John Deere 3038E
Compact Tractor · 2024
Overview
The John Deere 3038E delivers versatile performance for hobby farms and property maintenance. With 36.7 horsepower (30 PTO HP), it handles loader work, mowing, and light tillage effectively. The hydrostatic transmission provides smooth, infinitely variable speed control. Loader-compatible for material handling tasks.
Owner Ratings
Based on 116 owner reviews
Best For
- ✓Hobby farms and rural properties (5-25 acres)
- ✓Versatile tasks: mowing, loading, light tillage
- ✓Loader work and material handling
- ✓PTO-driven implements
Not Ideal For
- ✗Large-scale row crop farming
- ✗Heavy construction equipment
Key Features
37.3HP 3-cylinder Yanmar diesel; 9-speed gear transmission; 4WD standard; Category I 3-point hitch; Live PTO; Durable construction
Enables connection to a wide range of implements.
3 Series Compact
The 3 Series is John Deere's most versatile compact tractor lineup, spanning 25-46 HP with economy E-models and premium R-models. Whether you're managing a hobby farm, maintaining a large estate, or doing commercial landscaping, the 3 Series offers the right combination of power, features, and value.
E-Series Economy vs R-Series Premium
The 3 Series splits into two tiers: E-models (3025E, 3032E, 3038E) offer essential features at competitive prices, while R-models (3033R, 3046R) add premium transmissions, more hydraulic flow, and cab availability. This lets buyers match their budget to their needs without compromising on core John Deere quality.
- •E-models: gear or hydro transmission, open station, value pricing
- •R-models: eHydro with LoadMatch, cab option, premium hydraulics
- •All models share 4WD, independent PTO, and Category 1 hitch
- •Upgrade path within the series as needs grow
Yanmar & John Deere Diesel Engines
3 Series tractors use either Yanmar or John Deere diesel engines depending on the model, all meeting Tier IV Final emissions without a DPF. These engines deliver the low-end torque that makes compact tractors effective for loader work, bush hogging, and driving PTO implements.
- •25 to 46 gross HP across the lineup
- •Tier IV Final emissions without DPF — no regen interruptions
- •Independent 540 RPM rear PTO for agricultural implements
- •Fuel-efficient diesel operation keeps costs manageable
Versatile Implement Platform
The 3 Series handles a wide range of implements thanks to robust hydraulics and a strong Category 1 3-point hitch. From rotary cutters and box blades to post hole diggers and snow blowers, these tractors adapt to seasonal tasks throughout the year.
- •Category 1 3-point hitch with up to 2,425 lb lift capacity
- •300R/320R loaders with up to 1,510 lb lift capacity
- •Compatible with 370B backhoe for excavation work
- •Mid-mount mower deck options on select models
Factory Cab Option (R-Models)
The 3033R and 3046R can be ordered with a factory-installed ComfortGard cab featuring heat, air conditioning, and excellent visibility. For operators who work year-round in extreme heat, cold, or dusty conditions, the cab transforms the tractor from a seasonal tool into an all-weather workhorse.
- •Climate control with heat and air conditioning
- •Excellent visibility with large glass panels
- •Pressurized cab reduces dust infiltration
- •Radio and Bluetooth connectivity
What Owners Say
- •Higher parts costs
- •Some complexity in newer electronic systems
Complete Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Engine | |
| Gross Horsepower | 36.7 HP |
| PTO Horsepower | 30 HP |
| Cylinders | 3 |
| Displacement | 1.57L |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Aspiration | Turbo |
| Transmission & Drive | |
| Transmission Type | Hydrostatic |
| Forward Speeds | 9 |
| Drive Type | 4WD |
| Hydraulics & Hitch | |
| Hydraulic Flow | 5.3 GPM |
| 3-Point Hitch | Category Cat 1 |
| Lift Capacity | 1,356 lbs |
| PTO | |
| PTO Type | Live |
| PTO Speed | 540 RPM |
| Dimensions & Weight | |
| Operating Weight | 2,668 lbs |
| Length | 111" |
| Width | 56.5" |
| Wheelbase | 62.7" |
| Compatibility | |
| Front Loader | Yes (D140) |
| Mower Decks | No |
Specs & Compare
Add models to compare side by side
| Specification | John Deere 3038E | — | — |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | |||
| Gross HP | 36.7 HP | — | — |
| PTO HP | 30 HP | — | — |
| Cylinders | 3 | — | — |
| Displacement | 1.57L | — | — |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | — | — |
| Aspiration | Turbo | — | — |
| Transmission & Drive | |||
| Transmission | Hydrostatic | — | — |
| Forward Speeds | 9 | — | — |
| Drive Type | 4WD | — | — |
| Hydraulics & Hitch | |||
| Hydraulic Flow | 5.3 GPM | — | — |
| 3-Point Hitch | Category Cat 1 | — | — |
| Lift Capacity | 1,356 lbs | — | — |
| PTO | |||
| PTO Type | Live | — | — |
| PTO Speed | 540 RPM | — | — |
| Dimensions & Weight | |||
| Length | 111" | — | — |
| Width | 56.5" | — | — |
| Height | 82.3" | — | — |
| Wheelbase | 62.7" | — | — |
| Weight | 2,668 lbs | — | — |
| Fuel & Performance | |||
| Fuel Capacity | 7.5 gal | — | — |
| Pricing | |||
| Typical Price | $30,800 | — | — |
| MSRP From | $33,064 | — | — |
Compare Similar Models
Tractors with similar horsepower ratings for side-by-side comparison.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Get More From Your John Deere 3038E
Owning it is just the start. These guides cover the attachments, upkeep, and equipment that fit this tractor.
Attachment Compatibility
Match implements by hitch, PTO, and hydraulics.
Read guide3-Point Hitch Guide
Categories, pin sizes, and how to attach implements.
Read guidePTO Attachments Guide
How the PTO works and the implements it drives.
Read guideFarm Fuel Storage
Store and transfer diesel on your property.
Read guideOwner Reviews
Reliability and satisfaction from real owners.
Read guide