Finding the John Deere engine serial number and engine type keeps parts ordering simple.
This guide walks through where to look on the engine and which number matters for parts.
You can embed the “How to Find the John Deere Tractor Engine Serial Number | Nick Young” video above this guide.
Why the John Deere engine serial number matters
The engine serial number and engine type identify the exact engine on your tractor.
John Deere uses different engines within the same tractor series and model badge.
Ordering parts by tractor model alone can send the wrong gaskets, pumps, or injectors.
Giving your parts supplier the engine type and serial number keeps orders accurate.
Correct engine data cuts downtime, repeat carriage, and guesswork in the workshop.
Where John Deere puts the engine serial plate
John Deere fits a small metal identification plate on the engine block.
The plate is black with silver text so you can read it under dirt and oil.
The plate sits on the front right hand side of the engine on most tractors.
The plate carries two key numbers, the engine serial number and the engine type.
Step one: find a tractor worth crawling over
Start with the tractor that actually needs engine parts or service.
Park the tractor on level ground and apply the handbrake for safety.
Switch the engine off and let hot components cool before you reach in.
Step two: head to the front right hand side of the engine
Stand by the tractor and picture yourself in the driver’s seat facing forward.
Right hand side means the side by your right arm when seated in the cab.
Move to the front right hand side of the engine from that seated reference.
Use this rule rather than standing at the grille and guessing left and right.
Step three: look for the black and silver engine plate
Scan the side of the engine block on the front right area.
Expect mud, straw, chaff, and oil to hide the plate after a busy season.
Use a rag and cleaner to wipe away the top layer of grime on the block.
You are looking for a small black metal plate with silver or bright lettering.
The plate is usually riveted or screwed to a flat area on the casting.
Step four: read the two numbers on the plate
Once you find the plate, look closely at the two numbers stamped or printed.
The longer number is the John Deere engine serial number for that engine.
The shorter number is the John Deere engine type code for that engine.
At Nick Young Tractor Parts the team usually asks for the engine type first.
The engine type links straight to the correct pistons, pumps, and gasket sets.
Why the engine type often matters more than the serial
The engine serial number gives a unique identity for that single engine.
The engine type groups engines that share the same core design and parts.
Suppliers use the engine type to pull the right catalogue or system record.
Two tractors with the same model badge can run different engine types.
Sharing the engine type first cuts the risk of sending parts that do not fit.
Special note for John Deere 6000 series tractors
On many John Deere 6000 series tractors the plate hides behind the fuel filters.
Look around and behind the filter head on the front right side of the engine.
You might need to move hoses aside carefully to see the full plate.
Cleaning this area often reveals the plate that seemed missing at first.
How to record your John Deere engine details
Wipe the plate clean enough to read without scratching the lettering.
Take a clear photo of the plate on your phone from straight on.
Write the engine serial number and engine type into a service log or notebook.
Store the photo and note under the tractor registration or farm fleet ID.
How Nick Young uses your engine serial number and type
At Nick Young Tractor Parts the team uses the engine type to narrow parts fast.
They match the engine type against internal catalogues and supplier data.
They then use the engine serial number if a part changes at a certain build point.
This process checks injectors, pumps, gaskets, turbos, and timing parts.
Common mistakes when searching for the engine serial plate
Some owners look on the chassis or cab and ignore the engine block.
Some owners mix left and right by standing at the front bumper.
Others clean with harsh tools and damage the plate surface.
A soft brush and cleaner protect the plate while bringing the numbers back.
Quick recap: how to find the John Deere engine serial number
Stand the tractor safe and cool before you start.
Go to the front right hand side of the engine using the driver’s seat reference.
Look for a black and silver plate on the engine block, often under farm grime.
Clean the plate and read the two numbers, serial and engine type.
Record both numbers and share them when you order John Deere engine parts.
