5
4
Nov 27, 2019
Very happy with my 2038r
5/5
Plenty of power, easy to use, fuel efficient, and the perfect size. 60 inch deck and 220R loader
dhorning
Usage Frequency: Weekly
Level of Experience: Intermediate
Yes, I would reccomend this product
4
5
5
Nov 12, 2019
Very happy so far!
5/5
I use the tractor for many different things from plowing snow with 66in blade on front with 54in blower on back. To loader work and running a stump grinder and it doesn't have any issues.
B2038r
From: Saskatchewan
Usage Frequency: Weekly
Level of Experience: Expert
Yes, I would reccomend this product
5
5
5
Oct 10, 2019
Amazing tractor
5/5
I have 260 hours on mine which is 16 months old. Mostly mowing with the 72" seven iron auto connect deck. Very fuel efficient and quiet. I have the loader also. Very powerful and easy to use. Just let the air down in your rear tires. Mine came with 35 lbs. They work and ride much better at 10 lbs.
Bill2038r
From: Greenville, pa
Usage Frequency: Weekly
Level of Experience: Expert
Yes, I would reccomend this product
5
5
5
Jul 16, 2019
Outstanding Machine.
5/5
I have driven lots of equipment and I can’t remember a tractor being as impressive as this machine is. Deere is far and away better then it’s competitors!
Thomas53
Usage Frequency: Daily
Level of Experience: Expert
Yes, I would reccomend this product
5
5
5
May 05, 2019
Great all around compact utility tractor
5/5
Use tractor for landscaping, moving materials, snow blowing, and cutting grass. Tractor has enough power for 2 plus acres, and small enough to fit in tight spaces. Other nice feature is ease of changing implements.
Lakeside
From: New York / New Jersey
Usage Frequency: Weekly
Level of Experience: Expert
Yes, I would reccomend this product
4
5
5
Apr 24, 2019
Great combination of power and size
5/5
Owned a 2320 before, and was always wanting more power, and weight. I was planning to upgrade to the 3R series, but then the 2038R came out with more weight and power. This fit my needs perfectly, with is higher power and compact size. Excellent power, and a great mower with the 72D with CommandCut.
PMAN
Usage Frequency: Weekly
Level of Experience: Expert
Yes, I would reccomend this product
4
5
5
Apr 16, 2019
Chihuahua thinks it is a Pit Bull
5/5
41 hours on the tractor as of this writing. I got the 60 in deck mower, box blade and 220R front loader.
I have used the box blade to assist in leveling my new construction home yard, The blade works well and does everything asked of it.
The loader is extremely versatile and I have been using it to grade the dirt around my new driveway, pad, and sidewalks as well as landscaping. Super easy to use and I learned how to use it for a variety of chores in just a few short hours.
The deck mower boldly goes where my John Deere x300 riding mower chokes out. Our property has a lot of ivy after Hurricane Harvey and the deck mower slices through it like butter.
I don't know how I lasted 64 years without this little workhorse.
BigBadJohn
From: Texas
Usage Frequency: Weekly
Level of Experience: Intermediate
Yes, I would reccomend this product
4
5
5
Feb 06, 2019
2038 R Is a MIGHTY MITE !
5/5
Great tractor and a major upgrade from my old 1023e ! Everything you could ever ask for in a compact, plenty of power, and attachments are a breeze, I added rear wheeel spacers for added stability for steep and uneven terrain challenges (recommended) if needed.
I went with the 72`` mower deck and I`m super impressed with the quality of the deck and the performance. I also strapped the largest tiller I could to the back and the tractor and it pulverized the soil effortlessly. There is only a fixed position snowplow blade however and I found that as kind of a bummer apposed to the 52`` fully hydro blade available on smaller tractors. Guess i`ll be saving up for the snowblower attachment (expensive).
These tractors are premium quality and tough as can be!!
Highly recommended and very happy, the whole family loves it !
Sweetpea10
From: Mill Creek, IN
Usage Frequency: Daily
Level of Experience: Intermediate
Yes, I would reccomend this product
4
5
5
Nov 13, 2018
Very capable machine!
5/5
I have owned and operated heavy equipment and tractors for years.
This has got to be the best of its class John Deere has ever produced. I looked at all brands before deciding on this machine and have been extremely happy. I have the loader and 72" mid-mower for attachments. I ordered the tractor with LED lighting, rear aux hydraulics, wheel weights and R4 tires. The command cut and auto-connect deck are exceptional in their ease of use and performance. The capability of the loader is very impressive for its size. I replaced an aging 955 John Deere with this machine and have never looked back. This tractor has done all I have asked of it and never given me a bit of trouble. Highly Recommend this machine
JAMES76
From: TN
Usage Frequency: Weekly
Level of Experience: Expert
Yes, I would reccomend this product
5
5
5
Oct 20, 2018
2038R biggest and best so far
5/5
I started with a JD gx345 then to the x728 then to the 2025R(first design) and now the 2038R...what a powerful tractor..I've owned this tractor for new since June 2017... I've equipped it with LED lighting package, rear hydraulic flow kit system, industrial tires, FEL , 60" Autoconnect deck, 54" rear snowblower, 54" fel snowplow from HLA, pellet forks from HLA and just recently purchased a rear pto driven grass collection system from Superior Tech( a authorized JD supplier)...JD currently doesn't offer a power flow collection system for this tractor yet....but what a nice stainless steel collection system ....I use this tractor year round and any task I have this tractor handles with no problem... :-)
Shawn
From: Connecticut, USA
Usage Frequency: Daily
Level of Experience: Expert
Yes, I would reccomend this product
4
5
5
Sep 13, 2018
Great Compact Tractor
5/5
I recently upgraded from a 1025r to the new 2038r....wow, its a difference! The power of the 2038r is great; all with a quieter turbocharged 38 hp engine. The dual range tranny and 4WD make it a formidable operator. I equipped with the 60 inch underbelly mower deck and Command Cut; the independent hydraulics allow me to cut grass with the three point rear hitch in the “up” position; nice on hilly terrain. The heavier front end loader is strong with a lift capacity of over a half ton. Ride is smooth for a compact machine and the larger frame and seat height add to visibility and stability. Large seat is very comfortable. Dual turn brakes add to the maneuverability in tighter spots. The operator station is nicely organized and efficient. Looking forward to using it with some implements such as my spreader, box blade and bush hog....compatible with many 3 series implements. Again, a lot of tractor in a smaller package! Very happy so far.
TH65
From: Mobile, AL, USA
Usage Frequency: Weekly
Level of Experience: Expert
Yes, I would reccomend this product
4
5
5
Aug 13, 2018
Really like this tractor
5/5
This is one of many new John Deere tractors i have owned over the last 35 years. I up graded from my 2025r to this and I'm really pleased. The 2038r is balanced good, power good and size wise really fits the bill. The fel is great, only thing i am not wil about is the command cut for the mmm. I use a 6 foot rear blower and also a 5 foot ditch flail mower, handles it all well. I would commend this tractor to anyone who wants a tough c.u.t.