Deere Combines Keep Going And Going

Deere Combines Keep Going And Going AG WORLD Ag World 24-3-24 Many farmers are partial to a certain John Deere tractor model from their past. But for Kansas wheat grower Leonard Steinle, it's the No. 55 John Deere combine that makes his heart go pitter-patter. For 50 years, Steinle's loyalty to the No. 55 has never wavered. He started in 1949 with a new 55, which impressed him then with its ability to harvest large volumes at a fast clip. "I fell in love with that model, and I've never wanted to change to another," says the 69-year-old farmer. Steinle has since owned and operated four other No. 55s. Today, three of those are still used to harvest the annual 400-acre wheat crop on the Steinle family farm near Bunker Hill, Kan. One is a 55 he bought in 1961. His most recent purchase was a 1959 No. 55 acquired two years ago. Steinle describes his combines as "very reliable," despite their age. "I've never had a serious breakdown," he says, "and I've never had to take one to a John Deere dealership for repair. For one thing, I'm careful about regular maintenance. I keep my chains maintained and don't overgrease the bearings. I think that's part of the secret." Steinle recognizes that today's John Deere combines offer much more capacity, convenience and operator comfort. "Sure combines have come a long way," he says. "But me? I'll stick with my No. 55's."

To read the rest of this story, download this issue below or click here to register with your account number.