John Deere Tractor Equipped with a V16 Detroit Diesel Tugboat Engine is a Sled-Pulling Powerhouse.

      Kyle Ross via YouTube

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      Race cars are impressive, but they often come with regulations. The same applies to pulling trucks and tractors. Nevertheless, this doesn’t deter some from crafting the ultimate version of their vehicles. Some individuals design Corvette track cars that could easily outperform a factory model, while Dave Will decided to apply his ingenuity to a John Deere 5020, equipping it with a 16-cylinder Detroit Diesel engine from a tugboat.

      This creation is named “Johnzilla,” which is fitting. The enormous two-stroke engine, which measures 1,136 cubic inches, is mounted at the front. Will had to extend the frame by three feet to accommodate it, as it essentially consists of two V8s placed side by side. It produces an estimated 600 horsepower and an unknown amount of torque.

      Clearly, that’s a substantial amount of power, but other pulling tractors can generate significantly more with much less engine size. The maximum specific output isn’t the main focus of Will’s project. He mentioned to Farm Show Magazine that he had previously constructed a John Deere powered by a Detroit 12V71, and this time, he aimed to create something even more extreme.

      The outcome is undeniably striking. The large dually wheels, dual chrome air intakes, and dual chrome stacks come together beautifully. I’m not sure how I feel about the Detroit engine being painted John Deere Green, though it might look odd in the traditional Alpine Green. Nevertheless, it fits.

      “I’ve taken it to local pulling events, and it really turns heads when I fire it up and drive it down the track. Everyone cheers for me,” Will shared with Farm Show Magazine.

      You can listen for yourself in this YouTube video posted by the TractorZoom channel:

      16V71-powered John Deere…because why not?

      It’s admittedly difficult to hear the crowd over the roar of the V16 engine, but it’s safe to trust Will’s account.

      “Johnzilla” was well-received at the Busch Light Pulling Nationals in Evansville, Indiana, not long ago. Just a few months earlier, it garnered a lot of attention during its track debut:

      A John Deere with a 16V71 Detroit Diesel Tugboat Engine

      There’s no drama when Will accelerates. Other sled pullers may spin their tires at the starting line, revving to high RPMs with smoke and flames erupting from the exhaust stack. This tractor, however, performs just as well as others without the same theatrical flair.

      That’s not to imply it’s unexciting; rather, it’s a powerhouse that gets the job done. What an impressive piece of engineering.

      Have a tip or a question for the author? Reach out directly at: caleb@thedrive.com