John Deere 375 Skid Steer Loader Overview

[MikePhua]

The John Deere 375 skid steer loader represents one of the company’s earlier compact loaders designed for light to medium duty applications. Introduced in the late 1980s, it was intended to provide contractors, farmers, and landscapers with a reliable machine that could maneuver in tight spaces while offering enough hydraulic power to operate a wide variety of attachments. Despite being discontinued decades ago, the 375 still circulates in the used equipment market, often praised for its durability but also criticized for limitations compared to modern skid steers.
Development Background
John Deere began producing skid steer loaders in the mid-1970s after recognizing the growing demand for compact loaders in agriculture and construction. The 375 was launched as part of the 300 series, following the 170 and 270 models, and it filled a niche for operators who wanted a simple, straightforward machine without excessive electronics. With its release, Deere was competing directly with Bobcat, Case, and New Holland—brands that had already established a foothold in the skid steer market.
The 375 remained in production until the mid-1990s, by which time Deere shifted toward higher horsepower, more refined models. During its production run, thousands were sold worldwide, with a large concentration in North America, particularly in farming states and small construction firms.
Technical Specifications

• Operating weight: around 4,000 lbs
  
• Engine: Onan gasoline engine, approximately 23–25 horsepower
  
• Hydraulic system: Open center, 7–8 gallons per minute standard flow
  
• Lift capacity: Roughly 750–850 lbs rated operating capacity
  
• Transmission: Hydrostatic drive, twin-lever control
  
• Tires: 8.50–15 standard industrial tread
  
• Dimensions: Narrow frame, approximately 54 inches wide
  

While modest by today’s standards, the 375 was considered efficient for light earthmoving, feed handling, and material transport. Its narrow stance allowed it to enter barns and confined workspaces, making it attractive to livestock operations and small contractors.
Common Strengths
Operators frequently noted the 375’s mechanical simplicity. Unlike today’s computer-dependent machines, the 375 relied on straightforward hydraulics and cable linkages. This simplicity meant fewer electronic failures and easier field repairs. Many owners also appreciated the machine’s fuel efficiency. The small gas engine consumed less fuel than larger diesel-powered counterparts, which was important during an era of fluctuating fuel prices.
Another positive feature was the machine’s maneuverability. With a compact footprint and tight turning radius, it excelled in clearing out pens, moving pallets of seed, or grading driveways. Farmers often improvised with homemade attachments due to the 375’s simple quick-attach system.
Known Weaknesses
Despite its reputation for dependability, the 375 also had drawbacks. The Onan engine, while serviceable, was often criticized for short lifespan compared to diesel alternatives. Replacement parts for the engine became scarce over time, making maintenance more difficult today. The hydraulic power was also limited, which restricted the loader’s ability to run high-demand attachments like augers, trenchers, or brush cutters.
Another challenge was operator comfort. The cab design was cramped and noisy, with minimal visibility compared to modern enclosed cabs with curved glass and ergonomic seating. Safety standards were also lower at the time—ROPS (rollover protective structure) existed, but the overall protection was not on par with current OSHA-compliant designs.
Maintenance and Repair Considerations
Owners of surviving John Deere 375 units today face several maintenance challenges. Parts availability is limited, especially for engine components. Many mechanics recommend retrofitting with small diesel engines from Kubota or Perkins if the original Onan fails. Hydraulic hoses and fittings can often be replaced with generic parts, but original pumps and drive motors may require salvage yard sourcing.
Preventive measures remain crucial:

• Change hydraulic fluid every 500 hours to prevent pump wear
  
• Inspect and grease pivot points weekly
  
• Monitor tire pressure to ensure stability, as the narrow wheelbase increases rollover risk
  
• Replace worn seatbelts and consider aftermarket safety upgrades
  

Modern Perspective
By modern standards, the 375 is underpowered and limited. Today’s compact loaders often exceed 75 horsepower, lift over 2,000 lbs, and feature advanced electronic controls. Still, for small farms or hobby use, the 375 continues to serve as a low-cost alternative.
Interestingly, in agricultural auctions, functioning units often sell between $4,000–$7,000 depending on condition. While that is far below the $50,000+ price tag of new machines, buyers must factor in the cost of possible retrofits and parts sourcing.
Company History and Market Impact
John Deere’s entry into the skid steer market helped solidify the brand’s presence beyond tractors and combines. Although the 375 was not revolutionary, it marked an important stepping stone that allowed Deere to refine its designs. The lessons learned from this model contributed to the later 200, 300, and 300G series loaders, which became far more competitive.
Today, Deere holds about 15–20% of the skid steer market in North America, with Bobcat still leading. The 375 remains a reminder of the early days of compact loaders, when design emphasized simplicity over sophistication.
Anecdotes and Legacy
Stories from long-time farmers often illustrate the 375’s place in rural life. Some recount using it for decades to clean feedlots or dig small drainage ditches, with repairs carried out in barns using little more than hand tools. In small-town newspapers from the Midwest during the 1990s, classified ads frequently listed 375s for sale alongside balers and hay rakes, reflecting how common they once were.
While technology has advanced, machines like the John Deere 375 remind us that reliability and mechanical straightforwardness can leave a lasting impression. In the right hands, even an aging skid steer can remain a valuable workhorse.