Purple Wave Auction is bringing a fully restored 1968 John Deere 4020 to market, combining collector appeal with a strong educational backstory. The machine, rebuilt by students from the Alva, Oklahoma FFA chapter, will be sold on April 15, with 100 percent of the buyer’s premium and proceeds directed back to the program.
This listing stands out not just as a classic tractor sale, but as a case where agricultural education, mechanical restoration, and real market value intersect.
Student led restoration project transforms non running tractor into auction ready asset
The tractor began as a non operational unit that had reportedly been idle since the early 2000s due to a cracked cylinder liner and overall mechanical deterioration. What followed was a structured rebuild effort led by FFA students, who invested approximately 2,500 labor hours into the project.
The restoration included:
- Full mechanical rebuild with engine replacement.
- Complete teardown and structural work.
- Bodywork preparation and repainting.
- Replacement and sourcing of missing or worn components.
With an estimated investment of around $15,000, the project moved beyond a simple refurbishment and into a near full restoration, positioning the tractor as both a working machine and a collectible.
1968 John Deere 4020 specifications highlight why the model remains highly valued
The John Deere 4020 is widely regarded as one of the most successful row crop tractors ever produced, forming the backbone of Deere’s New Generation lineup during the 1960s.
Unit details from the auction listing:
- Hours: 8,782
- Serial: 175130R
Engine:
- John Deere diesel
- 6.6L displacement
- 6 cylinder configuration
Transmission:
- Synchro Range
- 8 forward, 2 reverse gears
Drivetrain and hydraulics:
- Differential lock
- Rear hydraulic remotes: 2 sets
- Three point hitch with top link
PTO:
- Dual speed 540 and 1000
Tires:
- Front: 10.00-16SL
- Rear: 18.4-34
From a market perspective, the 4020 remains one of the most liquid vintage tractors. Its combination of mechanical simplicity, parts availability, and proven durability continues to attract both working farms and collectors. Even decades after production ended, these units are regularly traded, restored, and actively used.
Why the John Deere 4020 still dominates the vintage tractor market
Introduced in 1963, the 4020 quickly became a benchmark for reliability and usability in the 100 horsepower class. Key strengths that still drive demand today include:
- Robust naturally aspirated diesel platform.
- Straightforward mechanical systems with minimal electronics.
- Strong hydraulic performance for its era.
- High parts availability and aftermarket support.
In auction environments, restored examples often command a premium, especially when tied to documented rebuilds or educational programs. The added narrative of a student driven restoration can further increase buyer interest.
Auction structure channels proceeds directly into agricultural education
Unlike typical consignment sales, this auction is structured with a clear philanthropic component. Both the proceeds and the buyer’s premium will be donated to the Alva FFA chapter, effectively turning the purchase into a contribution toward agricultural education.
This model aligns well with current trends in equipment auctions, where story driven assets and purpose linked sales increasingly outperform standard listings in engagement and final price.
About Purple Wave Auction
Purple Wave is one of the largest no reserve online auction platforms in the United States focused on equipment sales. The company conducts thousands of auctions annually across agriculture, construction, and transportation sectors.
Key facts:
- Founded in 2000.
- Headquarters in Manhattan, Kansas.
- Over $3 billion in equipment sold historically.
- Sellers include municipalities, contractors, and farmers nationwide.
- Operates exclusively online with no reserve pricing model.
Its marketplace model emphasizes transparency and liquidity, making it a common channel for both fleet liquidation and specialty listings such as restored or collector grade machinery.
Source: purplewave.com
