The John Deere 3010 tractor was introduced in 1960 as one of the "New Generation of Power" tractors. It was available in three models: row-crop, standard, or row crop utility; and with a choice of engines: diesel, gasoline, or LP-gas. This toy is a replica of the row-crop model with adjustable font axle.

The John Deere 3010 Tractor with 4-cylinder diesel engine was rated at 54 hp at the drawbar, giving it ample power to pull a 4 bottom plow or a 6-row planter. The 3010 shared many features with the bigger 6-cylinder 4010 Tractor, such as closed-center hydraulics. This feature provided sufficient hydraulic power for a rear rockshaft (3-point hitch) and two remote cylinders, along with power steering and power brakes - an industry first.

This was the first 1:16 scale Collector's Edition tractor that I owned. Up until this time, I had mainly collected Ertl's 1:64 scale tractors. Since this first purchase, my collection has grown a lot as you can see.