John Deere Riding Lawn Mowers - Models 55, 56 and 57
John Deere introduced their first step-though, rear engine riding mowers in 1970 with the model 55 and 56. The model 57 was released the following year. The production life of the model 55 concluded after 1972 while the model 56 and 57 mowers were available through 1974. Serial numbers and years are listed below. (These riding mowers were replaced by models 65, 66 and 68 in 1975.) Each model was driven by belt from the engine to a two or three speed transmission, then by chain to the rear axle differential. Mower height of cut was adjustable in steps between 1 and 3 inches by a single lever, and a small hitch plate was mounted at the rear of the frame.
Model 55 features: Handlebar steering, Tecumseh 5 hp V50 vertical engine with recoil starter, 2 forward - 1 reverse transmission, solid front tires, pneumatic rear tires, single blade mower deck with 26 inch cut, net weight 266 pounds. A mulching kit was optional.
Model 56 features: Wheel steering, Tecumseh 6 hp V60 vertical engine with recoil starter, 2 forward - 1 reverse transmission up to serial #44000, 3 forward - 1 reverse transmission starting at serial #44001, pneumatic tires, single blade 28 inch mower deck, net weight 269 pounds. Electric starting and mulching kits were optional. Note: Many of these tractors have replacement 7 hp V70 engines.
Model 57 features: Wheel steering, Tecumseh 7 hp V70 vertical engine with recoil starter, 2 forward - 1 reverse transmission up to serial #13999, 3 forward - 1 reverse transmission starting at serial #14000, pneumatic tires, dual blade 34 inch mower deck, net weight 326 pounds. Electric starting and mulching kits were optional.
| Typecode | Model | Comments |
| T2031 | 55 | |
| T2041 | 56 | up to serial number 44,000 |
| T2042 | 56 | serial number 44,001 and above |
| T2051 | 57 | up to serial number 14,000 |
| T2052 | 57 | serial number 14,000 |
| Year | Model 55 | Model 56 | Model 57 |
| 1970 | 1,001 - 20,000 | 1,001 - 20,000 | |
| 1971 | 20,001 - 25,150 | 20,001 - 35,785 | 1,001 - 9,625 |
| 1972 | 25,151 - | 35,786 - 44,000 | 9,626 - 14,000 |
| 1973 | 44,001 - 61,499 | 14,001 - 25,000 | |
| 1974 | 61,500 - 80,000 | 25,001 - 35,000 |
Summary by Stan Barnes, 08/27/2002