What Is Four-Wheel Steering on the X738? (AWD Guide)
The John Deere X738 combines four-wheel steering (4WS) with four-wheel drive (4WD), but they do different jobs. Four-wheel steering turns the rear wheels opposite the front wheels to help the tractor make tighter turns. Four-wheel drive sends power to all four wheels for traction. Deere calls the system 4WD, not a selectable AWD mode.
If “AWD” in a listing or video has left you wondering which control to use, here is the quick answer: the X738’s steering and drive systems are separate. You steer the tractor with its controls; the four-wheel-drive system is not an AWD setting you switch on for a turn. Knowing that difference helps you use the tractor without expecting steering to provide extra grip or slope protection.
X738 four-wheel steering and 4WD: what each system does
Four-wheel steering changes the direction of the rear wheels as well as the front wheels. Four-wheel drive sends engine power to all four wheels. On the X738, the systems work on the same tractor, but one helps it turn and the other supports traction.
When the tractor turns, its rear wheels steer opposite the front wheels. This helps the tractor pivot through a tighter path than front-wheel steering alone would allow. Deere lists the X738’s turning radius at about 21 inches (53 cm), though the actual result can depend on configuration and how the radius is measured.
The 4WD system has a different purpose. It drives all four wheels to help the tractor maintain traction as it moves. It does not make the tractor steer, and four-wheel steering does not supply drive power to the wheels.
| Feature | What it does | What it does not do |
|---|---|---|
| Four-wheel steering (4WS) | Turns the rear wheels in coordination with the front wheels | Add drive power or prevent a rollover |
| Four-wheel drive (4WD) | Drives all four wheels to support traction | Make the turning radius smaller by itself |
| Steering control | Directs the tractor | Guarantee grip on wet, loose, or sloped ground |
The useful distinction is simple: 4WS affects direction; 4WD affects traction. Deere describes the X738 as a 4WD tractor, not as having a selectable AWD mode. Check the Operator’s Manual for your model year and equipment.
How the X738 turns in a tight space
The X738’s rear wheels steer in the opposite direction from the front wheels during a turn. That opposing movement helps the tractor turn more tightly, which can be useful around trees, beds, and other obstacles. The tighter path also means you should watch where the rear of the tractor travels.
A turning radius of about 21 inches is a helpful reference, not a promise that every turn will fit through a particular gap. Tires, attachments, ground conditions, and the way a measurement is taken can affect the space needed. Keep room around the tractor rather than trying to turn as close as the stated radius may suggest.
As I explain this feature to new equipment owners, I focus on the rear wheels: they are not simply following the front wheels in a wide arc. Their coordinated steering helps tighten the turn, so the rear end can move close to obstacles. Move slowly until you know how the tractor responds in your work area.
Before using the steering and 4WD
A safe first check means following the X738 Operator’s Manual, looking over the tractor and attachments, and testing the controls at low speed in an open, level area. This gives you a chance to learn the steering response before mowing or working near objects.
Use this setup sequence:
- Read the manual for your tractor. Check the instructions for your model year, mower deck, tires, and any attachment. Use the manual’s starting procedure and operating directions.
- Inspect the tractor. Check the tires, steering, brakes, guards, ROPS, seat belt, and attachment mounting. Do not use equipment that appears damaged or is not secured as the manual directs.
- Clear the area. Move people, pets, debris, and obstacles away from the test area.
- Start and test at low speed. On level ground, check steering response, braking, and forward and reverse control before beginning work.
- Check the turn path. Make a slow turn in the open area and notice how close the rear of the tractor comes to nearby objects.
The X738 has a three-cylinder, liquid-cooled gasoline engine rated at 25.5 hp (19.0 kW), with 726 cc displacement. These specifications identify the engine; they do not change the difference between steering and drive. Use the fuel grade and engine oil specified in the manual. The gasoline engine does not use a 2-cycle fuel-oil mix.
Operating the X738 around obstacles and on slopes
Four-wheel steering can help the X738 turn in a smaller space, but it does not make a close pass risk-free. The rear of the tractor can swing near an obstacle, and a sharp turn can change direction quickly. Slow down near buildings, trees, and other objects.
| Situation | Safer approach | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Turning near a tree or building | Reduce speed and leave room around the tractor | The rear wheels steer too, so the rear end can come close to objects |
| Mowing around a bed or post | Plan a broad, slow approach rather than forcing a tight turn | The listed radius is approximate and does not guarantee clearance |
| Turning on a slope | Follow the manual’s slope limits and avoid abrupt turns | 4WS does not prevent rollover or loss of control |
| Crossing uneven or loose ground | Travel slowly and use the manual’s guidance for the terrain | 4WD does not guarantee traction |
| Using a raised or loaded attachment | Avoid sudden steering inputs and follow the attachment instructions | The load can affect how the tractor handles |
Slopes deserve special care. A sudden turn, travel across a side slope, or a turn near a drop-off can lead to loss of control. Four-wheel drive does not guarantee grip, and four-wheel steering is not a stability or rollover-protection system. Follow the slope limits and operating instructions in the manual for your specific tractor and attachment.
Practical setup examples: no steering installation is needed
The X738’s four-wheel steering is part of how the tractor is built; this is not a feature you install as a separate steering kit in routine setup. The practical task is to check the tractor and attachment, then learn the steering response safely. The examples below are operating situations, not reports of a particular owner or repair.
- First test after reading about 4WS: In a clear, level area, start at low speed and make a gradual turn. Watch the rear of the tractor and confirm that the steering and brakes respond as expected.
- Mowing around a tree: Approach slowly and leave room for the rear of the tractor. Do not assume the approximate turning radius means the tractor can safely pass very close.
- Working on a slope: Check the manual’s limits first. Do not use 4WS or 4WD as a reason to travel across a slope or make a sharp turn beyond the manual’s guidance.
- Using an attachment: Verify that it is mounted as directed and use its operating instructions. A raised or loaded attachment can change how the tractor handles, so avoid abrupt turns.
If the steering feels unusual, stop in a safe place and consult the Operator’s Manual. Do not try to correct a steering problem by forcing the wheel or continuing to work. Follow the manual’s inspection and service guidance, or contact a qualified service provider if needed.
Steering, 4WD, and routine maintenance checks
Routine checks help you spot a concern before work begins. Use the maintenance schedule and inspection steps in the X738 Operator’s Manual; exact tasks and intervals can vary by model year and equipment. Do not assume the 4WD system needs a control action just because you are changing direction.
Before each use, pay attention to:
- Tire condition and the manual’s tire guidance.
- Steering response and brake function.
- Guards and other safety equipment.
- ROPS and seat belt condition and use, as directed by the manual.
- Secure attachment mounting and any attachment-specific requirements.
If you notice damaged parts, unusual steering, or brakes that do not respond as expected, stop and address the issue before operating. Follow the manual for service steps and maintenance intervals. Four-wheel steering does not remove the need for normal inspection.
Shutdown, cleaning, and storage
Safe shutdown helps prevent unintended movement and gives hot parts time to cool. Park on level ground, lower attachments, disengage the PTO, set the brake, stop the engine, and remove the key. Use the manual’s instructions for cleaning, servicing, and storage.
Before cleaning or maintenance, let hot components cool. Follow the manual’s maintenance intervals and storage directions, including its instructions for fuel and the engine. If you are unsure how to prepare the tractor for a specific attachment or season, check the instructions for both the tractor and attachment.
Key takeaway: The X738’s 4WS helps it turn more tightly; its 4WD drives all four wheels. Neither system makes abrupt turns or unsafe slope travel safe.
X738 four-wheel steering and 4WD FAQs
These quick answers clarify the X738’s steering, drive, and safe use. For operating limits, maintenance steps, and equipment-specific details, the Operator’s Manual for your model year remains the guide to follow.
Is the X738 AWD or 4WD?
Deere describes the X738 as a four-wheel-drive (4WD) tractor. It is not described here as having a selectable AWD mode. Check your model’s Operator’s Manual for the correct system description and operating instructions.
What does four-wheel steering do on the X738?
It turns the rear wheels in coordination with the front wheels. The rear wheels steer opposite the front wheels during a turn, helping the tractor make a tighter turn.
Is four-wheel steering the same as four-wheel drive?
No. Four-wheel steering changes the direction of the wheels. Four-wheel drive supplies power to all four wheels to support traction.
Does the X738 have a 21-inch turning radius?
Its listed turning radius is about 21 inches (53 cm). Treat that as an approximate specification, not a guarantee of clearance; configuration and measurement conditions can affect the actual turning space.
Can four-wheel steering prevent a rollover?
No. Four-wheel steering does not prevent a rollover or make a slope safe. Follow the manual’s slope limits, travel slowly, and avoid abrupt turns.
Does 4WD guarantee traction?
No. Four-wheel drive can support traction, but it does not guarantee grip on every surface or slope. Follow the manual’s operating guidance for the conditions and attachment you are using.
Does the X738 use a 2-cycle fuel-oil mix?
No. The X738 has a gasoline engine, not a 2-cycle fuel-oil-mix engine. Use the fuel grade and engine oil specified in the Operator’s Manual.
Do I need to install the four-wheel steering system?
Routine setup does not involve installing a separate steering system. The X738 is equipped with four-wheel steering. Inspect the tractor and attachments and use the manual’s startup and operating procedures.
(This article was written by one of our staff writers, Evan Bradley. Visit our Meet the Team page.)
